New Orleans, September 26, 2025
New Orleans is alive with a vibrant mix of festivals, live music, and cultural events, providing residents and visitors with a multitude of free and unique experiences. From the BlackAmericana Fest to NOLAxNOLA and the Alligator Festival, there’s something for everyone in the city’s eclectic calendar. Enjoy outdoor concerts and family-friendly activities as local artists come together to celebrate the rich heritage of New Orleans. This one-day lineup promises great food, lively music, and endless fun for all ages.
Today in New Orleans: A One-Day Parade of Festivals, Music, and Free Fun
Listen up, New Orleans — the city is doing what it does best: packing a long weekend full of noise, rhythm, art, and food. If you live here or are planning a visit, today’s calendar reads like a who’s-who of local flavor. No fluff, just the essentials so you can pick a lane: music, culture, family fun, or all of the above.
BlackAmericana Fest — The Broadside, Sept 26–27
Think roots, grit, and songs that cut straight to the heart. This two-day celebration puts Black artists in the spotlight across Americana, Country, and Folk. Expect live sets, panels, interactive art, and kid-friendly activities. Perfect for folks who love music that tells a story.
NOLAxNOLA — Citywide, Sept 25–Oct 5
A ten-day love letter to the venues and musicians that make this town hum. Shows are scattered across stages citywide. Drop into a smaller room for a late-night set or catch a bigger name on a downtown bill — either way, you’ll get a dose of authentic New Orleans sound.
Hispanic Heritage Series — Lunchtime Concerts — French Market, Fridays through Oct 15
Free and outdoors. Bring a sandwich, grab a seat on a bench, and soak up two hours of music and culture right in the heart of the Market. Good for midday breaks and anyone who loves free concerts without the fuss.
NOMA at Night: Dawoud Bey — Elegy Opening — New Orleans Museum of Art, Sept 26
Evenings at the museum just got livelier. This opening celebration includes live jazz from a local quartet, light bites, a hands-on art station, and extended hours. Ideal for art lovers who like their exhibitions with a side of nightlife.
International Arts Festival NOLA — Congo Square, Orpheum, Fillmore, Sept 25–Oct 5
Global sounds and visual art collide across multiple venues. Expect big performances, vibrant exhibitions, and a community-minded vibe. It’s a cultural mash-up that’s as visually rich as it is musically bold.
New Orleans Yoga Festival — Republic NOLA & Arora NOLA, Sept 25–28
Four days of breath, movement, and sonic sessions. If you’re into wellness and community classes with creative soundscapes, this is your scene. Beginners are welcome — and sore muscles are optional.
Fall Movies in the Park — Parks across the city, Sept 26–28
Free outdoor screenings at local parks. Bring a blanket and popcorn. It’s family-friendly and low-key — perfect for an evening wind-down under the sky.
Westbank Heritage Festival — Downtown Gretna, Sept 25–28
A full-throttle weekend of culture, food, and music on the Westbank. Local eats, live acts, and plenty of dancing. A great excuse to cross the bridge and discover local favorites.
Alligator Festival — New Orleans Lakefront, Sept 25–28
Folks flock to the Lakefront for this one. Live alligators, carnival rides, ten bands, and a big lineup of food and crafts. It’s loud, lively, and a throwback fair with a local twist. Proceeds help fund scholarships, so feel good about splurging on a beignet or two.
Heads up: events can shift, so check the organizers’ pages for the latest times and ticket info. But if you’re in town and itching for something to do, these picks have something for every kind of New Orleanian — and for visitors who want the real deal.
Insider Tips From a Local
- Beat the lines: Arrive early for free concerts and family events — the prime spots fill up fast.
- Transport: Rideshares are handy, but for citywide festivals consider hopping local transit or biking to avoid traffic headaches.
- Stay fed: Pack water and cash for vendors. Some small booths are cash-only.
- Dress smart: Layer up for sudden evening chills; daytime heat can still hit hard.
FAQ
Q: Are the concerts and festivals family-friendly?
A: Many events listed are family-friendly, especially daytime festivals, the Alligator Festival, and lunchtime concerts at the market. Check individual event details for any age restrictions.
Q: Are these events free?
A: Several offerings are free, like the lunchtime concerts and some park movie nights. Other events may require tickets or have paid sections. Confirm on the event pages.
Q: What’s the best way to get around during festival days?
A: Use a mix of walking, public transit, and rideshare. For citywide festivals, plan for extra travel time and consider parking outside the busiest zones.
Q: Are pets allowed at these events?
A: Policies vary. Outdoor community events often allow leashed pets, but indoor venues and certain parks may restrict animals. Look up each event’s rules before bringing a pet.
Q: Where can I find food at these events?
A: Expect food vendors at most festivals and markets. For museum nights, there are usually light bites available. Bring cash for smaller vendors and a hearty appetite for local specialties.
Quick Comparison Chart
| Event | Dates | Vibe | Cost | Family-Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BlackAmericana Fest | Sept 26–27 | Roots & storytelling | Paid | Yes |
| NOLAxNOLA | Sept 25–Oct 5 | Citywide music crawl | Mixed | Varies |
| Hispanic Heritage Lunchtime | Fridays through Oct 15 | Free midday concerts | Free | Yes |
| NOMA at Night | Sept 26 (evening) | Art + live jazz | Paid/Free options | Family-friendly activities |
| International Arts Festival | Sept 25–Oct 5 | Global music & art | Mixed | Yes |
| New Orleans Yoga Festival | Sept 25–28 | Wellness & sound | Paid | Mostly adults |
| Fall Movies in the Park | Sept 26–28 | Chill outdoor screenings | Free | Yes |
| Westbank Heritage Festival | Sept 25–28 | Local culture & food | Free/Paid attractions | Yes |
| Alligator Festival | Sept 25–28 | Fair + live animals | Paid | Yes |
There you go — a fast, local roundup to help you decide where to be tonight and this weekend. Whether you want to dance under the lights, learn something new, or eat your way through the Lakefront, New Orleans has a platter of choices. Get out there and claim your slice.
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Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
