Summer Fun in New Orleans: A Festive Guide
Summer in New Orleans is packed with vibrant events that celebrate the city’s unique culture and spirit. From thrilling races to cocktail extravaganzas and art festivals, there’s something for everyone. Dive into the excitement with our guide to the best summer events in the Big Easy!
Running of the Bulls
Who: Thrill-seekers, any age
What: Pamplona-style event with roller derby girls
Where: 10-minute walk from The Natchez New Orleans
When: July 13, 2024, 8:00 AM
How Much: Free to participate, $40 for registration
If you can’t make it to Pamplona this year, the Running of the Bulls in New Orleans is the next best thing! This adrenaline-pumping event features “bulls” from the Big Easy Rollergirls chasing runners through the Warehouse District. The festivities include a lively opening ceremony and an after-party with food, drinks, and live music.
Tales of the Cocktail
Who: Cocktail enthusiasts, bartenders, ages 21+
What: Cocktail-focused festival and seminars
Where: Varies, Mostly 10-minute walk from The Natchez New Orleans
When: July 23-28, 2024
How Much: Varies by event
Tales of the Cocktail is the ultimate event for cocktail aficionados. This week-long festival features seminars, tastings, and competitions, bringing together the world’s best bartenders and mixologists. Enjoy innovative cocktails, learn from industry experts, and experience the vibrant nightlife of New Orleans.
Red Dress Run
Who: Fun-loving runners, ages 21+
What: Charity run in red dresses
Where: 20-minute walk from The Natchez New Orleans
When: August 10, 2024, 9:00 AM
How Much: $65 for registration
Get ready to paint the town red at the Red Dress Run! This unique charity event sees participants donning their finest red dresses and running through the French Quarter. It’s a day of fun, fitness, and philanthropy, with proceeds benefiting local charities. The run is followed by a festive party with food, drinks, and live entertainment. Make sure to buy your red dresses early because the entire city sells out before the event!
White Linen Night
Who: Art lovers, all ages
What: Art walk and block party
Where: 10-minute walk from The Natchez New Orleans
When: August 3, 2024, 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
How Much: Free, food and drinks available for purchase
Experience an unforgettable evening at White Linen Night, where guests don their finest white attire and explore the vibrant art scene of New Orleans. Held on the first Saturday of August, Julia Street becomes a hub of artistic energy with galleries, live music, food, and drink. This event, hosted by Arts District New Orleans, is a celebration of local art and culture.
Dirty Linen Night
Who: Art enthusiasts, all ages
What: Art stroll and street party
Where: 15-minute walk from The Natchez New Orleans
When: August 10, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
How Much: $20 for wristbands
Come see some real New Orleans culture during Dirty Linen Night! This playful event is a satirical spin on White Linen Night, where attendees explore the art, food, and drinks of the French Quarter. The galleries and shops on Royal Street host visitors for an evening of artistic discovery and fun. Expect a lively atmosphere with street musicians and a less formal, more bohemian vibe.
Filthy Linen Night
Who: Art enthusiasts, all ages
What: Funky art walk and party
Where: 20-minute walk from The Natchez New Orleans
When: August 17, 2024, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
How Much: Free, with optional purchases
Filthy Linen Night is the even funkier art alternative on Frenchmen Street. This celebration calls attention to the emerging art scene in Faubourg Marigny. Expect a smaller, more casual event than White or Dirty Linen Night, with a focus on edgy, new artists. Galleries, tattoo parlors, and the Frenchmen Art Market will be open, offering a unique blend of visual and performing arts.