The fall season is one of the best times to visit New Orleans. As the city cools down, the vibrant culture and history of the Crescent City come to life in full force. From world-class food festivals to thrilling Halloween celebrations and whether you’re a foodie, sports fan, or festival-goer, there’s something for everyone this fall.
New Orleans Saints Home Games
Fall in New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without the roar of the crowd in the Superdome. On September 7 and 14 and October 5, 12, and 26, the Saints will be taking the field. Feel the electric atmosphere, wave your “Who Dat” flags, and cheer on the Saints as they battle their opponents. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking to enjoy the excitement, the electric atmosphere Saints fans bring to the game is an experience in and of itself!
Festivals: Food, Music, and More
New Orleans is home to some of the most exciting and unique festivals in the world, and there’s no other U.S. city that does a festival quite like the Big Easy does.
But before you dive into the local culture, check out the many influences on New Orleans culture, art, and food at the International Arts Festival NOLA 25. From September 25 to 28, they’re celebrating global creativity with performances and exhibitions from artists around the world.
When you’re ready for a dose of that famous New Orleans culture, head to BlackAmericana Fest on September 26. It’s a beautiful celebration of African American culture with a vibrant mix of music, food, and community spirit.
Once October kicks off, festival season is truly in full swing. Local and visiting families alike will flock to Gretna Fest on October 3, where you’ll find live music and delicious local food in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.
For something truly unique, don’t miss Swampus Returns on October 4, a celebration of local traditions and swamp culture, blending music and activities in a one-of-a-kind event. And when you’re ready for a mouthwatering southern meal, head over to the Fried Chicken Festival that same day where local chefs will be serving up their best fried chicken recipes.
Music and art fans will enjoy Art for Art’s Sake on October 4, where galleries across the city open their doors for a night of exhibitions and cultural celebration.
The following weekend, enjoy a combination of soulful blues music with mouthwatering BBQ at the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival on October 10. Or check out Oktoberfest that same day, where you can enjoy authentic German food, live music, and great beer, all in the heart of New Orleans.
And finally, for those music lovers craving funky beats, pencil in NOLA Funk Fest from October 17-19.
Loved By Locals
If wandering the French Quarter and popping into various shops and courtyards is on your travel list, explore the strange and fascinating at The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum’s Fall Oddities Emporium on October 5, where you can uncover quirky medical relics and other oddities from the past.
And for music and theatre lovers, the Saenger Theatre offers New Orleans a thriving arts scene. Beginning October 7 and running until October 12, enjoy a Broadway-quality performance at “Kimberly Akimbo“. This critically acclaimed show offers a heartwarming and funny story that promises to captivate audiences.
Halloween in New Orleans
If your visit falls in October, you likely already know that New Orleans knows how to celebrate Halloween in style! Whether you’re looking for spooky thrills or festive fun, the city is packed with eerie events. Ghosts in the Oaks beginning October 16 will take you on a spooky tour through City Park, where you’ll encounter live-action, spine-tingling tales. If roller coasters and ferris wheels offer you a thrill, head to Brews and Boos on October 24, a Halloween-themed night out in City Park’s Carousel Gardens that combines the best of local brews and spooky fun.
And for the remainder of that weekend (October 24-26), Halloween New Orleans will host fabulous costume parties and community events that embrace all things spooky.
Finally, don’t miss the ultimate Halloween parade: Krewe of Boo on October 25, where you’ll witness extravagant floats and outrageous costumes parading through the French Quarter.
If you’re a fan of trick-or-treating or exploring the French Quarter, Halloween night on October 31 in New Orleans will always have a new surprise in store with a myriad of pop-ups and parties.
A Luxurious Home Away from Home This Fall
From thrilling Halloween celebrations to food and music festivals, the Crescent City offers a variety of experiences for every type of traveler. Make the Lanaux Mansion your home base where you can relax and unwind after a full day of exploring New Orleans’ unforgettable events.
Whether you ride Amtrak’s scenic rail service from Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, Pascagoula and Mobile or fly in from across the country, your stay at the Lanaux Mansion will place you right at the heart of the action this fall.
Now through September 15 2025, enjoy 15% off our already Sizzling Summer Rates using promo code “sizzle”. All rates based upon availability; Fridays and Saturdays excluded from promotion.
Book your stay today, and start planning your fall itinerary!
