What to do in New Orleans for Thanksgiving? So, read about things to do during Thanksgiving in New Orleans.
ALSO READ👉🏽: Thanksgiving In Nashville – Best Things To Do + Events + Activities in 2023
Thanksgiving In New Orleans – New Orleans For Thanksgiving
New Orleans is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of festive events and activities to enjoy during Thanksgiving.
Weather – New Orleans Thanksgiving Guide
The weather during Thanksgiving in New Orleans typically ranges from mild to cool. Daytime temperatures often hover around the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (18-24°C), while evenings can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to the mid-40s to low 50s Fahrenheit (7-13°C).
New Orleans On Thanksgiving – Events & Things To Do
- Thanksgiving Day Parade: Check out the local Thanksgiving Day parade for a festive start to the holiday. Floats, marching bands, and vibrant costumes are sure to entertain.
- Feast on Cajun and Creole Cuisine: Thanksgiving in New Orleans would only be complete with indulging in the city’s unique culinary offerings. Enjoy a Thanksgiving meal with a New Orleans twist, featuring dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and Cajun-fried local food.
- Bayou Classic: If Thanksgiving coincides with the Bayou Classic, take advantage of this historic football game between Grambling State University and Southern University. The event includes a Battle of the Bands and other festivities.
- New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation Thanksgiving Concert: Check for special Thanksgiving concerts organized by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation. Enjoy live music and immerse yourself in the city’s musical culture.
- Harvest the Music Concert Series: If the event is still running, attend the Harvest the Music Concert Series in Lafayette Square. It’s a free concert series featuring local and national acts.
- Riverwalk’s “Luna Fête”: Depending on the timing, you might catch Luna Fête, a dazzling light and sound show that transforms Lafayette Square and surrounding areas into an illuminated wonderland.
- Cruise the Mississippi River: Consider a Thanksgiving Day cruise along the Mississippi River. Some companies offer special holiday cruises with dinner and entertainment.
- City Park’s Celebration in the Oaks: If it’s open for the season, visit Celebration in the Oaks, an annual holiday lights festival in City Park. Stroll through the park’s beautifully decorated oaks and enjoy the festive light displays.
- French Quarter Stroll: Take a stroll through the historic French Quarter. Enjoy the architecture, street performers, and the lively atmosphere.
- Thanksgiving Buffets and Special Menus: Many restaurants in New Orleans offer special Thanksgiving menus or buffets. Consider making reservations to experience the city’s diverse culinary scene.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Give back to the community by volunteering at local shelters or community centers. Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude; helping others can be a meaningful celebration.
New Orleans offers various festive activities for all ages, making it a great place to celebrate Thanksgiving.
ALSO READ👉🏽: Thanksgiving In Helen GA – Best Things To Do + Events + Activities in 2023
New Orleans Thanksgiving Dinner
New Orleans is known for its rich and diverse culinary scene, and there are plenty of options for a delicious Thanksgiving dinner. Remember that the availability of specific menus and options can vary yearly, so it’s always a good idea to check with the individual restaurants for the latest information. Here are some general types of places to consider for Thanksgiving dinner in New Orleans:
Traditional & Contemporary Creole and Cajun Restaurants:
- Commander’s Palace: A renowned restaurant in the Garden District, Commander’s Palace offers an upscale Creole dining experience.
- Antoine’s: Established in 1840, Antoine’s is a historic French Quarter restaurant serving classic Creole cuisine.
- Emeril’s New Orleans: Celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse’s flagship restaurant is known for its modern take on Creole dishes.
- Herbsaint: A contemporary bistro focusing on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
Hotel Thanksgiving Buffets:
- The Roosevelt New Orleans: Some hotels, like The Roosevelt, often host elaborate Thanksgiving buffets with various dishes.
- Windsor Court Hotel: Check if the Windsor Court Hotel is offering a Thanksgiving feast for a luxurious dining experience.
Local Pubs and Taverns:
- The Irish House: If you’re looking for a more casual setting, consider a local pub like The Irish House, which might offer a Thanksgiving menu.
Consider joining a Thanksgiving-themed food tour or culinary experience to sample local dishes.
Remember to make reservations well in advance, as popular restaurants can fill up quickly during the holiday season. Enjoy your Thanksgiving dinner in the vibrant city of New Orleans!
👉🏽Thanksgiving In San Diego – Best Things To Do + Events + Activities in 2023
Where To Stay in New Orleans on Thanksgiving?
For a hotel in New Orleans with festive Thanksgiving vibes, consider The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel. This historic hotel often offers special Thanksgiving packages, exquisite holiday decorations, and a luxurious atmosphere, providing a perfect setting for a festive stay in the city’s heart.
Must-do tours in New Orleans for Thanksgiving
New Orleans offers a variety of tours that can enhance your Thanksgiving experience by showcasing the city’s rich history, culture, and unique attractions. While availability may vary, here’s a list of must-do tours that you might consider during Thanksgiving in New Orleans:
- French Quarter Walking Tour: Explore the historic French Quarter with a guided walking tour. Visit iconic landmarks such as Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and the lively streets of the Vieux Carré.
- Swamp Boat Tour: Take a swamp boat tour to explore the fascinating Louisiana bayous and encounter wildlife like alligators and various bird species. Several companies offer tours departing from New Orleans.
- Cemetery Tour: Join a guided cemetery tour to learn about New Orleans’ unique above-ground burial practices. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, the final resting place of Marie Laveau, is a popular choice.
- Haunted History Tour: Discover the spooky side of New Orleans with a haunted history tour. Explore the French Quarter at night and hear tales of ghosts, voodoo, and mysterious occurrences.
- Steamboat Natchez Jazz Dinner Cruise: Enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner with a twist on the Steamboat Natchez Jazz Dinner Cruise. Cruise along the Mississippi River, savor a delicious meal and listen to live jazz music.
- Garden District Tour: Take a guided tour of the Garden District to admire the beautiful antebellum mansions, oak-lined streets, and historic architecture. Learn about the district’s history and famous residents.
- Food and Cocktail Tours: Indulge in a culinary adventure by joining a food or cocktail tour. Sample traditional Creole and Cajun dishes or explore the city’s vibrant cocktail culture.
- Mardi Gras World Tour: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the magic of Mardi Gras by touring Mardi Gras World. See float designs, learn about the festival’s history, and witness artists at work.
- Book Evening Jazz Boat Cruise: Immerse yourself in the world of traditional New Orleans jazz at boat cruise to Experience the New Orleans in unique way. This moonlit cruise down the mighty Mississippi with the sounds of jazz with a delicious Creole dinner and a sip on a cocktail on the promenade deck while soaking in incredible views is perfect way to end your Thanksgiving day.
- Streetcar Ride: Hop on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar for a leisurely ride through historic neighborhoods like the Garden District. Enjoy the scenery and architecture along the route.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, New Orleans has a term for every preference. Enjoy your Thanksgiving in this vibrant and unique city!
👉🏽Thanksgiving In Asheville – Best Things To Do + Events + Activities in 2023
Now you know what to do in New Orleans on Thanksgiving day with these best Things to do in New Orleans on Thanksgiving weekend. I hope you plan a trip to New Orleans with many fun Thanksgiving events in New Orleans and unforgettable New Orleans Thanksgiving dinner options. Save this and enjoy this Thanksgiving in New Orleans.
Picture Courtesy – CanvaPro
Follow more on social media channels at
Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest
All content and photos belong to travelwithme247blog(dot)com and use of content/photos without permission would result in legal action.
DISCLAIMER – The blog’s content is solely my views of a place or a thing. This does not offend any class, religion, ethnicity, or nation. My views can change from time to time. This blog may contain some advertisements or links to commercial products, so this site is not responsible after you click on those advertisements.
We are the independent owner of this site, and the views expressed in this are our own. All photographs are owned by me. There can be slight differences in distances, locations, or some details for which I (owner) am not responsible. This post may contain some affiliate links, which means at no additional cost to you. I will earn if you will click through affiliates and make a purchase.