4th of July in New Orleans: 2024 In-Depth Guide
An eclectic gumbo of culture, history, and mouthwatering eats, visiting the Big Easy is always a worthwhile idea. Visitors looking to sprinkle a bit of spice into their Independence Day plans should plan for a New Orleans 4th of July.
4th of July events New Orleans? New Orleans 4th of July parade? Follow along as we outline every last 4th of July in New Orleans celebration.
View a vivid fireworks show from an old-fashioned paddle wheeler on the Mississippi River, or stuff yourself silly full of BBQ at a City Park picnic. Explore the French Quarter via historic carriage, or get down with some R&B classics at the Essence Festival.
From animal-filled swamp adventures to patriotic displays of passion, there’s something for everyone when you spend the 4th of July in New Orleans! Keep reading to discover how to have the best July 4th New Orleans.
New Orleans Attractions
Savor every last drop of creole flavor when you spend your entire fourth of July in New Orleans exploring everywhere, from Bourbon Street to the Bayou.
Fly through the swamp on a family-friendly airboat tour, or amp up the Southern charm with a horse-drawn carriage. There’s no wrong way to spend your time in the Paris of the South.
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Gators, turtles, and eagles, oh my! Encounter every manner of swamp creature on your Airboat Adventures tour. Gear up for a wet and wild experience through the real Louisiana when you spend hours exploring the marshland and learning about this unique habitat.
Embrace the historic charm of the Big Easy when you book a French Quarter Carriage Tour. Trot through the famous Marigny Neighborhood, spot Napoleon’s house, or snap a selfie in front of the illustrious Saint Louis Cathedral. Cover over 300 years of architecture, culture, and music from the comfort of your carriage.
Make the most of your holiday weekend in NOLA with an action-packed Go New Orleans All-Inclusive Pass. Choose from 1 to 5-day options and tackle over 20 premier attractions, including the National WWII Museum, the New Orleans Jazz Museum, Voodoo tours, and more.
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Commemorate our Nation’s birthday with plenty of rousing river fun on a Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Cruise. Choose from a historic or Jazz cruise option, and revel in the glamor and romance of an authentic riverboat cruise.
Chow down on a Cajun-themed buffet as you listen to the riveting local narration. Then, take in the French Quarter, the Port of New Orleans, and even experience a shore excursion at the Jean National Historical Park.
4th of July New Orleans Events
Plan a Park Picnic
Kick up your feet for an afternoon of Big Easy feasting and fun when you stake out a premier picnic spot. Whether you sprawl out at City Park or Woldenberg, you are guaranteed to witness spectacular riverfront and fireworks views.
Lucky visitors to Woldenberg Park can bring a blanket and get cozy on the grass or make the most of ample park bench seating. Snap a photo or two of the interesting sculptures that dot the docks.
But before the Independence Day festivities commence, get your fill of NOLA-certified food and drinks. Keep with the spirit of the red, white, and blue with some finger-licking good ribs, pulled pork, and sweet corn spoonbread from Central City BBQ.
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Or spoil your group with an enviable spread of muffaletta pasta salad, sugar cane slaw, and crab and corn beignets from Picnic Provisions.
Add on some cocktails or bubbles to enhance your imbibing before the 4th of July fireworks New Orleans begin around 8:30 p.m.*
*Please note specific showtime TBD
ESSENCE Fest
Mark your calendars for the ESSENCE Festival of Culture, returning to New Orleans on 4th of July up to the 7th. Presented by Coca-Cola, this event promises an exhilarating celebration of African American music, health, food, beauty, and more.
Catch the live performances and other activities at the Caesars Superdome, located at 1500 Sugar Bowl Dr.
Dive into a joyful weekend with star-studded music acts, delicious food, and a host of career advancement opportunities. Whether you’re looking to network, enjoy fantastic cuisine, or simply soak up the dynamic atmosphere with live entertainment, ESSENCE Fest is the place to be!
Go Fourth on the River
Patriotic music, luminous firework displays, and the majestic beauty of the Mississippi River, stretching between the Gov. Nicholls St. Wharf and the Canal St. Dock. Don your flag-themed apparel and get ready to commemorate New Orlean’s Go 4th on the River’s anniversary.
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This epic event dazzles yearly and promises extravagant fireworks set against the city’s historic riverfront. Grab a prime viewing spot early, as the official show starts at 9 pm.
Orleans 4th Fest in Crescent Park
Here’s another fun addition to the list of New Orleans 4th of July events. Crescent Park, a vibrant spot located at 2300 N Peters St, comes alive this July 4 New Orleans with the annual 4th Fest.
The event begins at 5:30 PM with a performance by The National WWII Museum’s Victory Belles, continues with MoJeaux rocking the stage at 7:00 PM, and culminates in the breathtaking Dueling Barges Fireworks Show at 9:00 PM.
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Visitors can bring their own snacks and drinks or opt for the variety of food and beverages available at the Mandeville and Piety Wharves.
Remember to pack chairs and blankets for a comfy evening under the fireworks. Note that fireworks, firearms, ice chests/coolers, glass bottles, and tents are prohibited.
Creole Queen 4th of July Fireworks Cruise
Come New Orleans July 4th, step aboard the Creole Queen for an unforgettable 4th of July Fireworks Cruise. Set sail from the heart of New Orleans and enjoy an evening filled with music, food, and fireworks.
Boarding begins at 7:00 PM at the dock near the World Trade Center, located at 100 Poydras Street, New Orleans, LA.
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Delight in a buffet featuring American classics such as barbecued chicken pulled pork on sesame rolls, smoked beef brisket, and more. Dance the night away with live entertainment ranging from a DJ spinning tunes to a live jazz band or unwind with the soothing sounds of piano in the King’s Room.
An open bar and breathtaking views of the Crescent City skyline enhance the festive atmosphere.
* Please note that you must make an advanced reservation for this special holiday cruise. Experience a captivating water show with plumes of red, white, and blue fountains near the bustling French Market. Don’t miss the dueling barges fireworks display, illuminating the river with a spectacular array of colors.
Wondering how the Big Easy celebrates Uncle Sam? Fourth of July New Orleans loves a good party, and our Nation’s birth is no exception. Come July, feisty patriots will find plenty of American pride and Cajun culture in Crescent City.
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Cruise around the real Louisiana on an authentic airboat, or learn all about the origins of Jazz. Hang out in City or Crescent Park to observe the thrilling Dueling Barges fireworks show or spy on Sand Tiger Sharks at the Audubon Aquarium.
From bold stars and stripes to brave hearts, nothing beats New Orleans fourth of July! But don’t just take our word for us. Plan your getaway today!
4th of July in New Orleans FAQs
Is New Orleans Good for 4th July?
New Orleans is the perfect place to visit in July, especially for the 4th of July, where fireworks light up the sky and jazz fills the air, making it a celebration like no other!
With its vibrant culture, spicy cuisine, and lively street parties, New Orleans turns Independence Day into an unforgettable fiesta!
Is July Hurricane Season in New Orleans?
Yep, July falls smack dab in the middle of hurricane season in New Orleans, which stretches from early June through late November, so keep an eye on the weather forecast if you're planning a visit!
Tell Us, What’s Your Favorite Way to Spend 4th of July in New Orleans?
Do you know where you’ll watch the New Orleans 4th of July fireworks?
Have any secret or exclusive celebrations in New Orleans in July to add to our list?
Leave us a comment below!
