New Year’s Eve Bourbon Street Balcony Parties: What to Expect

New Year’s Eve on Bourbon Street in New Orleans is an unparalleled celebration, with over 50,000 revelers packing the historic street to ring in the new year. One of the most sought-after experiences is attending a balcony party, where guests can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the festivities while indulging in open bars, live music, and catered food.

TL;DR

• Balcony parties provide a unique vantage point to immerse in the festive Bourbon Street atmosphere
• Numerous bars and clubs along Bourbon Street host balcony parties featuring live music, DJs, and open bars
• Attending a balcony party requires advanced ticket purchase or special access

Bourbon Street on New Year’s Eve

On December 31st, Bourbon Street transforms into a pedestrian-only promenade adorned with festive decorations, lights, and sounds. The street is closed to vehicular traffic, allowing party-goers to freely roam and celebrate. The atmosphere is electric, with music emanating from every bar and club, and the streets filled with people dressed in their finest New Year’s attire.

Types of Balcony Parties

There are two main types of balcony parties on Bourbon Street: private parties and ticketed events. Private parties are hosted by individuals or groups who rent out balcony spaces, often through vacation rental companies or directly from property owners. These parties are typically invite-only and can be more intimate affairs.

Ticketed events, on the other hand, are organized by bars, nightclubs, and restaurants along Bourbon Street. These parties often feature live music, DJs, and open bars, and can accommodate larger crowds. Some popular venues that host balcony parties include The Swamp, Bourbon Vieux, and The Bourbon Cowboy.

What’s Included in Balcony Party Packages

Balcony party packages vary depending on the venue and event, but typically include:

• Open bar with beer, wine, and cocktails
• Catered food or appetizers
• Live entertainment or DJ music
• Party favors like hats, noisemakers, and beads
• Access to indoor spaces for restrooms and additional bars

Prices for balcony party packages can range from $100 to over $500 per person, depending on the level of amenities and exclusivity. Some high-end packages may also include VIP experiences like bottle service, private restrooms, and dedicated servers.

Booking and Attending a Balcony Party

If you’re interested in attending a balcony party on New Year’s Eve, it’s essential to make reservations or purchase tickets well in advance. Many events sell out weeks or even months ahead of time, so it’s best to start planning early.

When attending a balcony party, it’s important to arrive early to secure a good spot on the balcony. Some events may have assigned seating or standing areas, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to follow any dress codes or party guidelines provided by the venue, and come prepared for potential weather conditions, as many balconies are uncovered.

Experiencing the Bourbon Street Atmosphere

One of the highlights of attending a balcony party is being able to take in the Bourbon Street atmosphere from a unique perspective. From your perch above the street, you can watch the crowds and festivities unfold, interact with party-goers on other balconies, and even toss beads to those below.

As midnight approaches, the excitement builds as the crowd counts down to the new year. Many balcony parties offer a champagne toast at midnight, and some even provide a view of the fleur-de-lis drop, a New Orleans tradition similar to the ball drop in Times Square.

After midnight, the celebration continues into the early morning hours, with many balcony parties going until 2am or later. Some venues may even offer breakfast or late-night snacks to keep the party going.

Tips for Enjoying a Balcony Party

To make the most of your balcony party experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Pace yourself with drinking and eat enough food throughout the night to avoid getting too intoxicated
• Stay with your group and be aware of your surroundings, especially when navigating crowded spaces
• Take breaks from the balcony and explore indoor spaces as needed, particularly if you need a reprieve from the noise or weather
• Be respectful of other guests, staff, and property, and follow any rules or guidelines provided by the venue

Alternative Ways to Experience New Year’s Eve

If a balcony party isn’t your style, there are plenty of other ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in New Orleans. One popular option is attending the festivities in Jackson Square, which features live music and a midnight fireworks show over the Mississippi River.

Another option is booking a riverboat cruise, many of which offer dinner, dancing, and scenic views of the city skyline. Some cruises even include a champagne toast at midnight and a front-row seat to the fireworks display.

For a more upscale experience, consider attending a hotel gala or special event, many of which feature live entertainment, gourmet food and drinks, and a midnight balloon drop or champagne toast.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, New Year’s Eve in New Orleans is an unforgettable experience filled with music, food, and festive fun. With a little planning and an open mind, you’re sure to have a night to remember in the Big Easy.

Balcony Party Venues and Details

The Swamp: 516 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130. Balcony party packages start at $200 per person and include open bar, buffet-style food, and live music. Doors open at 9pm.

Bourbon Vieux: 501 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130. Packages range from $150-$500 per person and include open bar, hors d’oeuvres, and a champagne toast at midnight. Event runs from 9pm-2am.

The Bourbon Cowboy: 241 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130. General admission balcony tickets start at $150 and include open bar and party favors. VIP packages with table service and bottle service are also available. Doors open at 8pm.

Cornet: 700 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116. Balcony party packages start at $250 per person and include a four-hour premium open bar, appetizers, and a midnight champagne toast. Event runs from 9pm-1am.

Mambo’s: 411 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130. Packages start at $200 per person and include open bar, a dinner buffet, and live entertainment. Doors open at 8pm.

Remember, prices and package details are subject to change, so be sure to check with the venue directly for the most up-to-date information. Booking early is highly recommended, as these popular parties often sell out well in advance of New Year’s Eve.