A city that takes joie de vivre to new levels, New Orleans naturally organizes its celebratory approach to life into some of the world’s most popular (and eclectic) festivals.

Festivals are more than a great time for New Orleans; they are an important driver for the city’s tourism industry, its economic backbone. But even more, festivals are a joyous celebration – and the very embodiment – of the city’s cultural heart and soul.

And there’s so much to celebrate: our city’s fascinating history and unique cultural heritage; its natural beauty; its creative and culinary arts; its world famous music; and, perhaps most of all, the very spirit of its people, who invite the world to laissez les bons temps rouler (let the good times roll) at New Orleans’ myriad festivals!

Featured Upcoming Festivals:

ESSENCE Music Festival July 3-5, 2009 Now celebrating its 15th year! The Superdome hosts this "party with a purpose," the nation's premier celebration of African-American culture and urban entertainment. more...

Go 4th on the River July 4, 2009 This annual July 4th extravaganza on the Riverfront features outdoor concerts and a dazzling fireworks display. more...

Tales of the Cocktail July 8-12, 2009 Enjoy lectures, dinner pairings, cooking demonstrations, cocktail mixing seminars, walking tours, film screenings and bartending courses at the Hotel Monteleone and other French Quarter locations. more...

Satchmo SummerFest July 30-August 2, 2009 New Orleans' ongoing homage to Louis "Satchmo" Armstrong reaches its yearly high at this annual festival in the French Quarter. more...

Whitney White Linen Night August 1, 2009 Up and down Julia Street - (300-800 blocks) and throughout the New Orleans Arts District - great art, tempting eats, flowing libations and tunes. more...

COOLinary New Orleans August-September, 2009 A celebration of dining in America's most delicious city! Savor special three-course lunches and dinners. more...

Southern Decadence Festival September 2-7, 2009 This annual gathering of gay men and women has been in with the "out" crowd for more than 30 years. more...

Project 30-90 September 5, 2009 Project 30-90 is an environmentally conscious music festival being held in New Orleans. Rock out at this new festival without leaving your carbon footprint behind!  more...

Burlesque Festival September 11-13, 2009 The First Annual New Orleans Burlesque Festival is a three-night celebration of world-class burlesque entertainment. more...

New Orleans Seafood Festival September 25-27, 2009 The New Orleans Seafood Festival will take place on Harrah’s Fulton Square and will feature live music and cuisine from many famed, local restaurants. more...

Voodoo Music Experience October 30-November 1, 2009 The 11th annual VOODOO EXPERIENCE--and the third to coincide exactly with Halloween--will once again celebrate music, as well as New Orleans’ bohemian culture, arts and cuisine. more...

The fun happens year-round: Search our Calendar of Events for a full list of festivals.