September is the perfect time to travel to New Orleans. Between the end of summer and the start of fall, signature festivals and can’t-miss events make the month a special one. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, the start of Saints football season, the return of NOLAxNOLA, and more. So whether you’re planning a friend trip, enjoying that empty-nester freedom post-college drop-off, or just looking to experience everything the city has to offer, see our picks for September below.  

Book 2 or More Nights, Get $100

This summer, we’re throwing in a $100 Visa gift card when you book two or more nights through NewOrleans.com*

 

*Restrictions apply: This offer is available July 6–September 30, 2026 (or while supplies last). Hotel stays must be booked through NewOrleans.com and must be at least two consecutive nights. See this page for additional details, FAQs, and more information.

Experience Southern Decadence

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Celebrating the city’s LGBTQ+ community, Southern Decadence is an annual Labor Day weekend tradition. From September 4-7, enjoy parties, brunches, and events in the French Quarter. Read our Ultimate Guide here and get ready to dance the night away during Southern Decadence. 

Learn More: Read our Ultimate Guide to Southern Decadence here

 

Spend Labor Day Weekend in New Orleans 

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There’s plenty of reasons to visit New Orleans for Labor Day Weekend. Attend Southern Decadence, take a dip in a hotel pool, dine outdoors, or have an icy summer treat.

Discover New Orleans on Labor Day weekend here.    

 

Stretch it out at NOLA Yoga Festival

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Step into the soulful energy of New Orleans for the New Orleans Yoga Festival—a four-day immersion into yoga, music, movement, and mindfulness. From September 3-6, enjoy all-levels yoga classes, guided meditations, sound healing sessions, and more. Early bird weekend passes are on sale now for $130 through June 30. Single day tickets will be released at a later date.

Head to the Jazz Museum for NOLA River Festival

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NOLA River Fest celebrates the cultural, economic, environmental, and inspirational impacts of the Mississippi River and its inhabitants. In this one-day celebration at the Jazz Museum, enjoy a slew of live performances as well as a second line kicking things off at 11 a.m. in Jackson Square. NOLA River Fest is on September 12 and is free to attend.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month 

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Shrimp Ceviche - Maïs Arepas
Colton Clifford, New Orleans & Co.
Ceviche from Maïs Arepas

New Orleans is a wonderful place to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, which spans September 15-October 15. Learn about Hispanic heritage and culture by sampling authentic cuisine, exploring Hispanic history in the city, and supporting local Hispanic-owned businesses.

Explore More: Hispanic Heritage in New Orleans

 

Cheer on the Saints in their first home game

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Saints Fans inside the Superdome
Cheryl Gerber
Saints Fans in the Superdome

The Saints take on the Las Vegas Raiders in the first home game of the regular season on Sunday, September 27 at 3:25 p.m. Throughout the season, cheer on the Black & Gold from the Caesars Superdome or from one of our many sports bars.

Explore More: New Orleans Saints and Game Day in New Orleans

 

Enjoy live theater

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Go behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons in the Tony Award®-winning, original Broadway sensation, "Jersey Boys." The musical comes to the Saenger Theatre this September 22-27. You won't want to miss hits like "Oh What a Night," "Walk Like a Man," and "Can’t Take My Eyes Off You."

Explore More: Fall Theater Guide

Enjoy New Orleans Fashion Week

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New Orleans Fashion Week returns this September 20-26. The lineup includes a Kickoff Party at Virgin Hotels, The Stitch Competition, the Runway Shows at Canal Place, and a Wrap Party at The Barnett Hotel. Ticket prices vary.

Have it shaken or stirred at New Orleans Cocktail Week

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Cocktails at The Chloe
Colton Clifford, New Orleans & Co.
Classic New Orleans Cocktails

New Orleans Cocktail Week showcases the best bars and restaurants in the area, bringing locals and travelers together to experience the epicurean masterpieces of New Orleans' renowned chefs, mixologists, and bartenders. Participating bars and restaurants includes The Elysian Bar, Saint John, High Grace, and over a dozen others (find them here). Your pass gives you access and discounts to signature cocktails at participating businesses. Passes are $15 and New Orleans Cocktail Week is September 21-27.

Kick back at BlackAmericana Fest

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BlackAmericana Fest
Photo by Josh Brasted
BlackAmericana Fest

BlackAmericana Fest is a groundbreaking two-day celebration showcasing Black artists in Americana, country, and folk music. This all-ages festival brings together diverse voices and talents, creating a unique platform for artists who are expanding and redefining these traditional American music genres. The fest will be held at the Broadside from September 25-26 featuring artists Tray Wellington, Joy Clark, Seratones, and more! Tickets are yet to go on sale.

 

Jam out at NOLAxNOLA 

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People's Museum at Tipitina's
Justen Williams, New Orleans & Co.
Celebrate live music during NOLAxNOLA

The music never stops in New Orleans, and this September and October, mark your calendars for a citywide celebration of local musicians, music venues, and New Orleans culture. Catch your favorite artists and discover new ones at dozens of live performances all over town from September 24 – October 4 as part of NOLAxNOLA (NOLA BY NOLA). You won’t want to miss this event.

Find More: NOLAxNOLA Details Here

 

Stay cool with a sno-ball

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Hansen's Sno-Bliz
Paul Broussard
Sno-Balls

There’s nothing quite like a cold sno-ball on a hot day. Enjoy this classic New Orleans treat of shaved ice with sweet syrup at Imperial Woodpecker, Hansen’s Sno-Bliz, and these sno-ball shops around town. Having trouble deciding what flavor to get? Check out our “What Sno-Ball Are You?” quiz here.  

Find More: Our Favorite Sno-Ball Stands