New Orleans Halloween
If you think Mardi Gras is the festival to end all festivals, you haven’t spent Halloween in New Orleans yet! The city really brings the frights with parties, events, athletic events, and plenty of both tricks and treats. One of the biggest parties in town, Pirate’s Revenge, takes place October 27-30 this year. It’s a benefit weekend for Project Lazarus and a nod to the early 1800s when Pirate Jean Lafitte stole ships and sold his bounty to New Orleans residents. This year, join fellow booty-lovers and hunt for his hidden goods around the city—followed by dancing at the best haunts in town.
On October 27, the Lazarus Ball takes place at il Mercato. It’s the ultimate Thursday event to get the holiday weekend started early. Costume contests, insane decorations, and plenty of ghoulish delights await. The next day, head to the HNOGlow Neon Party dressed in your best glow-in-the-blacklight costume. It’s at the Civic Theatre and guaranteed to get your weekend off to a howling good start.
Party in the City
Join one of the many haunted tours of the French Quarter, and discover the thrilling underbelly of the city. The “Cities of the Dead” in the local cemeteries are popular stops this time of year (all while honoring and respecting those who have passed, of course). Historic grave sites are a must-see any time of year, but it’s especially fitting in October.
Swing into one of the many voodoo shops, or check out the stunning costume shops! Street parties pop up everywhere, with the Frenchmen Street shenanigans being especially popular. Boo at the Zoo is a family friendly affair, and the annual Voodoo Arts and Music Festival is an event you can’t miss.