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 the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, the return of Southern Decadence, the first weeks of fall, the second annual NOLAxNOLA, and more, including two can’t-miss football games. Check out our picks for September below. 

Party at Southern Decadence 

Celebrating the city’s LGBTQ+ community, Southern Decadence is an annual Labor Day weekend tradition. From September 1-5, enjoy parties, brunches, and events in the French Quarter. Check out the lineup here and get ready to dance the night away during Southern Decadence. 

Catch LSU football in action 

LSU and Florida State go head-to-head in New Orleans for the Allstate Louisiana Kickoff. The two teams will meet to kick off the 2022 college football season over Labor Day weekend in the Caesars Superdome. Get your tickets now; the game is expected to sell out.  

Spend Labor Day Weekend in New Orleans 

There’s plenty of reasons to visit New Orleans for Labor Day Weekend. We have Southern Decadence, the LSU/Florida State game, and countless other fun activities perfect for the final weekend of summer. Take a dip in a hotel pool, dine outdoors, or have an icy summer treat—discover New Orleans on Labor Day weekend here.    

Cheer on the Saints in their first home game 

The Saints take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first home game of the regular season on Sunday, September 18. Cheer on the Black & Gold from the Caesars Superdome or from one of our many sports bars. It’s a game you won’t want to miss; kickoff is at noon.  

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month 

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. 

Groove with Earth, Wind & Fire 

Earth, Wind & Fire returns to New Orleans on September 20, bringing smash hits like “September,” “Let’s Groove,” and “Boogie Wonderland” to the Saenger Theater. The band has scored eight number one hits, sold over 100 million albums worldwide and released 23 albums in its 52-year history. Don’t miss the chance to groove to the classics with this musical institution.   

Welcome fall with Oktoberfest at Faubourg Brewery 

Dust off those lederhosen and head to Faubourg Brewery for Oktoberfest. The fun kicks off from September 24-25 and continues into October 1-2. The brewery will have new Oktoberfest beers, delicious food, games for the kids, and traditional German fare. Take a rideshare to/or from the brewery, show the bartender your receipt and receive $10 off your tab. 

See a show during New Orleans Burlesque Festival 

Held September 22-25, Burlesque Fest celebrates an artform that emerged centuries ago. New Orleans itself has a rich burlesque dance history, making it the perfect location for the annual festival. Enjoy shows throughout the festival weekend, including the Queen of Burlesque competition where each performance is set to live traditional jazz. 

Jam out at 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 at indoor and outdoor venues all over town from September 23-October 9 as part of NOLAxNOLA (NOLA BY NOLA). You won’t want to miss this event—find more details here. And if you plan on visiting one or more venue, be sure to sign up for the NOLAxNOLA Check-In Challenge to unlock special prizes. 

Eat beignets for a good cause at Beignet Fest 

Beignet Fest is back on September 24 in City Park with all the sweet and savory beignet options you could dream of. From classic powdered-sugar dusted to drool-worthy crawfish options, the signature New Orleans treat takes center stage at Beignet Fest. The family-friendly festival has a musical lineup including Imagination Movers, Shamarr Allen, and Dirty Dozen Brass Band. Proceeds from the festival benefit the Beignet Fest Foundation, which supports children with developmental delays.