As the streets glow with music, flavor and festivity, New Orleans & Company and our partners are working hard to make this summer one of the most exciting yet by bringing in new events, growing existing ones, and amplifying beloved programs like COOLinary and Museum Month. But the true heartbeat of our summer success lies with you — the residents of New Orleans, Jefferson Parish, the Northshore, St. Bernard and surrounding areas.
Travel and time off are not luxuries — they’re essential to your well-being. Taking a break strengthens relationships, sharpens your focus and recharges your mind and spirit. And what better way to do that than right here at home?
This summer, we invite you to explore our neighborhoods, support our local businesses and embrace the experiences that make New Orleans unlike anywhere else in the world.
Family Fun Plan a day of family fun at Audubon’s Cool Zoo, relax at a hotel pool, enjoy Fourth of July fireworks along the Mississippi River, play at the Louisiana Children’s Museum at City Park, or take in the Satchmo Summer Fest or the Audubon Aquarium.
UFC 318 Comes to Town For the first time ever, New Orleans will host the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s UFC 318, featuring Louisiana’s own Dustin Poirier. This is a huge moment for local sports fans and a major win for our reputation as a world-class event city. The big event is July 19 at the Smoothie King Center.
U.S. Gymnastics Championships and Pickle Fest Return The Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championships return to New Orleans in August for the first time in 30 years — bringing energy and excitement to the Caesars Superdome. The third annual NOLA Pickle Fest benefiting the Brees Dream Foundation will be held August 6-10 at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.
New Public Events Our convention sales team has helped secure fan-favorite events like GalaxyCon (a comic-con and pop culture event), which is packed with fun for all ages. Tickets are now on sale for GalaxyCon, July 11-13 at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.
Festivals and Faith Gatherings We’ll once again welcome the iconic Essence Festival of Culture, the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod Youth Gathering and hundreds of other meetings, reunions and events that fill our city with joy and purpose. Get your tickets for The ESSENCE Festival of Culture July 3-6, which continues to be home of Black joy, artistry and resilience.
COOLinary and Museum Month August 1-31 COOLinary New Orleans is your chance to dine like royalty without breaking the bank. Enjoy specially curated, prix-fixe meals at some of the city’s top restaurants: two-course lunches are $28 or less and three-course dinners and brunches are $58 or less. It’s the perfect excuse to try something new — or return to an old favorite.
Also in August, Museum Month is your passport to adventure. With one active museum membership, you’ll receive free admission to dozens of participating museums throughout the region — from world-class institutions to hidden gems.
Millions of people travel to New Orleans every year to revel in the magic of our music, food, art and celebration. Let’s remember how lucky we are to live in the middle of it all. This summer, I invite you to take time for yourself, your family and your city and rediscover the joy of New Orleans.
Make your plans now at neworleans.com.
Walt Leger III is president and CEO of New Orleans & Company, the official destination marketing and sales organization for New Orleans tourism industry. He may be reached via email at walt@neworleans.com.
