Thanksgiving in New Orleans
New Orleans is far from your traditional city, and Thanksgiving in the Big Easy is no exception! Where else in the world can you eat a turducken and take a voodoo tour for Thanksgiving? From creole Thanksgiving dishes to human horse races, your Thanksgiving in New Orleans is sure to be spiced with culture, served with a side of weird, and toasted to for years to come!
Things to Do for Thanksgiving Week in New Orleans
-Dining
The highlight of every Thanksgiving is the food, and the menu in New Orleans never disappoints! Dine at historic French Quarter restaurants with special holiday menus such as Arnaud’s and Brennan’s. Opt for less traditional with a Cajun fried turkey from Flamingo A-Go-Go or a prix fixe menu featuring oysters rockefeller and duck gumbo at the eclectically stunning Jack Rose. If you’re looking to host your own local Thanksgiving dinner, visit a Rouses market for authentic NOLA Turkey Day dishes like rice dressing and southern pecan pie. Of course Thanksgiving is only one day, so be sure to get your fill throughout the week of non-holiday New Orleans dishes like crawfish etouffee and banana’s foster. Po-boys are a must for your NOLA dining list, and the Oak Street Po-boy Fest is happening the Sunday before Thanksgiving for a day of music, festivities, and plenty of po-boys!
–Events
Nobody does fandom quite like New Orleans! Get in on the games and cheer on the Pelicans at Smoothie King Stadium. While the Saints are away for Thanksgiving, the Who Dat Nation never rests. Stop in any sports bar on game day, and get a taste of the Saints fan experience.
Thanksgiving Day events include the Thanksgiving Classic horse races at the Fair Grounds and the comical Human Horse Races at Easton Park. A more traditional holiday experience. Celebration in the Oaks opens on Thanksgiving night where New Orleans City Park is decked out with magical Christmas lights and holiday treats like a festive train and “snow” area.
-Shopping
While New Orleans isn’t a city typically known for shopping, it is known for its artistry and history. Support local artists and purchase one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones all along the French Quarter. Royal Street is famous for its antiques and art galleries where you can score truly spectacular treasures. There are of course places to score Black Friday deals on high end brands at the Shops at Canal Place or outlet steals at the Riverwalk.
-Tours
When in New Orleans, take a tour. Whether you’re new to the city or you’ve been a dozen times, there’s always a new tour to explore from walking food tours to late night cemetery encounters. And don’t forget nature! Fall is the best time of year to visit the famous Louisiana swamp when the humidity and mosquito counts are low. Have a truly Cajun experience on an airboat tour or take a thrill ride on the world’s first fully aquatic swamp zip line with ZipNOLA.
The holidays only enhance the incredibly unique things to do on a vacation to New Orleans! So be sure to hit the regular highlights of bar hopping in the Quarter, riding a streetcar, visiting Mardi Gras World, and enjoying a beignet and a cafe au lait at Cafe du Monde. In New Orleans, you’ll find even more to be thankful for this holiday season!