Southern Decadence
August 29-September 2
http://www.southerndecadence.net/
What started as a small street party in 1972 among tenants of a worn-down cottage in the Treme neighborhood of New Orleans, is now a world-famous celebration of the gay community. Take a look at the attached website for a full rundown of the history of this event. In its 48th year, Southern Decadence is the largest gay event held in New Orleans. It is routinely held in the French Quarter every year during Labor Day weekend. The festivities begin on Thursday and run well into the day on Monday. The theme of this year’s event is “Fruit Salad: Come Toss a Good Time” and the colors are polka dots and pinstripes. Discounted rates are available at The Bourbon Orleans Hotel, located on Orleans St in the French Quarter. This event features various contests, parties, concerts, etc. throughout the 4-day weekend. The Southern Decadence Walking Parade takes place at 2pm on Sunday, starting at the Golden Lantern, near Decatur St and Barracks St. See official website for full line-up of events.
Lil’ Weezyana Fest
September 7
https://www.arena.uno.edu/event/lil-weezyana-fest-2019/121/
Lil’ Wayne’s hosting his 5th annual Lil’ Weezyana Fest in his hometown at a new venue this year. The UNO Lakefront Arena Festival Grounds will provide for a larger space in hopes to double the attendance from previous years. Performances by the likes of Travis Scott, Meek Mill, Megan Thee Stallion, and Trey Songz will be showcased on two separate stages. General Admission: $72.00. Parking available at the festival grounds: $20, cash only. Part of the proceeds from each ticket sale will go to supporting educational initiatives for the youth of New Orleans.
Restaurant Week
September 9-15
https://restaurantweekneworleans.com/
August was COOLinary month, September 9-15 is Restaurant Week in the city. Here’s another chance to try out some of your bucket list restaurants without breaking the bank. Many restaurants around the city are offering specially priced prix fixe menus, 3-course meals starting at $20. Check out the website for a list of participating restaurants.
New Orleans Burlesque Festival
September 13-14
http://neworleansburlesquefest.com/
The 11th annual New Orleans Burlesque Festival will once again crown the top classic striptease dancer as the “Queen of Burlesque.” This form of adult entertainment is what put Bourbon Street on the map. Burlesque dancers from around the world will descend on the House of Blues for two nights of sexy, sultry, glamorous, humorous, risqué entertainment. See website for event details and ticket purchase.
The Great American Bar Crawl: NOLA
September 14
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-great-american-bar-crawl-nola-2019-tickets-54273246742
Patriotic partying at its best! In the spirit of celebrating our great nation, come join this group of “Patriotic Party Animals” as they bar crawl around the French Quarter. Dress up in your most creative red, white and blue patriotic attire. Bring your American flags, Uncle Sam hats and any other items symbolic of your American pride. Tickets are $19, which include a Great American Bar Crawl cup, American flag, complimentary welcome shooter, no cover charges at participating bars, drink specials, ridiculous games and surprises along the way! This event begins at 4pm (registration 3pm-4pm) at the Chart House—rain or shine.
National Fried Chicken Festival
September 20-22
http://www.friedchickenfestival.com/
Come enjoy fried chicken, every which way but raw, during this three-day event along Woldenberg Park. Over 30 vendors will be on hand to showcase their favorite fried chicken creations. The menu will also include vegan options for those wanting to avoid the consumption of our fellow cluckers. Three outdoor stages will feature music and cooking demos. The event will also include cooking and eating contests, a kids’ pavilion, scavenger hunt, VIP Lounge, Chill Lounge and a Football Fan Zone. Bring the family, lawn chairs and umbrellas, but please leave the pets and coolers at home.
NOLA on Tap
September 21
https://nolaontap.org/
The Louisiana SPCA presents Louisiana’s largest beer festival at the City Park Festival Grounds, with proceeds benefitting homeless animals at their shelter. What could possibly be better than drinking beer while helping homeless four-legged furry friends? Come enjoy over 400 local, national, and home-brewed beers, while munching on delicious food and listening to local musicians strut their stuff. As one would assume, pets are always welcome at this event. Check out the website for ticket info and purchase.
L.O.C.A.L.S’ Fest
September 28
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/locals-fest-nola-tickets-65388058443
Raw Revolution Productions, LLC, in partnership with NOSACONN (a non-profit organization), will host the first annual L.O.C.A.L.S’ Fest (Loving Our Community As Louisiana) at Louis Armstrong Park from 11am-6pm. The main purpose of this event is to showcase businesses and musicians who haven’t gotten their big break yet, but have awesome products and talent just waiting to be discovered. Admission is free, but donations are much appreciated.