Southern Decadence Festival is what you hear first when asking for things to do on New Orleans Labor Day Weekend. However, you'll find more beautiful activities available in and near NOLA during the long weekend.
Paint the town red at Southern Decadence ( August 31 – September 5, 2023)
This iconic gay event runs for six days and nights and features a diverse program including concerts, parties, and after-parties, typically hosted by favored LGBTQ bars. The peak of the celebration falls on Sunday when the Southern Decadence Parade floods the French Quarter. The colorful street extravaganza kicks off at 2 pm. While some street parties offer free admission, others require weekend passes.
Let yourself to the Cool Zoo
Cool Zoo is a kid's area in the Audubon Zoo and locals' loveliest summer spot. It closes on Mondays, but Labor Day is a special exception when the doors are open to visitors. Families come to splash around on the water slides, unwind on a lazy river, and have fun with water cannons. Also, take your time to explore Uptown and the rest of the Audubon Zoo.
Fall in love with the City Park
With tons of family fun, New Orleans City Park wins the hearts of many. It has something to offer for everyone during all of the seasons and is also the right place to celebrate Labor Day Weekend. Come and explore 1300 ac (526 ha) of recreation and attractions. Check out the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, the Botanical Garden, the Bayou Oaks golf course, and so much more!
Escape from the crowds to the Honey Island Swamp
If you're into a day trip, the Honey Island Swamp is a great destination. The area boasts unique flora and fauna and is best discovered on a swamp tour. You'll encounter alligators, snakes, wild boar, raccoons, owls, egrets, all just a few feet off your boat. Pickup services are offered from a range of French Quarter hotels. But you can also drive there yourself. The swamp is only 35 mi (56 km) from NOLA. You'll find several tour operators offering day and night tour options.
Find all locations on the map below. For the latest updates, please check with the official websites (see External Resources below.)
