New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant culture, music, and festivals celebrating its uniqueness. From now until the end of 2024, the Crescent City is hosting a myriad of events that cater to all tastes and interests. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, these festivals offer an opportunity to experience the magic of New Orleans. Here are some of the most anticipated festivals happening in the city.
Satchmo SummerFest
Dates: August 2-4, 2024
Named after the legendary Louis Armstrong, Satchmo SummerFest is a three-day celebration of jazz music, New Orleans cuisine, and Armstrong’s life and legacy. Held at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, the festival features live music performances, seminars, and delicious local food.
Southern Decadence
Dates: August 28 – September 2, 2024
Southern Decadence is one of the most prominent LGBTQ+ celebrations in the South. Known as the “Gay Mardi Gras”, this event features parades, parties, and live performances across the French Quarter. It’s a colorful and lively festival that attracts attendees from all over the world.
Westbank Heritage Food and Music Festival
Dates: September 21-22, 2024
This festival takes place a short drive across the Mississippi River from the city. Free to the public, Westbank Heritage Food and Music Festival is fun for the whole family. Live music is performed all day while many food and drink vendors serve up their specialties. Games are also available for some more entertainment.
Gretna Fest
Dates: October 4-6, 2024
Two weeks after the Westbank’s last festival, Gretna Fest is ringing in their 30th year celebrating Gretna. This is a cultural festival offering live music from acts all over the world. This event also serves some of the best food found in the state. Arts & crafts as well as games for the family can be enjoyed as well.
National Fried Chicken Festival
Dates: October 5-6, 2024
Fried Chicken Festival happens during a great time of year in New Orleans, and a long one of the best views in the city. Located on the New Orleans Lakefront, this festival is presented by Raising Cane’s. Celebrating this southern delight, vendors will be showcasing their renditions of fried chicken and compete for various awards. Live music and cooking demonstrations will add to the entertainment.
Gentilly Fest
Dates: October 11-13, 2024
This family-friendly festival is in the heart of the Gentilly neighborhood of New Orleans. Over three days, the festival hosts live music on three stages, serves a variety of food from many local vendors, and welcomes arts and crafts vendors to sell their work. There are also activities for kids in the Kids’s Village, providing entertainment for kids and parents alike!
New Orleans Film Festival
Dates: October 16-23, 2024
The New Orleans Film Festival is a must-attend for cinema enthusiasts. Showcasing a diverse array of films from local, national, and international filmmakers, this festival offers screenings, panels, and workshops. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore the art of filmmaking and discover new talents.
Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival
Dates: October 18-20, 2024
This festival is a paradise for blues music lovers and barbecue enthusiasts. Held in Lafayette Square, it features performances by top blues musicians and various mouthwatering barbecue vendors. It’s a laid-back event perfect for enjoying good New Orleans’ food.
Oak St. Po-boy Festival
Date: October 27, 2024
Uptown is home to this annual festival of New Orleans’ famous sandwich, the po-boy. Vendors from across the state come to sell their unique creations while also participating in a competition for the best po-boy. Live music plays while patrons walk the streets trying these hometown staples. This is a family-friendly event, but it does get very crowded. It may be difficult to maneuver strollers around Oak St.
Treme Creole Gumbo Festival
Dates: November 9-10, 2024
Celebrate New Orleans’ culinary heritage at the Treme Creole Gumbo Festival. Held in Louis Armstrong Park, the festival showcases the best gumbo in the city, along with live music performances, cooking demonstrations, and a marketplace with local crafts.
Beignet Fest
Dates: November 9-10, 2024
Beignet Fest is a great festival for the whole family. Celebrated at the Festival Grounds in City Park, this festival has something for everyone. Dozens of vendors serve up their sweet and savory beignets while live music plays from local musicians. Along with arts and crafts, there is also a Kids Village and Beer Garden for the parents.
New Orleans’ festival calendar is packed with events that highlight the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re a fan of music, film, or food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Mark your calendars and get ready to immerse yourself in these festivals’ unique and vibrant atmosphere from now until the end of 2024.
