Parties in New Orleans
The city that care forgot — and the music forgot to stop
New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz and one of the most unique nightlife cities on the planet, a place where the party spills out of the bars and onto the streets at all hours. Bourbon Street in the French Quarter is the rowdy tourist epicentre, but the real magic happens on Frenchmen Street where live jazz, blues and brass bands fill every room and overflow onto the pavement. Mardi Gras is the world's greatest street party, but New Orleans needs no excuse to celebrate — every night here is an event.
Neighborhoods
Explore nightlife guides by neighbourhood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best parties in New Orleans tonight?▼
Frenchmen Street in the Marigny neighbourhood is where serious music lovers go, with multiple jazz, blues and brass-band venues within a few blocks. Bourbon Street in the French Quarter is the non-stop party strip for those seeking a high-energy bar-crawl atmosphere. The Warehouse District has upscale cocktail bars and clubs in converted industrial spaces.
Which are the best nightclubs in New Orleans?▼
Tipitina's is a legendary music venue that has hosted jazz and funk royalty since the 1970s. d.b.a. on Frenchmen Street packs in incredible live acts every night. Republic NOLA in the Warehouse District is the largest electronic and DJ venue, and Preservation Hall in the French Quarter is essential for authentic New Orleans jazz.
What time do bars and clubs close in New Orleans?▼
New Orleans has no mandatory closing time — bars and clubs can legally trade 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Bourbon Street in particular never truly closes, and it is common to see people carrying 'go cups' of drinks out of bars at any hour of the day or night.
What is Mardi Gras like for nightlife in New Orleans?▼
Mardi Gras, culminating on Fat Tuesday (the day before Ash Wednesday in February/March), transforms New Orleans into the world's largest outdoor party. Parades, masquerade balls, street concerts and non-stop bar culture descend on the city for two weeks. Accommodation books up a year in advance and the energy is completely unlike anything else on earth.
Nearby Attractions
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Find the Best Party in New Orleans Tonight
Live map with real-time events, tickets, and directions.