6 Things to Do in New Orleans in October

October brings out the blues, cuisine, festival culture, and cooler weather in the city that never sleeps. Here’s our guide on how to make the most out of your trip to New Orleans in October.

National Fried Chicken Festival

Get ready to dig into some finger-lickin’ goodness at The National Fried Chicken Festival (FCF), presented by Raising Cane’s. This two-day outdoor extravaganza unites food enthusiasts from across the country to indulge in some golden, crispy, savory, and irresistible fried chicken. The festival features an impressive array of dishes from over 40 participating restaurants competing for the title of “Best Fried Chicken,” “Best Use of Chicken in a Dish”, and “People’s Choice Award.” Of course, there will be live entertainment from acclaimed musicians, bands, and DJs, and an array of VIP options including a multi-access lounge and a brand-new unlimited Beer Garden. Whether you’re a fried chicken aficionado or just here for the fun, the National Fried Chicken Festival promises a weekend of cluckin’ good times.

This event takes place October 5th - 6th on Lakeshore Drive. Learn more here.

Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival

You’ve got to have some Blues with your BBQ, right? Right! The Crescent City Blues and BBQ Festival is a vibrant celebration of music, food, and art. This annual event honors New Orleans’ rich blues tradition, featuring top musicians from southern Louisiana and Mississippi. Attendees are treated to soulful blues performances and irresistible BBQ from local pitmasters that tantalize the taste buds. Beyond the musical and culinary experiences, the festival also highlights unique visual art displays. The art market features a variety of handcrafted items, including artwork, home décor, jewelry, and other crafts, offering attendees a chance to pick up a special keepsake from the festival.

This event takes place October 13th - 14th at Lafayette Square and is free admission, but VIP Experience Passes are available for those looking for a premium experience. Learn more here.

Swifties Eras Cruise

Calling all Swifties! The Eras Tour is landing in New Orleans and we are "Enchanted" to meet you, New Orleans "Style"! Join the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen for an evening of Taylor Swift's greatest hits while cruising the Mississippi River as the "Daylight" falls. We'll have a DJ spinning all your favorite tunes as you "Shake It Off", specialty cocktails inspired by some of her iconic albums, and food available for purchase. Head to one of our decks and take in the beautiful views and check out our "Red" paddlewheel. Don't forget to pack your "Cardigan" it gets a little breezy on the river. ⁠

The Swifties Eras Cruise takes place October 24th aboard the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen ahead of the Eras Tour in New Orleans October 25th - 27th. Learn more here.

Treme Fall Festival

The Treme Fall Festival in New Orleans is a lively celebration of the vibrant culture and rich heritage of the Treme neighborhood. This annual event features an array of local music, delicious food from beloved vendors, and family-friendly activities. Attendees can enjoy performances by talented musicians, savor mouthwatering Creole and Cajun dishes, and explore unique arts and crafts. The festival is a perfect way to experience the heart and soul of Treme, showcasing the community's spirit and traditions in a fun, festive atmosphere.

This event takes place on October 26th at St. Augustine Catholic Church. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. Learn more here.

Oak Street Po-Boy Festival

If you’re coming to New Orleans to try a po-boy, what better way to do so than spending an entire day dedicated to the city’s iconic sandwich at the Oak Street Po-Boy Festival? Held annually on Oak Street, this festival transforms the area into a bustling street fair where po-boys take center stage. With dozens of vendors serving up a diverse array of po-boy variations, from classic roast beef and fried shrimp to inventive new creations, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Beyond the stellar po-boys, the festival offers live music, local craft beer, and family-friendly activities, creating a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of New Orleans’ food and culture. With its vibrant mix of flavors and sounds, the Oak Street Po-Boy Festival is a delicious and quintessentially New Orleans experience you won’t want to miss.

This event takes place on October 27th between the 8100 - 8700 blocks of Oak Street. Learn more here.

Book a Hop On Hop Off Tour

Need a safe, convenient, and flexible way to see New Orleans while you’re in town? Look no further than the Hop On Hop Off with City Sightseeing New Orleans as a great way to see the most historic and popular areas of the city at your own pace. With 19 stops around New Orleans, this is the most comprehensive city tour that New Orleans has to offer. Hop on to tour and pick out the stops you most want to visit then hop off to explore at your own pace with buses returning to each stop every 30 minutes or less.

Make the most of your visit to New Orleans in October by booking a 1-Day, 2-Day, or 3-Day Hop On Hop Off tour!