Suit Up for the Red Dress Run in New Orleans
All photos are courtesy of David Fary
You’d be tempted to call thousands of sprinting women and men kitted out like a Chris de Burgh single (“Lady in Red”) a drag race, but no. It’s a dress run. On the second Saturday of August — this year, that’s August 8, 2026 — the New Orleans Hash House Harriers (NOH3) are at it once again, hosting the annual New Orleans Red Dress Run.
The Event Details
Still going strong after more than two decades, the run draws in thousands of men and women aged 21 and older, who take to the French Quarter to showcase the color red in all of its glory (and let’s be honest, sometimes lack thereof).
This year, the run assembles around 9 a.m. as usual, with beer flowing until 4 p.m. The exact location will be announced to those who registered, though in the past, Crescent Park served as the focal point.
Late registration goes on until the start of the run (10 a.m.), which tends to finish in a crimson scrum of sweat and live music. Admission for this event is $69 through May, $79 in June, and $89 after July 1. Pre-registration is available online with a $4 processing fee.
The two-mile run route is a closely guarded secret, but expect runners to jog/stumble/sprint through the Bywater and Marigny neighborhoods, eventually making it into the French Quarter and, this year, the Armstrong Park for the after-party. Once the run is over at 11:30 a.m., the all-you-can-eat lunch is served. The whole affair is over by 4 p.m.
Tips for the Red Dress Run
Here are some pro tips we’ve collected over the years from repeat participants. New Orleans heat in August is no joke, so we hope you heed the advice to stay safe, hydrated, and have fun.
No one wants to be dragged down with a handbag, so consider investing in a fanny pack or a Ziploc bag “wallet” for phone cards and cash. Another option is to wear a dress that is tight up top so you can hold your phone, cash, card, and ID securely in the breast area (yes, this goes for guys too).
Just assume that it will be seriously hot, and a breathable pair of underwear is a good investment. We also recommend headbands and sweatbands that are good to wipe off moisture that’s your own and from others who are tipsy and bumping into you.
Remember, this is a long party with food, beer, and music. Avoid rough sequins under the arms, because arm abrasion will rain on your parade really fast. If you are unsure, dance around the house with some bold arm movements to see if you’ve got the right stuff on top.
Some more run etiquette: Tie your shoes. The last thing you want is someone stepping on your laces and you, or them, falling. If you are going slowly, no worries, although a koozie might be a good idea as your drink will get hot, quickly.
About the Red Dress Run
The entire affair owes its existence to the remarkable efforts of the local chapter of Hash House Harriers, a club dedicated to running and drinking (many Hashers would flip those priorities). The club — a “Drinking Club with a Running Problem” — is international, and you can find a Hash/Run event in almost every country in the world. Proceeds from the event benefit different charities.
The calendar of runs is on the NOH3 website, and membership is open to anyone over 21. All you need to do is show up.
Just remember, it takes more than putting on a red dress and tying off a few in the Quarter to be a part of this historic event. Don’t be a red dress rip-off — register to enjoy unlimited beer, food, and music.
As mentioned above, the run route is secret, so follow the event on Facebook or Instagram. For spectators looking to watch the action, the race “track” has always traversed Bourbon and Royal Street in the past, with a handful of beer stops along the route.
Need to find a hotel? To stay close to all the action, book a historic boutique hotel in the French Quarter at FrenchQuarter.com/hotels today!
JOIN THE NEWSLETTER!
What to Do in New Orleans This August
August in New Orleans brings the promise of a series of festivals, parties, and holidays — official and unofficial — that seem to pack every weekend. Truth be told, the month’s calendar gets so busy, we have to wonder why spring gets to carry the label of “festival season.”
As the days reach their maximum length and the nights get sultry and sweaty, remember that the best means of keeping yourself close to the action in the French Quarter is booking a hotel that’s within walking distance of all the action. Speaking of — here are some of our favorite summer events popping off during August.
COOLinary
Saturday, August 1 – Monday, August 31, 2026
There’s no better time to try out an award-winning restaurant during your visit or revisit an old favorite than in August and September. For the month of August, the COOLinary dining program offers discounted dining deals at participating restaurants located all over the city, and even stretching as far as Harvey and Kenner.
COOLinary was conceived as a citywide promotion to lure diners to local restaurants during the slower summer months. Over a decade in existence, this annual culinary tradition keeps growing. Dozens of participating local restaurants run the gamut from the iconic to the smaller, more casual ones.
Make a reservation today, and bon appétit!
Museum Month
Saturday, August 1 – Monday, August 31, 2026
During the month of August, be sure to take advantage of the Museum Month deal, when you can visit any of the participating museums for the price of membership in any one of them. The one-time admission fee to some local museums can run over $20, so this is a great opportunity to explore on a budget. The fees for the smaller museums are probably the best deal, ranging from $30 to $35 annually. You can buy a membership upon arrival.
Fidelity Bank White Linen Night
Saturday, August 1, 2026
Started in 1994 in an attempt to attract visitors to that revived area (now known as Arts District New Orleans), White Linen Night has been growing steadily, attracting more visitors and vendors every year. This popular, block-party style art event is held on the first Saturday in August in the Warehouse District, essentially serving as an open house for the galleries clustered on the 300-600 blocks of Julia Street.
That whole area is blocked off, hosting several stages for live music and dozens of food and drink stands. About 20 galleries on and around Julia St. are open to the public.
The block party is free (you can buy food and beverage tickets on-site). While there’s no dress code, as the event’s name suggests, consider wearing white.
Satchmo SummerFest
Saturday-Sunday, August 1-2, 2026
Satchmo SummerFest remains one of the August highlights and just the respite you’ll need from the summer trifecta of heat, humidity, and afternoon downpours. This popular annual festival, traditionally held over the two days of the first weekend of August at the New Orleans Jazz Museum at The Mint (located at the beginning of Esplanade Avenue on Decatur Street in the French Quarter), is easy to navigate and get to.
The lineup is always stellar, with the best of the brass bands and the who-is-who of the Louisiana and New Orleans music scenes, and the mixture of indoor-outdoor activities to keep you cool and dancing.
And, don’t forget about the food! As in previous years, dozens of the best local restaurants will be vending everything from crepes to meat pies to tacos and fried chicken. Festival staples like beer and snoballs also keep returning, in addition to the cocktail stands selling margaritas, spiked lemonade, and mimosas.
Wear plenty of sunscreen!
Red Dress Run
Saturday, August 8, 2026
Traditionally held on the second Saturday of August, the Red Dress Run isn’t exclusive to New Orleans, but the local participants take it up a notch by costuming on top of wearing their best and/or most outlandish red dress, regardless of gender.
This is an annual fundraiser run for local charities organized by hashing groups (adults-only, non-competitive social running clubs) all over the world. They call themselves “drinking clubs with a running problem,” and the local group, New Orleans Hash House Harriers (NOH3), is no exception.
The run starts and ends at Crescent Park at 2300 N. Peters St., though the whole two-mile route is kept secret until the day of the event. The beer starts flowing at the pre-party with live music at 9:30 a.m., and you can usually spot some of the sweaty Red Dress runners spilling into the night later that day. If you decide to run, online registration is available, a red dress is a must, and you must be 21 to participate.
Dirty Linen Night
Saturday, August 8, 2026
The Dirty Linen Night, as you may have guessed, takes after another annual art event, the White Linen Night. It follows the White Linen Night exactly one week after, on the second Saturday in August.
Although the Dirty Linen Night riffs off the White Linen Night, it’s not meant to compete with the Warehouse District event but was conceived to promote the many galleries and shops of Royal Street. It is similar in format, though looser in structure and spanning more territory.
The multi-block party takes over the 300-1100 blocks of Royal Street and some cross streets and adjoining areas in the French Quarter, including Jackson Square and Dutch Alley. Dozens of galleries participate each year, plus a number of shops and restaurants. The food and drinks served, like dirty rice and dirty martinis, cheekily run with the theme. This outdoor event is free.
Southern Decadence
Friday, September 4 – Monday, September 7, 2026
This massive Labor Day extravaganza started in the 1970s and is now considered one of the biggest draws to the city after Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, ESSENCE Festival of Culture, and the French Quarter Festival. The popular festival celebrates the LGBTQ+ culture and attracts participants from all over the world.
Southern Decadence usually kicks off (and closes) with a midnight dance party at its hub, Bourbon Pub/Parade. A free show/block party on Saturday is held at the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann Streets.
The annual Southern Decadence Grand Marshal Parade on Sunday also ends there. The theme is different every year. You can buy passes, including VIP, online to access the events that charge an entrance fee and may sell out.
Coming to New Orleans in August?
Check out our guide to where to stay in the French Quarter, and be sure to check out our resource for French Quarter Hotels. Also, consider booking a guided tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 to experience the hauntingly beautiful past of New Orleans.
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!
Happy August!
JOIN THE NEWSLETTER!
COOLinary: What’s on the Menu in August
Photo courtesy of COOLinary New Orleans
There’s no better time to dine at an award-winning restaurant during your visit to New Orleans (or while you play tourist in your own city) than in August. Not only do you get to experience cuisine that is an integral part of the New Orleans heritage, but you’ll be doing so at a discount. This is your chance to try out that new restaurant or revisit the old favorite!
COOLinary was conceived by New Orleans & Company (formerly the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau) as a promotion to lure diners to local restaurants in the slower summer months — the month of August especially — during which restaurants all over the city offer discounted dining deals. It’s the only dining program of this caliber that offers deals this time of year, though you can enjoy similar perks during the citywide holiday Reveillon promotion in December and the Restaurant Week New Orleans (June 16-22, 2025).
Ever since COOLinary came into existence 20 years ago, it has kept growing in size and popularity. In the past few years, the number of participating restaurants has grown to reach 100, and kept going, some with multiple locations across the city. The restaurants that are taking part in this annual summer promotion are spread all over the city, including the Marigny, CBD, Uptown, and the French Quarter, and run the gamut from the iconic to the smaller, casual ones.
This year, the list of 83 restaurants includes the famous Antoine’s, Arnaud’s, Brennan’s, Cafe Degas, Commander’s Palace, and Galatoire’s. The Uptown’s Brigtsen’s and Treme’s Gabrielle both joined this enviable roster in the past and are this year’s participants as well.
The menus and the list of the participating restaurants are typically announced in June, but, basically, expect $28 or less for two-course lunches and $58 or less for three-course dinners and brunches.
Once posted, the restaurant list is searchable by location, with each listing accompanied by a sample menu that includes the price, and you can also make a reservation right then and there.
Many of the restaurants that participate in these promos are located in the French Quarter or downtown, within walking distance from many historic hotels. So, book a hotel, make a reservation, and get out there and enjoy the culinary gems New Orleans has to offer!
JOIN THE NEWSLETTER!
More Winnin’ at Dirty Linen
Image courtesy of Dirty Linen Night on Facebook
Every year, Dirty Linen Night invites New Orleanians and tourists alike to celebrate the city’s French Quarter art galleries and boutiques. The event follows the White Linen Night, usually held on the Saturday before. The Dirty Linen Night was originally conceived not to compete but as a way to encourage people to visit Royal Street and support local businesses.
This year’s event, the 22nd annual Dirty Linen Night, lasts from 6 to 9 p.m. (officially — the event generates its own momentum and tends to run a little late) and will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025. The festivities will feature dozens of participating galleries and businesses, multiple blocks of pedestrian-friendly celebrations, buskers, delicious food, drink specials, and plenty of good times.
The bulk of the action will occur between the 300 and 1100 blocks of Royal Street. Dirty Linen is free and open to the public. You can also buy raffle tickets online to win artwork and gifts.
And, oh, make sure to wear unwashed white linen from the previous week — Dirty Linen is a continuation of the White Linen party, albeit one that is a little more raucous than the Julia Street event. We’re kidding, by the way — while you’re encouraged to wear last week’s linen, any kind of flowy, comfortable summer clothes will do.
The Galleries and Businesses
It’s impossible to describe every participating gallery and shop in a short article (here’s the full list), but here are some of the highlights. French Quarter art galleries regularly provide discounts on Dirty Linen Night.
Gallery Rinard
611 Royal St.
Owned and operated by the artist Matt Rinard, this gallery features the work of many of the area’s renowned painters and sculptors, with a focus on whimsy and humor rather than what we think of as classic Southern art.
Rodrigue Studios
730 Royal St.
George Rodrigue (1944-2013), a native son of South Louisiana, was best known as the creator of the “Blue Dog,” perhaps the most recognizable symbol of Louisiana contemporary art. The dog, with its soulful yellow eyes, was first painted in 1984 for Bayou, a selection of Louisiana ghost stories released in conjunction with the 1984 World’s Fair, held in New Orleans.
Rodrigue decided to paint a version of the Cajun loup garou, or werewolf, and in so doing created the ghostly visage of the Blue Dog. At once approachable, mysterious and riotously colorful, the Blue Dog would go on to become, in the eyes of the public, a stand-in for Cajun culture and Louisiana as a whole and the vehicle for Rodrigue’s considerable commercial success.
Frank Relle Photography
910 Royal St.
One of the city’s most famous photographers, Frank Relle has made a career out of his love of New Orleans architecture, history, and light — or lack thereof, in the last case. Confused? Relle is best known for taking shots of New Orleans homes, buildings and street scenes late at night, using long exposures to create a singularly eerie (yet also oddly comforting, and always beautiful) micro genre of fine art photography.
Scene by Rhys
708 Toulouse St.
Located in a courtyard, this gallery is a fine base for local artist and all-around character Emile Rhys. A supremely talented artist, Rhys is best known for her fine art ink and pen drawings of the city’s local musicians. Her work, which synthesizes two great elements of New Orleans creativity — the sonic world of music and the frenetic energy of her visual art — is unique and singularly worthy of souvenir consideration.
Where to Eat
Many of New Orleans’ classic restaurants like Antoine’s, Galatoire’s, Mr. B’s Bistro, and Arnaud’s are within walking distance of the participating galleries. Here are some other spots outside of the pantheon of classic Creole institutions that you would want to sample.
Bayona
430 Dauphine St.
Chef Susan Spicer’s restaurant features daily specials and a creative mix of foods influenced by cuisine from around the globe. Try the veal sweetbreads with sherry-mustard butter.
Bennachin
1212 Royal St.
You might have tried Bennachin’s legendary mburu akara (black-eyed pea fritters and tomato stew on French bread) and jama jama ni makondo (sautéed spinach, fried plantains and coconut rice) at Jazz Fest, where the longtime spot for African fare has a perennial presence. The food tastes even better when consumed in the cozy, colorful French Quarter destination. Bonus: A BYOB policy makes Bennachin an excellent place to affordably wine and dine.
Cafe Amelie
900 Royal St.
The elegant courtyard and delicious modern Louisiana fare at Cafe Amelie are all part of a package that is equally as romantic and heart-stopping.
Napoleon House
500 Chartres St.
Although this weathered brick building was offered as a refuge to Napoleon Bonaparte by its owner, New Orleans mayor Nicholas Girod, the exiled emperor died before taking advantage of the gesture. However, the name stuck. Today, it’s a unique place to taste New Orleans cuisine in a setting that feels rich with history. Try the restaurant’s specialty, the muffuletta, with its signature cocktail, Pimm’s Cup.
Sylvain
625 Chartres St.
Located in a historic French Quarter carriage house, this eatery has classic options like a hamburger or a chicken sandwich alongside elevated Louisiana-centric fare.
Need a hotel? To stay close to all the action, book a historic boutique hotel in the French Quarter at FrenchQuarter.com/hotels today!
JOIN THE NEWSLETTER!
Celebrate Labor Day Weekend in the French Quarter
Photo by Miguel Discart on Flickr
Say goodbye to summer and ease yourself into fall by celebrating Labor Day (Monday, September 1, 2025) in New Orleans. Americans do travel a lot for this long weekend ending on the first Monday of September, and New Orleans is a top Labor Day destination.
There are great reasons for the city’s popularity, and don’t let the still-summery temps of early September deter you — the Labor Day weekend in New Orleans will deliver, and then some. Here are some suggestions on how to get the most out of your stay in the French Quarter, starting with the immensely popular Southern Decadence festival.
Southern Decadence
This massive three-day festival celebrates LGBTQ+ culture and attracts participants from all over the world. Southern Decadence started as a humble going-away party but is now considered the fifth largest event in the city after Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, Essence Festival, and the French Quarter Festival.
Southern Decadence will be held from Friday, August 29, through Monday, September 1, 2025. It kicks off and closes with dance parties. There will be lots of block parties and dance parties in between. This year’s theme is “Etched in Stone, Timeless and Decadent.” The official colors are black, gold, white/silver, and purple.
The festival’s annual hub, Bourbon Pub Parade, will be open till 5 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 3 a.m. on Sunday. Just like in previous years, it will serve as the epicenter of the annual Bourbon Street Extravaganza, a free show/block party happening on Saturday at the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann Streets. The annual Southern Decadence Grand Marshal Parade on Sunday will also end up there, stretching loosely one block over to its ending point at Bourbon and Dumaine Streets.
A lot of events are free, and you can buy passes online to access the events that do charge an entrance fee and may sell out. The VIP Weekend Pass covers all events; the Weekend Pass includes all events held Friday through Sunday.
The Oz dance club and Cafe Lafitte in Exile, both on Bourbon Street, will also host DJ’d shows and dance parties that weekend. Although not part of the Bourbon Street stretch, the 24/7 Good Friends bar at 740 Dauphine Street in the French Quarter also receives a fair share of the festival partygoers each year. Another popular destination is the 24/7 Phoenix Bar (941 Elysian Fields Ave.), located in the Marigny within a short walking distance from the French Quarter.
Musical Highlights
Your best bet would be to just head out to Frenchmen Street on any given evening and explore, and there’s something always going on at the iconic Tipitina’s Uptown. The Labor Day weekend’s musical offerings are usually excellent. Let the WWOZ Livewire Music Calendar guide you.
Eating and Drinking
For happy hour, various French Quarter bars are offering lots of great deals, including The Bombay Club. For more ideas, check out our guide to the best happy hours in the French Quarter. As for eating, the French Quarter is your oyster, and then some. Check out our dining guides and listings to reserve a perfect spot.
If you’re planning a stay in New Orleans during the Labor Day weekend, be sure to check out our resource for French Quarter Hotels.
Eat, drink, dance, stay cool, and happy Labor Day!
JOIN THE NEWSLETTER!
The Inside Scoop on Southern Decadence in the French Quarter
Photo by David Fary
Born in the early 70s as a going-away party, Southern Decadence has evolved into a massive and immensely popular three-day festival that celebrates LGBTQ+ culture and attracts participants from all over the world. It’s traditionally celebrated over the Labor Day weekend and is considered the fifth largest event in New Orleans after Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, Essence Festival, and the French Quarter Festival.
This year’s Southern Decadence falls on Friday, August 29, through Monday September 1, 2025. The 2025 Grand Marshals Monique Michaels-Alexander, Bill Hincks, Willie Mackie, and ChiChi Rodriquez announced that this year’s theme is “Etched in Stone, Timeless and Decadent.” The official colors are black, gold, white/silver, and purple.
Just like every year, most activities will be centered in and around the French Quarter, with lots of block parties and dance parties at bars and clubs on Bourbon Street. The hub of the festival is again Bourbon Pub/Parade, with two rocking floors and an expansive balcony. The Pub will be open late nightly, especially on Friday and Saturday (till 5 a.m.)
Photo by David Fary
The Pub will be hosting numerous events throughout the festival, including a kick-off and closing parties. It will again serve as an epicenter of the annual Bourbon Street Extravaganza, a free show/block party happening at the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann Streets.
The annual Southern Decadence Grand Marshal Parade on Sunday will start at the Golden Lantern Bar (1239 Royal St.) at 2 p.m.
Photo by David Fary
Several French Quarter bars and clubs will also host the festival crowds that weekend. Oz dance club and Lafitte’s, both on Bourbon St., will be hopping as they do every year. Oz has DJ’d shows every night and fills up during Southern Decadence. Lafitte’s, a 24/7 French Quarter mainstay since the 1950s, has generous happy hour deals and a wraparound balcony.
Although not part of the Bourbon Street stretch, the Good Friends bar at 740 Dauphine St. in the French Quarter also receives a fair share of the festival partygoers. The downstairs will be open for 24 hours Wednesday through Sunday.
Although a lot of events are confined to the French Quarter, the festival generally spills into quite a few bars and clubs in the Marigny and the Bywater. The Friendly Bar at 2301 Chartres St. is a quiet neighborhood bar with a pool table, solid jukebox, and well-priced drinks. Big Daddy’s Bar (2513 Royal St.) also has a pool table, a jukebox, and a neighborhood vibe. These two bars, plus Pepp’s Pub right next door to Big Daddy’s Bar (it replaced Cutter’s), are great for a quiet after-party conversation.
Another popular destination is the 24/7 Phoenix Bar (941 Elysian Fields Ave.), located in the Marigny within a short walking distance from the French Quarter.
Photo by David Fary
Are you planning to spend some time in New Orleans during Southern Decadence? To stay close to all the action, book a historic boutique hotel in the French Quarter at FrenchQuarter.com/hotels today!
JOIN THE NEWSLETTER!
Things to Do in the French Quarter This September
When September hits in New Orleans, it doesn’t mean summer has given up the ghost, even if everyone is back in school. As far as festivals and events go, New Orleans doesn’t slow down in this regard either. Here are some of the happenings hitting the Crescent City and the area around the French Quarter as we enter September.
Southern Decadence
August 29 – September 1, 2025
If you’re in town over the Labor Day weekend, check out Southern Decadence. This popular festival celebrates LGBTQ+ culture and attracts participants from all over the world. What started as a simple going-away party in the 1970s is now considered the fifth largest event in the city after Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, Essence Festival, and the French Quarter Festival.
The festival’s annual hub, Bourbon Pub Parade, will be open till 5 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Just like in previous years, it will serve as an epicenter of the Bourbon Street Extravaganza, a free show/block party happening on Saturday at the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann Streets. The annual Southern Decadence Grand Marshal Parade on Sunday will also end up there. For the event’s schedule, check out its website.
NOLAXNOLA
September 25-October 5, 2025
So, what is NOLAxNOLA exactly? Pronounced “NOLA by NOLA,” it’s a celebration of New Orleans music, venues and artists. In 2021, a coalition of New Orleans artists, venues and cultural leaders banded together to support one another and keep the music community and culture bearers strong in those difficult times. The event featured a huge and impressive case of New Orleans artists and was a success, so it came back in 2022 with even more shows and more venues participating.
Supposed to be even bigger this year, NOLAXNOLA is not to be missed. For this year’s artist roster and participating venues list, check out the event’s website.
Need somewhere to stay during your fall visit to New Orleans? Be sure to check out our resource for French Quarter Hotels!
JOIN THE NEWSLETTER!
White Linen Night
Photo courtesy of Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans on Facebook
Back in the days before air conditioning, New Orleanians kept cool and looked fresh in the face of August swelter by wearing light-colored linen clothing. Back in the days before White Linen Night, local art galleries felt the pinch of the August tourism slowdown.
In order to combat said slowdown, and to showcase local summer fashion, White Linen Night was created (Fidelity Bank is the title sponsor). Art galleries and restaurants in the Arts/Warehouse District throw their doors open for a night of wine, art showcasing, dining, and more wine — plus modeling of, naturally, the latest in white-linen fashion.
The event, held on Saturday, August 2 this year from 5 to 10 p.m., has several components that showcase local art and provide plenty of opportunities to eat, dance, drink, and stroll in the New Orleans’ Arts District in Central Business District (CBD). One of the main features is a free block party and an open house for galleries on the 300-600 blocks of Julia Street in the Arts/Warehouse District, with live music and dozens of food and drink stands.
The events also spill out onto neighboring streets throughout the area, including Magazine and Camp streets. In addition to most galleries on Julia Street, the Contemporary Arts Center (CAC) and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art will be open. As the name suggests, participants are invited to wear white.
You can check out this guide to see which galleries are participating. Remember, the block party is free, though you’ll have to get tickets to buy food and drinks. There’s also a ticketed “cool down lounge” on-site.
The event is usually really well attended, so parking is limited, though there’s some street parking as well as the paid parking lots in the area.
So, don your best white linen and brave the heat to support the Arts District New Orleans as they celebrate 31 years of this unique event!
JOIN THE NEWSLETTER!
Satchmo SummerFest Celebrates the Legacy of Louis Armstrong
Photo courtesy of Satchmo SummerFest on Facebook
Satchmo SummerFest started in 2001 as a tribute to Louis Armstrong, one of New Orleans’ most prominent native residents, on his 100th birthday (“Satchmo” was one of Armstrong’s several nicknames). Ever since, the fest remains the August highlight and just the respite we need from the long weeks of summer.
The annual festival, traditionally held over the first weekend of August in the French Quarter (falling on Saturday, August 2, and Sunday, August 3, 2025, this year), is easy to navigate and get to. The fest will be spread on two stages at the New Orleans Jazz Museum (at the Old U.S. Mint).
While the 2025 music and vendor lineups are TBA, the always-stellar music lineup included in the past the Big 6 Brass Band, Treme Brass Band, Preservation Brass, Jeremy Davenport, Charmaine Neville, The Original Pinettes Brass Band, and more.
Among the festival’s traditional special events, the annual Jazz Mass will again be held at St. Augustine church (1210 Governor Nicholls St.) on Sunday, August 4, at 10 a.m. It’s a popular event, so arrive early if you plan to attend.
Immediately following mass, join the “Satchmo Salute” second line parade, which will make its way from the church to Armstrong Park before secondlining down to Esplanade Avenue and the festival’s grounds at the New Orleans Jazz Museum.
For schedule, lineup and updates please check the event’s website or its Facebook page.
Photo courtesy of Satchmo SummerFest on Facebook
You may also want to know:
Admission is free.
There will be shaded picnic tables on the grounds for dining.
Parking: For street parking, you may want to look along the stretch of the French Market and at the foot of Esplanade Avenue. There is also a 24/7 parking lot by the French Market along the river. Enter from St. Peter Street.
Pops’ Playhouse for Kids at the Jazz Museum will have children’s activities.
No coolers or ice chests, and no outside food or drink, please.
Festival details:
What: The annual Satchmo SummerFest
When: Saturday-Sunday, August 2-3, 2025
Where: New Orleans Jazz Museum (at the U.S. Mint, 400 Esplanade Ave., French Quarter)
Admission: Free
Schedule and food vendors: https://satchmosummerfest.org/
Coming to New Orleans in August?
Check out our guide to where to stay in the French Quarter, and be sure to check out our resource for French Quarter Hotels. Also, consider booking a guided tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 to experience the hauntingly beautiful past of New Orleans.
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!
Happy August!
JOIN THE NEWSLETTER!
Your Guide to the 2026 ESSENCE Festival of Culture
Over the years, the ESSENCE Festival of Culture has evolved into one of the largest celebrations in the country, and New Orleans is proud to host it again, when ESSENCE celebrates its 32nd year in 2026. If you plan on attending, here’s our guide on how to navigate the festival, where to eat, shop, and stay, and generally how to make your visit an unforgettable one.
When and Where Is the ESSENCE Festival of Culture?
Traditionally, the ESSENCE Festival of Culture takes place over the Independence Day weekend. This year, the dates fall on July 3-5, 2026. Over those three days, the event will be held 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. Some events will also be held at the venues citywide.
Music Lineup Headliners and Other Highlights
Music fans from all over simply can’t go wrong with all the incredible names in every year’s lineup. The 2026 theme is “Ladies First,” celebrating iconic female artists. Teyana Taylor and The Aunties are chief curators.
Notable performers include Cardi B and Latto, who are set to take the Superdome stage for their first-ever ESSENCE Festival of Culture appearances. Returning to the spotlight are recent ESSENCE cover stars and Grammy-winning singers Brandy and Monica. Grammy Award winner and R&B standout Kehlani is also part of the lineup. And Patti LaBelle, a true icon with more than 60 years in music, returns to her roots.
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.
In addition, a variety of exciting conferences, exhibitions, roundtables, and other experiences are scheduled this year, plus beauty, fashion, and food events, a marketplace, a family day, an economic forum, keynote speakers, and more. The BeautyCon and Wellness House experiences feature celebrity beauty influencers and wellness experts.
Where to Get Your Tickets
You can get your tickets a la carte (for the evening concerts at the Superdome and 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).
What to Pack
Bring comfortable shoes, an umbrella or rain jacket (as summer in New Orleans can bring unpredictable weather and frequent afternoon showers), and a lot of patience.
The Convention Center in particular is massive, so there will be a lot of walking, and lines could be long. Both the Superdome and the Convention Center have AC, of course, but staying Instagram-ready in the hot and humid New Orleans summer could be tricky.
So dress light, but also be prepared for the much chillier temps inside. It might be a good idea to bring a portable mobile device charger with you so you won’t have to look for an available power outlet in a crowded venue.
Where to Eat
Check out the ESSENCE Food & Wine experience while you’re attending the festival for dozens of vendors and special food demos to get recipe inspiration, find a new dish you like, or revisit an old favorite. There’s also 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.
For dining out on the town (and in the French Quarter in particular), see our guides, below.
Where to Shop
Look for the festival marketplace near the food court, with dozens of vendors selling artwork, crafts, music, clothing, jewelry, etc. You can easily get your souvenir shopping done there, too, from the local vendors. The festival also has its own store inside the Convention Center, with festival merch, books, magazines, and so on.
There are also plenty of shopping options in the area. You could spend a whole day browsing the three levels of The Shops at Canal Place. It has a soaring atrium and food options ranging from casual to upscale. Canal Place houses a slew of upscale national chains, but also local boutiques.
The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk, located by the Mississippi River, is a sprawling discount outlet mall with all the popular labels like Gap, Under Armour, and Guess.
Further down, venturing into the French Quarter, check out H&M and Sephora, plus all the lovely, unique boutiques that pepper Chartres St.
For more shopping suggestions, please see our guides, below.
Where to Stay
If you plan on attending the ESSENCE Festival of Culture, why not choose a historic hotel for a unique experience? You’ll still stay close to all of the action and excitement, but you’ll also be creating memories steeped in history and charm.
Here are our suggestions: All these hotels are historic properties located in the French Quarter (three of those — Hotel St. Marie, French Market Inn, and Place D’Armes — have charming saltwater pools in their lush courtyards).
Book your New Orleans stay with the help of our recommended New Orleans Hotels.
What’s Going on in New Orleans That Week?
There’s Independence Day, of course. New Orleans celebrates July 4th like anywhere else in America, but also with a flavor all her own. There will be fireworks over the Mississippi River and plenty of music and partying. Head to the Riverfront for the display, or see if you can score a French Quarter balcony as a viewing (and party) spot. Many Bourbon Street bars with balconies allow access for a cover fee or if you’re just buying drinks.
What Else You Need to Know
- The ESSENCE Festival of Culture requires all guests 18 and over to register for entry into ESSENCE Festival’s conferences and expos.
- Since the Convention Center events are for all ages, if you want to buy a drink at the food court, prepare to be carded.
- You can re-enter the Convention Center multiple times, but not the Superdome.
- No outside food or drink will be allowed at the Convention Center and the Superdome; all bags will be searched.
- Take note of the Superdome’s clear-bag policy: “Any bag, purse, or briefcase that is larger than 12” x 6” x 12” will not be allowed into the Superdome. All bags that enter must be clear, with the exception of medical bags, which may be subject to inspection, and small clutch bags. The maximum size for a clutch bag is 4.5”x 6.5”.
- Look for the festival sponsor booths (like Coca-Cola) to score some samples and giveaways and to enter contests. Sponsor booths also host celebrity meet-and-greets, so this might be your chance to meet your favorite star when they’re not performing.
New Orleans and French Quarter Guides
Make the most of your stay in New Orleans while you enjoy ESSENCE Fest with our comprehensive guides to the New Orleans dining, sightseeing, shopping, nightlife, and much more:
New Orleans Guides
Eating and Drinking
-
- Local French Quarter Favorites
- Diet Another Day: New Orleans Must Eats in the French Quarter
- Best Food on Bourbon Street
- Best Kept Secrets for Eating Cheap and Eating Well in the Quarter
- Late Night Dining: Where to Turn in the Quarter When the Midnight Hungries Hit Hard
- Vegetarian Destinations in the French Quarter
- Best Pizza in the French Quarter
- French Quarter Dining Al Fresco
Classic New Orleans and Southern Dishes
- Try the Best Jambalaya in the French Quarter
- 10 Best Places to Get Gumbo in the French Quarter
- Where to Score the Best Crawfish in New Orleans
- Best Muffulettas in the French Quarter and Nearby
- New Orleans’ Po-Boy Is A Rich Food Tradition
- New Orleans’ Legendary Fried Chicken Joints
- The Best Barbecue in New Orleans
- Bananas Foster in the French Quarter
- Proof Is in the Bread Pudding
Cocktails
- Best Places for Cocktails Outdoors in the French Quarter
- The Best Happy Hours in the French Quarter
- Classic Cocktails and Modern Thirsts in the French Quarter
Shopping
- French Quarter Shopping: One-of-a-Kind Stores
- Vintage Shopping in the French Quarter
- Hat Shopping in the French Quarter and Nearby
- Shopping for Discovery and Surprise
Exploring
- First-Timer’s Guide to the French Quarter
- Must-See French Quarter Museums
- Must-See Mardi Gras Museums
- Photo Ideas for Your Next French Quarter Vacation
- What to Do on a Rainy Day in the French Quarter
- Fun New Orleans Sightseeing With the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
- Famous New Orleans Ghosts
- New Orleans’ Haunted History
- Neighborhoods Near the French Quarter
Famous Streets
- Bourbon Street: a Block-by-Block Guide
- Bourbon Street Bucket List
- Decatur Street: a Block-by-Block Guide
- Royal Street, a Block-by-Block Guide
- North Rampart Street, a Block-by-Block Guide
- Chartres Street, a Block-by-Block Guide
Additional Resources
- The Ultimate Guide for Women Traveling Solo in the French Quarter
- What to Do in the French Quarter When You’re Under 21
- Exploring the French Quarter With Kids
Coming to New Orleans This Summer?
In addition to checking out our suggestions listed above, consider booking a guided tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 to experience the hauntingly beautiful past of New Orleans. 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!
