New Orleans in the winter is a magical place. From holiday lights and parades to sporting events and festivals, there’s always things to do. While the rest of the country is hibernating, we’re out on the town, celebrating all things New Orleans in sunny 60 degree weather. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite must-do winter activities below. Sub your snow boots for some dancing shoes and book your trip to New Orleans today.
Winter is the perfect time to indulge in local seasonal delicacies. Lucky for you, oysters are in season from November through March. Have them chargrilled, on the half shell, or fried for a special treat. Check out these restaurants for oysters galore.
Nothing warms you up like a hot bowl of gumbo. Served over rice (or even over potato salad – real ones know), the warm, hearty stew is made with a variety of local ingredients including seafood, chicken and andouille, and okra. See our list of top spots to try gumbo here.
Starting on Twelfth Night, of January 6, king cakes are in season to celebrate all of Mardi Gras. Traditionally, it's a mix of a coffee cake and a cinnamon roll, served with purple, green, and gold sugar or frosting. Bakeries add twists to the beloved dessert, making it a constant discussion for who has the best king cake among locals. Read our Ultimate Guide to King Cake here.
We can't forget about New Orleans Eve, our NYE countdown celebration in Jackson Square! Featuring live entertainment and free admission, it's the best place to ring in the new year.
On Twelfth Night, or January 6, the Carnival season begins. Walking parades kick things off and revelers indulge in king cake. You're in for a long season of fun, with parades and parties galore in the following weeks.
In late January or early February, the New Orleans Vietnamese community is celebrated during Tet Fest at Mary Queen of Vietnam Church. Enjoy traditional Vietnamese cuisine, dance and music, children’s activities, and firework displays on the final night.
With mild temperatures, New Orleans is a great city to club hop for live music. Take to Frenchmen Street for the sounds of jazz, blues, and brass bands. Local theaters light up with regional and touring productions. Read our Winter Theater Guide here to see what's on.
Multi-course Réveillon dinners, signature cocktails, decadent desserts...the list goes on for gourmet dining experiences in New Orleans. Think Beef Wellington, crab cakes, blackened fish, and butternut squash risotto. As for festive holiday cocktails, enjoy Bourbon Milk Punch, Hot Buttered Rum, Aged Creole Eggnog, and the like. Browse Réveillon menus and holiday cocktails here.
Once Mardi Gras season rolls around, indulge in king cake and special cocktails fit for the celebration. Some king cakes will come in the form of a milkshake, cocktail, or coffee! Browse our Ultimate King Cake Guide here. Visit New Orleans in the early days of Mardi Gras season for your first choice of king cake!
