New Year's Eve in New Orleans 2024-2025

New Orleans is famous for its vibrant, over-the-top New Year's Eve celebrations, blending Southern charm with a lively party atmosphere. Known for its iconic Mardi Gras, the city brings that same energy to ringing in the new year with parades, fireworks, and music. The French Quarter and beyond come alive with revelers, live bands, and a festive spirit that's unmatched anywhere else in the country. Huge crowds gather in Jackson Square, which has become the epicenter of NYE street parties.

NYE at Jackson Square

Just a block away from the Jax Brewery, you can join the biggest New Year celebration of New Orleans at Jackson Square. Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve is a free must-see event with huge crowds and live music .For a few hours before midnight, there's various entertainment and festive mingling that culminates with the Fleur De Lis drop (an alternative to the Times Square ball drop) and fireworks over the Mississippi as the New Year kicks off. You might want to show up early to get a spot closer to the center.

Allstate Sugar Bowl New Year’s Eve Parade

One of the key events during the New Year’s celebrations is the Allstate Sugar Bowl New Year’s Eve Parade, a highlight for both locals and visitors. This fan-favorite event brings Mardi Gras-style flair to the holiday. The parade kicks off in the afternoon on December 31st and winds its way through the historic French Quarter. Starting at Elysian Fields Avenue, it follows Decatur Street before ending near Canal Street, offering prime views of festive floats, marching bands, and costumed performers. College football fans will especially love it, as it features representatives from the teams playing in the Sugar Bowl, adding a unique sports twist to the event. Expect to catch beads, enjoy vibrant music, and take in the lively atmosphere New Orleans is known for.

Parties

All sorts of live music shows and parties take place on December 31 across the city. Big Night New Orleans is one of top NYE parties in the city. Held at the Convention Center, Big Night features multiple dance floors, live bands, DJs, and open bars. Tickets for Big Night start around $110 for general admission and go up for VIP access. The event promises an unforgettable night filled with music, dancing, and New Orleans’ signature festive atmosphere.

Many bars on Bourbon St and Frenchmen St also offer live music, cocktail specials, open bars, and food for a flat cover fee. You can find a seat at one of the famous French Quarter balconies to overlook the wild street party unfolding below. If crowded outdoor and indoor celebrations are not your thing, make a reservation at one of the city’s fine restaurants or catch live jazz performances in venues across the city. You can have a magical night on the Mississippi River with a dinner cruise on the iconic Steamboat Natchez. New Orleans offers endless ways to ring in the new year with style and excitement.