As the sun dips below the Mississippi and the sultry heat of the day gives way to the electric buzz of night, New Orleans transforms into a playground for the nocturnal. It's July in the Crescent City, and the nightlife scene is sizzling hot. In a place where the unexpected is always around the corner, and every night feels like an adventure, there's a little something for everyone.

Imagine yourself slipping into a dimly lit cabaret where the art of burlesque teases and tantalizes. Next, you find yourself in a vibrant drag show, where sequins, sass, and larger-than-life personalities reign supreme. Or perhaps laughter is your medicine, and a comedy club is your sanctuary. And when the beat calls to you, the dance floors of New Orleans are ready to sweep you off your feet.

In a city that thrives on its eclectic and inclusive spirit, the nightlife is a testament to New Orleans' unapologetic love for life. So, grab your favorite cocktail, put on your dancing shoes, and let's dive into the captivating world of Burlesque, Drag, Comedy, and Dancing. Because in New Orleans, the night is always young, and there's always a story waiting to be told.

 

JUMP TO: BURLESQUEDRAG | STAND-UP COMEDY | DANCINGCALENDAR                

Image Courtesy of Burlesque Ballroom
Trixie Minx – Burlesque Ballroom

BURLESQUE

 

Trixie Minx’s Burlesque Ballroom

When: Every Friday Night at 7:00 & 9:00 p.m.

Where: The Jazz Playhouse

Tickets: $25

Age Restrictions: 21+

This spin on classic 1960s Bourbon Street burlesque pairs the historic live jazz band with the sultry art of the tease. Featuring a weekly rotating cast of soloists, this production is brought to you by Trixie Minx, a preeminent burlesque beauty who has been delighting audiences throughout the U.S., Europe, and Australia. Known for her comic-inspired striptease, this show is a classic treat.

 

Minx Burlesque

When: Every Sunday at 6:00 p.m.

Where: The Howlin’ Wolf

Tickets: $15-100

Age Restrictions: 21+

Imagine this: It's Sunday night in New Orleans, and the vibrant hum of the city leads you to The Howlin’ Wolf, where Minx Burlesque LIVE! is about to begin. As you step inside, you're instantly enveloped in an electrifying atmosphere, ready for a night like no other. Each show features an ever-changing lineup of performers, offering seductive strip teases that transport you to the golden age of burlesque, daring circus acts that keep you on the edge of your seat, and sidesplitting comedic brilliance that has you roaring with laughter. Minx Burlesque promises to captivate and entertain every soul in the audience, making Sunday nights in New Orleans anything but ordinary.

 

Finesse Fridays: A Grown & Sexy Burlesque Experience

When: July 5th, 12th, 19th, and 26th at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Minted Lounge

Tickets: $10-80

Age Restrictions: 21+

Indulge in a grown and sexy burlesque experience that promises a night of sultry performances, exquisite craft cocktails, and delectable tapas. Set against a backdrop of sophisticated vibes, this evening affair is designed to captivate and enchant. As the performers take the stage, you'll be treated to an unforgettable display of elegance and allure. Enjoy the perfect blend of artistry and entertainment, making for a night that will linger in your memory long after the final act.

Madison Hurley Photography
Van Ella Bordella

Lola van Ella’s Van Ella Bordella

When: July 4th, 6th, 7th, 11th, 18th, 20th, 25th,and 27th  at 7:00 p.m.

Where: The Allways Lounge and Cabaret in The Twilight Room

Tickets: $25-40

Age Restrictions: 21+

You enter the renowned Van Ella Bordella, a unique establishment in the heart of New Orleans. Here, Madam Lola van Ella and her enchanting courtesans recreate the mesmerizing stories of a Victorian-era brothel. This historically rich burlesque performance draws you into a captivating world of storytelling, featuring the finest and most versatile burlesque artists in the Crescent City. Each act takes you on a journey through time, captivating you with the grace, charm, and drama that only Van Ella Bordella can provide.

 

CLASS: Burlesque with a Twist!

When: July 5th & 20th at 10:00 p.m

Where: The Allways Lounge & Cabaret

Tickets: $20-45

Age Restrictions: 21+

CLASS is a bi-monthly showcase that features the most glamorous, decadent, and "classic" burlesque performers from around the world. In the second half of the show, the event takes an exciting turn as the club is transformed into a pop-up strip club, complete with a stripper pole. Guests are encouraged to RSVP today for an unforgettable night!

 

The New Orleans High Society Hour

When: July 6th at 8:00 p.m

Where: The Allways Lounge & Cabaret

Tickets: $20-45

Age Restrictions: 21+

Enjoy a lively evening of live jazz as New Orleans High Society takes the stage, immersing the audience in the rich melodies and rhythms of jazz. Led by the soulful vocals of Angie Z, each performance unfolds as an enchanting journey through the city's musical heritage. Adding an extra touch of allure, Angie Z and her captivating ensemble blend tantalizing burlesque performances into the night, creating an unforgettable fusion of music and spectacle.

 

Psychedelic Speakeasy Burlesque

When: July 12th at 10:00 p.m

Where: The Allways Lounge & Cabaret

Tickets: $25-45

Age Restrictions: 21+

Guests can immerse themselves in a surreal evening of burlesque and performance art filled with untold delights, vibrant colors, wild sensations, and outrageous acts! Each month features a new cast and a new show in the Twilight Room at AllWays Lounge & Cabaret.

 

Bri & The Sparkling Diamonds

When: July 20th at 10:00 p.m

Where: The Allways Lounge & Cabaret

Tickets: $25-50

Age Restrictions: 21+

This dazzling show, produced and headlined by New Orleans' very own Bri THE Sparkling Diamond, showcases a stunning lineup of showgirls from the city. Audiences will be enchanted by a live Vaudeville performance that blends the timeless allure of classic burlesque with the flair of modern dance. Adding to the magic, the show features mesmerizing group performances, ensuring a night filled with glitz, glamour, and unforgettable entertainment.

Image Courtesy of Hotel Saint Vincent

Worship: A Burlesque Experience in Chapel Club

When: July 21st at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Hotel Saint Vincent

Tickets: $25-250

Age Restrictions: 21+

Presented by Elle Dorado at the Chapel Club of Hotel Saint Vincent, this exclusive and immersive show invites guests to get up close and personal with both local and national burlesque starlets in one of the city's most iconic hotels. Offering a one-of-a-kind experience, prepare to be dazzled and delighted in a way that will truly razzle your dazzle.

 

Night Moves: Burlesque You Can Savor

When: July 24th at 10:00 p.m

Where: The Allways Lounge & Cabaret

Tickets: $25-35

Age Restrictions: 21+

Guests can enjoy the award-winning talent and explosive entertainment featuring burlesque bombshells performing to epic jams. Every minute of this long-form extravaganza is a delight, starring world-renowned performance artists at New Orleans' favorite cabaret.

 

Drag

Show Night: The Ladies of OZ

When: Every Wednesday & Sunday at 9:30 p.m.

Where: Oz New Orleans

Tickets: FREE

Age Restrictions: 21+

Oz, the proud winner of the 2022 Gay Appreciation Awards for "Best Show Club," invites you to experience the magic of Show Night, happening every Wednesday and Sunday! Prepare to be dazzled as the fabulous ladies of Oz take the stage, accompanied by the beats of DJ Tim Pflueger. Feast your eyes on a stellar lineup featuring the incomparable talents of ChiChi Rodriquez, Connie Hung, Dominique DeLorean, Anastacia Davenport, Ivy Dripp, Mistie Bonet, and London Manchester It's a night filled with glamour, charisma, and unforgettable performances that will leave you craving more. Don't miss out on the electrifying energy of Show Night at Oz!

 

Freaky Friday’s

When: Every Friday night at 8:00 p.m.

Where: Oz New Orleans

Tickets: $5

Age Restrictions: 21+

Every Friday, there's only one place to be, and that's Oz New Orleans! Join hosts Ivy Dripp and JoJo for the one-of-a-kind "Freaky Fridays" extravaganza, where the bizarre becomes beautiful and the unexpected is celebrated. Prepare yourself for a spectacular showcase of strange attractions that will ignite your senses and leave you mesmerized. Don't miss out on the electrifying energy and unparalleled excitement of "Freaky Fridays" at Oz New Orleans!

 

Talent Tuesday

When: Every Tuesday at 8:30 p.m.

Where: Oz New Orleans

Tickets: FREE

Age Restrictions: 21+

Hosted by Debbie With A D, every Tuesday night at OZ nightclub features a dazzling lineup of performers, including drag queens, kings, burlesque acts, comedy, live vocals, and more! Experience the excitement as they compete for a cash prize, with your vote helping to crown the winner and make dreams come true!

Image Courtesy of Venusian Nights
Venusian Nights

 

Venusian Nights: A Drag & Burlesque Spectacle

When: July 19th at 10:30 p.m.

Where: The Allways Lounge & Cabaret

Tickets: $15-20

Age Restrictions: 21+

Immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of Venusian Nights right in the heart of New Orleans! Prepare for an evening of spellbinding performances and indelible memories that will transport you to realms of unparalleled glamour and camp. This event promises to whisk you away to a world of fantasy and extravagance. Get ready to be enthralled by the most talented drag performers and burlesque artists as they command the stage with their electrifying acts.

 

KAPOW: Burlesque, Drag & Variety with a BANG!

When: July 27th at 10:00 p.m

Where: The Allways Lounge & Cabaret

Tickets: $25-45

Age Restrictions: 21+

Guests can experience a powerhouse entertainment extravaganza featuring a dynamic, rotating cast of burlesque, drag, and variety artists that pack a punch! Each show brings a fresh and thrilling lineup of performers, ensuring an electrifying and unforgettable night. From dazzling burlesque bombshells and fierce drag queens to captivating variety acts, this ever-changing spectacle keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. The blend of talent and charisma guarantees a night filled with energy, excitement, and unparalleled entertainment. 

 

Comedy

Comedy Knockout

When: Weekly on Sundays

Where: Comedy House New Orleans

Tickets: $20-120

Age Restrictions: 18+

This Comedy House original brings you Comedy Knockout, where you will find yourself witness to a stand-up comedy competition where winners stay and the losers... leave.

 

Photo courtesy of the Howlin’ Wolf
Comedy at the Howlin’ Wolf

Comedy Gumbeaux

When: Every Thursday at 8:00 p.m. 

Where: The Howlin’ Wolf

Tickets: $10-60

Age Restrictions: 18+

Get ready for a rib-tickling extravaganza at Comedy Gumbeaux, nestled in the heart of New Orleans! For over a decade, this illustrious showcase has spotlighted the world's most talented comedians. From the likes of Tiffany Haddish and Hannibal Buress to Mark Valley and Baratunde Thurston, our stage has hosted comedy royalty alongside hilarious up-and-comers. Join us for an evening of laughter and surprises—you never know who might take the stage next!

 

Proving Ground  

When: Weekly on Sundays from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m.

Where: Hi-Ho Lounge

Tickets: Free

Age Restrictions: 21+

Laughs are always served up weekly at the Hi-Ho Lounge for this stand-up comedy open mix and showcase located in the Bywater neighborhood of New Orleans.

 

Black Girl Giggles Comedy Gumbeaux Takeover!

When: Every Thursday at 8:00 p.m. 

Where: The Howlin’ Wolf

Tickets: $5-20

Age Restrictions: 18+

Get ready for a night of laughter and good vibes at the Black Girl Giggles Comedy Gumbeaux Takeover! This event kicks off the 2024 Black Girl Giggles Comedy Festival with a one-of-a-kind comedy show celebrating the humor and talent of Black female comedians. Audiences are guaranteed to be laughing all night long with a lineup featuring some of the funniest and most talented comedians in the industry. So, grab your friends, grab a drink, and prepare to be entertained. The evening will be hosted by viral sensation and New Orleans' own Saya Meads!

 

The Show That is Tonight with Jeez Loueez

When: July 10th at 9:30 p.m.

Where: The Allways Lounge & Cabaret

Tickets: $8-15

Age Restrictions: 21+

Spend the night with award-winning entertainer Jeez Loueez for a one-of-a-kind comedy experience at The Show That is Tonight! Blending late-night talk show vibes with Wednesday night antics, Jeez interviews fascinating guests, engages the audience with ridiculous segments, and showcases the hottest talents in comedy, music, and art. With Sailem from Hell as the resident announcer & bandleader, get ready for a night of wacky fun every second Wednesday at Allways Lounge & Cabaret!

 

Brandt Vicknair, Courtesy of Vintage Rock Club
The Vintage Rock Club

Dancing

 

Vintage Rock Club

When: Every Friday & Saturday from 9:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

Where: Vintage Rock Club

Tickets: Door Cover

Age Restrictions: 21+

Vintage Rock Club stands as a nostalgic haven, offering patrons a unique throwback experience immersed in the music of yesteryears. As guests groove to the "best of the decades," they're treated to a visual feast on our expansive 185" video wall and large-screen TVs, showcasing throwback music videos, concert footage, and iconic movie clips. With a cocktail in hand, revelers dance their way through a journey of vintage favorites, creating unforgettable memories in an atmosphere steeped in retro charm.

 

Music Party Bike Ride

When: Every Friday & Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

Where: Downtown & French Quarter

Tickets: $35

Age Restrictions: 21+

Are you ready for a rolling party like no other? Catch the Music Party Bike Ride! It's not just a ride—it's a parade on wheels filled with music, lights, and unforgettable moments. Led by their charismatic DJ tour guide, you'll pedal through scenic sites like the French Quarter, Canal Street, and the Riverfront, making stops for photos, refreshments, and spontaneous dance breaks. Grab your friends, hop on your bikes, and get rolling into an epic night of fun and adventure!

 

Rhinestone Cowpoke: Queer Line Dancing Night

When: July 10th at 7:00 p.m.

Where: The Allways Lounge & Cabaret

Tickets: $5

Age Restrictions: 21+

Attention all country queers! Mark your calendars for every second Wednesday of the month! It's time to lace up your boots, grab a cold one, and adorn yourself with your finest glitter 'stache. Prepare for a lively hoedown throwdown with the one and only Jeez Loueez, your instructor for the Rhinestone Cowpoke queer line dancing night! Immerse yourself in a guided lesson covering basic two steps, scuffin', grapevinin', and plenty more. Jeezy's instruction makes it a breeze to follow along, with ample breaks for socializing, indulging in refreshments, and making new friends! Plus, the beloved country cutie bartender, Trish, ensures y’all stay hydrated while we're gyratin' to the rhythm!

 

Barbie Gras - The Barbieversary

When: July 20th at 8:00 p.m.

Where: Zony Mash Beer Project

Tickets: $10-15

Age Restrictions: 21+

Hi Barbie! Following the success of the Barbie movie and the Barbie Gras dance classes hosted by Artivism, it's finally time for all the Barbies to come together and dance the night away! The event will feature drag performances, burlesque, costume contests, raffles, and the chance to perform the Dance The Night choreography from the Barbie movie with friends and more.

 

Hard Heat

When: July 20th at 8:00 p.m.

Where: Toulouse Theater

Tickets: $20-50

Age Restrictions: 21+

Hard Heat, presented by PÜMP Presents and The Krewe of Armeinius, promises an exhilarating night of non-stop dancing and high-energy entertainment. With DJ Anthony Jasper at the helm, attendees can prepare for a thrilling evening filled with infectious beats and electrifying rhythms. This event is designed to keep the energy high and the dance floor packed, offering an unforgettable experience where the music never stops and the excitement never fades. Get ready to work hard and dance harder as Hard Heat delivers an unforgettable night of pure dance bliss!

A few final tips: 

1. Fuel the fun and cheer if you see something you like!

2. Tip your performers! Bring your $1s, 5s, 10s, and 20s! 

3. Consent! Do not touch those performing for you without it. (This also goes for your involvement in their acts!)

4. Things that come off do not belong to you! If you catch a falling star, please do not put it in your pocket. 

5. Share the experience on social & tag them! It’s called social media marketing, duh.