New Orleans in the state of Louisiana in the USA has the second unofficial name “Carefree City”. Indeed, the atmosphere of lightness and celebration attracts millions of tourists to the city annually. New Orleans is a city of jazz, carnivals, voodoo magic and excellent cuisine. City festivals and numerous bars and clubs will not leave you indifferent and will give you the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of the city. Read more in our New Orleans Entertainment Guide.
New Orleans Festivals
In New Orleans, a huge number of unique cultural traditions. They are reflected in the local culinary tradition, in music, in art and of course in city festivals and celebrations. Many festivals take place in the city throughout the year, the largest of which is the famous Mardi Gras, which takes place in February / March. This is the largest city event. During the carnival, a costume parade takes place around the city, streets and houses are decorated with beads and garlands, and in local hotels, and there is not a single free room. After the carnival, the townspeople continue to celebrate right on the city streets, dancing and having fun sometimes until the morning.
Among other, equally interesting festivals can be noted:
- Jazz and Heritage Festival – May
- French Quarter Festival – May
- Essence Festival – July
- San Fermin en Nueva Orleans – July
- Satchmo Summer Festival – August
- Southern Decadence – September
- Halloween – October
- Voodoo Experience – November
New Orleans Nightlife
New Orleans has the proud status of the world capital of jazz. It was in local pubs and saloons when this musical style was born. Louis Armstrong himself once performed in local bars and began his career as a jazz musician. New Orleans loves and appreciates good music, which is why jazz plays everywhere: in bars, pubs, and even on city streets.
In addition to music, locals and tourists are not against a good drink. The main part of the places where you can have fun with a glass of something alcohol is located on the famous Bourbon Street. Here are the best bars and clubs of the city. Another urban entertainment center is French Street. There are slightly fewer bars, but the atmosphere in them is more calm and comfortable. Most bars are open from noon until 10-11 p.m. Some bars work even at night. As a rule, admission is free. The only exceptions are live concerts and theme parties. However, in this case, you need to buy or book a ticket in advance.
Among the most popular places in the city are:
- The Spotted Cat
- The Funky Pirate
- Monaghan’s Erin Rose
- Preservation Hall
- Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro
- Vaughan’s Lounge
- Pat O’Brien’s
There is also a large LGBT community in New Orleans. Therefore, the city has many gay clubs. Most of them are also located at the end of Bourbon Street.
