Thanksgiving in New Orleans

Thanksgiving Events, Dining & Fun in New Orleans

Thanksgiving in New Orleans is anything but ordinary. Here, the holiday is infused with the city’s signature blend of rich culinary traditions, vibrant music, and Southern hospitality. Whether you're gathering with family over a Creole-style feast, catching a parade, or headed to the movies, New Orleans offers a truly unforgettable way to celebrate. From world-class restaurants serving holiday specials to fun and funky local events, discover how the Crescent City turns Thanksgiving into an experience worth traveling for.

Traditional New Orleans Thanksgiving Dishes

New Orleans is known for its traditional foods, many of which fit the bill for Thanksgiving dinner! Here are some of the foods you'll be served if you choose to dine out on Thanksgiving, and some you can make for yourself at home.

Gumbo

A classic seafood gumbo starts with a roux, holy trinity, stock, and seasonings. Then the seafood is stirred in - think: shrimp, crab, oysters, and the like. Served over rice (or potato salad), seafood gumbo is a warm meal sure to please everyone. But for the non-seafood eaters in your life, opt for a chicken and andouille sausage gumbo. Some even make a turkey neck gumbo for a festive twist (like at Palm&Pine)! Find our recipes for gumbo here. And read our Ultimate Guide to Gumbo here.

Thanksgiving po-boy

Available at Parkway Bakery and Tavern on select Wednesdays in November, the Thanksgiving po-boy is a time-honored tradition here in New Orleans. Think: French bread loaded with white and dark meat turkey, topped with a cornbread dressing, gravy, and cranberry sauce. There's even a fast pass you can buy which benefits the Al Copeland Foundation, a nonprofit that supports cancer research and named for the late, great fried chicken king of New Orleans. Find more information here.

Turtle soup

At classic Creole restaurants, like Brennan's, you'll find turtle soup as an option for Thanksgiving Day. It's made with brown butter spinach, grated egg, and aged sherry. Of course, there are options for those who aren't as adventurous! 

Roasted fish

Be it bronzed redfish, herb crusted red snapper, or pecan crusted puppy drum, you'll find fish options galore served on Thanksgiving Day at New Orleans restaurants. Fish offers a light but flavorful option, often prepared as a gourmet culinary creation.

In addition to these traditional foods, enjoy classic roasted turkey, deep-fried turkey, stuffing, cornbread, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin and pecan pie.

Thanksgiving Day Activities in New Orleans

Thanksgiving Day is filled with 'only in New Orleans' events like the Bayou Classic Parade and Human Horse Races. Read on for more.

Turkey Day Race

Established in 1907, the New Orleans Athletic Club's Turkey Day Race is one of the oldest, continuously held non-marathon races in the United States. This family-friendly race is a five-mile run/walk at New Orleans City Park (Tad Gormley Stadium). Proceeds benefit Spina Bifida of Louisiana. Register here!

Fair Grounds Race Course & Casino

Head to the Fair Grounds for the Thanksgiving Classic. Many people costume and eat Thanksgiving dinner at the buffet.

Human Horse Races

Held at Easton Park in Mid-City, the Human Horse Races are a beloved neighborhood tradition on Thanksgiving Day. Think: adults blinded by "horse masks" racing towards a finish line with someone on their back. Live music is provided and food and beverages are available. Human Horse Races exists to raise money and awareness for local animal shelters and promote cruelty free experiences, while celebrating in classic New Orleans style.

Bayou Classic Parade

Held annually on Thanksgiving Day, the Bayou Classic parade showcases the best of Southern and Grambling State's athletes, marching bands, and dancers with Mardi Gras-style floats. The parade is free to attend and takes place near Caesars Superdome. Find more information here. And read our Ultimate Guide to Bayou Classic here.

Sports Bars for Thanksgiving Day Games

Since many big sporting events take place on Thanksgiving Day, head to a local sports bar to cheer on your team. Call in advance to check their hours.

Movie Theaters

Interested in seeing a feature film? Many local movie theaters stay open on Thanksgiving Day, if it suits your fancy. We recommend checking out the Prytania Theater (two locations) or Broad Theater.

Thanksgiving Catering in New Orleans

There are plenty of places that offer Thanksgiving catering if you would rather eat on your own terms or if you are in town as someone's guest and want to contribute a dish. Be sure to place an order in advance as many places have deadlines. Some of our favorites include Mchardy's Chicken & Fixin', the Commissary, Blue Oak BBQ, Cochon Butcher, Willa Jean (especially for pies), and you can't go wrong with a fried turkey from Popeye's.

For sweets, we love La Boulangerie, Levee Baking Co., and Bywater Bakery Check local grocery stores for other options as well.