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New Orleans is famous for its lively and festive atmosphere year-round, but there is no better time to experience the city than on Halloween. From elaborate parades and costume balls to haunted tours and ghostly graveyard visits, there is no shortage of unique and exciting ways to celebrate this spooky holiday in NOLA. Visitors interested in the more macabre aspects of Halloween are especially in for a treat, as the Crescent City has deep roots in voodoo and black magic.
Besides haunted tours and ghostly graveyard visits, visitors can also immerse themselves in daytime activities during their trip, from celebrated Mardi Gras parades and festivals to renowned live music performances and award-winning cuisine. Here's your ultimate guide to making the most of your Halloween in New Orleans.
Take Part In One Of New Orleans' Top Halloween Events
There are plenty of exciting events going on throughout the city during this spooky season. Make sure to check out the following recommendations:
The Voodoo Music + Arts Experience
This annual festival, held on Halloween weekend, draws in thousands of visitors for a three-day celebration of live music and arts. During the festival, participants can enjoy performances by some of the biggest names in music, all set against the picturesque backdrop of City Park.
- Location: 1 Palm Drive, New Orleans, LA
- Admission: Tickets prices range from $188 to $235
The Krewe Of Boo Halloween Parade
One of the biggest Halloween events in New Orleans each year, this parade takes place just before Halloween and features elaborately decorated floats and marching bands. Be sure to grab a spot early along the route to catch all the spectacular sights along the way!
- Location: Starts at Tchoupitoulas and Napoleon Avenue, New Orleans, LA
- Admission: Free to watch
Barkus Parade
For those traveling with your four-legged friends during Halloween, the Barkus Parade—a parade for dogs and their owners—is a must-see event. Featuring costumed participants of all shapes and sizes, this unique parade is the perfect way to get into the Halloween spirit while enjoying time with your furry friends.
- Location: Along historic French Quarter streets
- Admission: Free to watch
The Mortuary Haunted Mansion
For a truly spine-chilling experience, visitors should head to The Mortuary Haunted Mansion, a popular haunted attraction that takes guests through the city's most iconic cemeteries. With terrifying scenes and props guaranteed to give you goosebumps, this is one event not for the faint of heart!
- Location: 4800 Canal St., New Orleans, LA
- Admission: $20 per person
- Note: After 7 pm, ticket prices increase to $30, so plan accordingly
What Are The Best New Orleans Bars For Halloween?
When it comes to bars and restaurants during Halloween, New Orleans has no shortage of options. Whether you're looking for live music and drinks or delicious food to satisfy your appetite, these are some of the top spots in the city:
Pat O'Brien's Bar
This iconic French Quarter bar is known for its festive atmosphere year-round, and Halloween is no exception. Pat O'Brien's hosts a huge costume party every year that draws in visitors from all over the city, so make sure to get there early to secure your spot at one of the best Halloween events in NOLA.
- Location: 718 St Peter Street
The Spotted Cat Music Club
For a more intimate experience, head on over to The Spotted Cat Music Club for an evening of live jazz music and classic cocktails. This charming little bar is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of wandering through the city, and with great happy hour specials all week long, there's no better place to be during Halloween.
- Location: 623 Frenchmen Street
Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop
Lafitte's is America's oldest continuously operating bar in the United States! In the 18th century, it was a pirate's beloved hangout. Today, the bar is famous for being one of the top haunted spots in New Orleans, with paranormal presences reported from time to time. This makes it the perfect spot to get your freak on during Halloween.
- Location: 941 Bourbon Street, New Orleans, LA
Getting Around During Halloween In New Orleans
The best way to get around during Halloween in New Orleans is by using ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft. With the city's bustling streets, especially on Halloween night, these apps are a great way to avoid driving and parking in the busy downtown area. Additionally, many of the top bars and restaurants will have their own transportation options for visitors during Halloween weekend.
Where To Stay For Halloween In New Orleans
New Orleans has no shortage of great hotels and Airbnb rentals that are just minutes from all the best Halloween events in town. Whether visitors are looking for a hotel with a spooky theme or a chic apartment rental, there are plenty of options to choose from. The most popular areas to stay during Halloween include the French Quarter, Downtown New Orleans, and Uptown New Orleans.
- Costs: Varies depending on the type of accommodation, but hotels and Airbnb rentals in New Orleans tend to be fairly affordable during Halloween.
When To Go To New Orleans For Halloween
The best time to visit New Orleans for Halloween is from late October until early November. This timeframe typically coincides with NOLA's month-long Halloween celebration, which attracts thousands of visitors to the city each year.