6 Things to Do in New Orleans in Spring

Mardi Gras, often hailed as the festival of all festivals, marks the vibrant beginning of spring in New Orleans. This grand celebration features an entire weekend of thrilling street parades leading up to the pinnacle event, Fat Tuesday. On this day, revellers don extravagant costumes, vibrant face paints and intricate masks, taking to the streets for one final exuberant celebration before Lent begins.

The city comes alive with a dozen or more parades rolling down the streets, where participants joyfully throw beads and trinkets from elaborately decorated floats. The air is filled with the lively sounds of jazz and ragtime bands, creating an infectious atmosphere. Joining in the party is all part of the fun.

Pack a picnic basket with a delicious muffuletta or po’boy sandwich, and head to one of New Orleans' city parks to embrace the beauty of springtime blooms. At Audubon Park, you can watch catfish jump in the calm lagoons while enjoying the serene surroundings. Over at City Park, wander among the moss-draped oak trees and marvel at the vibrant azaleas in the New Orleans Botanical Garden.

The Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, located within City Park, offers enchantment for both kids and adults with its miniature train rides and 17 exciting attractions. Among these is the antique wooden horse carousel, one of the oldest in the country, adding a touch of historic charm to your visit.

Reserve a candlelit table on a starlit night at one of the city’s elegant Creole restaurants. Spring is the perfect time to enjoy the mild weather and blooming scenery while indulging in the city's rich culinary traditions. Treat yourself to a local speciality like crawfish and goat cheese crepes on the balcony at Muriel’s, overlooking Jackson Square. This exquisite restaurant is housed in a 19th-century building that exudes old-world elegance.

For a different yet equally enchanting experience, head uptown to the stately mansion that is Commander’s Palace. Known as the grand dame of New Orleans restaurants, it entices diners with the tantalising aroma of grilled veal and other classic Creole dishes. 

A spring break in New Orleans brings a variety of high-energy street festivals. The mansions and gardens of Garden District open their doors to visitors for a rare treat during the Spring Fiesta. Jazz quartets tempt dancers up at the French Quarter Festival.

Literature buffs can join discussion panels at the Tennessee Williams New Orleans Literary Festival. More bizarre entertainment at the festival comes in the form of the Stanley and Stella yelling match. Contestants recreate the famous angry scene from A Streetcar Named Desire.

Spend a serene spring day shopping and strolling through the charming antique shops and art galleries on Royal Street, where you'll discover unique treasures and captivating artworks. For local produce and handmade crafts, head to the bustling French Farmer’s Market along the riverfront. Then, indulge in high-end fashion and delightful street-side cafes on Magazine Street in the Garden District. It's the perfect place to relax with a soothing mint julep after a day of shopping.

As the day winds down, hop on the historic St. Charles Avenue streetcar and enjoy a leisurely ride back downtown, soaking in the sights and sounds of New Orleans.

The Jazz & Heritage Festival brings the New Orleans spring to a festive close, ending the season on a high note. Musicians, cooks, craftspeople and music enthusiasts gather at the Fair Grounds Race Track on the last weekend in April and the first weekend in May for a world-class celebration of Louisiana music, food and culture.

The festival showcases the vibrant local sounds of Cajun, zydeco, jazz, gospel, soul and rhythm and blues, performed on numerous stages that get the joint bouncing. Between the weekends, local clubs keep the festival spirit rocking with intimate performances by festival artists, ensuring the celebration never stops.