Fall in New Orleans. While we may not be seeing leaves falling or temperature dropping (90 degrees to 80 degrees doesn’t count) we are seeing a ton of cool festivals and events. October and November are jam packed with cool festivals, art shows, and concerts, and I’m here to help you navigate it all. Check them out, and who knows, you might even get to wear a sweater!
OCTOBER
Concerts
Phantogram at the Republic, Oct 4
Katy Perry, Smoothie King Center, Oct 8
Fitz & The Tantrums, HOB, Oct 11
Paul McCartney, Smoothie King Center, Oct 11
Community Records Block Party, Carver Theater, Oct 25
Festivals
A celebration of local art and artists in the Warehouse District. After party at the CAC.
Louisiana Seafood Festival, Oct 10-12
Located in City Park, this festival boasts delicious food, music, and art. Fo’ free!
Oktoberfest, Oct 10-11, 17-18, and 24-25
Yes, NOLA does celebrate Oktoberfest and yes, you can go even if you don’t drink beer or are underaged. There will be food, music, events, and of course, beer.
Head to City Park at NOMA for a festival unlike any other. Sample sushi, listen to traditional music, learn dances and more.
New Orleans Film Festival, Oct 16-23
Celebrate “Hollywood South” with screenings throughout the city.
Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival, Oct 17-19
Stop by for two stages, all the BBQ you could dream of, and craft from local vendors. (Shown above)
Prospect 3: Notes for Now, Oct 25-Jan 25
The NOLA contemporary arts show is back for the third time, showcasing art at various locations throughout the city.
NOLA’s official Halloween parade kicks off at 6:30pm
Voodoo Music and Arts Experience, Oct 31-Nov 2
Voodoo is back and better than ever, featuring performaces from Outkast, Arctic Monkeys and the Foo Fighters.
NOVEMBER
Concerts
Thundercat and Peanut Butter Wolf, One Eyed Jacks, Nov 1
Nick Carter and Jordan Knight, Civic Theater, Nov 4
The New Pornographers, Civic Theater, Nov 7
James Taylor, UNO Lakefront Arena, Nov 11
Festivals
Giant Omlette Celebration, Nov 1-2
Although not technically in NOLA, this celebration of the omlette is definitely worth the trek. (Shown above)
This festival celebrates women in the arts, showcasing throughout the city.
Boudin, Bourbon and Beer Festival, Nov 7-8
This fundraiser for the Emril Lagasse Foundation features over 50 local chefs.
Treme Creole Gumbo Festival, Nov 8-9
Exactly what it sounds like. Delicious gumbo and great music in Armstrong Park.
This annual theater festival focuses on putting on shows in unique and repurposed spaces.
Oak Street Po-Boy Festival, Nov 23
This fan favorite is back, featuring even more food and more fun.
Celebration in The Oaks, Nov 29-Dec 31
The annual lighting of the oaks in City Park is beautiful, and is sure to get you in the holiday spirit. (Shown above)