Welcome to Fall in New Orleans
Welcome to Fall in New Orleans!
Forget what you think you know about “fall foliage” and sweater weather. In the Crescent City, autumn is a season of cool breezes, vibrant festivals, and delicious food—the perfect time to experience the city’s unique charm without the intense summer heat. This guide will help you navigate a truly unforgettable New Orleans fall.
Fall Festivals & Events: A Cultural Extravaganza
New Orleans knows how to turn any occasion into a celebration. In the fall, the city’s calendar is packed with festivals dedicated to music, food, and culture.
- NOLAxNOLA (September 25 – October 5)This ten-day festival celebrates the city’s rich music scene, with local venues and artists putting on incredible live shows across the city.
- National Fried Chicken Festival (October 4-5) : A must for any foodie, this festival on the New Orleans lakefront features fried chicken in every form imaginable, accompanied by live music.
- Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival (October 10 – October 12): Head to Lafayette Square for a free-to-attend weekend of world-class blues music and mouth-watering barbecue from vendors across the region.
- Krewe of BOO! Halloween Parade (October 25): Get a taste of Mardi Gras magic in the fall! This spooky parade features incredible floats and costumed riders tossing candy and Halloween-themed throws.
- Tremé Creole Gumbo Festival (November 8 – 9): Dive into a culinary tradition at Louis Armstrong Park. This free festival is dedicated to all things gumbo, with chefs competing to serve up the best bowl.
- Oak Street Po-Boy Festival (November 16 ): Sample every kind of po-boy you can imagine on this vibrant street festival in Uptown, with live music to fuel your feast.
- Beignet Fest (November 15 ): A sweet celebration of New Orleans’ most famous treat, Beignet Fest in City Park offers traditional and creative takes on the classic pastry.
Where to Experience “Fall Foliage”
While New Orleans isn’t known for changing leaves, you can still find beautiful autumn colors and natural beauty.
- City Park: Stroll through the park’s ancient, moss-draped oak trees, which provide a quintessential Louisiana backdrop. The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is a beautiful spot to enjoy art and nature in the crisp autumn air.
- Audubon Park: Another urban oasis, this park is home to a two-mile walking and jogging path that winds past stunning old oak trees and a tranquil lagoon.
- Swamp Tours: For a truly unique “fall foliage” experience, book a swamp tour. The cypress and tupelo trees in the bayous turn brilliant shades of rust and gold in the cooler months, creating a stunning and serene landscape.
Fall Flavors: A Culinary Journey
Autumn is a perfect time to explore New Orleans’ legendary cuisine. The weather is ideal for outdoor dining and indulging in hearty, comforting dishes.
- Oyster Season: The famous “R” months are here! From September to April, oysters are at their peak. Head to a local oyster bar for freshly shucked raw oysters, charbroiled oysters, or a classic oyster po-boy.
- Gumbo: As the weather cools, gumbo becomes a staple. You’ll find countless variations of this Louisiana classic, from a hearty chicken and andouille sausage to a rich seafood gumbo.
- Jambalaya: This one-pot rice dish, packed with meat and vegetables, is a perfect, flavorful meal for a fall evening.
- Beignets & Café Au Lait: No visit is complete without a stop at Café Du Monde or Café Beignet for these iconic powdered sugar-dusted treats and a chicory coffee.
- Classic Cocktails: The city’s famous libations, like the Sazerac and Hurricane, are even more enjoyable when sipped in a cozy, historic bar as the sun sets.
