New Orleans has a full roster of activities, events and festivals enticing guests throughout February and March.

February

Mardis Gras season is typically celebrated in February and March. While the date fluctuates by year, there are numerous events throughout the city leading up to Mardi Gras Day, also known as Fat Tuesday. This year, Fat Tuesday falls on March 1 and the city celebrates with parades in the weeks leading up to the holiday. Known as krewes, the popular groups leading parades include Krewe de Vieux, Krewe of Muses and Krewe of Endymion. Check out the full listing of parades on the website.

© Paul Broussard

February is Black History Month and New Orleans hosts numerous events, performances and community service efforts to honor the important commemoration. Craft your own Black History Month itinerary following this guide.

Also happening in February is Tet Fest, celebration of the Vietnamese New Year. Featuring traditional food, performances and activities, the festival runs Feb. 4–6.

March

Coming off of Mardi Gras season, the city gears up for a variety of spring festivals and events. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the popular Irish Channel Parade, taking place in the Lower Garden District neighborhood. For book lovers, New Orleans hosts two literary festivals in March: Tennessee Williams Literary Festival and Saint and Sinners Literary Festival. The free Wednesday at the Square music series kicks off March 16. The weekly concert series runs through May. BUKU Festival, an immersive arts and music festival, takes place March 25–26.

A visit to New Orleans isn’t complete without experiencing the city’s culinary scene. Two food fests to check out during March are the Top Taco and Hogs for a Cause festivals. Top Taco boasts unlimited tacos and tequila. Hogs for a Cause is a barbecue cook-off, with proceeds going to fight pediatric brain cancer.

Check out the calendar for more events happening in February, March and beyond.