As 2023 winds down, it’s time to start planning your trip to the vibrant city of New Orleans for 2024. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and endless culinary delights, New Orleans is a city that truly has something for everyone.
From world-renowned festivals to unique cultural experiences, there’s always something happening in New Orleans. It doesn’t matter whether you’re an art lover, a music enthusiast, or a history buff. If you love trying new foods or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere of a city that never sleeps, New Orleans has something for you. So, whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure.
With so much to see and do, planning your trip to New Orleans can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the city’s best events in 2024. From the iconic Mardi Gras celebration to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, we’ve got you covered.
New Orleans Events 2024: 8 Must-Attend Festivals and Events
New Orleans is a city that knows how to party, and there’s no better time to experience its vibrant spirit than during one of its many festivals and events. Here are eight of the best events to mark your calendar for in 2024:
- Mardi Gras (February/March): The biggest party of the year, with parades, music, and revelry.
- New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (April/May): A celebration of the city’s rich musical heritage, with performances by local and international artists.
- French Quarter Festival (April): A free music festival held in the historic French Quarter.
- Voodoo Music + Arts Experience (October): A three-day music festival featuring a mix of rock, hip-hop, and electronic music.
- Bayou Boogaloo (May): A free music festival held on the banks of the Mississippi River.
- Essence Festival (July): A celebration of African-American culture, featuring music, art, and food.
- New Orleans Film Festival (October): A showcase of independent films from around the world.
- Christmas New Orleans Style (November/December): A month-long celebration of the holiday season, with parades, concerts, and special events.
These are just a few of the many great events happening in New Orleans in 2024. So, whether you’re looking for a wild party, a cultural experience, or a chance to simply enjoy the city’s unique atmosphere, be sure to check out one of these events during your visit.
Mardi Gras (February/March): The biggest party of the year, with parades, music, and revelry.
Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, is the biggest party of the year in New Orleans. It’s a time of parades, music, and revelry, leading up to Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent. The celebration begins on January 6th, the Twelfth Night, and culminates on Mardi Gras Day, which is the day before Ash Wednesday.
The highlight of Mardi Gras is the parades, which feature floats, marching bands, and costumed revelers. The most famous parades are the Zulu Parade, the Rex Parade, and the Bacchus Parade. These parades are a spectacle of color and creativity, and they draw huge crowds of people from all over the world.
In addition to the parades, there are also plenty of other ways to celebrate Mardi Gras in New Orleans. You can attend a Mardi Gras ball, listen to live music, or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere on the streets. And, of course, no Mardi Gras celebration would be complete without king cake, a traditional Mardi Gras pastry.
If you’re planning to visit New Orleans for Mardi Gras, be sure to book your accommodations and flights well in advance. The city is packed with visitors during this time, and prices can be high. But if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience, Mardi Gras in New Orleans is definitely worth the trip.
Here are some tips for making the most of your Mardi Gras experience in New Orleans:
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure your feet are happy.
- Stay hydrated. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of Mardi Gras and forget to drink water. Stay hydrated to avoid getting sick.
- Be prepared for crowds. Mardi Gras is a popular time to visit New Orleans, so be prepared for large crowds. Be patient and respectful of others.
- Have fun! Mardi Gras is a time to let loose and have fun. Enjoy the parades, the music, and the food. And don’t forget to catch some beads!
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (April/May): A celebration of the city’s rich musical heritage, with performances by local and international artists.
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, also known as Jazz Fest, is a two-weekend music festival held in New Orleans every April and May. It’s one of the most popular music festivals in the world, and it attracts over 400,000 people each year.
Jazz Fest is a celebration of New Orleans’ rich musical heritage, and it features a diverse lineup of artists from all over the world. The festival’s stages host everything from traditional jazz and blues to contemporary rock, pop, and hip-hop. Some of the biggest names in music have performed at Jazz Fest, including Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney, and Beyoncé.
In addition to the music, Jazz Fest also features a variety of food and drink vendors, as well as arts and crafts booths. There’s also a kids’ area with activities and entertainment for the little ones.
If you’re a music lover, then Jazz Fest is definitely worth checking out. It’s a great opportunity to experience the vibrant music scene of New Orleans and see some of the biggest names in music perform live.
Here are some tips for making the most of your Jazz Fest experience:
- Buy your tickets in advance. Jazz Fest tickets go on sale in January, and they sell out quickly. So, if you’re planning to attend, be sure to buy your tickets early.
- Arrive early. The gates open at 11:00 AM each day, and the music starts at noon. If you want to get a good spot for the shows, be sure to arrive early.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure your feet are happy.
- Stay hydrated. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of Jazz Fest and forget to drink water. Stay hydrated to avoid getting sick.
- Be prepared for crowds. Jazz Fest is a popular event, so be prepared for large crowds. Be patient and respectful of others.
- Have fun! Jazz Fest is a celebration of music, so let loose and enjoy yourself. Dance, sing, and soak up the good vibes.
French Quarter Festival (April): A free music festival held in the historic French Quarter.
The French Quarter Festival is a free music festival held in the historic French Quarter of New Orleans every April. It’s a celebration of the city’s rich musical heritage, and it features a diverse lineup of local and national artists performing on multiple stages throughout the festival grounds.
- Something for everyone: The French Quarter Festival features a wide variety of musical genres, from traditional jazz and blues to contemporary rock, pop, and hip-hop. There’s also a kids’ area with activities and entertainment for the little ones.
- Free admission: The French Quarter Festival is free to attend, making it a great option for budget-minded travelers. Just be sure to arrive early to get a good spot for the shows.
- Food and drinks: There are plenty of food and drink vendors at the French Quarter Festival, so you can easily grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink while you’re enjoying the music.
- Arts and crafts: In addition to the music, the French Quarter Festival also features a variety of arts and crafts booths. You can find everything from handmade jewelry to paintings to pottery.
The French Quarter Festival is a great way to experience the vibrant music scene of New Orleans and see some of the city’s best musicians perform live. It’s also a great opportunity to explore the historic French Quarter and enjoy all that it has to offer.
Voodoo Music + Arts Experience (October): A three-day music festival featuring a mix of rock, hip-hop, and electronic music.
The Voodoo Music + Arts Experience, also known as Voodoo Fest, is a three-day music festival held in New Orleans every October. It’s one of the most popular music festivals in the city, and it attracts over 100,000 people each year.
Voodoo Fest features a diverse lineup of artists from all over the world, including some of the biggest names in rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. Past performers have included Red Hot Chili Peppers, Kendrick Lamar, The Weeknd, and Skrillex.
In addition to the music, Voodoo Fest also features a variety of food and drink vendors, as well as arts and crafts booths. There’s also a kids’ area with activities and entertainment for the little ones.
Voodoo Fest is a great way to experience the vibrant music scene of New Orleans and see some of the biggest names in music perform live. It’s also a great opportunity to enjoy the city’s unique culture and atmosphere.
Here are some tips for making the most of your Voodoo Fest experience:
- Buy your tickets in advance. Voodoo Fest tickets go on sale in June, and they sell out quickly. So, if you’re planning to attend, be sure to buy your tickets early.
- Arrive early. The gates open at 11:00 AM each day, and the music starts at noon. If you want to get a good spot for the shows, be sure to arrive early.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure your feet are happy.
- Stay hydrated. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of Voodoo Fest and forget to drink water. Stay hydrated to avoid getting sick.
- Be prepared for crowds. Voodoo Fest is a popular event, so be prepared for large crowds. Be patient and respectful of others.
- Have fun! Voodoo Fest is a celebration of music, so let loose and enjoy yourself. Dance, sing, and soak up the good vibes.
### Bayou Boogaloo (May): A free music festival held on the banks of the Mississippi River.
Bayou Boogaloo is a free music festival held on the banks of the Mississippi River in New Orleans every May. It’s a celebration of the city’s diverse music scene, and it features a lineup of local, regional, and national artists performing on multiple stages throughout the festival grounds.
Bayou Boogaloo is a family-friendly event, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In addition to the music, there’s also a variety of food and drink vendors, as well as arts and crafts booths. There’s also a kids’ area with activities and entertainment for the little ones.
Bayou Boogaloo is a great way to experience the vibrant music scene of New Orleans and see some of the city’s best musicians perform live. It’s also a great opportunity to enjoy the city’s unique culture and atmosphere.
Here are some tips for making the most of your Bayou Boogaloo experience:
- It’s free! Bayou Boogaloo is one of the few major music festivals in New Orleans that is free to attend. So, there’s no excuse not to go.
- Get there early. The festival grounds open at 11:00 AM each day, and the music starts at noon. If you want to get a good spot for the shows, be sure to arrive early.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure your feet are happy.
- Stay hydrated. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of Bayou Boogaloo and forget to drink water. Stay hydrated to avoid getting sick.
- Be prepared for crowds. Bayou Boogaloo is a popular event, so be prepared for large crowds. Be patient and respectful of others.
- Have fun! Bayou Boogaloo is a celebration of music, so let loose and enjoy yourself. Dance, sing, and soak up the good vibes.
Essence Festival (July): A celebration of African-American culture, featuring music, art, and food.
The Essence Festival is a four-day music and cultural festival held in New Orleans every July. It’s one of the largest African-American festivals in the United States, and it attracts over 500,000 people each year.
- Something for everyone: The Essence Festival features a diverse lineup of artists from all over the world, including some of the biggest names in R&B, hip-hop, and gospel music. There’s also a variety of workshops, seminars, and panel discussions on topics related to African-American culture and empowerment.
- A celebration of culture: The Essence Festival is more than just a music festival. It’s a celebration of African-American culture, and it features a variety of events and activities that highlight the contributions of African-Americans to society.
- A family-friendly event: The Essence Festival is a family-friendly event, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In addition to the music and cultural events, there’s also a kids’ area with activities and entertainment for the little ones.
- A chance to give back: The Essence Festival is also a chance to give back to the community. The festival partners with a variety of charities and organizations to raise money and awareness for important causes.
The Essence Festival is a great way to experience the vibrant culture of New Orleans and celebrate African-American culture. It’s also a great opportunity to see some of the biggest names in music perform live and learn about important social issues.
New Orleans Film Festival (October): A showcase of independent films from around the world.
The New Orleans Film Festival is an annual film festival held in New Orleans every October. It’s one of the largest film festivals in the United States, and it showcases a diverse lineup of independent films from around the world.
- Something for everyone: The New Orleans Film Festival features a wide variety of films, from documentaries to narrative features to experimental films. There’s something for everyone, regardless of your taste in movies.
- A chance to see independent films: The New Orleans Film Festival is a great opportunity to see independent films that you might not otherwise have the chance to see. Many of the films that are shown at the festival are not released in theaters, so this is your chance to catch them on the big screen.
- A chance to meet filmmakers: The New Orleans Film Festival is also a great opportunity to meet filmmakers from all over the world. There are often Q&A sessions and other events where you can interact with the filmmakers and learn more about their work.
- A chance to experience New Orleans: The New Orleans Film Festival is a great excuse to visit New Orleans and experience all that the city has to offer. The festival takes place in a variety of venues throughout the city, so you’ll have a chance to explore different neighborhoods and see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
The New Orleans Film Festival is a great way to experience the vibrant film scene of New Orleans and see some of the best independent films from around the world. It’s also a great opportunity to meet filmmakers and learn more about the art of filmmaking.
Christmas New Orleans Style (November/December): A month-long celebration of the holiday season, with parades, concerts, and special events.
Christmas New Orleans Style is a month-long celebration of the holiday season in New Orleans. It features a variety of events and activities, including parades, concerts, and special events. The celebration begins on Thanksgiving Day and ends on Christmas Day.
One of the highlights of Christmas New Orleans Style is the annual Christmas parade. The parade features floats, marching bands, and costumed characters, and it winds its way through the streets of the French Quarter. The parade is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
In addition to the parade, there are also a number of other Christmas events and activities taking place throughout the city. There are concerts, holiday markets, and special events at museums and other attractions. There’s also a variety of holiday decorations and lights on display throughout the city.
Christmas New Orleans Style is a great way to experience the city’s unique culture and traditions. It’s also a great time to visit New Orleans and enjoy all that the city has to offer.
Here are some tips for making the most of your Christmas New Orleans Style experience:
- Plan ahead. Christmas New Orleans Style is a popular time to visit the city, so it’s important to plan ahead and book your accommodations and flights early.
- Be prepared for crowds. Christmas New Orleans Style is a popular event, so be prepared for large crowds. Be patient and respectful of others.
- Dress warmly. The weather in New Orleans can be unpredictable in December, so be sure to dress warmly in layers.
- Take your time. There’s a lot to see and do during Christmas New Orleans Style, so don’t try to cram everything in. Take your time and enjoy the experience.
- Have fun! Christmas New Orleans Style is a time to celebrate, so let loose and have fun. Enjoy the parades, the concerts, and the special events. And don’t forget to eat some of the delicious holiday food.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about New Orleans Events 2024:
Question 1: When is Mardi Gras in 2024?
Answer: Mardi Gras Day in 2024 is on Tuesday, March 5th. The festivities begin on January 6th, the Twelfth Night, and culminate on Mardi Gras Day.
Question 2: How much does it cost to attend Jazz Fest?
Answer: Admission to Jazz Fest varies depending on the day and type of ticket. Single-day tickets start at $70, and weekend passes start at $175. Children under 10 are admitted free.
Question 3: Is the French Quarter Festival free?
Answer: Yes, the French Quarter Festival is free to attend. It’s a great way to experience the city’s music scene and culture without breaking the bank.
Question 4: What kind of music is played at Voodoo Fest?
Answer: Voodoo Fest features a diverse lineup of artists from all over the world, including some of the biggest names in rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. Past performers have included Red Hot Chili Peppers, Kendrick Lamar, The Weeknd, and Skrillex.
Question 5: Is Bayou Boogaloo family-friendly?
Answer: Yes, Bayou Boogaloo is a family-friendly event. There’s a kids’ area with activities and entertainment for the little ones, as well as a variety of food and drink vendors.
Question 6: What is there to do at Essence Festival?
Answer: Essence Festival features a variety of events and activities, including concerts, workshops, seminars, and panel discussions. There’s also a kids’ area with activities and entertainment for the little ones.
Question 7: What kind of films are shown at the New Orleans Film Festival?
Answer: The New Orleans Film Festival showcases a diverse lineup of independent films from around the world, including documentaries, narrative features, and experimental films.
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These are just a few of the many frequently asked questions about New Orleans Events 2024. For more information, please visit the official websites of the events or contact the New Orleans Convention & Visitors Bureau.
In addition to the FAQ section, here are some tips for planning your trip to New Orleans in 2024:
Tips
Here are some tips for planning your trip to New Orleans in 2024:
Tip 1: Book your accommodations and flights early.
New Orleans is a popular tourist destination, especially during major events like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest. To get the best rates on accommodations and flights, book your trip well in advance.
Tip 2: Purchase tickets for events in advance.
Tickets for popular events like Mardi Gras parades and Jazz Fest sell out quickly. To avoid disappointment, purchase your tickets well in advance.
Tip 3: Be prepared for crowds.
New Orleans is a lively city, and it can be especially crowded during major events. Be prepared for large crowds and be patient and respectful of others.
Tip 4: Dress comfortably.
You’ll be doing a lot of walking in New Orleans, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes. The weather in New Orleans can also be unpredictable, so dress in layers.
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By following these tips, you can help ensure that your trip to New Orleans in 2024 is a memorable one.
Now that you have all the information you need to plan your trip to New Orleans in 2024, it’s time to start making your plans. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a great time in the Big Easy.
Conclusion
New Orleans is a city that knows how to party, and there’s no better time to experience its vibrant spirit than during one of its many festivals and events. In 2024, the city will be hosting a variety of events, including Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and Voodoo Fest. There’s something for everyone in New Orleans, whether you’re a music lover, a foodie, or just looking for a good time.
If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans in 2024, be sure to check out one of the city’s many festivals and events. You’re sure to have a memorable experience.
Closing Message
New Orleans is a city that truly has something for everyone. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and endless culinary delights, it’s a city that you’ll never forget. So, start planning your trip to New Orleans today and experience all that the Big Easy has to offer.