New Year’s Eve in New Orleans, Louisiana: Music, Magic and Midnight Moments

Set the tone for the big day (and the big game) at the Allstate Sugar Bowl Parade. Starting at the intersection of Elysian Fields Avenue and Decatur Street, this Mardi Gras-style celebration travels through the French Quarter showcasing colorful floats, lively marching bands and energetic street performers entertaining fans of all ages. Reach out and catch your share of beads flying through the air! The parade route follows historic Decatur Street along the Mississippi River, passing iconic landmarks like the French Market, Café du Monde and Jackson Square before its final stop at Canal Street. Afterward, check out sports bars like Second Line Brewery or American Sports Saloon. The fun is just getting started.

Forget the typical New Year’s Eve countdown. The New Orleans take on the tradition, the Crescent City Countdown, features a Fleur de Lis Drop (inspired by the famed Times Square ball drop in New York City). Held at Jackson Square in the heart of the French Quarter, this free and open-air event includes live music and entertainment leading up to the final countdown. As midnight approaches, join the crowd in gathering to watch the beloved fleur-de-lis symbol drop from above The Shops at Jax Brewery. The grand finale is a mesmerizing fireworks display over the Mississippi River.

For stellar views of New Year’s Eve fireworks in New Orleans, head to the banks of the Mississippi River. Both the east and west banks offer spectacular vantage points. Crescent Park near the French Market is one ideal spot to spread out a blanket and soak in the celebratory atmosphere. Crowds will quickly fill the area so be sure to arrive early to secure a coveted spot. Other great spots include Woldenberg Park, Moonwalk Riverfront Park and Algiers Point.

Want to kick it up a notch? Consider a fireworks cruise on the mighty Mississippi. Reserve a ticket aboard the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen or Steamboat Natchez for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve experience with a touch of New Orleans magic. These floating parties offer front row views of the fireworks plus food, drinks and live entertainment under the stars.

What better way to kick off the new year than New Orleans’ many nightlife destinations? On Bourbon Street, the atmosphere is electric and the energy never fades. Snag a spot on one of the iconic wrought-iron balconies overlooking the street – perfect for tossing beads and celebrating Louisiana-style. Just a block away, Frenchmen Street offers a music-centered vibe with venues like The Spotted Cat Music Club, The Maison, The Blue Nile and Café Negril, making it another great destination to keep the party going.

Start your New Year's Eve journey by flying into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). After you touch down, you'll find it easy to reach the city center with options including rental cars, airport shuttles and buses readily available. Once settled in, take advantage of the city's walkable streets and excellent public transportation to navigate between festivities.