New Orleans is known for SO many things- great festivals, awesome hospitality, incredible food, awesome music – and the list goes on. Our events are legendary – Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest – but we also have some great smaller fests that may not make the news outside of the city, and these are the fun things to do in June in New Orleans.
The opens in a new windowNew Orleans Oyster Festival is June 2-3 this year – held as usual in the French Quarter at Woldenburg Park. Admission is free, leaving you more cash to spend on all the amazing food (oysters and more) and craft vendors. There will be local musical acts on the Main Stage, along with Oyster shucking and eating contests. The Cooking Demonstration Stage will feature different chefs preparing oysters in a myraid of ways every hour. You can purchase opens in a new windowVIP Passes if you prefer to spend your festival in air-conditioned comfort with included beverages.
The French Market is the place to be June 9-10 for the opens in a new window32nd Annual Creole Tomato Festival. This free-entry festival celebrates the harvest of the famous Creole Tomato with two music stages, cooking demos, children’s activities and once again, the Bloody Mary Market in Dutch Alley. You’ll also be able to sample delicious delicacies at the food vendors – have you ever tried fried green tomatoes or Creole Tomato Gelato? Now’s your chance!
Finally, our last event – not so small – the opens in a new windowLouisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival. This is also a free-admission event, which is wonderful, considering the talent that appears each year. This is a celebration of the musical heritage of Louisiana. Taking place June 23-24, at Louis Armstrong Park. Besides the Cajun and Zydeco musical acts, there will be an arts market and food vendors. Bring your folding chairs and blankets, but leave the cooler behind – buying food and drink helps support the festival.
We’ll continue to highlight some of the lesser-known events and activities – keep an eye out!