New Orleans, LA

Welcome to New Orleans, Louisiana, a city where the streets pulse with music, the air is filled with the aroma of Creole cuisine, and every day feels like a celebration. Known as the “Big Easy,” New Orleans is a cultural melting pot, blending French, Spanish, African, and Creole influences into a vibrant tapestry of events. From the world-famous Mardi Gras to intimate jazz performances in historic venues, the city’s event calendar is a testament to its zest for life.

We’ll explore the biggest venues that host New Orleans’ iconic events and dive into the usual happenings—sports, concerts, theater, and festivals—that make this city a must-visit destination. Whether you’re a local rediscovering your hometown or a traveler planning an adventure, this journey will showcase why New Orleans is a global hub for celebration.

Major Venues in New Orleans

New Orleans boasts an impressive array of venues, each with its own character and history, catering to everything from massive sports events to intimate theater performances. Below is a detailed look at the city’s most prominent venues:

1. New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center

• Location: 900 Convention Center Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70130

• Details: As the sixth-largest convention center in the United States, this venue spans over 3 million square feet, with 1.1 million square feet of exhibit space. It features 140 meeting rooms, a 4,000-seat theater, and a 60,300-square-foot divisible ballroom. Located along the Mississippi River, it’s a hub for trade shows, conventions, and large-scale events, consistently ranking among the top ten U.S. facilities for conventions and tradeshows. Its recent GBAC STAR™ accreditation ensures high standards for cleanliness and safety (New Orleans & Company).

2. Caesars Superdome

• Location: 1500 Sugar Bowl Dr, New Orleans, LA 70112

• Details: This iconic domed stadium, one of the largest in the world, is home to the NFL’s New Orleans Saints. With a capacity of 76,468, it has hosted eight Super Bowls, including Super Bowl LIX in 2025, and major college football events like the Sugar Bowl. A recent $560 million renovation has modernized the venue, adding enhanced amenities and accessibility features. It’s also a venue for large concerts and special events, making it a cornerstone of New Orleans’ event scene (Caesars Superdome).

3. Smoothie King Center

• Location: 1501 Dave Dixon Dr, New Orleans, LA 70113

• Details: Adjacent to the Caesars Superdome, this multi-purpose arena is home to the NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans. It seats 17,805 for concerts and 16,867 for basketball games, with configurations for ice hockey and arena football. Opened in 1999, it hosts a variety of events, from family shows to major concerts, making it a key player in the city’s entertainment district (Smoothie King Center).

4. Saenger Theatre

• Location: 1111 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130

• Details: A historic theater known for its stunning architecture and acoustics, the Saenger hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and performing arts events. Its intimate yet grand setting makes it a favorite for cultural experiences, offering a glimpse into New Orleans’ rich theatrical heritage.

5. Orpheum Theater

• Location: 129 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans, LA 70112

• Details: Another historic venue, the Orpheum is renowned for its vintage charm and modern sound systems. It hosts music performances, comedy shows, and theatrical productions, attracting both local and touring acts.

6. The Fillmore

• Location: 1 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130

• Details: This modern music venue offers an intimate setting for rock, alternative, and indie concerts. It’s a popular spot for national and international artists, providing a more personal concert experience compared to larger arenas.

7. House of Blues

• Location: 225 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130

• Details: Located in the heart of the French Quarter, the House of Blues is a lively venue known for its blues, rock, and soul performances. Its vibrant atmosphere and iconic decor make it a must-visit for music lovers.

8. Tipitina’s

• Location: 501 Napoleon Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115

• Details: A legendary music club, Tipitina’s is a cornerstone of New Orleans’ music scene. It showcases local talent and traditional genres like jazz, R&B, and funk, offering an authentic taste of the city’s musical heritage.

9. The Civic Theatre

• Location: 5100 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70115

• Details: This venue focuses on local theater, dance, and performing arts, providing a platform for community talent and innovative productions.

10. The Howlin’ Wolf

• Location: 907 S Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70130

• Details: A casual music club in the Warehouse District, The Howlin’ Wolf hosts a variety of genres, from rock to jazz, making it a great spot for discovering both local and touring acts.

Major Events in New Orleans

New Orleans is synonymous with celebration, hosting over 130 festivals and events annually. These events, ranging from massive citywide festivals to niche cultural gatherings, reflect the city’s diverse heritage. Below are some of the most significant events:

1. Mardi Gras

• When: February or March (varies based on Lent)

• Details: The most iconic event in New Orleans, Mardi Gras is a carnival celebration culminating on Fat Tuesday. Known for its vibrant parades, elaborate costumes, and bead-throwing traditions, it transforms the city into a festive wonderland, with the French Quarter as the epicenter (New Orleans & Company).

2. New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (Jazz Fest)

• When: Last weekend in April and first weekend in May

• Details: Held at the Fair Grounds Race Course, Jazz Fest is a celebration of New Orleans’ musical and cultural heritage. It features multiple stages with performances spanning jazz, blues, rock, and pop, alongside local cuisine and crafts. It’s one of the largest music festivals in the world, drawing global artists and attendees (New Orleans & Company).

3. French Quarter Festival

• When: April

• Details: This free festival takes over the French Quarter, showcasing Louisiana music, food, and culture. With hundreds of acts performing on multiple stages, it’s the largest free music festival in the South, offering a vibrant celebration of local talent.

4. ESSENCE Festival of Culture

• When: July 4th weekend

• Details: A celebration of African American culture, this festival features music performances, panel discussions, and workshops on health, wellness, and empowerment. Held at various venues, including the Caesars Superdome, it’s a major draw for Black women and cultural enthusiasts.

5. Satchmo SummerFest

• When: August

• Details: Honoring New Orleans native Louis Armstrong, this festival features jazz music, local cuisine, and seminars about the legendary musician’s life. It’s a smaller, more intimate event held in the French Quarter.

6. Voodoo Music + Arts Experience

• When: October

• Details: This festival combines rock, electronic, and hip-hop music with immersive art installations. Held in City Park, it attracts a younger, eclectic crowd with its vibrant atmosphere.

6. Bayou Boogaloo

• When: May

• Details: A laid-back festival in City Park, Bayou Boogaloo features local and national bands, art vendors, and family-friendly activities. It’s a great way to experience New Orleans’ community spirit.

7. White Linen Night

• When: August

• Details: An art walk in the Warehouse District where galleries stay open late, and attendees wear white linen to stroll and view art. It’s a celebration of the city’s thriving art scene.

8. Luna Fête

• When: October

• Details: An arts festival with a futuristic twist, Luna Fête features live music, dance, and visual art displays, often with a sci-fi theme.

9. Gentilly Fest

• When: September

• Details: A neighborhood festival in Gentilly, this event highlights local music, food, and community activities, offering a glimpse into the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods.

Sports in New Orleans

Sports are a cornerstone of New Orleans’ culture, with two major professional teams and several high-profile college events.

1. New Orleans Saints (NFL)

• Venue: Caesars Superdome

• Details: The Saints, playing at the Superdome since 1975, are a beloved part of New Orleans’ identity. Their 2010 Super Bowl victory was a historic moment for the city. The Superdome also hosts the Sugar Bowl, a major college football game, and has been the site of multiple NCAA championships (New Orleans Saints).

2. New Orleans Pelicans (NBA)

• Venue: Smoothie King Center

• Details: The Pelicans, formerly the Hornets, have been in New Orleans since 2002. Known for their young talent and exciting play, they draw enthusiastic crowds to the Smoothie King Center, which also hosts college basketball and other sporting events.

Other Sports Events

• Sugar Bowl: Held annually at the Caesars Superdome, this college football game is part of the College Football Playoff’s “New Year’s Six” bowls.

• High School and College Sports: Various venues host local championships, showcasing the city’s passion for athletics.

Concerts and Music Events

Music is the heartbeat of New Orleans, with venues ranging from massive arenas to intimate clubs hosting performances year-round.

• Smoothie King Center: Hosts major concerts with artists like Beyoncé, Drake, and Metallica, offering a large-scale experience (Live Nation).

• Caesars Superdome: Occasionally hosts massive concerts, such as those by Taylor Swift or U2.

• Saenger Theatre: A venue for mid-sized concerts and Broadway shows, known for its acoustics.

• The Fillmore: Popular for rock and alternative acts.

• House of Blues: A French Quarter staple for blues, rock, and soul.

• Tipitina’s: A legendary club for traditional New Orleans music like jazz and funk.

• The Howlin’ Wolf: A casual venue for diverse genres.

Festivals like Jazz Fest and Voodoo Music + Arts Experience bring in global acts, while smaller venues showcase local talent, ensuring music is always in the air.

Theater and Performing Arts

New Orleans’ theater scene is vibrant, with historic venues and local companies offering a range of performances.

• Saenger Theatre: Hosts Broadway shows like Hamilton and The Lion King, as well as concerts and comedy.

• Orpheum Theater: Features music, comedy, and theatrical productions in a historic setting.

• The Civic Theatre: Focuses on local theater and dance, supporting community artists.

• New Orleans Opera Association: Presents operas at venues like the Mahalia Jackson Theater.

• Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré: The oldest continuously operating theater in the South, located in the French Quarter, offering plays and musicals.

These venues provide a platform for both local and touring productions, enriching the city’s cultural landscape.

Other Notable Events

Beyond festivals, sports, and performing arts, New Orleans hosts a variety of unique events:

• New Orleans Book Festival: Features author talks, book signings, and panels.

• Tennessee Williams & New Orleans Literary Festival: Honors the playwright with theater performances and literary discussions.

• New Orleans Film Festival: Showcases independent films and supports filmmakers.

• Greek Fest: Celebrates Greek culture with food, music, and dance.

• Oktoberfest: A German-inspired festival with beer, food, and music.

• New Orleans Wine & Food Experience (NOWFE): A culinary event with tastings, dinners, and seminars.

These events highlight the city’s diverse interests, from literature to cuisine.

In Short

New Orleans is a city that lives for celebration. Its event scene, from the grandeur of Mardi Gras to the intimacy of local theater, reflects a unique blend of cultures and a passion for life. The city’s major venues—Caesars Superdome, Smoothie King Center, Saenger Theatre, and more—provide the perfect stages for these experiences. Whether you’re cheering for the Saints, dancing at Jazz Fest, or enjoying a play at Le Petit Théâtre, New Orleans offers something for everyone.

Plan your visit with the city’s event calendar in hand, and immerse yourself in the Big Easy’s vibrant spirit. In New Orleans, every day is a reason to celebrate.