November in New Orleans

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 have entire days dedicated to their deliciousness, visitors anticipate a football rivalry of the year and Caribbean presence 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 a number of Caribbean nations. Their signature Bayou Bacchanal parade shuts down Canal Street with traditional carnival costumes and music.

Oak Street Po-Boy Festival

The Oak Street Po-Boy Festival takes place along the quaint Uptown hub - 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! 

Treme Creole Gumbo Festival

Brass bands, beads, and gumbo -  a New Orleans trifecta. Located in Louis Armstrong Park, the Treme Creole Gumbo Fest celebrates one of the city’s greatest foods and one of its most historic neighborhoods - gumbo + Treme. 

Boudin, Bourbon, and Beer

Presented by the Emeril Lagasse Foundation, Boudin, Bourbon & Beer brings together over 70 notable chefs from around the country to celebrate the festival’s namesake. The event features a host musical entertainment, local craft beers, premium bourbon cocktails and of course, unlimited, boudin-inspired dishes. 

Fête des Fromages

Enjoy a selection of over 100 international cheese samples, wine pairings and local bites at the only cheese festival in the American South - Fête des Fromages. Organized by cheese expert and enthusiast, Liz Thorpe, Fête des Fromages pays homage to French influence in New Orleans with an array of featured international cheeses, chefs, cooking demonstrations and more. 

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 University and Southern University at Baton Rouge 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.  

For more November events and happenings, visit below or head over to GoNOLA for the insider’s scoop!

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?

If you missed any of the food festivals mentioned above there’s no need to worry. Gumbo and po-boys 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.

While New Orleans isn’t necessarily known for its fine cheeses, there are a couple of places to check out next time you’re craving the delectable dairy. With customizable cheese boards and light bites and drinks to pair with, the St. James Cheese Co. is perfect for anyone looking to have Fête des Fromages experience beyond November.

Additional November Resources

Life is all about balance. There’s no doubt November is filled with non-stop food festing that can easily make you feel guilty. If that happens, balance it out by taking a lagniappe yoga, dance or other fitness class across the Crescent City. Check out GoNOLA’s Guide to Health & Wellness in November and start working off those po-boys and boudin.