If you’ve ever wanted to experience the energy and buzz of New Orleans, 2018 is the time to do it. Next year sees New Orleans throw open its doors to the world for a party 300 years in the making as celebrates its Tricentennial.
It’s the cue for an array of events in this magnificent city, so throw yourself into the Big Easy’s unique atmosphere. Hiring a car offers the easiest way to sample the city’s rich heritage on a trip you’ll remember forever.
How to Celebrate New Orleans’ 300 Year Anniversary
King’s Day Celebration, Fireworks and Kick-Off to Tricentennial Mardi Gras
The King’s Day Celebration (6th January) kicks off the festival with a Mardi Gras-themed fireworks display (a nod to the city’s French connection) on the river at 9pm – expect vibrant carnival parades, a riot of colour and a swell of sounds and music. Parking will be limited during this always popular celebration, so arrive well ahead of time to find a parking lot with a space.
Up from the Streets Tricentennial Concert
New Orleans is known across the globe as a breeding ground for some of the planet’s finest jazz, and this concert on 10th March will celebrate that proud heritage. Hear from local and international experts as they tell the story of New Orleans’ musical history and how its influence has resounded around the world.
It’s a great way to get up to speed on the story of how jazz and blues bubbled up from the streets of New Orleans to become an integral part of the city’s culture. The concert will be held at the Saenger Theatre on 1111 Canal St and you can book parking in advance.
Tricentennial NOLA Navy Week and Tall Ships of America
The lively (read raucous) revellers on Bourbon Street may be known to get a little naughty from time to time, but New Orleans is ready to get nautical too. NOLA Navy Week (April 19th – 25th) will see the finest vessels set sail from around the US and Canada to drop anchor in New Orleans, hosting free tours for the public.
In a celebration of the city’s incredible food scene, there’ll be a cook-off between the ships, with local chefs, naval chefs and culinary specialists battling to serve up the best Cajun and Creole grub – think hearty gumbo stew and heavenly jambalaya.
Head for the river in the French Quarter, the Warehouse District or Marigny to jump on board – you’ll find parking lots near the river, but it’s wise to arrive early or reserve parking in advance.
Other must-attend events
- Enjoy a glamorous night at the ballet as the New Orleans Ballet Association performs in association with the government of Monaco (23rd & 24th February).
- Learn about NOLA’s fascinating first few decades and the people who laid the foundations for the city we know today at the Historic New Orleans Collection’s Exhibition ‘New Orleans, the Founding Era’ (27th February – 27th May).
- Meet the locals with a day’s worth of community celebrations and block parties taking place in Armstrong Park and throughout the city – expect great food, fantastic music and a friendly welcome (22nd April).
- This one needs no introduction… Mardi Gras is when the whole city comes out to let its hair down. Plan your trip for the extended weekend before Mardi Gras (9th to 13th February). If you have youngsters in tow, check out Family Gras (2nd and 3rd February).
New Orleans is already one of the most exciting destinations in the US, but it’s set to ramp it up a gear in 2018 to celebrate its 300-year history. Join the crowds to party, explore and celebrate the very best of the Big Easy.
