New Orleans is an amazing vacation destination all year round. There are always events going on that you can immerse yourself in, and there's plenty of great food and culture to explore. There are certain times of the year that are particularly great to visit - here are some of the most popular times to visit the city.
Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras typically happens in late February or early March and is part of the larger Carnival celebration. New Orleans hosts one of the largest Mardi Gras celebrations in the world, with a huge parade and plenty of events throughout the city. The city gets very crowded, but you can't beat the exciting energy of Mardi Gras.
Voodoo Festival
The New Orleans Voodoo Music + Arts Experience is held in City Park in late October. The festival consistently attracts top musical talent as well as a huge number of unique art installations. It's also a great place to check out some of New Orleans' most amazing food. The festival pays some homage to New Orleans' voodoo culture and history, which spans across centuries.
New Orleans Jazz Festival
Another popular music festival that's worth visiting is the New Orleans Jazz Festival. It's held every year in the late spring, and although there's obviously plenty of jazz included in the lineup, you'll find other genres to listen to as well. The jazz festival also hosts local restaurants, craftspeople, and other cultural attractions that represent the amazing spirits of New Orleans.
Saints Season
The New Orleans Saints is the city's NFL football team, and residents have plenty of pride in their team. The Saints start their season in early fall, and it runs until December or January. If you're a sports fan, visiting during the Saints season has plenty of appeal. WHO DAT!
Fall Festivals
There are a number of small festivals that happen during the fall that are worth visiting. There are several food fests where you can enjoy Cajun and Creole food, and the New Orleans Film Festival happens at this time as well. The weather is also very pleasant, with the exception of the occasional storm.
With a range of incredible events that span across the seasons, be sure to pick your favorite and visit accordingly. New Orleans is waiting!