Visiting New Orleans In Fall

OCTOBER EVENTS

In October, New Orleans is a vibrant city filled with a unique blend of cultural heritage, creole cuisine, lively festivities, and pleasant weather. As the fall season begins to settle in, the city's streets are adorned with colorful autumn leaves, creating a picturesque backdrop for exploring its historic neighborhoods. Whether you're here for football, food, or fall fun, New Orleans delivers unforgettable experiences all month long. See below for the can't-miss events, eats, and activities happening this September.

Hispanic Heritage Month

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in New Orleans from September 15 to October 15, as the city honors the vibrant cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. From savoring authentic cuisine at Hispanic-owned restaurants to exploring local shops and makers, there are countless ways to support and engage with the community. Keep an eye out for special cultural events, performances, and pop-ups happening throughout the month that highlight the rich diversity and traditions that shape New Orleans.

Celebration in the Oaks

Hop in your car and wind your way through two and a half miles of the park illuminated with lights displays. Or, walk through the illuminated Botanical Gardens and channel your inner child at Carousel Gardens Amusement Park. This holiday tradition will run from November 28, 2025 through January 1, 2026. Tickets are on sale November 1.

Professional Football

Around the country, fall means football to a lot of people. But in New Orleans, being a Who Dat is a way of life. Whether you're hanging out at a local sports bar, tailgating in Champions Square or watching the game in the Caesars Superdome, game day in New Orleans is an experience in itself. See the itinerary here.

Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade

The fourth annual Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade December 6 at 11 a.m. You can expect large, pageant-style floats with animatronics, local musicians atop the floats singing carols, helium balloons, and Santa Claus, of course! You won’t want to miss this world-class holiday parade. 

NOLA ChristmasFest

The indoor Christmas festival returns to the Convention Center with lots of seasonal cheer. An ice slide, ice skating rink, yuletide market, gingerbread village, and photos with Santa are just a few of the highlights. NOLA ChristmasFest is open December 20-29.

Algiers Bonfire + Concert

Though the tradition began in the River Parishes, there’s a celebration in New Orleans every December that kicks off the holiday season. Hop on the ferry and cross the Mississippi from the French Quarter over to Algiers Point. Each December, this quaint community hosts their own event celebrating the time-honored Louisiana tradition with performances from local groups, food, drink, and art vendors, and the lighting of the bonfire, which structure varies by year. Returns on Saturday, Dec. 6.

Holiday Concerts

Get into the spirit of the season with holiday concerts. If you love those classic holiday tunes, you won’t want to miss the Louisiana Philharmonic’s Classical Christmas or Holiday Spectacular. Lastly, you can also enjoy the aforementioned Caroling in Jackson Square on December 21.

Other Happenings

11/22/2025 - Sober Fest

11/28/2025 - Bayou Classic

11/28/2025 - Celebration in the Oaks

12/06/2025 - Algiers Bonfire & Concert

12/06/2025 - Manning Family Children's Holiday Parade

12/11/2025 - Greenway Supernova

12/13/2025 - Preservation Resource Center Holiday Home Tour

12/20/2025 - NOLA ChristmasFest

12/21/2025 - Caroling in Jackson Square

12/21/2025 - French Quarter Holiday Home Tours

12/23/2025 - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl

12/24/2025 - Christmas Eve Bonfires on the Levee

12/31/2025 - Louisiana Children's Museum "Noon Year's Eve"

12/31/2025 - New Orleans Eve