NewOrleans.com's guide to August in New Orleans covers the festivals, deals, and things to do that make late summer one of the best times to visit. Summer heat never stops the fun, and NewOrleans.com's editorial team curates the month's top events, deals, and outdoor activities.
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During COOLinary, enjoy over a month of deals at participating restaurants and feast your way through New Orleans. Specially priced three-course lunches, dinners, and brunches can be found all throughout the Crescent City. COOLinary lasts the entire month, so you just might have time to try to sample every menu.
All August long, New Orleans is celebrating its many museums! Members of at least one of the participating institutions will be able to visit all others for FREE. From the large and nationally acclaimed to the small hidden gems and rarities celebrating what makes NOLA and its people unique, there’s a museum in the city that everyone will love. Not a museum member yet? Visit our Museum Month membership page to learn how to join.
Satchmo Summerfest honors the life and legacy of one of New Orleans’ most famous natives - Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong. This annual festival takes place at the New Orleans Jazz Museum during the first weekend of August. Attendees are invited to a two-day celebration that includes live music performances, local food, and “Satchmo Seminars,” led by Armstrong biographers and historians. Satchmo SummerFest is August 1-2, 2026.
Held the first Saturday in August, Fidelity Bank White Linen Night is the perfect opportunity to explore the galleries and cuisine that fill the Arts + Warehouse District. Enjoy a night of music, food, drinks, and shopping in one of New Orleans' most bustling artistic neighborhoods. White Linen Night is August 1, 2026.
What's White Linen Night without Dirty Linen Night? One week after White Linen Night, head to Royal Street in the French Quarter for some more gallery strolling and champagne sipping. Dirty Linen Night returns on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026.
A beloved New Orleans tradition, the Red Dress Run is typically held every second Saturday of August. Runners (or walkers) are invited to dress in their best red dresses and participate to support local charities throughout the Crescent City. The “run” itself begins at 9 a.m. in Armstrong Park and ends in the French Quarter. This year, Red Dress Run will take place on August 8, 2026.
Brigtsen’s - COOLinary menu
What is the Weather Like in August in New Orleans?
The summer heat should not deter you from enjoying the festivities around the city. Dress comfortably in light clothes. Also, wear comfortable shoes for walking around events. Umbrellas are recommended for any surprising August showers. Don’t forget your white linen and red dresses if you’re planning on attending the events above.
As the month of COOLinary, August is all about eating. Take the opportunity to try that restaurant on your list, or a James Beard Award Winner. Another way to help your wallet is to check out NewOrleans.com's guide to cheap eats in New Orleans.
If you find yourself at a restaurant that serves brandy milk punch, order it! It's a great way to cool off and a sweet addition to your meal.
What Else Should I Know About Visiting New Orleans in August?
Make the most of the month by using some of NewOrleans/com's specially curated itineraries and resources this August. If you missed White Linen Night but are still interested in the experience, let this guide to the Arts + Warehouse District help you. If you happen to get caught in one of those sudden summer showers, NewOrleans.com's rainy day itinerary has options for you to stay dry and have some fun all over New Orleans.
New Orleans Events in August