In New Orleans, you can find a festival for anything and anyone during spring and summer. (It’s one of the most special parts of living here– hehe.) At least you know it’s always a good time to visit New Orleans!
The best part about New Orleans festivals is that most are free to enjoy. I’ll tell you all you need to know about the top 13 festivals in New Orleans during spring and summer. Then, you can decide when you want to visit New Orleans next!
13 Top New Orleans Festivals in Spring & Summer
In chronological order from spring (April) through summer (September):
- French Quarter Fest
- New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Fest
- Bayou Boogaloo
- Greek Fest
- Oyster Fest
- New Orleans Pride
- Running of the Bulls
- Tales of the Cocktail
- Essence Music Festival
- White Linen Night
- Red Dress Run
- Satchmo Summerfest
- Southern Decadence
About These New Orleans Festivals
French Quarter Fest
April 11-14, 2019
Price: FREE
This festival’s mission is “to promote the French Quarter and the City of New Orleans through high quality special events and activities that showcase the culture and heritage of this unique city, contribute to the economic well-being of the community, and instill increased pride in the people of New Orleans.”
I think that hits the head on the nail here. Expect amazing good, great music, and lots of happy people!
Find out more about French Quarter Fest here.
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Fest
April 25-May 5, 2019
Price: $75/day
Elton John, Maroon 5, Aerosmith, Stevie Wonder… these are just a few of the iconic performers who have taken the stage at Jazz Fest.
In addition to legendary musicians and performers, Jazz Fest offers an outstanding menu from local eateries. You’ll look back on Jazz Fest and remember what you ate just as much as who you saw perform. Think mango freeze, crawfish bread, crawfish monica, and much more…*drools* 🤤
Oh, and did I mention incredible art vendors? You’ll spend your time walking from stage to stage gazing at the incredible craftsmanship of these artists.
Pro Tip: It’s always very hot, so bring a water bottle to refill!
Learn more about this internationally-known festival here.
Bayou Boogaloo
May 17-19, 2019
Price: FREE
Bayou Boogaloo is another free party that New Orleans throws just because! It’s a great event to get together with the community for music, food, art, and of course– the bayou!
People bring kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and inflatables to listen to the music and watch the festivities from the bayou.
Get more information about Bayou Boogaloo here.
Greek Fest
May 23-26, 2019
Price: $8
Bring your toga and get your Greek on! Celebrate Greek culture with performances, music, and of course food and drinks.
Stop by the market to buy imported Greek goods such as food and artwork. This is a great event that’s fun for the whole family.
Find activities and daily events at Greek Fest here.
Oyster Fest
June 1-2, 2019
Price: FREE
Spend your day at Oyster Fest located on the Mississippi riverfront and head next door to the Aquarium to cool down after.
You’ll find the finest oysters from around the city in one location to try! My personal favorites are Drago’s and Felix’s. You can’t go wrong with a day filled with eating oysters, trust me.
Get all you need to know about Oyster Fest here.
New Orleans Pride
June 7-9, 2019
Price: FREE
There’s no shortage of LGBTQ festivities in New Orleans. Don’t forget to wear your brightest colored clothes and join the party in the streets for Pride.
Besides partying in the streets, you can participate in many programs, seminars, and events going on during the festival. These events raise money to fund anti-bullying and anti-discrimination initiatives in New Orleans schools.
Learn more about Pride’s mission here.
Running of the Bulls
July 12-14, 2019
Price: FREE
[Also known as San Fermin in Nueva Orleans] Goodbye bulls, hello roller derby girls! Only slightly safer than the original Running of the Bulls in Pamplona…
Don’t miss this insanely fun “run” in downtown New Orleans. The day starts with the Big Easy Rollergirls chasing participants with clubs and ends with the entire city partying in the streets.
Make sure you pack an all white outfit and your red bandana!
Find out more about the Running of the Bulls here.
Click the link to read now.
Tales of the Cocktail
July 16-21, 2019
Price: Varies by event
How could you not enjoy a week-long cocktail festival in New Orleans? Whether you’re a whiskey connoisseur or just searching for pretty drinks, this is the festival for you.
There are many events during the festival meant to promote, educate, and support the hospitality industry. You won’t want to miss these parties, seminars, tastings, and competitions.
Fun fact: I interned for this festival while in college, and I had a blast! Ask me all you need to know about Tales.
Find out more about Tales of the Cocktail here!
Essence Music Festival
July 5-7, 2019
Conferences and Expos: FREE
Concert tickets: $250 for a 3-day pass
Join the largest celebration of African American culture at Essence Festival. Beside a nightly concert series with performers such as Missy Elliot, Mary J. Blige, and NAS, you can attend FREE conferences and expos. Topics covered include music, beauty, health, and entrepreneurship.
Find out all you need to know about Essence Festival here.
White Linen Night
August 3, 2019
Price: FREE
Don’t forget to wear a certain color this night… Can you guess which color I’m talking about?
Yea, it’s white, and yes, you’ll instantly stain it. But it’s all in good fun!
Grab a glass of wine and make your way down Julia Street as you stroll in and out of art galleries. This event benefits the New Orleans Contemporary Arts Center (CAC).
Sounds like the event for you? Find out more about the CAC here!
Red Dress Run
August 10, 2019
Red Dress Run: $65
Partying in the Street: FREE
I’ve never actually ran this to be honest… but I’ve spent the day in my finest red dress and tennis shoes on Bourbon Street. The locals absolutely go bananas for this event, and it’s one of my favorites in the city.
Come ready to party in the streets! And you MUST wear a red dress or prepare to stand out in the worst kind of way.
Register for the run here or show up the day-of to party like me.
Satchmo Summerfest
August 2-4, 2019
Price: $5/day – Kids get in FREE
Here’s to another festival in New Orleans dedicated to great music and food! Because why not?
Stop by Satchmo Summerfest to support local artists and listen to blues, jazz, and brass bands. Before heading to a stage, grab a drink and some soul food from a local restaurant’s food stand to complete your experience.
Learn more about Satchmo Summerfest here.
Southern Decadence
August 29 – September 2
Price: FREE
Welcome to the largest gay event in New Orleans! Get ready for a long weekend of craziness and fun. You’ll spend the day dancing in the streets and the nights dancing in the clubs.
Learn all about Southern Decadence and its many events here.
Which Festivals Are You Going To?
Leave a comment if you’ve been to any of these festivals and what you think of them! If you haven’t been to any, starting planning your trip down to New Orleans during spring or summer ASAP.
Feel free to ask me anything about these events via your fave social channel:Xx,
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