New Orleans knows how to party — New Year’s Eve is no exception. Photo credit Tulane Public Relations via Flickr.
New Orleans is known as a hard-partying city and New Year’s Eve is no exception. From fireworks and a giant Fleur-de-lis to live music and fireworks over the Mississippi river, ringing in the New Year in New Orleans is as high-energy or as high-class you’d like it to be.
NOLA is a foodie’s paradise and New Year’s Eve provides a unique opportunity to experience the flavor of the town. For gastronomes, consider one of the Reveillon dinners: specially priced multi-course tasting menus at some of New Orleans’ most famous and well-loved restaurants (there are more than 40 to choose from). From classic, historic dining venues to trendy new hot spots, there is something for just about every taste for a New Year’s Eve feast. Just be sure to book your reservation early–seating fills up quickly.
For ground zero of the festivities in New Year’s Eve in New Orleans, head to Jackson Square well before midnight to secure a standing room spot. The crowds arrive with their “to-go” cups and festive cheer to view the dropping of the ball, which is actually a massive Fleur-de-lis, the symbol of New Orleans. There is also live music with shows from bands ranging from national headliners to local favorites.
New Year’s Eve fireworks launch from a barge on the river, so keep an eye to the sky and head to the levee to watch the fireworks erupt. Insider Tip: this can be done on either side of the riverbank, so head to Algiers Point via the Crescent City Connection or the ferry and view the fireworks from there to avoid the crowds. Another great vantage point for seeing the fireworks in New Orleans is on the water. Both the Creole Queen and the Steamboat Natchez offer special New Year’s Eve cruises that feature live entertainment, food, open bars and unparalleled views of the fireworks.
For those looking for quintessential NOLA revelry, the French Quarter is the place to be. The balconies and open-air courtyards are great spots for watching fireworks, if you can find space. Bars and clubs will host the countdown, but most are just getting going at midnight so revelers typically head down to Bourbon Street for drinks and celebrating, which will last long into the early hours of the new year.
While the French Quarter might be full of good times, there are plenty of options for live music in New Orleans and some of the bet places are located just a step beyond the Quarter on Frenchmen. Wander over to this enclave to experience a more intimate music scene — it’s where the locals come to play after their sets finish elsewhere. Some favorites include Maison and The Spotted Cat Music Club.
From classy to crazy, there is a way to ring in the New Year for just about everyone in New Orleans. So light up some sparklers, put on your party hat, and celebrate the new year, NOLA style.