In New Orleans, the land of dreams…
Welcome to New Orleans! What is there to do?! Besides the legendary walk down Bourbon Street and a hurricane in one hand, there are over “130 festivals a year, there’s a celebration for everything and everyone” according to NewOrleans.com. If you so happen to be in town this summer, I’ve compiled an amazing list of festivals that cannot be missed!
Don’t let the heat beat you, grab yourself a snowball and enjoy the summer bummer in town!
Essence Festival
Held over Fourth of July weekend, the premier showcase for contemporary African American music and culture. It is a three-day party, named after Essence Magazine filled with amazing musical performances this year with Janet Jackson, Erykah Badu and Jill Scott and many more.
Bastille Day Fete
Happening on July 13th from 6pm-9pm at the New Orleans Museum of Art, a one-day festival celebrating 300 years of French-American friendship.
Vegan 2 The Soul
July 15th at Washington Square Park, the inaugural first-year fest will bring food, lifestyle and music. Celebrate an array of vegan and vegetarian friendly food options to this free event!
Tales of the Cocktail
Taking place July 17th – 22nd, journey into the art of drinking and cocktailing! Some of the world’s finest mixologists and cocktail enthusiast come for five days of “cocktails, cuisine and culture”.
Satchmo Summerfest
Honoring the Crescent City’s own legendary jazz musician, Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong! Taking place at New Orleans Jazz Museum (the Old U.S. Mint) this August 3rd-5th featuring an amazing lineup of local musicians!
Whitney White Linen Night
On the first Saturday of August, a sea of white attire takes over in Downtown New Orleans to the arts district of Julia Street. Free to the general block, it’s a fun summer block party donning your finest white linen to fine art gallery hopping, food and drinks!
Dirty Linen Night
Happening after the Saturday of White Linen, take your “dirty linens” worn and spend an evening at the shops and galleries on Royal Street. Always features street music, local artists and more!
Southern Decadence
A fabulous 6-day spectacle every year around Labor Day is the Gulf South’s largest gay event! With lots of parties, debauchery, and more both day and night!
by Aimee Cedro