10 Things to Do in February in New Orleans

Anyone who says the holidays are the most magical time of year hasn’t seen New Orleans in February. We’re counting down the days to Mardi Gras (March 4) with parades, king cake, and festivals all month long. Plus, there’s that little football game we’re hosting on February 9 that you might have heard of? Goes by the name of Super Bowl LIX. Celebrate Black History Month, Valentine’s Day, and more with our top ten things to do this February.

Celebrate Black History Month in New Orleans 

February is Black History Month, and New Orleans is one of the best places to celebrate the history, culture, and contributions of Black Americans past and present. Our Black history itinerary takes you to Black-owned restaurants and businesses, historically Black neighborhoods, and museums dedicated to the Black experience. Celebrate Black History Month this month and every month in New Orleans. 

Attend a Mardi Gras parade  

February is prime time for attending Mardi Gras parades. The month starts of strong with the kooky, nerdy Intergalactic Krewe of Chewbacchus on February 1. After that, catch the dog-centric Krewe of Barkus on February 23, the all-women Krewe of Muses on February 27, and much more! Check out our parade schedule here and plan your picks.

Celebrate Vietnamese New Year at Tết Fest 

New Orleans is home to a substantial Vietnamese population, and Tết Fest celebrations are a highlight on our calendar every year. Held at Mary Queen of Vietnam Church, Tết Fest celebrations typically include authentic food, music, children’s activities, and fun for the whole family. Tết Fest returns January 31 – February 2, 2025.

Experience Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans 

Super Bowl LIX will be held in New Orleans at Caesars Superdome on February 9, 2025. New Orleans is no stranger to hosting this special event. In fact, it will be the record-tying 11th time the city and state have hosted the game, and the eighth time the Superdome has hosted the game, extending its record for stadium to host the most Super Bowls. Lots of fan events are taking place the week and weekend leading up the game, including the Super Bowl Experience, in which fans can meet current NFL players and legends for autographs, shop for exclusive gear at the NFL Shop presented by Visa, and enjoy interactive games and NFL FLAG clinics. Check out Ultimate Guide to Super Bowl LIX for everything you need to know, from where to stay, what to do, and game day information.  

Check out the art at Prospect.6 

Prospect New Orleans is a citywide contemporary art triennial currently on view through February 2, 2025. Visit participating museums and venues to see the installations. A highlight in the abandoned Ford Motor Plant which includes mixed media from several different artists centering around the theme of immigration. Read more about Prospect.6 here.  

Eat lots of king cake 

Every local in NOLA knows that king cake is a seasonal treat, and that the season lasts only a short time - less than two months, to be exact. February is prime time for getting in the last bites of the cinnamon-filled, icing-topped delicacy (this year, king cake season is January 6 - March 4). Stick to traditional or try a new version – just be sure to have at least one slice this month. Some bakeries offer national and international shipping so that everyone can enjoy a king cake from New Orleans. 

Plan a romantic adventure  

New Orleans is known for its romantic charm, whether it’s Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day, or any day of the year. Browse our romantic itinerary for ideas on how to celebrate with that special someone here. Book a room night, dine at a romantic restaurant, have a picnic, or dance along the Mississippi all while enjoying perfect weather this February in NOLA. 

Enjoy theater and dance 

The New Orleans Ballet Association brings world-renowned dance groups to Mahalia Jackson Theater in New Orleans every year. On February 1, catch Ballet Hispánico “CARMEN.maquia.” Broadway in New Orleans brings plays and musicals to the Saenger Theatre, including “Mamma Mia” this February 11-16. Find more theater in our 2025 Winter Theater Guide here. 

Cheer on your favorite sports team 

Sports are in full swing this February in New Orleans. The Pelicans have several home games on the schedule for this month, and both men and women’s college basketball are in full swing for any fans out there. The NOLA Gold Rugby season kicks off with a home game verses Anthem Rugby Carolina on February 15. 

Enjoy the start of crawfish season 

Late February means crawfish season is on the horizon. Some even incorporate it into their Mardi Gras celebrations. New Orleans is full of seafood shops and restaurants that’ll satisfy all your cravings. Grab ‘em boiled, sautéed, baked, or fried, or get ‘em raw for a crawfish boil of your own.

For even more ways to experience New Orleans this February, see our Things to Do page here.