February in New Orleans: Best Events and Travel Tips

New Orleans, a city celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, lively festivities, and storied past, truly comes alive during the month of February. With an average high temperature of 65°F (18°C) and minimal rainfall, February offers mild and pleasant weather, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s numerous attractions and partake in its famous Mardi Gras celebrations.

In This Article

TL;DR

Mardi Gras festivities dominate February in New Orleans, featuring grand parades, krewes, and celebrations throughout the city.
The mild February weather allows for comfortable exploration of New Orleans‘ diverse attractions, including museums, historic sites, parks, and live music venues.
Alongside Mardi Gras, New Orleans hosts various cultural events and festivals in February, such as the French Quarter Festival and Black History Month observances.

Mardi Gras Celebrations

Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday,” is a centuries-old tradition that has become synonymous with New Orleans. The celebration, which takes place on the day before the start of the Christian liturgical season of Lent, is a time for feasting, revelry, and elaborate parades. In 2024, Mardi Gras falls on February 13, but the festivities begin weeks earlier.

Some of the major Mardi Gras parades in New Orleans include:

Krewe of Endymion (Saturday, February 10, 2024)

Known for its intricate floats and celebrity riders, the Endymion parade rolls through Mid-City and the Central Business District.

Krewe of Bacchus (Sunday, February 11, 2024)

This parade features a celebrity monarch and lavish floats inspired by Greek mythology, rolling through Uptown New Orleans.

Rex and Zulu (Mardi Gras Day, February 13, 2024)

The Rex parade, known for its traditional Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold, and the Zulu parade, famous for its hand-decorated coconuts, both roll through Uptown and the Central Business District on Mardi Gras Day.

Mardi Gras traditions include collecting beads and other “throws” from parade floats, wearing colorful costumes and masks, and indulging in King Cake, a sweet pastry decorated in the Mardi Gras colors and often containing a small plastic baby figurine.

Attending Mardi Gras Parades

To make the most of your Mardi Gras experience, consider the following tips:

Choose parades that align with your interests and schedule. Some parades are more family-friendly, while others cater to a more adult crowd.
Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the parade route. Many locals bring ladders, chairs, and blankets to claim their space.
Bring a bag to hold your catches, wear comfortable shoes, and dress in layers to accommodate changes in temperature.
Be mindful of safety and follow the instructions of police and parade marshals. Avoid reaching for throws that fall near parade floats or in the street.

Other February Events and Festivals

In addition to Mardi Gras, New Orleans hosts several other notable events and festivals throughout February:

French Quarter Festival (dates to be announced): This free music festival showcases local musicians and food vendors throughout the historic French Quarter.
Valentine’s Day (February 14): New Orleans offers a romantic setting for couples, with options ranging from intimate dining experiences to sunset riverboat cruises.
Black History Month: Throughout February, New Orleans celebrates Black History Month with events, exhibitions, and tours highlighting the city’s African American heritage and culture.

Weather and What to Pack

February in New Orleans is generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from a low of 48°F (9°C) to a high of 65°F (18°C). However, temperatures can sometimes dip into the 30s or soar into the 70s, so it’s best to pack layers that can be easily added or removed.

When packing for your February trip to New Orleans, consider bringing:

Light jackets, sweaters, and long-sleeved shirts for cooler evenings
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes for walking and attending parades
A light rain jacket or umbrella, as February can bring occasional showers
Mardi Gras costumes, masks, and festive attire if you plan to participate in the celebrations

Exploring New Orleans Attractions

February’s mild weather makes it an excellent time to explore New Orleans‘ many attractions. Some top picks include:

The National WWII Museum (945 Magazine St): This world-renowned museum offers immersive exhibits and experiences that tell the story of the American experience in World War II.
New Orleans Museum of Art (1 Collins Diboll Circle): Located in City Park, NOMA features an extensive collection of art from around the world, as well as a stunning sculpture garden.
The French Quarter: This historic neighborhood is the heartbeat of New Orleans, known for its colorful architecture, lively street performers, and famous landmarks like Jackson Square and Bourbon Street.
The Garden District: This picturesque neighborhood is home to grand mansions, beautiful gardens, and the historic Lafayette Cemetery No. 1.
City Park: As one of the largest urban parks in the United States, City Park offers a variety of attractions, including the New Orleans Botanical Garden, the Besthoff Sculpture Garden, and the New Orleans Museum of Art.
Live music venues: New Orleans is famous for its music scene, with legendary venues like Preservation Hall (726 St Peter St), Tipitina’s (501 Napoleon Ave), and The Spotted Cat Music Club (623 Frenchmen St) offering live performances throughout the month.

Food and Drink Experiences

No visit to New Orleans is complete without savoring the city’s renowned cuisine and cocktails. Some must-try local dishes and drinks include:

Gumbo: A hearty stew featuring a variety of meats and seafood, served over rice. Try it at Dooky Chase’s Restaurant (2301 Orleans Ave) or Gumbo Shop (630 St Peter St).
Jambalaya: A flavorful rice dish with meat, seafood, and vegetables. Enjoy it at Coop’s Place (1109 Decatur St) or Mother’s Restaurant (401 Poydras St).
Po-boys: A classic New Orleans sandwich served on French bread with a variety of fillings, such as fried shrimp, roast beef, or oysters. Get your fix at Address: 5240 Annunciation St, New Orleans, LA 70115 Phone: (504) 899-9126 or Address: 538 Hagan Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119 Phone: (504) 482-3047.
Beignets: Square-shaped fried pastries dusted with powdered sugar, famously served at Café du Monde (800 Decatur St).
Sazerac: The official cocktail of New Orleans, made with rye whiskey, Peychaud’s bitters, sugar, and absinthe. Sip one at The Roosevelt Hotel’s Sazerac Bar (130 Roosevelt Way) or Arnaud’s French 75 Bar (813 Bienville St).
Hurricane: A sweet, rum-based cocktail served in a distinctive curved glass. Try it at Pat O’Brien’s Bar (718 St Peter St), the drink’s birthplace.

For an immersive experience into New Orleans’ culinary scene, consider joining a food tour or cooking class. Some popular options include the New Orleans Culinary History Tours and the New Orleans School of Cooking.

Accommodation and Transportation

When choosing where to stay in New Orleans, consider the following neighborhoods:

The French Quarter: This historic district is at the center of the action, with easy access to many of the city’s top attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.
The Central Business District (CBD): Located just south of the French Quarter, the CBD offers a variety of hotels and is within walking distance of many popular destinations.
The Garden District: This charming, residential neighborhood is known for its beautiful mansions and gardens, and is a short streetcar ride from the French Quarter.

New Orleans offers a variety of transportation options for getting around the city:

Streetcars: The city’s iconic streetcars are a convenient and affordable way to travel between the French Quarter, the Garden District, and other popular neighborhoods. Fares are $1.25 per ride or $3 for an all-day pass.
Buses: The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operates a network of buses that serve the city and surrounding areas. Fares are the same as streetcars.
Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft are widely available in New Orleans, offering a convenient option for getting around, especially during busy Mardi Gras times when traffic and parking can be challenging.

When booking accommodations for February, particularly during Mardi Gras, it’s essential to plan well in advance, as hotels and vacation rentals can fill up quickly and prices may be higher than usual.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the exact dates for Mardi Gras?

Mardi Gras Day falls on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, but parades and celebrations begin in the weeks leading up to this date.
Is February a busy time to visit New Orleans?

Yes, February is a popular time to visit New Orleans due to the Mardi Gras celebrations and mild weather. Expect larger crowds and higher prices, especially closer to Mardi Gras Day.
Are there any family-friendly Mardi Gras events?

Yes, many Mardi Gras parades and events are family-friendly, such as the Krewe of Little Rascals and the Krewe of Barkus (a dog parade). However, some celebrations, particularly in the French Quarter, can be more adult-oriented.
What is the dress code for Mardi Gras balls?

Mardi Gras balls are formal events, typically requiring floor-length gowns for women and tuxedos or suits for men. Some balls may have specific dress codes or themes, so it’s essential to check with the organizers before attending.
How far in advance should I book accommodations for February?

It’s recommended to book accommodations as early as possible, especially if you plan to visit during Mardi Gras. Many hotels and vacation rentals can sell out months in advance, and prices tend to be higher during this peak season.