Spring in New Orleans is my favorite time of year. I don’t know if it is because the nasty winter is over or if because there are so many fun things to do in New Orleans in Spring. We don’t have to worry about hurricanes yet, but New Orleans is the perfect place to spend any time you have off during the Spring.
From the colorful spectacle of St. Patrick’s Day Parades to the rhythmic celebration of the Jazz Fest, the city’s calendar is brimming with events that attract people from all around the globe. They don’t call Spring Festival Season in Big Easy for nothing.
During the Spring season, I can fully embrace the city’s famed culinary scene, such as attending crawfish boils on a Friday afternoon. The Spring also ushers in various outdoor activities, including leisurely picnics in City Park, standing in lines for Snowballs, and more festivals.
Whether you are a local like me looking to find something else to do during Spring in New Orleans or a tourist trying to figure out which of the spring festivals you should come to town for, keep reading!
Why is Spring in New Orleans the Best Time to Go?
Spring brings in the perfect conditions for visiting. The weather is arguably at its finest — sunny and warm, yet not overly hot, and there are plenty of things to do outside.
Weather
- Temperatures: Comfortable range suitable for outdoor activities.
- Precipitation: Lower likelihood compared to summer months.
Events & Festivals
- Snowball Season: A local dessert you must try before the summer heat begins.
- Crawfish Season: Crawfish season runs from March to June, and you will find tons of breweries boiling up these mudbugs.
- Festival Season: Kicks off with various music, food, and cultural festivals all Spring.
Crowds & Costs
- The summer’s oppressive heat often deters visitors, but springtime and festivals bring in visitors worldwide. Spring is considered Peak season, so you may find a few hotel rates on the pricier side.
I recommend those seeking cultural experiences take advantage of the city’s festival offerings. Spring in New Orleans is one of the best times to visit because something is always happening. Whether you are looking for a long weekend getaway or seeking to spend a whole week down here, you will be satisfied with your Family Vacation.
Things to do in New Orleans in Spring
There are many historical landmarks throughout New Orleans, but below are my three favorite ones to bring tourists to, no matter the season. Spring is an excellent time for people to explore and visit to see all the beautiful flowers in bloom.
1. Garden District
In the Garden District, you can find majestic homes and manicured gardens. These beautiful homes line the streets, evoking the grandeur of the 19th century. This neighborhood, a short streetcar ride from the French Quarter, showcases a different facet of the city’s historic landscape with its architectural splendor.
2. French Quarter
The French Quarter, often called the Crown Jewel of New Orleans, is the best place to feel the city’s historical heart. It’s the oldest district, established in 1718, and enchants with its colorful buildings and exuberant atmosphere. Many guests typically gravitate towards the French Quarter when planning a visit to New Orleans.
3. Jackson Square
Jackson Square is my favorite place to hang out in the city. This timeless landmark, facing the Mississippi River in the heart of the French Quarter, is flanked by historic buildings such as the St. Louis Cathedral, the Presbytère, and the Cabildo. Here, I stand where artists, priests, and revolutionaries once stood amidst structures that witnessed centuries of New Orleans’ evolution.
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Festivals and Events
Spring in New Orleans is an exhilarating tapestry of culture, filled with vibrant festivals and events that celebrate everything from music and food to local traditions and literary greats. Here, I’ll navigate some notable happenings that define the Crescent City’s spring calendar.
4. Irish Channel St Patrick’s Day Parades
The Irish Channel St Patrick’s Day Parade is commencing the spring festival lineup. Traditionally held on the Saturday before March 17, it features decorative floats, marching bands, and participants throwing beads and fresh produce to the crowds. It’s a display of green-hued revelry that honors Irish heritage in New Orleans.
5. Super Sunday Mardi Gras Indians
On Super Sunday, which usually falls on the Sunday closest to St. Joseph’s Day, the Mardi Gras Indians showcase their elaborately beaded and feathered suits. This event is a mesmerizing display of craftsmanship and cultural pride as tribes parade through the city, accompanied by music and dancing.
6. Wednesday at the Square Concert Series
Every Spring, Lafayette Square hosts the Wednesday at the Square concert series in downtown New Orleans. This series of free outdoor concerts features performances by local artists, offering a mid-week boost of live music and food among the city’s professionals and tourists. The Young Leadership Council of New Orleans hosts this festival every year.
7. New Orleans Entrepreneur Week
New Orleans Entrepreneur Week (NOEW) transforms the city into a dynamic hub for innovation and collaboration each Spring, drawing entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders from diverse industries. It’s a vibrant event filled with workshops, pitch competitions, and networking opportunities, showcasing the local community and national participants’ entrepreneurial spirit and creative potential.
8. French Quarter Festival
I always look forward to the French Quarter Festival, the largest free music festival in the United States. You can enjoy numerous stages featuring local musicians, taste the specialties from New Orleans’ finest restaurants at “The World’s Largest Jazz Brunch,” and revel in the historic French Quarter’s ambiance.
French Quarter Fest is one of my favorite festivals to go to. Since it is free, if you feel like leaving to hopping into a hotel for some AC you can!
9. Gay Easter Parade
The Gay Easter Parade takes elegance on wheels down the French Quarter, showcasing the LGBTQ community’s flair, with participants adorning themselves in colorful attire. It’s a celebration of diversity and the welcoming spirit of New Orleans during the Easter weekend.
10. New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
Known as Jazz Fest among the locals, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is an iconic event that celebrates the music and culture of South Louisiana. Stretching over two weekends, it attracts thousands of visitors to the Fair Grounds Race Course for unparalleled jazz, blues, and local cuisine.
11. Bayou Boogaloo
Bayou Boogaloo, held along the scenic banks of Bayou St. John, is a vibrant celebration of music, art, and community in the heart of New Orleans. This family-friendly festival offers a unique experience with outdoor music festivals with the charm of New Orleans’ culture, making it a perfect way to enjoy the city’s natural beauty and artistic vitality.
12. Memorial Day Weekend
Memorial Day weekend in New Orleans marks commemorative events and a kickoff to summer festivities. It’s common to find barbecues, live music, and memorial services honoring those who have served throughout the city. Visiting the National World War II Museum is a great way to spend this weekend.
13. Greek Fest New Orleans
Greek Fest New Orleans annually transforms the grounds of the Holy Trinity Cathedral into a vibrant showcase of Greek heritage, drawing attendees into a celebration rich in culture and tradition. The festival features authentic Greek cuisine, traditional performances, and cultural exhibits, embodying the spirit of Greece within the heart of New Orleans.
14. New Orleans Food and Wine Experience
Foodies and wine lovers cannot miss the New Orleans Food and Wine Experience. This event combines exquisite flavors with hundreds of wineries and restaurants participating. It offers a chance to savor the best culinary arts in a city renowned for its gourmet heritage. Whenever I am in town, this is one of my favorite festivals!
New Orleans is a fun city no matter the holiday! Check out our guide on What to do during Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Halloween and Christmas! If you need more ideas on where to spend a long weekend in the United States check out this post!
Outdoor Activities
The Crescent City offers a diverse range of outdoor activities come Spring. From the lush spaces of the city parks to the bustling riverfront, there’s something for everyone seeking to bask in the city’s natural and urban landscapes.
15. Audubon Park
Audubon Park is my go-to for a serene escape within the city. Spanning 350 acres, I frequently spot joggers and families enjoying picnics under the historic oak trees. Golfers can indulge in a round at the Audubon Golf Course, while the park’s 1.8-mile paved loop is perfect for walking or biking.
16. City Park
City Park is a cornerstone of New Orleans’ outdoor recreation. It boasts 1,300 acres and’s home to the New Orleans Botanical Garden, the New Orleans Museum of Art, and the world’s most extensive collection of mature live oaks. For families, Storyland and the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park offer whimsical fun. Everyone should visit the Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden on at least one visit.
17. Mississippi Riverfront
The Mississippi Riverfront is where I love to watch the vibrant pulse of the city’s commerce and culture. The Moonwalk Riverfront Park offers panoramic views of the Mississippi River, ideal for a picturesque stroll or a bike ride. The Algiers Ferry provides a unique vantage point from the water, and benches and green space along the riverwalk present an excellent location for watching ships and enjoying the city skyline. You can even head over to Vue to get panoramic river views.
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Culinary Experience
If you need more than food festivals – Spring in New Orleans celebrates flavor with various food-focused experiences that showcase this vibrant city’s culinary diversity. From seasonal seafood to classic desserts, here’s where I find the delights for every palate.
18. Crawfish Season
Spring heralds the peak of crawfish season in New Orleans. Restaurants and pop-up boils at breweries serve these delicious mud bugs best enjoyed spiced and steaming by the pound.
Local tip: find a spot that pairs them with corn and potatoes for the whole experience. Sometimes, I’d rather eat all of the potatoes!
19. Beignets at Café du Monde
A trip to New Orleans isn’t complete without a beignet from Café du Monde. The iconic French Market coffee stand serves these hot, powdered, sugar-dusted pastries 24/7. Pair with their frozen café au lait for a delicious French Quarter treat.
20. Seafood and Oysters
The city’s seafood is unbeatable, with raw bars and restaurants offering fresh oysters on the half shell. Drago’s Charbroiled Oysters are a must-try, renowned for their smoky flavor and buttery, garlicky sauce.
21. Snowball Season
With the warm weather, snowball stands open their windows to serve a New Orleans staple. Shaved ice doused in flavored syrups, snowballs come in various flavors. For a twist, add condensed milk topping, known locally as a “snowball with condensed milk.”
Fun Fact: I worked at a snowball stand for over 10 years through high school, college, and a little after!
22. Rooftop Bars
You have to leave the kiddos at home for this one, but – Rooftop bars are unique during Spring. You can soak in the cityscape with a refreshing cocktail in hand. Places like The Pontchartrain Hotel’s Hot Tin offer panoramic views and delicious cocktails.
23. Visit Breweries
The local craft beer scene is blossoming in New Orleans. I recommend checking out breweries like NOLA Brewing Co. to taste innovative brews. Many have on-site taprooms where you can sample the full range and often grab a great meal.
Things to do
Springtime brings a rejuvenation of activities to New Orleans. As the city emerges into warmer weather, there’s a great mix of cultural, outdoor, and unique experiences.
24. Ogden Museum of Southern Art
At the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, I discover the world’s most extensive collection of Southern art. It’s a celebration of the region’s culture through visual arts, featuring everything from historical works to contemporary pieces that tell the story of the South.
25. New Orleans Museum of Art
The New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) is a must-visit for art museum enthusiasts. Home to a fine collection of several centuries, it showcases pieces from the Italian Renaissance to modern art. It’s more than just paintings – browse various sculptures and permanent installations.
26. Contemporary Arts Center
The Contemporary Arts Center is the place I recommend for those interested in cutting-edge exhibitions and performances. It’s a venue for thought-provoking art and supports multidisciplinary arts, housing both visual arts and stage performances.
27. Go on a Swamp Tour and Find Alligators
A swamp tour is one of the most thrilling activities I find in Spring. It is educational and exciting to spot alligators in their natural habitat as the marshes and bayous come to life in the warm weather.
Did you know New Orleans is not covered in Alligators, but they are more in secret spots all over the city? Check out this guide to find an Alligator on your own.
28. Take a road trip to a beach.
Even though this blog post is all about Spring In New Orleans, a road trip to one of the nearby beaches offers a perfect getaway. I enjoy the sandy shores and the Gulf’s inviting waters just a short drive from New Orleans, making for a refreshing weekend trip. One of my favorite beaches is Gulf Shores and Orange Beach!
29. Bike on Lafitte Greenway
Cycling along the Lafitte Greenway, a 2.6-mile trail that connects neighborhoods through the heart of New Orleans. It offers a safe, scenic route that passes parks, recreation fields, and community gardens. If you get tired, you can always stop by at one of the breweries or bars along the bike path.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the safety concerns for travelers visiting New Orleans during Spring?
Spring in New Orleans is an excellent time, but it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings like any city. When exploring, especially in crowded areas such as the French Quarter, keep your belongings secure and be cautious of pickpocketing.
It’s recommended to travel in groups during the evening and stick to well-lit and populated areas.
What are the top family-friendly activities in New Orleans during spring break?
Spring break in New Orleans offers many activities for families to enjoy. The Audubon Zoo and Aquarium are must-visits, offering a glimpse into the region’s wildlife and aquatic life. City Park, with its sprawling greens, playgrounds, and the enchanting Storyland theme park, is perfect for a day out.
Families can also explore the Louisiana Children’s Museum for educational fun or take a historic streetcar ride through the scenic Garden District. Take the chance to enjoy a family picnic by the Mississippi River or partake in one of the many outdoor festivals that Spring brings to the city.
Does it rain in New Orleans during the Spring?
Spring in New Orleans can be pretty rainy, so preparing for wet weather during your visit is essential. March through May sees an increase in rainfall, with April typically being the wettest month.
While showers can be heavy, they often pass quickly, so carrying a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella is a wise choice.
What is the nightlife like in New Orleans during spring break?
The city is famous for its live music, ranging from jazz to blues to indie, with venues throughout the French Quarter, Frenchmen Street, and beyond hosting nightly performances. Bourbon Street offers a lively bar scene, with establishments open until early.
Explore the craft cocktail bars and intimate music settings in the Marigny and Bywater districts for a more laid-back evening. Remember, the city’s open container law allows you to enjoy your drink as you stroll through its vibrant streets, creating a unique nightlife experience.
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