November in New Orleans

Celebrate Fall with Music, Food & Festivities in NOLA

Planning your November visit to New Orleans

What better place is there to gear up for Thanksgiving than in a city known for its culinary excellence and its die-hard football? 

In November, New Orleans culinary classics take center stage, visitors anticipate a football rivalry of the year, and Caribbean heritage is celebrated here in the Crescent City. If you’re planning on visiting, come with an empty stomach and a thirst for fun. Everything you need to plan a memorable November in NOLA can be found below. 

What to do in November in New Orleans?

November is a truly exciting month here in New Orleans. From the first day of the month until the last, enjoy an array of food, football, music, and fun. Browse a few of our favorite annual fests and activities in November to check out during your next visit. 

Bayou Bacchanal

Taking place annually during the first weekend in November is Bayou Bacchanal - a celebration of Caribbean culture and presence in the Crescent City. The fest features authentic food, music, and representation from several Caribbean nations. Their signature Bayou Bacchanal parade shuts down Canal Street with traditional carnival costumes and music.

Oak Street Po-Boy Festival

Oak Street Po-Boy Festival typically takes place along the quaint Uptown hub of Oak Street. Each year, Oak Street transforms into a po-boy oasis with upwards of 35 vendors participating to take their shot at best po-boy in the city. Enjoy live music, delicious po-boys, and local fun! 

Fit Fête 

Presented by New Orleans & Company, the inaugural Fit Fête merges mental and physical wellness with workplace community building with weekend-long events and activities. On Friday, November 13, local and regional companies can grow their employees’ relationships outside of the office at the New Orleans Community Games. There’s something for everyone to participate in from basketball and kickball to yoga and tug-of-war.  

Early the next morning, lace up your shoes and participate in the New Orleans Marathon! The course begins at the New Orleans Museum of Art and guides participants through City Park and along the lakefront. For those who prefer a shorter race, the event also includes a half marathon, a 5K, and a marathon relay. Plus, those who can’t make it to the event can opt for a virtual race. 

For the entire weekend, enjoy activities that prioritize your mental well-being with food, movement, and more! The WellNXT Wellness Festival presents five zones—Move, Nourish, Breath, Care, Play—to address all aspects of health. Join in on brass-beat cardio, sound baths, and more.  

LUNA Fête 

After a brief hiatus, LUNA Fête returns this November 13-15, 2026. This large-scale public art festival features illuminated costumes, elaborate light shows, and sparkling art installations. LUNA Fête is completely free to attend, so enjoy the astonishing technological feats and beautiful light creations at no cost. 

Beignet Fest

At Beignet Fest, patrons can try beignets topped or stuffed with a variety of sweet or savory delicacies. The festival’s menu includes more than 80 options with nearly 50 unique takes on beignets. Enjoy live music and more in New Orleans City Park all while raising funds for the Beignet Fest Foundation, which benefits children with developmental delays. 

Bayou Classic

One of the largest sporting events in the Crescent City, Bayou Classic is a Thanksgiving weekend staple. The annual matchup between Grambling State and Southern universities welcomes tens of thousands of attendees each year. In addition to the highly anticipated game, the weekend also features the coveted Battle of the Bands competition, the signature Bayou Classic Parade, and more. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Bayou Classic here.

Thanksgiving in NOLA

Thanksgiving Day in New Orleans means food, food, and more food. Skip the cooking at home and dine at a local restaurant. Feast on gumbo, seafood, and the traditional turkey and stuffing, plus bread pudding and more New Orleans classics. 

If you're interested in getting active or just having a good time, check out the 5-mile Turkey Day Race in City Park. Don a fancy hat and head to the Fair Grounds Race Course and Slots for their annual Thanksgiving Day race. Or you can head out to Easton Park in Mid-City for the Human Horse Races, a family-friendly fundraiser where people dress as horses and race each other, all while raising money for a horse sanctuary. Only in New Orleans! 

As the month gets closer, be sure to check out our curated list of top picks for what to do during November.

What is the weather in November in New Orleans?

Don’t be too quick on getting your winter clothes out of storage - November averages a high of 71℉ and a low of 51℉. It is the perfect weather to close out the light-layers season with the outdoor festivals listed above. In true New Orleans fashion, there is always a chance of rain, so be prepared with an umbrella. 

What foods should I try in November in New Orleans?

As the weather becomes chillier, it’s a great excuse to tuck into some of New Orleans’ heartier dishes, including gumbo, boudin, and po-boys, which can be found around just about every corner throughout the city. Browse our guides for recommendations on some of the best places to get them. Another seasonal treat we look forward to every year? Parkway Bakery and Tavern’s famous Thanksgiving Po-Boy, which is typically offered only on Wednesdays during the month of November. 

Additional November Resources

Life is all about balance, and November can be full of indulgence. If your body is craving a little extra movement, find your equilibrium by taking a lagniappe yoga, dance, or other fitness class across the Crescent City. Check out our Wellness Guide to New Orleans here.