March Spring means crawfish season in Louisiana, and March is prime time to enjoy backyard boils, seafood festivals, and restaurant specials. Families and friends gather around tables covered in
steaming trays of spicy crawfish and traditional fixings, with peak season lasting through late May. A unique New Orleans tradition, the Louisiana Irish-Italian Parade celebrates the city’s
Photo by Josh Brasted
April The French Quarter Festival showcases the music, food, and culture that make New Orleans unique. Spanning over 20 stages through- out the historic district, the free festival has attracted locals and visitors alike since1984. Enjoy sounds from traditional jazz to brass bands and Zydeco, taste flavors from over 60 Louisiana restaurants, and enjoy community fun from April 8-11. frenchquarterfest.com The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival , known simply as Jazz Fest, is a world-renowned event that celebrates Lou- isiana’s music, food, art, and culture held in the Fair Grounds Race Course. International headliners perform alongside local favorites, creating one of the city’s most anticipated events each year. jazzandheritage.org May
rich cultural heritage. Rolling through the streets of Metairie, usually on the Sunday following St. Patrick’s Day, the parade highlights the contributions of both the Italian and Irish communities in Louisiana. Parade-goers can expect floats, marching band, and unusual throws like cabbages, carrots, and pota- toes. stpatricksdayneworleans.com Horse racing season reaches its peak in March with the 114th Louisiana Derby Day at Fair Grounds Race Course on March 20. The day combines thrilling races, festive traditions, and a chance to experience one of New Orleans’ longest-running sporting events. fairgroundsracecourse.com
May is a great time to experience New Orleans’ live music scene through recurring concert series such as Wednesday at the Square, Gallatin Street Fridays, and New Orleans Jazz Museum Balcony Concerts and Courtyard Sessions. From Lafayette Square to City Park and throughout the French Quarter, free and low-cost performances showcase the local musicians who give the city its soundtrack. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child brings the Wizarding World to life with stunning special effects, magical illusions, and an all-new adventure featuring Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and the next generation of Hogwarts students. A must- see for fans of the beloved series, the production combines theater and magic when it comes to the Saenger Theatre May 11–16. saengernola.com Experience Greek food, music, dancing, and culture at the annual Greek Festival . Hosted by the parish community of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, the event offers authentic cuisine, family activities, and lively entertainment along Bayou St. John on Memorial Day weekend, May 28-30. gfno.com
10 2026 | Family Resource Guide
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator