Fall In Love With New Orleans: The Ultimate October Festival Guide

Photo Courtesy of Gentilly Festival 

With so much captivating history, culture, and vibrant energy, falling in love with New Orleans is an easy thing to do. The autumn season renews the beauty of this fantastic city. With the sweltering temperatures simmering down, it’s the perfect time to thoroughly enjoy all this city has to offer—one of those activities being festivals. New Orleans is world-renowned for its unique festivals that feature delectable foods, fantastic music, and lots of fun. Here is the ultimate guide to festivals happening around New Orleans this October.

Gentilly Festival October 11th-13th

Music, food, and community are the heart of the Gentilly Fest. Gentilly Fest celebrates all things Gentilly. Held in the Historic Pontchartrain Park neighborhood, attendees will enjoy live music, several vendors, and family-friendly activities. In addition to the fabulous festivities, this festival has complimentary admission.

Gretna Heritage Festival October 4th-6th

Just across the Mississippi River from Downtown New Orleans is the great city of  Gretna. The Gretna Heritage Festival promotes and supports businesses and organizations in the City Of Gretna. This year’s festival will return with an all-star lineup that includes Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue and Kool & The Gang. Tickets are $40 for a single day or $90 for a weekend pass.

Ashé Rooftop Festival October 11th-12th

The Ashé Rooftop Festival is a weekend-long celebration centering on the African Diaspora. The festival is culturally-curated across beautiful rooftop spaces in Downtown New Orleans. Attendees will experience rooftops that feature art, wellness, social justice, Black literature, and performances from your musical favorites. Tickets start at $50.

Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival October 11th-13th 

Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival is a three-day extravaganza featuring music, food, and art. Enjoy free admission to the festival all weekend long, which takes place at Lafayette Square Park.

Praise Festival October 18th-20th 

Every year, Bayou St. John comes alive with Gospel music. Enjoy three full days of soul-touching Gospel music and praise. Festival goers can expect uplifting sounds from local and national Gospel artists, entertainers, and world-renowned speakers. Admission to this festival is complimentary.

Photo Courtesy of NOLA Reggae Festival 

Oktoberfest October 11th-12th, 18th-19th, and 25th-26th

Oktoberfest at Deutsches Haus returns for three exciting weekends of Germany’s beloved celebration. This European-inspired festival features three weekends of German culture, cuisine, and fun. Festival goers can expect a time of authentic German foods, live music, dances, and activities. Tickets are $10.

NOLA Funk Festival October 28th-20th

Get ready for a time of grooving at the NOLA Funk Festival. NOLA Funk Fest is a celebration of Louisiana’s rich music history showcasing the state’s magnificent musical heritage. Held at the world-renowned New Orleans Jazz Museum. Tickets start at $40.

Tremé Fall Festival October 26th

Tremé is the oldest African-American neighborhood in the country, and the Tremé Fall Fest is a celebration of the beloved community. The festival serves as a fundraiser for St. Augustine Church and various community non-profits. Attendees can delight in a time of food, live music, art, and performances. This festival is free for everyone to attend.

NOLA Reggae Festivhttps://thenolareggaefest.com/al October 25th-27th

Enjoy three incredible days of music, food, and energetic vibes at the NOLA Reggae Festival. The festival takes place at the Historic Congo Square and is a harmonious blend of reggae beats and local flavor. Festival goers will partake in a  diverse array of local vendors offering delicious food, unique crafts, and much more. Tickets start at $25. 

Photo Courtesy of Tremé Fall Festival 

Happy Fall Festin’ Everyone! 

*This article was written by Deveney Marshall of Mara Creative Agency