October transforms New Orleans into a vibrant celebration of music, food and Halloween festivities. This sampling of events showcases just a fraction of what the city has to offer during this exciting month.
Music Takes Center Stage
October is part of New Orleans Music Month, which spans the entire month with special concerts and performances. Music Month culminates in NOLA MusiCon, a three-day gathering where artists, industry professionals and thought leaders connect through panels, interviews, mentor sessions and networking opportunities.
Get ready to groove at NOLA Funk Fest from October 17-19, a celebration of Louisiana's rich music history held at Spanish Plaza. Performers include Dumpstaphunk, Master P ft. The Soul Rebels, Erica Falls, Jon Cleary and many more. Tickets start at $56+ for single day general admission.
Community and Culture
Tremé Fall Fest returns on October 25, celebrating community with food, live music, art and performances. Tremé is the oldest African American neighborhood in the country, and this free-to-attend festival serves as a fundraiser for St. Augustine Church and various community non-profits.
Halloween Skeleton House in New Orleans (Photo Credit: New Orleans & Company)
Spooky Season Celebrations
Halloween takes center stage throughout October, with the beloved Krewe of BOO! parade rolling through downtown and the French Quarter on October 25. The free parade features elaborate 3-D paper mâché and fiberglass props designed by artists from Kern Studios. Beyond the parade, Halloween activities abound with haunted attractions like The Mortuary and New Orleans Nightmare, ghost tours and events at New Orleans City Park including the kid-friendly Ghosts in the Oaks and adults-only Brews and Boos. Halloween New Orleans offers LGBTQ+ celebrations throughout Halloween weekend.
Spooky house in New Orleans (Photo Credit: New Orleans & Company)
Film and Beer Festivals
Film lovers can enjoy the 36th annual New Orleans Film Festival from October 23-28, an Oscar-qualifying event showcasing over 100 films at theaters around town. The festival includes documentaries, shorts, feature films with world premieres, plus panels, workshops and parties. All access passes start at $350, with single film tickets available for $16.
Beer enthusiasts shouldn't miss Oktoberfest at Deutsches Haus, happening October 17-18 and 24-25. Tickets are $10 daily, with free admission for children 12 and under.
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