This Fourth of July weekend, New Orleans is doing what it does best—mixing soul, rhythm, and revelry in the most unapologetically local way possible. From brass bands and bounce legends to burlesque and brunches on the Mississippi, the city is alive with events that celebrate freedom, culture, and community. Here’s your ultimate weekend guide to the exclusive happenings taking place only from Friday, July 4 to Sunday, July 6, 2025.
ESSENCE Festival of Culture (July 4–6)
Still the crown jewel of July in New Orleans, the ESSENCE Festival of Culture continues all weekend long, filling the Superdome and Convention Center with powerhouse performances, thought-provoking panels, and Black-owned business showcases. Artists like Jill Scott, Babyface, Patti LaBelle, Jazmine Sullivan, Ari Lennox, and Erykah Badu are scheduled to light up the stage, with Master P performing his farewell set in his hometown. ESSENCE is more than a concert—it’s a cultural movement.
Go 4th on the River Fireworks Show (Friday, July 4 at 9 PM)
Celebrate Independence Day with a New Orleans twist at the Go 4th on the River fireworks show along the Mississippi River. The display kicks off at 9 PM and can be viewed from the French Quarter riverfront, Woldenberg Park, and the Algiers Point levee. This free spectacle remains one of the most scenic ways to watch the sky light up in celebration of freedom—both hard-won and still in progress.
Tipitina’s Free Friday: Soul Brass Band (Friday, July 4)
One of New Orleans’ best traditions—Free Friday at Tipitina’s—welcomes the Soul Brass Band to the iconic stage on Friday night. Fusing brass band sounds with funk and hip-hop, this high-energy performance is perfect for locals who want to keep their celebrations rooted in homegrown rhythm. Doors open at 9 PM. Get there early; no cover, but capacity fills fast.
Cat Café Pop-Up at Anarchy Yoga NOLA (Saturday, July 5)
On Saturday, July 5, head to Anarchy Yoga NOLA for a Cat Café Pop-Up like no other. Mingle with adoptable cats while enjoying coffee and calm in a radically inclusive, LGBTQ+ friendly space. It’s part self-care, part animal rescue, and fully New Orleans. Reserve a time at Tomato Club, and donations go toward local rescue efforts.
Mannie Fresh at The Maison (Saturday, July 5)
Legendary producer and NOLA icon Mannie Fresh will perform a rare intimate DJ set at The Maison on Saturday night. Known for shaping the sound of southern hip-hop and Cash Money Records, Mannie brings decades of beats and bounce to this neighborhood joint. Expect a packed house, pulsing tracks, and maybe a few surprise guests.
Bad N Boozy Brunch on the Creole Queen (Sunday, July 6)
All aboard the Creole Queen for the Bad N Boozy Brunch Cruise on Sunday, July 6. This floating brunch party features live DJs, bottomless mimosas, southern bites, and unbeatable views of the city skyline. Boarding begins at 11:30 AM, and the cruise runs until 2 PM. This is how New Orleans does Sunday service—with shrimp and grits, bass drops, and Champagne.
Comic Strip: Comedy & Burlesque at AllWays Lounge (Sunday, July 6)
Cap off your weekend with Comic Strip: An Evening of Comedy and Burlesque at the AllWays Lounge on St. Claude Avenue. This one-night-only event blends sharp-witted stand-up with sultry striptease, delivered by a lineup of queer, campy, and cutting-edge performers. Doors open at 8 PM; seating is limited, and laughter is guaranteed.
