New Orleans is known for putting a twist on every holiday, and New Year’s Eve is no exception. Whether it’s the fleur-de-lis drop, the fireworks, or the parties throughout the city, New Year’s Eve in New Orleans is one-of-a-kind. This year’s activities start early on December 31st and will last throughout the first day of 2017.
Events
Between family-friendly activities during the day and parties all night long, there’s something for everyone on New Year’s Eve in New Orleans. See below for events you won’t want to miss.
Zoo Year’s Eve
Head to Audubon Zoo from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on New Year’s Eve for a kid-friendly New Year’s celebration! The event will feature music, games, prizes, and a countdown to Noon. The event is free for Audubon members or included with Zoo admission.
Louisiana Children’s Museum New Year’s Eve Countdown
For another great family-friendly event to ring in 2017, head to the Louisiana Children’s Museum for music, arts & crafts, and a New Year’s countdown. The event lasts from 9:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. and tickets are available via the museum for $10 per person here.
Allstate Sugar Bowl New Year’s Eve Parade
No holiday in NOLA is complete without a parade! Head to the intersection of Elysian Fields Avenue and Decatur Street at 3:30 p.m. to catch this Mardi Gras-style parade with floats, bands, and more. The parade will proceed through the French Quarter, past Allstate Fan Fest, and wrap up at Canal Street.
Allstate Fan Fest
Allstate Fan Fest is back for its 11th year! Enjoy pre-game events and celebrations leading up to the Sugar Bowl. Events include football-themed activities, pep rallies, marching bands, music, and more. The fest is FREE to the public and open from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on December 31 and January 1 at Jax Brewery in Jackson Square.
Jackson Square Celebrations
For an annual tradition with some New Orleans flair, make your way to Jackson Square in the hours leading up to midnight for live music, a view of the fleur-de-lis drop, and a spectacular fireworks show, Symphony in the Sky. Admission is FREE and open to the public.
New Year’s Eve Extravanganza on the Steamboat NATCHEZ
Hop aboard this iconic paddleboat for a delicious buffet dinner, open bar, and live music to celebrate 2017. Boarding begins at the Toulouse Street Wharf at 9:30 p.m. with the boat departing shortly after, and cruising until midnight. Expect amazing views of the fireworks and a party on board until 12:30 a.m.
Don’t forget to book in advance and wear your favorite holiday attire. Tickets are available for $175 per person and more details can be found on the NATCHEZ’ official website here.
New Year’s Eve at the Riverview Room
If you’re feeling fancy, you will not want to miss this elegant black tie event along the Mississippi River. Enjoy being wined, dined, and serenaded by music from the Top Cats while catching the fireworks and midnight ball drop from one of the best views in town. The event begins at 9 p.m. and ends at 1 a.m. Be sure to book in advance. Tickets are available for $175 per person here.
Victory Swing Orchestra
Dance the night away with the Victory Swing Orchestra at the National WWII Museum. The event will feature music, dancing, an open bar, a four-course dinner, and midnight dessert served on the dance floor to ensure you have a sweet start to your New Year. Visit the museum’s official website for details.
Food and Drink
In a city famous for its incredible culinary and cocktail scene, you’ll have a variety of options for food and drink throughout your New Year’s celebrations. Some restaurants offer special prix fixe menus on both New Year’s Eve and Day, and even more remain open throughout both holidays. Explore our holiday dining guide here for information about reveillon dinners, holiday cocktails, and more.
Accommodations
Enjoy plenty of hotel deals during this special time of year. For more information on discounts and deals for the holidays, head to www.followyourjoy.com
For the most current information and an overview of New Year’s Eve, visit the individual event websites and our holiday guide here.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you plan on spending New Year’s Eve in New Orleans you need to make your reservations as soon as possible. The Allstate Sugar Bowl is being played on January 2 and hotel rooms will start filling up several weeks before that.