Ask anybody who knows New Orleans and they'll tell you November is one of the best months to visit. It's perfect weather for balcony and courtyard sitting for one thing. The Saints are playing for another. And this year, theater and some of your favorite events back! BTW, the governor of Louisiana lifted the mask mandate on October 29. Ready to get out there again? Book your stay now.
Get your gumbo on!
While gumbo really has no season, fall is as good a time as ever to enjoy it. Seafood, turkey, duck…it’s all good. Check out this Best of Guide: Gumbo.
Celebrate Courtyard Weather!
Many, if not most, of our favorite restaurants offer courtyard or outsside dining. Take your pick of award-winning spots like Pelican Club, Commander’s Palace, Court of Two Sisters (pictured), Oceana Grill, Mambo's and more. Photo by Melanie Huddles.
Go to the 49th Annual Destrehan Plantation Fall Event
On November 13 and 14, take the family to this annual event on the grounds of Destrehan Plantation, just a short drive from New Orleans. There will be live entertainment, including Les Bons-Riens, Ryan Foret and Foret Tradition, Kayla Woodson and Faith Woodson. Plus, there will be Cajun and Creole cuisine, arts & crafts, antiques in the mule barn, and special activities for the kids. The fun lasts from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Learn more.
Explore the swamps
Fly through the swamps on an airboat, hop a traditional tour boat or rent a kayak and explore on your own. Again, it’s fall and a great time to be outdoors. Come explore our flora and fauna and learn a little bit about Cajun culture while you’re at it. Swamp tour info.
Get outdoors at City Park
Like all of New Orleans, we heart City Park – especially when the weather is cooler. Bring a blanket and sit under the Bing Bong tree on Big Lake. Play frisbee on the Great Lawn. Feed the ducks, eat beignets, and take family pics before ancient live oaks. Covid has kept us all inside too much. Here’s your chance to get out and feel good again.
Football, football, football!
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There are two home Saints games in November, not to mention the Bayou Classic on November 27th, featuring a parade, a fan festival, the battle of the bands and more. Learn more.
Have Thanksgiving at or from a famous New Orleans Restaurant
Ever had Cajun fried turkey? Make 2021 the year! Many of our world-famous restaurants will be serving and delivering on turkey day. How does dinner in a courtyard or on a French Quarter balcony sound? Search for restaurants here. Pictured: Blackened Redfish LaFourche from Oceana Grill.
Get Your Oompah on at Oktoberfest in November
It's not too late for Oktoberfest! On November 5 & 6 and 12 & 13, celebrate the season at Bayou St. John with German food and drink, oompah music, and children's activities. A highlight of the event is Dachshund Dash on Saturday, November 13. Learn more.
Check Out Abita Fall Fest
Is it November 6 yet? If so, join the fun at Abita Springs Trailhead. This year's Fall Fest features eight hours of non-stop music and a Kid's Zone? View music lineup.
See a Broadway Show at the Saenger
Theater is back in New Orleans! Make plans to see Tootsie (November 9-12) or Rent (November 26-29). And Willie Nelson and Family will be at the Saenger November 16. Get tickets.
Drive through Celebration in the Oaks
Always wish they’d bring back the drive-through version of Celebration in the Oaks? You’re in luck. This year, instead of getting out and taking the train or strolling by foot through the light displays, you can drive your car. It’s a great way to kick off the holidays. Book your timed entry online. The fun begins November 25.
Experience Holidays New Orleans Style
On Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving), Holidays New Orleans Style begins. This month-long celebration of the season includes a mix of live and virtual events such as virtual holiday concerts, shopping, holiday dinners, light displays, and holiday riverboat cruises. You may even get to see Papa Noel!
See: Stuffed with NOLA: Restaurants Open Thanksgiving Day
See: New Orleans Weather in November