Carnival, New Orleans

Lonely PlanetAug 13

Discover the best times to visit New Orleans, from Mardi Gras and spring parties to calmer trips in summer and fall and Halloween and Christmas fun.

Season lasts from Twelfth Night until Ash Wednesday.

21 things in this story

French QuarterSuburbBy night, a place to visit.
Celebration in the OaksFestivalHoliday illuminations in City Park.
Mississippi RiverPlaceIt is the second-longest river in the United States, behind only the Missouri.
Mardi GrasFestivalCaps off an extended Carnival season.
CarnivalFestivalSeason lasts from Twelfth Night until Ash Wednesday.
Phunny Phorty PhellowsPlaceStreetcar procession that begins pre-Carnival season.
ChewbacchusFestivalA parade with a science fiction theme.
king cakeRestaurantThe city's famous iced treat.
French Quarter FestivalFestivalA totally free event.
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage FestivalFestivalAlso known as world-famous Jazz Fest.
White Linen NightFestivalTony, art-gallery-centered parties.
Satchmo SummerfestFestivalIt is held in early August in order to coincide with August 4, Armstrong's birthday.
Southern DecadenceFestivalEnergetic LGBTQ+ festival over Labor Day weekend.
St Louis Cemetery No 1SightFamous city cemetery.
New Year’s EveFestivalCentered on Fleur de Lis drop in Jackson Square.
Jackson SquarePark
Dirty Linen NightFestival
New Orleans Running of the BullsFestival
Essence Music FestivalFestival
Anne RicePlace
Elsewhere
Festival International de LouisianeFestivalLafayette, United StatesCelebrates Francophone music and heritage.

Carnival