October in New Orleans

New Orleans in October is prime for beautiful weather, outdoor activities, and a frenzy of festivals

Planning your October visit to New Orleans

In most cities, Halloween is the only highlight of October - not in New Orleans! In addition to a number of annual spooky celebrations, October is the month that we start feeling those cool fall breezes. Here’s how to prepare for and navigate this October in New Orleans.

What to do in October in New Orleans?

Food, music, culture, and seasonal festivals take place throughout the month of October. With uniquely local events in addition to other citywide performances and happenings, there’s no time to waste in October. Here’s how to make the most out of the month.

Oktoberfest

In October, Munich meets Mid-City at the annual Oktoberfest. Presented by and hosted at Deutsches Haus of New Orleans, Oktoberfest pays homage to the German presence and culture in the Crescent City. Enjoy German classics like sauerbraten, cabbage, Bavarian pretzels, and more than 20 different brews to wash it down with.

Saints Games

Around the country, fall means football to a lot of people. But in New Orleans, being a Who Dat is a way of life. Whether you're hanging out at a local sports bar, tailgating in Champions Square or watching the game in the Caesars Superdome, game day in New Orleans is an experience in itself. See our itinerary here.

Hispanic Heritage Month

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in New Orleans from September 15-October 15. Enjoy dining at a Hispanic-owned restaurant or shopping at a Hispanic-owned business. Keep an eye on our event calendar for specific celebrations once the month begins.

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!

More October Festivals in New Orleans

Fall festival season in New Orleans kicks into high gear come October. There’s NOLAxNOLA, National Fried Chicken Fest, Gentilly Fest, Crescent City Blues & BBQ Fest, NOLA Caribbean Experience, Top Taco, and more! Check out the event listings at the bottom of the page for exact dates and more information.

NOLAxNOLA

NOLAxNOLA is a celebration of New Orleans music, venues, and artists. The event is committed to supporting New Orleans music venues, musicians, the local music industry, and culture bearers of all disciplines. Enjoy a variety of live shows over two incredible weekends each fall, at performance spaces, music halls, and clubs all over town.

How to Celebrate Halloween in New Orleans

New Orleans has a reputation for being one of the most haunted cities in America, so there’s no better place to celebrate Halloween. Best of all, the Halloween celebrations last all month long. A favorite is the Krewe of Boo Parade and Zombie Run. The Mortuary haunted house will be open all month long, and ghost tours are available year-round. Check out the annual LGBTQ celebration Halloween New Orleans, which benefits Project Lazarus. Looking for even more spooky celebrations? See our full guide to Halloween here.

As the month gets closer, you can check out our curated list for top picks of things to do during October here.

Halloween Decorations - St. Charles Avenue

What is the weather in October in New Orleans?

The saying “day and night,” was made for October in New Orleans. Typically warm and sunny during the day and breezy with a chill at night, it’s best to carry along a light jacket if you’re planning to attend any October festivals or do any outdoor exploring.

What foods should I try in October in New Orleans?

Tricks and treats are abundant in the Crescent City! This October, enjoy sweet delicacies like pralines and beignets that can only be found in New Orleans. They’re unlike any Halloween candy you’ve ever tried. If you’re looking for something more savory, browse our listing of Hispanic-Owned restaurants to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at. Spanish, Colombian, El Salvadoran, Mexican, and more can be found at these eateries across the city.

Additional October Resources

New Orleans in October pretty much plans itself. If you happen to have any additional time left between food, music, and neighborhood festivals, get in the Halloween spirit by checking out some of our haunted tours across the city. Also as October gets closer, be sure to check out our curated top picks for the month, which are usually updated about a month and a half in advance.

Happening in October

12/10/2024 - "Baldwin Lee"

12/10/2024 - "Rebellious Spirits: Prohibition and Resistance in the South"

12/10/2024 - French Quarter Galleries

10/31/2025 - Halloween

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