A city that takes joie de vivre to new levels, New Orleans naturally organizes its celebratory approach to life into some of the world’s most popular (and eclectic) festivals.

Festivals are more than a great time for New Orleans; they are an important driver for the city’s tourism industry, its economic backbone. But even more, festivals are a joyous celebration – and the very embodiment – of the city’s cultural heart and soul.

And there’s so much to celebrate: our city’s fascinating history and unique cultural heritage; its natural beauty; its creative and culinary arts; its world famous music; and, perhaps most of all, the very spirit of its people, who invite the world to laissez les bons temps rouler (let the good times roll) at New Orleans’ myriad festivals!

Featured Upcoming Festivals:

	Mardi Gras 2009 (January 6 - February 24, 2009) Join us for seven weeks of king cakes and parades as we celebrate Fat Tuesday, February 24!
	Spring Fiesta (March 27- April 5, 2009)  The festival includes tours of Garden District, French Quarter and Uptown homes not usually open to the public. The presentation of the Spring Fiesta Queen and her court takes place March 31 in Jackson Square, followed by the Night in Old New Orleans Parade.
	Tennessee Williams Literary Festival (March 25-29, 2009)  This annual five-day celebration showcases national and regional scholars, writers and performing artists. Programs include panel discussions, theatrical performances, a one-act play competition, lectures, literary walking tours, musical performances and a bookfair.
	French Quarter Festival (April 17-19, 2009)  Enjoy 250 hours of free entertainment featuring more than 150 musical performances on fifteen stages, plus the "World's Largest Jazz Brunch" across nearly 60 food and beverage booths, throughout the French Quarter over a three-day weekend.

The fun happens year-round: Search our Calendar of Events for a full list of festivals.