Description

Planning a trip to New Orleans for Southern Decadence? Get the best rates on hotels in the French Quarter and other New Orleans hotels on NewOrleans.com. 

In a city known for its diversity and acceptance, it's only natural that Southern Decadence — one of the largest and most impressive events in the GLBT community — happens in New Orleans. Held every year over Labor Day weekend in clubs and bars and on the streets around the French Quarter, Southern Decadence is often referred to as "Gay Mardi Gras" — a six-day fest complete with the famous annual parade, Grand Marshals, and plenty of costumed revelers.

Southern Decadence started out innocently enough. In August 1972, a group of tenants living in a ramshackle dwelling on Barracks Street in the Treme neighborhood decided to throw a going-away costume party for a roommate. Invitees were told to dress up as their favorite "decadent" Southern character and — voila! — Southern Decadence was born. Since then, the New Orleans Labor Day extravaganza has grown exponentially to attract as many as 125,000-135,000 revelers over the fest's six-day stretch, and is now labeled the largest GLBT community-based event in the South. 

Events begin six weeks before Labor Day, but kick into gear the Wednesday before Labor Day weekend, culminating with Sunday's big street parade. DJs from all over the country come down to the Big Easy to spin at clubs and on stages set up on closed streets in the French Quarter. Drag shows and explicit competitions are just a few of the highlights of Southern Decadence, along with non-stop music and elaborate costumes on parade.

Stages are mixed into the gay bars of the upper French Quarter. Look for the stage in front of the bar Napoleon's Itch for some of the best live acts and music the festival has to offer visitors. The epicenter of the action is in the center square between Oz Nightclub and The Bourbon Pub / Parade.  Staple clubs in New Orleans' gay community nightlife, these bars have some of the best laser shows and light displays in the city. You'll also find more sit-down and mingle-friendly bars like Lafitte's In Exile and the local favorite, Good Friends. Step off the beaten path for the club Ruby Fruit Jungle, known for its stellar in-house DJ, and the 700, known for its laid-back atmosphere and great bar food.

Although the street performances are free, expect to pay cover changes at the bars and clubs, or in some cases, a drink minimum to enter. Several clubs offer weekend passes that allow you in and out over the course of the entire weekend.

Look for GLBT clubs and organizations to be present with freebies and handouts for the crowds. These groups also provide assistance in navigating the city, and recommending gay-friendly and affordable New Orleans hotels and restaurants.

Check the Calendar of Events to find out more about what’s happening in the Big Easy!