New Orleans, October 17, 2025
New Orleans is buzzing with activities for a vibrant weekend. From family-friendly Halloween fun to live music and adult-themed events, there’s something for everyone. Explore outdoor festivals, spooky tours, and workshops. Whether you’re with kids or out for a date night, the city has exciting options to keep you entertained and engaged. Discover top picks like NOLA Funk Fest, Boo at the Zoo, and unique workshops that highlight local culture.
Big-Hair Weekend in the Big Easy: What to Do in New Orleans Today
If you’re in New Orleans or thinking about slipping into town for some weekend chaos, listen up. The city is stacked with things to do today that cover every mood — from kid-friendly candy runs to brass-band sweat sessions and grown-up boos with beer. Below you’ll find the quick hits, the insider tips, and the best picks depending on whether you’re rolling in with the kids, a date night, or a posse of music fiends.
Top Picks for Today
- NOLA Funk Fest at Spanish Plaza — three days of rhythm, sweat, and bass for fans of funk and local flavor.
- Ghosts in the Oaks: Monster Mash at City Park Carousel Gardens — family-friendly costumes, trick-or-treating, and rides.
- Boo at the Zoo at Audubon Zoo — kids get candy and costumed fun in a zoo setting.
- Hot 8 Brass Band at The Howlin’ Wolf — pure New Orleans brass energy for late-night revelers.
- Candlelight: The Sounds of Soul at Hotel Peter and Paul — intimate, soulful music serviceable for date night vibes.
Family-Friendly Moves
Today is stacked with options that won’t melt your kids’ brains. City Park’s Monster Mash and Audubon Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo are classic choices — they mix rides, candy, and enough lights to keep little ones busy. Paw Patrol Live at UNO Lakefront Arena and movie night at Cuccia Byrnes Playground showing Dog Man are perfect if your crew runs on character energy and sugar.
For the Music Crowd
If you live for live sound, the city has you covered from indie to brass. NOLA Funk Fest at Spanish Plaza brings local and national funk acts to town. For a New Orleans-specific hit of brass, check the Hot 8 Brass Band at The Howlin’ Wolf. Minus The Bear at The Civic Theatre offers indie rock for folks who want something a bit more cerebral.
Spooky, Silly, or Sophisticated Evenings
Want spooky and social? Ghostly Gallivant Tours at The Cabildo is a walk through haunted history, while Brews + Boos at City Park mixes adult-only rides and open beer bars for a wilder grown-up evening. If you prefer your chills with theatrics, the Dinner Detective murder mystery at Sheraton Metairie turns dinner into an interactive whodunit.
Workshops, Classes, and Low-Key Fun
Get hands-on with cookie decorating at NOCHI or a bonsai workshop at local breweries like Chafunkta and Skeeta Hawk. If you want to learn something new without the late-night noise, the Courtyard Cocktails mixology class at the New Orleans School of Cooking is a relaxed afternoon pick.
Quick Practical Tips from a Local
- Timing matters — many family events are afternoon to early evening. Concerts and adult events crank up after sunset.
- Parking — expect event parking fees or lot fills near popular venues; rideshares are a solid backup, especially after shows.
- Weather — mid-October can swing warm days and chillier nights; bring layers and a light rain jacket if clouds look angry.
- Tickets — buy ahead for arena shows and popular concerts. Free events fill up fast; get there early for a good spot.
- Plan for kids — if you’re doing trick-or-treat stops, bring small bags, water, and a backup charger for tired parents’ phones.
Best Picks by Mood
If you want a snapshot: take the kids to Carousel Gardens or Audubon, take a date to Candlelight or the mixology class, and take your friends to NOLA Funk Fest or Howlin’ Wolf for brass and sweat. If you want a weird, gala-level night with costumes and cause-driven fun, Gallier Hall’s Parthenon Ball mixes dancing and fundraising.
Last-Minute Hacks
Check event start times carefully — some things listed as today may be daytime family events or late-night shows. Look for multi-event areas like City Park where you can hit more than one thing without driving. Bring cash for small vendors even though most places take cards.
FAQ
Do I need tickets for NOLA Funk Fest?
Many festival stages offer free daytime access, but paid VIP or headliner tickets may be required for certain performances or sections. Check the specific stage listings and buy ahead if the act is a must-see.
Are City Park and Audubon Zoo events good for toddlers?
Yes. Both have gentle rides and kid-focused activities. Go earlier in the day when toddlers are less tired and crowds are smaller.
Can I bring a stroller to Ghosts in the Oaks or Boo at the Zoo?
Strollers are welcome at both, but crowded paths and attached events might make maneuvering tricky during peak trick-or-treat times. Consider a lightweight stroller or baby carrier for large crowds.
Are there adult-only Halloween options?
Yes. Events like Brews + Boos offer adults-only access, including alcohol and adult-themed fun. Check age limits and ID requirements before you go.
How do I find late-night music shows?
Venues like The Howlin’ Wolf, The Civic Theatre, and The Joy Theater usually post show times online and on venue calendars. For late-night brass, check sets listed after 9 PM.
What safety tips should visitors know?
Stick to well-lit areas, travel with a buddy at night, keep valuables zipped away, and use rideshare or designated drivers after adult events. Keep an eye on children in crowded trick-or-treat zones.
Quick Reference Chart: What’s Happening Today
| Event | Type | Best For | Location | Time of Day | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NOLA Funk Fest | Music Festival | Music Fans, Locals | Spanish Plaza | Afternoon → Night | Mixed (some free, some paid) |
| Ghosts in the Oaks: Monster Mash | Family Halloween | Kids & Families | City Park Carousel Gardens | Late Afternoon → Early Evening | Paid |
| Boo at the Zoo | Halloween Event | Families | Audubon Zoo | Daytime → Early Evening | Paid |
| Hot 8 Brass Band | Brass Show | Nightlife, Music Buffs | The Howlin’ Wolf | Night | Paid |
| Paw Patrol Live | Family Show | Young Kids | UNO Lakefront Arena | Matinee | Paid |
| Candlelight: The Sounds of Soul | Concert | Date Night | Hotel Peter and Paul | Evening | Paid |
There you go — the city is loud, spooky, soulful, and a little sticky with fun. Whether you’re a born-and-raised local or a visitor trying to taste everything before you leave, pick your vibe and go hard. New Orleans is doing what it does best: giving you options and making you choose only the best kind of trouble.
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Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS 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.
