Guides - Prince Conti Hotel

February 3, 2026

by Jay

Activities fun things to do in new orleans

What You Need to Know About the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

Jazz Fest Entrance

It’s almost that time of year again — time to sip the iced tea, snack on crawfish Monica, and sway to the music of local and international musicians under the hot New Orleans sun. The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, or Jazz Fest, is one of the most celebrated festivals in New Orleans and takes place every year during the last weekend of April and the first weekend in May. Jazz Fest has been around since 1970 and gets bigger and better every year.

During these two weekends, locals and out-of-towners get together to enjoy the culture of New Orleans with the various food, crafts, and performances that Jazz Fest has to offer. Contrary to the name, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival is more than just jazz music.

Various musical genres like hip-hop, zydeco, blues, tribal, and electronic music can all be heard live from Jazz Fest’s multiple stages. This year, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival will take place at its usual spot on the Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots (1751 Gentilly Blvd.) starting on Thursday, April 23, and ending on Sunday, May 3, 2026.

Some of the top headliners for the festival include Eagles, Stevie Nicks, Rod Stewart, Kings of Leon, Lainey Wilson, Teddy Swims, Lorde, Jon Batiste, Tyler Childers, Raye, T-Pain, David Byrne, The Black Keys, Nas, Earth, Wind & Fire, Mavis Staples, Sean Paul, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Widespread Panic, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, St. Vincent, Alabama Shakes, Irma Thomas, Herbie Hancock, Lake Street Dive, Ziggy Marley, The Revivalists, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, and many more. The music schedule is broken down by day in cubes with times for all the acts, which you can view here.

Of course, one of the best parts of Jazz Fest is the food. Some staples for food include Crawfish Monica, mango freezes, ya-ka-mein, snoballs, poboys, and much more. Here’s the list of 2026 food vendors.

The 2026 Jazz Fest

Jazz Fest went cashless in 2023 and remains so. Ticket, food, beverage, craft, and merchandise booths no longer accept cash payments. If you come to the event with only cash, the Festival will offer two cash exchange booths near key vending locations so you can get a prepaid card for your cash.
Jazz Fest features over 5,000 musicians across 14 stages.
“Locals Thursday” will be on April 23 this year.
This year, Jazz Fest will celebrate Jamaica at the Expedia Cultural Exchange Pavilion.
The Jazz & Heritage Gala kicks off Jazz Fest with the celebration of Louisiana music and cuisine on Wednesday, April 22, at Generations Hall (310 Andrew Higgins Blvd.).

Are You Coming to Jazz Fest?

We’d love for you to stay with us! Take advantage of Prince Conti Hotel’s specials, group rates, and best-rate guarantee for greater savings to spend on New Orleans famous cuisine and enjoy everything this magnificent city has to offer. Reserve your room today!

Also, consider booking a guided tour of the famous St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 to experience the hauntingly beautiful past of New Orleans. And, for easy, informative sightseeing, we recommend the City Sightseeing New Orleans city tour on the open-top, double-decker bus. It runs every 30 minutes through the Garden District, French Quarter, and CBD. You can hop on and off anytime!

January 29, 2026

by Jay

fun things to do in new orleans New Orleans attractions

What to Do in the French Quarter in April

Don’t spread this around too much, but April might just be the best time to visit New Orleans. The city has recovered from its massive Mardi Gras hangover, crawfish season is in full, spicy swing, and the weather is just about as perfect as it gets, with average highs hovering in the mid-70s.

If that’s not incentive enough, April is a month jam-packed with music, food, parades, festivals… You know, all the stuff that makes New Orleans so New Orleans. Best of all? You don’t have to venture outside the French Quarter to enjoy the best the city has to offer, and many of these events don’t cost a dime.

Just bring a sense of joie de vivre and let the good times roll!

Crescent City Classic – Saturday, April 4, 2026

Yes, the Crescent City Classic is a 10k that attracts top athletes from around the world, but it’s so much more than a road race. Even if your idea of a workout is walking from Cafe du Monde to Pat O’Brien’s, you owe it to yourself to check out the race, festival, music, and people who have made the Crescent City Classic a New Orleans institution for over 40 years.

You can run, walk, dance, or push a stroller down all or part of its scenic route, which loops from the Superdome, through the Quarter, and up Esplanade Avenue before ending in a party in City Park. Or you can sit on the sidelines, cheer on the participants, and ask yourself how it’s possible for so many people to run while drinking and wearing a full bunny costume. Either way, traditionally held the day before Easter Sunday, the Crescent City Classic is a spectacle not to be missed.

Easter Sunday Parades – Sunday, April 5, 2026

Easter is a time for celebration, chocolate bunnies, and church services, but in New Orleans, it’s decidedly over the top. Wear your finest pastels, florals, seersucker, and hats (the bigger the better), and you’ll fit right in at the city’s three Easter parades.

They kick off at 9:45 a.m., when the French Quarter Easter Parade rolls from the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel to St. Louis Cathedral for 11 a.m. mass.

After that, things take a turn for the campy with the Chris Owens French Quarter Easter Parade, which celebrates the late Bourbon Street’s reigning queen. It rolls at 1 p.m. and has a new route due to security changes.

Finally, the Gay Easter Parade closes down the celebrations at 4:30 p.m., with floats, throws, and dancers galore. Celebrate good times, come on!

Hogs for the Cause – Friday-Saturday, April 10-11, 2026

Still going strong after 18 years, Hogs for the Cause is an annual fundraiser with plenty of BBQ, live music, and family-friendly fun. Held at the UNO Lakefront Arena, with plenty of room to accommodate the crowds.

French Quarter Festival – Thursday-Sunday, April 16-19, 2026

It’s the largest free music festival in the South, when more than 1,700 musicians take over 23 stages scattered throughout the Vieux Carre and commence to rock out. There’s a preponderance of jazz, zydeco, New Orleans funk, brass bands…

Pretty much every form of music native to Louisiana and the Delta gets a chance to shine in front of thousands of attendees. Wear sunscreen and comfortable shoes, because you’ll be doing a lot of walking from stage to stage (not to mention dancing).

Crawfest – Sunday, April 18, 2026

You probably guessed it right: It’s a festival that revolves around crawfish, but it also comes with music and other kinds of food. It’s an annual festival held on Tulane’s Uptown campus.

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival – Thursday-Sunday, April 23 – May 3, 2026

If you’re coming to New Orleans during the last weekend in April, you probably already know about the granddaddy of all music festivals, Jazz Fest. From contemporary arena-filling rock stars and rap gods to pop princesses and living legends, the festival covers every musical base as it takes over the Fair Grounds Race Course (1751 Gentilly Blvd.). This year’s lineup is stellar, as it is every year.

And of course, there’s a hearty assortment of Louisiana acts on the stages. Don’t leave without feasting on food as well as music — crawfish bread, po-boys, muffulettas, boiled seafood, red beans and rice, and more are all for sale. Pro tip: Rent a bike to cruise right up to the gates — it’s an easy 3.4-mile ride — and wear rubber boots and a poncho if it rains. (You’ll thank us when the dirt race tracks turn to knee-deep mud.)

Wednesday at the Square – every Wednesday in April

This is the free spring concert series held on Lafayette Square from March through May (10 weeks from March 11 through May 6, 2026. The concert series kicks off in Lafayette Square in the CBD; music lasts from 5 to 8 p.m. Proceeds from food and beverage sales benefit the Young Leadership Council’s community projects. Check the event’s website for this year’s lineup.

Are you visiting New Orleans this spring?

Take advantage of Prince Conti Hotel’s specials, group rates, and best-rate guarantee for greater savings to spend on New Orleans famous cuisine and enjoy everything this magnificent city has to offer. Reserve your room today!

Happy spring!

January 29, 2026

by Jay

Activities Things to do in the French Quarter

Celebrating Easter Sunday in the French Quarter

As a historically Catholic city, New Orleans takes Lent seriously. New Orleans also loves a good parade. Naturally, breaking the 40-plus days of fasting and the arrival of spring are great reasons to catch a parade, show off your bonnet, and feast on some Gulf seafood.

If you’re lucky enough to be staying in the French Quarter for Easter weekend, you can celebrate the end of Lent with three parades, Catholic masses, special Easter brunches, and an Easter Bonnet contest. Here’s a quick rundown of the things you can do on Easter Sunday in the French Quarter (April 5, 2026).

The Parades

Three groups parade annually through the French Quarter and downtown on Easter Sunday. Starting at 11 a.m. with a hat contest and entertainment at the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel Ballroom, the French Quarter Easter Parade winds its way from there and back, starting at 1 p.m. The riders, clad in their best Easter attire, ride in convertibles and carriages, handing out stuffed Easter bunnies, candy, and other theme-appropriate throws along the way. After mass, the parade slowly weaves its way back to the hotel.

The Chris Owens French Quarter Easter Parade is celebrating its 41st anniversary this year. The one and only Chris Owens traditionally helmed the parade as the Grand Duchess until her passing in 2022, but the organizers chose to go on in her memory. Expect colorful floats, marching bands, whimsical bonnets, and plenty of throws. For security reasons, the parade skips Bourbon Street and has a new route as of last year.

The annual Gay Easter Parade celebrates the city’s LGBTQ+ community and benefits the Food for Friends charity. It starts at 4:30 p.m. on N. Rampart St. by the Armstrong Park arch and continues to St. Ann and Esplanade. With stops at some bars along the way, the parade makes it back to N. Rampart for the after-party.

The Easter Bonnet Contest at Good Friends Bar at the corner of Dauphine and St. Ann streets is open to all participants, and spectators decide on the winners. A tall order every year, as the entries are often fabulous and wildly creative.

Brunch

What’s better than marking the end of Lent with a multi-course Cajun/Creole brunch? Many French Quarter restaurants offer a special Easter menu buffet-style or as a sit-down prix fixe option. Since it’s a family tradition for many, reservations are highly recommended.

Here are our five top Easter Sunday brunch recommendations.

Antoine’s Restaurant (713 St. Louis St.)

Antoine’s holiday brunch menu will render you speechless with its baked oysters, Gulf shrimp, and other top-notch, Louisiana-centric delights. Top it off with either pecan bread pudding or strawberry mousse. Brunch includes one complimentary Mimosa. Check with the restaurant for this year’s Easter brunch menu.

Arnaud’s (813 Bienville St.)

In the years past, Arnaud’s Easter brunch menu was prix fixe and highlighted the best of the regional cuisine could offer, such as smoked duck, Andouille, and oyster gumbo for starters. Let’s hope that this year, one of the appetizer offerings will again include the signature Shrimp Arnaud: Gulf shrimp marinated in Creole remoulade. Check with the restaurant for this year’s Easter brunch menu.

Brennan’s (417 Royal Street)

A fine-dining landmark since its inception in 1946, the elegant Brennan’s offers a high-end, traditional Creole brunch every year. Brennan’s is known for its take on classic Creole cuisine that blends French, Spanish, and local Southern influences. This includes the world-renowned Bananas Foster dessert, invented there and often flambéed tableside. Expect refined dishes from turtle soup and seafood gumbo to modern interpretations of regional favorites.

Red Fish Grill (115 Bourbon St.)

On Easter Sunday, you’ll typically find a family-style Easter buffet with dishes like alligator sausage and seafood gumbo, crawfish etouffee, Creole potato salad, BBQ shrimp, oysters, pickled crawfish, and a carving station (just to name a few options). The kids’ buffet usually offers child-friendly versions of the above and a sundae bar. Check with the restaurant for this year’s Easter brunch menu.

Steamboat Natchez Easter Jazz Brunch Cruise (Toulouse St./boardwalk)

The two-hour Mississippi River cruise with live music includes a buffet and reserved seating. Kids can meet the Easter Bunny aboard the steamboat. Check with the restaurant for this year’s Easter brunch menu.

Mass

Church services on Easter Sunday start early and continue throughout the day. You can see every year’s schedule on the Archdiocese of New Orleans website. For a truly unique experience, consider a stroll to Jackson Square to hear the bells of St. Louis Cathedral and mingle with the revelers in their Easter finery.

St. Louis Cathedral usually has a mass at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., and 12:30 p.m., and remains open between services. The majestic Our Lady of Guadalupe (411 N. Rampart St.) also offers Easter mass throughout the day, including at least one in Spanish.

Are you visiting New Orleans this spring?

Happy spring!

January 28, 2026

by Jay

Activities fun things to do in new orleans

St. Patrick’s Day in New Orleans: What You Need to Know

Photo by Johnny Cohen on Unsplash

New Orleans has plenty of Irish roots, so the weekend of St. Patrick’s Day (Tuesday, March 17, 2026) is an important one for the city of New Orleans. Several parades kick off, including the infamous Irish Channel Parade, where float riders pass cabbages to the screaming crowds. Also, the Downtown Irish Club Parade rolls from the Bywater to the French Quarter, making several pit stops on its way to Bourbon Street.

Here’s what to expect, including block parties, balcony parties, and, of course, parades.

St. Patrick’s Day Events in New Orleans

Downtown Irish Club Annual Grand Marshall Party Bus

The 2026 date and route are TBA.

The club typically meets in a bar downtown and heads out on a party bus for a “mobile bar crawl.” There are about five scheduled pub stops before the bus returns the revelers to the gathering spot. You don’t have to be a club member to ride, though you are asked to wear “traditional Irish colors, your parade tuxedo, or kilt for this ride.” The cost to march includes free Guinness at each stop and on the bus. You can reserve your seat on the club’s website.

Germans Go Irish

Sunday, March 8, 2026, 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Deutsches Haus (1700 Moss St.) in the Bayou St. John area of Mid-City is throwing a party to celebrate Ireland’s Patron Saint, as they do in the small villages in the Old Country: with a Céilí (a gathering). Expect traditional Irish food like cabbage, soda bread, and Guinness beef stew served over colcannon (Irish mashed potatoes), plus Celtic musicians, Irish dancers, bagpipers, and other family-friendly activities. The event is free except for the concert, which typically starts at 5:30 p.m.

Irish Channel St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Saturday, March 14, 2026, 1 – 6 p.m.

The parade begins on the corner of Felicity and Magazine streets around 1 p.m. The parade rolls up Jackson Avenue, turning onto St. Charles Avenue, turning onto Louisiana Avenue, and back onto Magazine Street. Throws include green beads and doubloons, plus the makings of Irish stew (minus the beef). So watch out for flying cabbages (yes, seriously). There is also a block party located at Annunciation Square, near Chippewa and Race streets.

Parasol’s Block Party

Saturday, March 14, 2026, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Parasol’s (2533 Constance St.) annual party Uptown features live music, food, easy parade access, and yes, green beer. It’s a popular party, so wear green and arrive early.

Downtown Irish Club St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Tuesday, March 17, 2026, 7 p.m.

This annual parade begins on the corner of Burgundy and Piety streets in the Bywater, then proceeds roughly up Royal Street, across Esplanade Avenue to Decatur Street, and up Canal Street to Bourbon Street. The parade makes several pit stops on its way to Bourbon Street.

As you can see, there’s plenty to see and do to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, and it’s not limited to Uptown or the French Quarter. Speaking of, check out our guide on how to spend St. Patrick’s Day without leaving the French Quarter, plus our list of highly recommended Irish pubs in the French Quarter.

Are you visiting New Orleans this spring?

Happy spring!

July 10, 2025

by Jay

Activities fun things to do in new orleans Running of the Bulls

Running of the Bulls Brings Excitement to New Orleans This July

Photo: Some rights reserved by Infrogmation

You haven’t seen it all until you’ve witnessed New Orleans’ eccentric version of Running of the Bulls. This wild festival, known as San Fermin in Nueva Orleans, is modeled after the traditional event that takes place in Pamplona, Spain, each year.

But instead of the wild beasts running in the streets goring people, the Big Easy Rollergirls (plus the participants from the other roller derby leagues across the country) dress up like bulls and skate after runners, attempting to whack them with wiffle ball bats. This fest is sure to get your blood pumping!

The runners are encouraged to wear all white with red accents like sashes and kerchiefs (following the style of the traditional Spanish festival). The bulls sport black and red, and horned helmets. Both the runners and the bulls are known to get creative with their costuming, so you’ll have the chance to see some pretty eccentric creations out there.

This year, the festival will be held over the weekend of July 11-13, 2025. The Encierro (the run) itself is always held on Saturday, and the partying starts early. Around 6:30 a.m. people will start gathering around Gallier Hall (545 St. Charles Ave.) in downtown New Orleans, enjoying live music, food trucks, and sangria.

After the procession and the invocation honoring San Fermin, patron saint of Pamplona, the run begins at 8 a.m., making its way through the CBD and Warehouse District on a near-mile-long route.

Although you will get some exercise while running from the Derby Girls, Running of the Bulls is just as much about the food and drinks as it is about the “running.” Many participants will stick around after the run is done, at approximately noon, to continue partying at La Fiesta de Pantalones held at Espiritu Mezcaleria (520 Capdeville St.) or do some bar crawling in the area.

The festival’s opening party on Friday is an annual ticketed fundraiser with an open bar, an auction, and delicious food provided by local restaurants. This year, the food and the drinks will be provided by Atchafalaya, High Grinds, Juan’s Flying Burrito, and Sidecar Nola. The party, called El Txupinazo (pronounced “ el choo-pin-AHT-so”), is held at High Grinds Coffee (1724 St. Charles Ave.), 6-9 p.m.

The closing party on Sunday, called El Pobre de Mi (“Poor Me”), will wrap things up. This will be your chance to recover from the run with burlesque and cocktails at Gallier Hall, 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

All events are ticketed. Proceeds go to Beth’s Friends Forever, a charity named after Nola Bulls cofounder Beth Hanning, which raises money for local women fighting cancer.

Interested? Register and get tickets online, and check out the rules of the run before you go.

Are you visiting New Orleans soon?

June 18, 2025

by Jay

Activities Things to do in the French Quarter

Enjoy the Music at Satchmo SummerFest in New Orleans

One of the best things about New Orleans is the city’s undying passion for music. Music lovers come from near and far to experience New Orleans’ diverse music scene, which features a variety of musical artists and genres.

This summer, the popular Satchmo SummerFest will be returning to New Orleans on Saturday and Sunday, August 2-3, 2025, with two stages, a delicious culinary lineup, and an indoor lecture series at the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint.

New Orleans French Quarter

Experience Foot-Tapping Music at Satchmo SummerFest

Satchmo SummerFest is New Orleans’ tribute to one of its most famous native sons, the beloved Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong, on the centennial of his birth. This festival began back in 2001 and has since evolved into one of the top celebrations in the city.

For many who attend this dynamic festival, it’s the highlight of the summer season. This festival includes live bands on two different stages, featuring some of New Orleans’ best musicians. Many of the musical artists performing will play their tributes to Louis Armstrong and his famous music.

Some of the past headliners at this New Orleans festival include the Preservation Hall Brass Band, the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Bill Summers and Jazalsa, Big Sam’s Funky Nation, Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers, and many others.

satchmo fest

In addition to the vibrant outdoor music scene, this New Orleans festival would not be complete without plenty of delicious local food and drink. This festival offers some of New Orleans’ world-famous culinary delicacies for sale around the festival site, as well as refreshing beverages, to keep you hydrated throughout the day.

There are also several indoor events at Satchmo SummerFest, including an inspiring indoor lecture series created to highlight Armstrong’s history and enduring impact.

Shrimp From The Bombay Club in New Orleans

Looking for Hotels in New Orleans? Choose the Prince Conti Hotel

When it comes to hotels in New Orleans, location is key. The Prince Conti Hotel is located just blocks from the New Orleans Jazz Museum, where Satchmo SummerFest will be taking place this coming August.

You don’t even have to venture far to listen to live New Orleans music when you stay at the Prince Conti Hotel. The hotel’s own restaurant, The Bombay Club, features live music every night.

The Prince Conti Hotel is also a quick walk to Frenchmen Street, where you will find tons of local bars and restaurants playing live music for all to enjoy.

The hotel is also located near the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line, which can take you to New Orleans’ Uptown to visit famous places for music like Tipitina’s and Le Bon Temps Roule.

If you are planning a trip to New Orleans this summer, be sure to check out the city’s unique music scene and book your reservation at one of the best hotels in New Orleans with great low room rates, the Prince Conti Hotel!

The Prince Conti Hotel in New Orleans, LA

June 12, 2025

by Jay

Activities fun things to do in new orleans

Kick Off Your Summer With ESSENCE Festival in New Orleans

Photo by Danny Howe on Unsplash

Summer has arrived, and now is the time to embark on exciting adventures with family and friends. There is no better way to kick off your summer than with the ESSENCE Festival of Culture this July in New Orleans.

This massive event features a host of famous musical performers, guest speakers, delectable local cuisine, fashion, beauty, and much more. Between four days, multiple stages, and a multitude of great musical artists, there is an incredible lineup of chart-toppers, influencers, celebrity wellness experts, and world-famous personalities.

ESSENCE is typically held over the Independence Day weekend (July 3-6, 2025) mostly at the two New Orleans venues: the Caesars Superdome for the evening performances and the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center for the daytime activities.

You can get your tickets a la carte (for the evening concerts at the Superdome and for the ESSENCE After Dark) or in bundled day and VIP packages, online. The headliners sell out fast, so don’t wait till the last minute! All the events held at the Convention Center during the day are free and open to all (registration is required for everyone over 18).

A Music Lover’s Dream

Music fans from all over simply can’t go wrong with all the incredible names in every year’s lineup. The 2025 theme is “Made Like This.” Notable performers include Boyz II Men, Jill Scott, Davido, Maxwell, Master P, GloRilla, The Isley Brothers, Nas, and Summer Walker. A tribute to Quincy Jones will be performed by Jermaine Dupri.

The traditional Sunday Gospel Celebration at the Convention Center features the greatest gospel hits, and ESSENCE After Dark, a series of late-night jam sessions, comedy shows, underground performances, live podcast recordings, and more, is also not to be missed.

ESSENCE Is Much More Than Music

Besides the stellar music lineup, the festival is jam-packed with conferences, keynote events, and other experiences. A slew of exciting exhibitions, roundtables, and other events await, including a series of keynotes.

The BeautyCon and Wellness House experiences feature celebrity beauty influencers and wellness experts, and the popular Food & Wine offers samples, plus there is a food court with vendors from all over the South offering a wide range of classic New Orleans food, world cuisine, vegan and vegetarian fare, desserts, and beyond.

Stay Close to All of the ESSENCE Action

Don’t wait — grab your tickets to the ESSENCE Festival and then book your stay nearby at the Prince Conti Hotel. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, it’s minutes away from many popular New Orleans bars, restaurants, landmarks, and destinations — including the Superdome and the Convention Center. This elegant hotel is a nice calming change of scenery from the bustling city that awaits outside, offering the old-world New Orleans charm along with all the modern-day amenities.

June 2, 2025

by Jay

Activities fun things to do in new orleans

Year at a Glance in New Orleans

From major music and cultural events to the festivals that honor just about every local food there is, New Orleans celebrates life like no other city. From the fabulously unique traditions like Reveillon and Super Sunday to the Saints football season, the city doesn’t stop eating, drinking, and celebrating. To give you a glimpse of just how much is going on in New Orleans all year round, here’s a quick look at the annual highlights grouped by season.

Fall (September 1 – November 30)

Cooler temps and the seemingly endless slew of food, drink and music festivals are on tap in the fall in New Orleans, starting over the Labor Day weekend with the massive and fabulous Southern Decadence, a popular festival that celebrates LGBTQ+ with block parties, shows, and a parade.

October begins with the ever-expanding National Fried Chicken Festival at the Lakefront. Also, New Orleans throws its version of Oktoberfest over the three weekends at Deutsches Haus in Mid-City, to celebrate the city’s rich German history, followed by one of the best-attended art events in the city, Art for Art’s Sake.

Don’t miss the Crescent City Blues and BBQ Festival, the Tremé Fall Festival, and the New Orleans Film Festival, which is one of the largest film festivals in the South and is the longest-running festival of its kind in the state.

New Orleans does Halloween like no other city, so if you’re lucky to be visiting around that time, consider any of the balls, costume parties, parade, haunted tours, and a huge block party on Frenchmen Street! The kid-friendly parade called Krewe of Boo rolls through the French Quarter, courtesy of Kern Studios, and there are many more Halloween activities around the city happening in the couple weeks leading up to Halloween.

November brings more food festivals — the Oak Street Po-Boy Festival and the Beignet Festival at the New Orleans City Park Festival Grounds. Also in November is the annual LUNA Fête that brings large-scale light and sound installations to Gallier Hall and Piazza d’Italia.

Thanksgiving at the Fair Grounds Race Course is a long-standing New Orleans tradition of turning out at the track on Thanksgiving Day to watch the opening-day races while sporting cocktails and fabulous hats. Next, there’s Bayou Classic, a fan fest, a parade, the battle of the bands, and, of course, the big game at the Superdome between Southern University and Grambling State University.

The beloved Celebration in the Oaks kicks off the holiday season with a dazzling holiday lights festival scattered throughout the 25 acres of City Park, including the Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park.

Winter (December 1 – February 28)

There’s a whole slew of events that accompany Christmastime in the Crescent City, from bonfires on the Algiers levees to concerts at St. Louis Cathedral to the family-friendly NOLA Christmasfest to Reveillon menus at some of the city’s classic Creole restaurants. The streetcars are decked with wreaths, and the city is alight with the holiday sparkle.

The New Year’s Eve celebrations in New Orleans include the Dick Clark Rockin’ New Year’s Eve at the historic JAX Brewery in the French Quarter, with a fleur-de-lis drop at midnight to the countdown on Jackson Square, quite a few balcony parties on and around Bourbon Street, and the fireworks over the Mississippi River.

The first day of the carnival season known as Twelfth Night, or the Epiphany, kicks off every year with three parades — Phunny Phorty Phellows ride the streetcar from Uptown to Canal Street and back, plus the walking Krewe of Joan of Arc in the French Quarter, and the Société Des Champs Elysée.

Mardi Gras season culminates every year on Fat Tuesday anytime between February 3 and March 9 (February 17 in 2026). There’s not enough room to describe one of the great spectacles in the world, but keep up with the parade schedule to at least get started on how to do Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

February closes with an enormous public Tet celebration in New Orleans East to celebrate the Lunar New Year (did you know that New Orleans is home to one of the largest Vietnamese diaspora communities in the country?), and Valentine’s Day – which isn’t unique to New Orleans but is nevertheless good to celebrate in one of the most romantic cities in the world.

Spring (March 1 – May 31)

Lovely weather and endless festivals continue this time of year with Wednesday at the Square; the Congo Square Rhythms Festival; the Tennessee Williams Literary Festival (don’t miss the “Stella!” shouting contest); the Mid-City’s own Bayou Boogaloo, held on the picturesque banks of Bayou St. John; the Freret Street Festival that’s getting bigger every year; and, of course, the two heavy hitters and the reason so many visitors come to New Orleans in the spring – the French Quarter Fest and Jazz Fest.

St. Patrick’s Day and Easter are subject to more celebration, with multiple parades and parties. Finally, the Mardi Gras Indians Super Sunday is a treasured tradition dating back to the 19th century and held on the Sunday closest to St. Joseph’s Day, which gets its own unique celebration across the Catholic churches and even private homes in the city with the beautifully appointed altars (the Italian-Sicilian contribution to New Orleans’ rich cultural tapestry).

Summer (June 1 – August 31)

Want to cross an iconic New Orleans restaurant off your bucket list? There’s no time like Restaurant Week New Orleans, during which dozens of participating restaurants, from the James Beard luminaries to the new hotspots to the Creole grand dames, offer set-course menus at a deep discount. Also in June is another culinary fest, the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience, and the popular Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival, held at Louis Armstrong Park.

Summers here can be pretty hot and humid, but still, the best restaurants and bars in town celebrate Tales of the Cocktail in July, and COOLinary New Orleans with prix fixe menus in August. You can also browse the galleries on the White Linen Night (or exactly a week later, the Dirty Linen Night).

The city comes to life for the Satchmo SummerFest and a slew of events over the Fourth of July and the Labor Day weekends, like Go 4th on the River, and the ESSENCE Festival of Culture at the Superdome. The French Market Creole Tomato Festival is one of the smaller fests to enjoy, and Running of the Bulls brings Encierro to New Orleans, except the bulls are the Big Easy Rollergirls.

Finally, the Red Dress Run (who doesn’t want to run a madcap two-mile course through the city in August while wearing a red dress?) will at least keep your mind off the heat.

As you can see, we have a lot going on all year round! No matter when you visit, take advantage of Prince Conti Hotel specials, group rates, and best-rate guarantee for greater savings to spend on New Orleans famous French Quarter cuisine and enjoying everything this magnificent city has to offer. Reserve your room today!

June 2, 2025

by Jay

Activities Things to do in the French Quarter

10 Things to Do on a Rainy Day in and Around the French Quarter

“Bourbon Street in the morning. New Orleans.” Photo by Kathy Drasky on Flickr.

New Orleans is a rainy city, and the skies can open up at any moment. Not to worry, there’s plenty to do in the air-conditioned indoors while you wait for the downpour to go away. Here are our top 10 suggestions for how you can stay dry and entertained.

1. Head to a museum

The French Quarter boasts quite a few museums, with many focusing on the city’s past and the history of Louisiana. Some, like the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint, are free; others you can visit for a small fee. For example, the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum ($10 general admission) features a permanent collection of 19th-century surgical instruments, books, and patent medicines.

Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House are two historic homes that are considered some of the most well-preserved historic structures in the French Quarter. You can tour both and learn about what life was like in New Orleans in the 19th century.

The Historic New Orleans Collection is spread over several historic buildings in the French Quarter. The Royal Street location (520 Royal St.) houses the main museum with a permanent exhibit on state history, plus rotating exhibits on history and art. Admission is free.

Consider heading to Jackson Square for two museums and a historic cathedral. Catch a mass or free concert (or just admire the interior during the quiet hours) at the St. Louis Cathedral. It’s flanked by The Cabildo and The Presbytère, which are run by the Louisiana State Museum and house several excellent exhibits, including one on the history of Mardi Gras at the Presbytère.

2. Ride the streetcar

You can catch the historic St. Charles Avenue line on Canal Street and head Uptown to take in the breathtaking views of the Garden District, or ride the Canal line to Mid-City and Bayou St. John, ending at the cemeteries or the City Park and the Art Museum.

If you want to explore the Marigny and the Bywater, take the Rampart line; or stay close to the Quarter by exploring the edge of it, where it meets the CBD, by riding the Riverfront line. You’ll be passing Caesars New Orleans Casino, Woldenberg Park, the Canal Place mall, and the Riverwalk Marketplace, ending up at the Convention Center. It only costs $1.25 one way, or you can get passes for a day or longer.

3. Hit the casino

Have some fun and maybe score some extra cash at Caesars New Orleans Casino. It’s centrally located at the foot of the French Quarter on Canal Street, only a block away from the Mississippi River. It houses over 2,000 slot machines and 13 delicious restaurants, including two steakhouses and the Grand Isle Seafood Restaurant.

4. Go shopping

The whole stretch of the historic French Market is covered, from the flea market to the food vendor section, and it’s a treasure trove of souvenirs (edible and otherwise), crafts, and unique Louisiana finds.

Nearby, the strips of shops called the Shops at the Colonnade, some with Decatur and some with N. Peters addresses, are also worth a visit if you’re shopping for unique gifts and local specialties like pralines.

Nearby, the revamped multi-story historic landmark JAX Brewery hosts retail stores, cafes, restaurants, and a small museum dedicated to the brewery. Another option is to head down Royal Street, which is lined with local boutiques and antique and vintage stores for every budget.

Heading out of the Quarter and into the CBD, Canal Place and The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk are a short walk away from each other. Both are self-contained, multi-storied indoor malls that could keep you shopping and eating for hours.

The Shops at Canal Place is home to Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany and Co., Anthropologie, and dozens of other upscale retailers, while The Riverwalk mall is an outlet with over 75 retailers and restaurants, including Nordstrom Rack and Café du Monde.

5. See a movie

Support New Orleans’ independent theaters and head to the beautifully restored Broad Theater, a short ride away, or to the historic Prytania Theater with two locations, at Canal Place and Uptown.

6. Visit the Aquarium and the Insectarium

The Audubon Aquarium, a sprawling compound on the riverfront, will keep you and your family enthralled with its walk-through tunnel, otters, penguins, sea turtles, a stingray touch pool, and an expansive replica of an offshore oil rig submerged in 400,000 gallons of water.

The Aquarium is now combined with the Audubon Insectarium, which is packed with bug-centric interactive exhibits. Sample a cricket chocolate chip cookie at the cafeteria, or let the butterflies land on your head in the spectacular butterfly garden. Two attractions, one ticket.

7. Support an independent bookstore

New Orleans proudly boasts a number of impressively stocked independent bookstores, and some of the best ones are located in the Quarter. A former home of William Faulkner located in the historic and picturesque Pirate Alley, just off Jackson Square and behind the Cabildo, Faulkner House Books mostly offers local-interest books and the classics, including rare editions, and, of course, the works of William Faulkner.

The bi-level Beckham’s Bookshop specializes in used, antiquarian, and rare books, as well as CDs and vinyl. A gem of a place, Beckham’s has been around since 1979 at this location. It’s crammed floor to ceiling, and is beer- and dog-friendly. You’ll find it right across the street from the House of Blues.

The charming Dauphine Street Books and Crescent City Books are both great spots if you want to browse an eclectic, well-curated selection of both new and used books, including maps and out-of-print editions.

8. Take in a show

The two of New Orleans’ historic performance venues, the beautifully renovated Saenger and Joy theaters, are both located on Canal Street and feature year-round performances. You can catch a Broadway musical, a comedy show, or a musical act at the Orpheum Theater or the Civic Theatre. Just off Jackson Square, Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carré has called its St. Peter Street location home since 1922.

9. See some live music

Check out WWOZ’s Livewire Music Calendar to find out who is playing on any given day/night while you’re here. For more à la carte adventures, you can just head to Frenchmen Street, right across from the French Quarter in the Marigny, and wander from venue to venue. There’s a good deal of street music on several corners usually. The Bombay Club, Preservation Hall, and numerous bars, clubs and restaurants around the French Quarter are guaranteed to have some live music, even on weeknights.

10. Eat and drink, of course!

Some of the best restaurants in the country, if not the world, are located steps away from your hotel. So get out there and explore all the delicious possibilities, from the iconic Creole grand dames to the New Orleans staples on a budget.

Also, all year round, the French Quarter offers incredible happy hour deals you won’t want to miss, including the hotel’s own, The Bombay Club. And what could be better than holing up with a drink and watching the rain?

Here are more of our quick guides to the French Quarter’s destinations and nightlife near the Prince Conti Hotel. Rain or shine, happy exploring!