Planning a trip to the Crescent City this summer? Get ready for an exhilarating experience filled with vibrant festivals, lively events, and a myriad of things to do. Festival goers and foodies alike will revel in a unique culture of events and flavors. History buffs and explorers will find no shortage of sights and stories.
With a focus on events and festivals for the adventurer, there’s no better summer vacation than one spent in New Orleans!
Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo
Dive into the spirit of summer at Bayou Boogaloo from May 17 to May 19. This vibrant fest along the banks of Bayou St. John includes live music, food, drinks, and art and other goods from local artists and entrepreneurs. Locals and tourists alike canoe, paddle, and float on the bayou all weekend. This family-friendly event captures the essence of laid-back Louisiana living, and while you’re there, you can explore the historic Mid-City neighborhood!
For more information about Bayou Boogaloo, visit https://thebayouboogaloo.com/.
New Orleans Pride
Spanning the entire month of June, New Orleans Pride is a sight to see, from the parade to the festival. The Pride Parade is often a highlight of many Pride events, featuring vibrant costumes and a diverse representation of the LGBTQ+ community in New Orleans. The festival typically includes live music, food and drinks, community resources and activities, and other entertainment. And between the parade and festival, you’ll find many day and nighttime events, such as film screenings, art exhibitions, performances, workshops, and much more. It’s a time for celebration, unity, and advocacy!
For more information, visit https://neworleanspride.org/.
New Orleans Wine and Food Experience
New Orleans Wine and Food Experience, often referred to as NOWFE, takes place June 5 to June 9 this year. Participants can expect wine tastings, food experiences, seminars, workshops, culinary competitions, a gala, and local restaurant participation. The event focuses on showcasing the diverse and famous cuisine of New Orleans and a sampling of wines from around the world. Proceeds from some of the events support local culinary and hospitality industry initiatives.
For more information, visit https://www.nowfe.com/.
Essence Festival of Culture
Essence Festival, taking place from July 4 to July 7 is a celebration of African American music, culture, and community, featuring renowned artists, empowerment seminars, and a party atmosphere that electrifies the city. Attendees enjoy fashion, beauty, shopping, lifestyle, celebrity, and entrepreneurship experiences throughout the fest.
For more information, visit https://www.essence.com/festival2024/.
Tales of the Cocktail
Tales of the Cocktail is an annual cocktail and spirits festival held each year in New Orleans. It is one of the most significant gatherings of professionals in the spirits and cocktail industry, attracting bartenders, mixologists, brand ambassadors, and enthusiasts from around the world. Tales of the Cocktail boasts dinners, special events, seminars, tastings, competitions, networking opportunities, awards, and so much more for the cocktail and spirit enthusiast or professional.
For more information and to stay tuned for the 2024 date announcement, visit https://talesofthecocktail.org/.
Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival
Let the lively beats of Cajun and Zydeco music transport you to the heart of the Louisiana bayou at this free celebration of Louisiana’s rich musical heritage. From toe-tapping tunes to delectable Cajun cuisine, it’s a cultural feast for the senses.
For more information and for 2024 dates, visit https://www.jazzandheritage.org/.
COOLinary
Each year, New Orleans COOLinary takes place during the entire month of August, featuring the diverse and delicious culinary scene in New Orleans through special prix-fixe menus at some of the city’s finest restaurants. COOLinary was designed to make dining at upscale restaurants in New Orleans more accessible, and these fixed-price menus often represent a significant value compared to the regular à la carte offerings. Yet COOLinary is not just about dining out; it’s a celebration of New Orleans’ culinary heritage and the talented chefs who contribute to the city’s vibrant food culture.
To see this year’s participating restaurants once released, check back at https://www.neworleans.com/coolinary/. In the meantime, you can browse through the participating restaurants and their menus from 2023.
Book Your Summer Stay
With airy courtyards and balconies to accompany our luxurious suites, you’ll be in an oasis in the heart of New Orleans – steps away from all the city offers during the summer.
The Lanaux Mansion offers suites for individuals, couples, families, and groups, so you and yours can book a summer vacation to remember. Visit our website today to book!
And as always, feel free to reach out at lanauxevents@gmail.com or (504) 948-6119 if you have any questions about your upcoming trip!