Experience the Charm of New Orleans in April: A Traveler's Guide
Curated By
Gillian Spatz
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Active Travel
City Travel
New Orleans
Local Culture
Entertainment
Outdoors
Curator’s statement
April in New Orleans is not just a month; it's an experience filled with vibrant culture, festive celebrations and the bloom of spring. Visiting New Orleans in April offers travelers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the city's rich heritage, from jazz music that fills the air to culinary delights that tantalize the taste buds. This period marks a time when the city comes alive with numerous events and festivals, making it an ideal time for tourists to explore the historic streets, enjoy the beautiful weather and partake in the festivities that define the heart and soul of New Orleans. Whether you're drawn by the allure of world-renowned cuisine, the sounds of live music, or the desire to explore historic neighborhoods, New Orleans in April presents an unforgettable journey into the essence of the Big Easy.
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Experience the Best of New Orleans in April: From Festivals to Sports, Cuisine, and Outdoor Fun
FESTIVALS
French Quarter Festival: A vibrant celebration of New Orleans' music, food, and culture, held in the historic French Quarter, featuring local musicians across various genres.
Jazz Fest: Officially known as the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, this event showcases a wide array of music from jazz to R&B, along with crafts and local cuisine, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Louisiana.
Crawfish Festival: A culinary event dedicated to Louisiana's beloved crawfish, featuring boiling competitions, music and a variety of crawfish dishes, celebrating local seafood cuisine.
Hogs for a Cause: A charity barbecue competition and music festival that raises funds for pediatric brain cancer care, blending philanthropy with Louisiana's love for barbecue and music.
Strawberry Festival: Celebrate the strawberry harvest in Ponchatoula, just outside New Orleans, with a weekend of family-friendly activities, rides and, of course, plenty of strawberry treats.
SPORTS
Catch a Pelicans game: Experience the excitement of NBA basketball by watching the New Orleans Pelicans play at the Smoothie King Center, embracing the city's sports culture.
Zurich Classic: A professional golf tournament part of the PGA Tour held in New Orleans, bringing together top golfers from around the world for competitive play and charity.
NOLA Gold Rugby: Support New Orleans' professional rugby team, NOLA Gold, by attending a match, showcasing the growing popularity of rugby in the city.
Round of Golf: Enjoy a leisurely round of golf at one of New Orleans' scenic golf courses, offering a tranquil escape with lush landscapes and challenging layouts.
Stretch Your Muscles: Engage in outdoor activities like yoga in the park, kayaking on Bayou St. John, or cycling along the Lafitte Greenway, promoting wellness amid the city's natural beauty.
OUTDOOR FAMILY FUN
Wednesdays in the Square: A weekly concert series held in Lafayette Square, featuring live music performances by local bands, food stalls and an upbeat atmosphere, ideal for midweek relaxation.
Visit the Audubon Zoo: Visiting in Aprill treats families to the delightful sights and sounds of exotic animals amid the lush, blooming landscapes of New Orleans in spring. It's an ideal time for children to explore the vibrant outdoor exhibits and interactive experiences, making it a perfect blend of education, nature and fun under the gentle warmth of the April sun.
Need to Know
As the sun sets on the vibrant cityscape, it's clear that visiting New Orleans in April is an unparalleled experience that blends cultural richness, festive spirit and the beauty of springtime rejuvenation. From the lively streets of the French Quarter to the serene beauty of the city's parks in bloom, New Orleans in April encapsulates the soulful essence of a city that continues to enchant and inspire visitors long after their journey ends.
This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to New Orleans. In need of further inspiration? Check out Ali Woodward’s guide, The Coolest Things to Do in New Orleans.
Travel Advisor
Gillian Spatz
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