New Orleans pulsates with a unique blend of French, African, Caribbean, and Southern influences, which makes it perfect for outdoor festivals. And 2024 is going to have plenty of them.
This cultural tapestry explodes in its festivals, with music, food, and costumes reflecting the city’s rich heritage and joie de vivre. From the brass bands of Jazz Fest to the elaborately costumed revelers of Mardi Gras, every festival is a vibrant immersion into the soul of New Orleans.
One thing about New Orleans events is that you know you can expect energetic crowds, great food and live music.
Here Are The Best Festivals In New Orleans For 2024
This year NOLA event organizers bring back the big-tent experience around the city. Want to know what New Orleans events you don’t want to miss?
French Quarter Festival – April 11-14
This year, the French Quarter Festival returns to the city on April 11-14. There will be live bands on several stages and it all kicks off with a parade. Learn more.
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival — April 25-May 5
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is set for Thursday, Apr 25, 2024 – Sunday, May 5, 2024. The event will take place at the New Orleans Fairgrounds. Learn more here.
NOLA Crawfish Fest — April 29-May 1
The fourth annual NOLA Crawfish Fest will occur over three days in New Orleans. The event will feature live music, beer, and some 6,000 pounds of boiled crawfish. the fun begins on April 29 through May 1 (3-10 p.m.).
Essence Festival — Friday, July 5—Sunday, July 7
Essence Festival is happening Friday, July 5—Sunday, July 7, 2024 in New Orleans, its perennial home. This year, the event will feature Kevin Hart, Nikki Minaj and more.
As always, you can expect tons of delicious food, great entertainment and some career advancement forums and workshops. Learn more.
San Fermin (Running With the Bulls) — July 8-10
The annual San Fermin celebration allows New Orleans residents to run with the bulls from July 8-10, 2022. Learn more.
Satchmo Summerfest — Aug 3-4, 2024
The Satchmo Festival is a homage to New Orleans’ musical elder statesman, Louis Armstrong. The festival runs from Saturday, August 3 and Sunday, August 4, 2024.
Beignet Fest
Who doesn’t love them some beignets? Come on out to Beignet Fest. The event will be held at City Park in New Orleans. Learn more.
National Fried Chicken Festival
The National Fried Chicken Festival is back again this year in New Orleans. The event is happening this fall on the Lake Front. Learn more.
NOLA Caribbean Experience
The NOLA Caribbean Experience will take place in October 2024 in downtown New Orleans. Learn more.
How Many Festivals Does New Orleans Have A Year?
As a top convention city, New Orleans draws more than 130 events a year, according to its Chamber of Commerce. Many of these events are conventions, but a good number are festivals as well.
What Is The Most Famous Festival In New Orleans?
Without a doubt, Mardi Gras is New Orleans’ top annual festival, drawing approximately 1.4 million people, excluding 2020 and 2021, which were pretty much affected by the pandemic.
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