Wondering when to visit New Orleans? Whether you’re here for the food, the festivals, or the French Quarter, there’s never a bad time to experience the Crescent City. But depending on your preferences—crowds, weather, or events—some months may suit you better than others.
Here’s a month-by-month breakdown to help you plan your trip and soak up everything New Orleans has to offer.
January: Kickoff to Carnival Season
Weather: 40s to 60s – cool and comfortable
Vibe: Quiet and local, with the first signs of Mardi Gras
Key Events:
• Twelfth Night (Epiphany) kicks off Carnival season with the Phunny Phorty Phellows and Krewe de Jeanne d’Arc
• First king cakes hit local bakeries
Related: Your Guide to Mardi Gras Traditions in New Orleans
February: Full-Blown Mardi Gras
Weather: Cool days, chilly nights
Vibe: High energy, colorful parades, and global visitors
Key Events:
• Mardi Gras parades like Endymion, Zulu, Rex, Muses, and Bacchus
• Valentine’s Day events and themed dinners
Related: What to Know Before You Go: Mardi Gras in New Orleans
March: Springtime and Super Sunday
Weather: 60s to 70s – ideal for walking the city
Vibe: Festive but a little more relaxed post-Mardi Gras
Key Events:
• St. Patrick’s Day parades in Uptown and the Irish Channel
• Super Sunday, when Mardi Gras Indians reveal their intricate suits
Related: Why Super Sunday Matters to NOLA’s Black Community
April: Festival Season at Its Peak
Weather: Warm and sunny, often in the 70s
Vibe: Lively, musical, and perfect for food lovers
Key Events:
• French Quarter Festival – free local music on multiple stages
• Jazz Fest – the crown jewel of spring festivals
Related: How to Do Jazz Fest Like a Local
May: Crawfish, Culture, and Crawling Temps
Weather: Mid-80s and heating up
Vibe: Relaxed after spring fest madness
Key Events:
• Bayou Boogaloo along Bayou St. John
• Greek Festival
• Final crawfish boils before summer hits
Related: Best Places to Eat Crawfish in New Orleans
June: Summer Heat and Soul
Weather: Hot and humid (90s+)
Vibe: Slower pace, but full of soul
Key Events:
• Essence Festival – celebration of Black culture and music
Related: What to Expect at the Essence Festival
July: Cocktails and Fireworks
Weather: Still hot, with afternoon storms common
Vibe: Festive but laid-back
Key Events:
• Go 4th on the River (Fourth of July fireworks)
• Tales of the Cocktail for bartenders and cocktail lovers
Related: How New Orleans Celebrates the Fourth
August: Deals for Foodies
Weather: Still steamy, low crowds
Vibe: Locals-only feel with restaurant deals
Key Events:
• Satchmo SummerFest – tribute to Louis Armstrong
• COOLinary New Orleans – prix fixe menus at top restaurants
Related: Your Guide to COOLinary Deals in NOLA
September: Culture Returns
Weather: 70s to low 80s, slightly cooler
Vibe: LGBTQ+ pride and vibrant energy
Key Events:
• Southern Decadence – the “Gay Mardi Gras”
• New Orleans Burlesque Festival
Related: LGBTQ+ Events in New Orleans You Shouldn’t Miss
October: Fall Festivities and Spooky Fun
Weather: Cooler and more comfortable
Vibe: Artsy, spooky, and delicious
Key Events:
• Krewe of Boo Halloween Parade
• French Quarter Halloween parties
Related: Haunted Tours and Spooky Spots in New Orleans
November: Food, Family, and Football
Weather: Cool and crisp
Vibe: Holiday-season ramp-up
Key Events:
• Oak Street Po-Boy Festival
• Bayou Classic football game & Battle of the Bands
Related: Best Po-Boys in New Orleans Ranked
December: Holidays with a NOLA Twist
Weather: 50s to 60s, festive and cozy
Vibe: Bright lights, classic charm
Key Events:
• Réveillon Dinners at restaurants across the city
Related: Your Guide to Christmas in New Orleans
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for the best time to visit New Orleans:
• Come in spring (March–May) for festivals and music
• Visit in fall (October–December) for food and culture
• Summer (June–August) is hot, but great for deals and fewer crowds
• January and early February are perfect for calm Carnival vibes before Mardi Gras explodes
No matter when you go, one thing is guaranteed: New Orleans will welcome you with open arms, open kitchens, and open hearts.
