IT’S back to school time and it’s not too early to start dreaming of fall and the lower temperatures that come with it. It might be jumping the gun to say all of that starts with a bang in September, but the weather is a bit more mild, and people get a little more willing to be outside, away from the air conditioner and fans!
The biggest thing happening in September actually starts at the end of August – opens in a new windowSouthern Decadence. This is the largest LGBTQ event in New Orleans and is celebrating its 47th year! From August 30th to September 3rd, events are happening at different venues throughout the city. Here are some of the main things to do:
Friday, August 31: Grand Marshall’s Show at the Golden Lantern
The Golden Lantern bar will host the Grand Marshall for a night of drinks and merriment.
Saturday, September 1: New Orleans Pride 5K Run/Walk
All levels of athlete are welcome to join in for this 5K, which will start and finish at Cresent Park, along the Mississippi River.
Sunday, September 2: The OFFICIAL 44th Annual Southern Decadence Parade
This year’s official theme is “House of Bourbon – Unleash the Beast”, and the colors are royal blue and canary yellow. This is a walking parade that wends its way through the French Quarter. The parade starts at 2pm, but you will want to get there early to get a spot to see the whole thing.
There are a ton of events associated with the festival, so check the opens in a new windowofficial website for more! Southern Decadence has a very good opens in a new windowtips page, especially valuable for those attending for the first time. Make sure you read it!
Later in the month, those who crave southern delicacies will want to be here for the opens in a new windowFried Chicken Fest, held Spetember 22-23, at Woldenburg Park. This FREE festival offers two musical stages and one cooking demonstration stage, along with contests, a Football Fan Zone, a mist and chill lounge, and over 35 vendors. If you’re extra, consider purchasing tickets for the opens in a new windowChicken and Champagne VIP Lounge (yes, really). This includes private viewing areas for the stages, all-day lounge access, VIP restroom access, a Moet Mini and a chicken dish, as well as unlimited water and soft drinks, for $75 per day.
So, head our way in September for fun things to do, and opens in a new windowstay in comfort at our place in between activities!