New Orleans is a city that never needs an excuse to celebrate. Whether it’s a spontaneous brass band in the street, a costume parade, or a food festival, there’s always something happening. If you’re planning a weekend in the Big Easy, the list of things to do in New Orleans this weekend is as colorful and exciting as the city itself.

Explore French Quarter Events

The heart of New Orleans is always alive with activity, and French Quarter events are a weekend staple. Jackson Square often features local artists, musicians, and street performers bringing the historic space to life. Seasonal happenings like the French Quarter Festival transform the area into a massive street party with food vendors and live stages. Even on a quiet weekend, browsing French Market is a fun way to sample local flavors and shop for unique finds.

Sway to the Sounds of Jazz Nights

Music runs through the veins of New Orleans, and jazz nights are an essential part of the weekend. Preservation Hall offers a historic, intimate setting with traditional jazz, while The Spotted Cat Music Club on Frenchmen Street is perfect for cozy, energetic sets. For a bigger stage, Blue Nile hosts well-known performers with funk, soul, and brass thrown into the mix. Wherever you go, there’s a rhythm waiting to pull you in.

Join in on Festivals

There’s almost always a festival somewhere in New Orleans. From music and art to food and culture, the city celebrates just about everything. The Po-Boy Festival pays tribute to one of Louisiana’s most beloved sandwiches, while the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival pairs soulful music with mouthwatering barbecue. With so many festivals year-round, it’s easy to stumble into a celebration you didn’t even know you needed.

Catch a Parade

Of course, no New Orleans weekend is complete without a parade. Mardi Gras season brings the biggest and most famous spectacles, but smaller parades like Krewe of Boo during Halloween or neighborhood second-line parades add just as much excitement. The tradition of brass bands, costumes, and dancing in the streets makes every parade a uniquely New Orleans experience.

Add a Twist With a Murder Mystery

For something truly different, swap the bar crawl for an interactive night of intrigue. Hosting a murder mystery party in New Orleans with The Murder Mystery Company turns friends into suspects and detectives in a hilarious whodunnit. Professional actors keep the story moving, but guests get to play the starring roles. It’s a one-of-a-kind way to celebrate the weekend with food, fun, and a little mystery.

The Big Easy’s Weekend Finale

From French Quarter festivals to late-night jazz sets, colorful parades, and a dose of mystery, New Orleans weekends are designed to be unforgettable. The hardest part isn’t finding something to do—it’s deciding where to start.

For a unique experience that brings food, laughter, and storytelling together, contact The Murder Mystery Company to plan a private event. Call 888-643-2583 or fill out the contact form on their website to book a mystery-filled weekend in the Big Easy.