During the dog days of August, many of us long for the cooler temperatures and look forward to an Autumn and Winter mini-festival season in preparation for the big show in February. It’s a great time to visit, with warm, sunny days and cooler nights – a small chance of rain and people ready to party! We have for a you a lovely list of Things to Do in the city of New Orleans in October!
opens in a new windowWednesday at the Square – a lovely outside concert series that is free to enter, supported by sales of food and drinks. Featuring local artists, local food and local sponsors, this concert series is enjoyable for everyone. Proceeds from food and beverage sales benefit the Young Leadership Council’s community projects.
Where: Lafayette Square Park
When: October 20 & 27, November 3 & 10, 2021 (Rain date: Nov. 17), 5-8pm
How Much: Free to enter, food and beverage tickets available to purchase at the concert
What to Know: Well-behaved dogs allowed, must be on a 6″ or shorter lead, no outside food or drink allowed, parking available for $10 at the garage at 650 Poydras Street, BYO chairs or blanket to sit on.
opens in a new windowNew Orleans Book Festival – The Inaugural New Orleans Book Fest is coming this October! The fest will be held on the Tulane Campus and is featuring so many wonderful authors of all genres. Enjoy many special sessions such as readings, panel discussions, symposia and keynote speeches, as well as author signings and a “New Orleans-style celebration” on Saturday evening!
Where: Tulane University’s Uptown Campus
When: October 21 – 23, 2021
How Much: Admission is free, but some events will be ticketed
What to Know: Parking is available at perimeter lots on campus, with shuttles to bring attendees to the sessions. Outdoor events will take place rain or shine, so bring your raincoat if you don’t want to get wet!
opens in a new windowBUKU: PLANET B – This amazing and undefinable festival is comprised of some of the hottest musical acts today, along with artists, dancers, DJs, art and more – this is a one-time only iteration of BUKU that will not be repeated.
Where: Mardi Gras World
When: October 22-23, 2021
How Much: One-day passes start at $199.50 – tickets available online
What to Know: You must opens in a new windowbuy tickets in advance (and don’t wait!), only 17+ allowed; must have ID, parking is very limited, fest is encouraging public transpo, bikes and ride-sharing.
opens in a new windowKrewe of Boo Parade – THE official New Orleans Halloween parade, presented by the Krewe of Boo – an incredible, spooky and spectacular display of feverishly imaginative minds! You’ll see captivating costumes and wonderful floats, and if you’re lucky, catch collectible throws to treasure always!
Where: French Quarter
When: October 23, 2021, 6pm
How Much: Free
What to Know: The parade is only the start of the festivities – on Friday, take part in a second line to Happy Hour at Pat O’Brien’s, then shake it off for the Zombie Run on Saturday morning, and then after the parade, shake your grove thing at Krewe of BOO!’s MONSTER MASH Post-Parade Costume Party ( opens in a new windowtickets available online).
opens in a new windowLGBT Halloween New Orleans (HNO) – HNO is BACK in 2021, ready to party and spread healing through its continued support of Project Lazarus. Events include an elegant ball, a costumed dance party, and a Pier Dance/Tea Cruise.
Where: Various venues
When: October 29-31, 2021
How Much: Single events start at $80, weekend passes start at $265. opens in a new windowPurchase online.
What to Know: All events are 21+. Be sure to purchase passes ahead of time
Make sure to stay with us at 1896 O’Malley House, knowing you’ll always have a soft place to land and a delicious breakfast after your enjoyment in our fine city!
Due to the uncertain nature of restrictions, please check the websites of any fests you may want to attend to make sure that they are still being held, and/or require proof of vaccination for entry.