Festivals in New Orleans

For many people, what they know about New Orleans begins and ends with its parties: Mardi Gras—the biggest street blowout in America—or Jazz Fest, the grand-père of all other music fests and still the best music event in the country, despite copious spawn. In the place where anything is an excuse for a celebration (festivals center on swamps, gumbo, crawfish, frogs, tomatoes, daiquiris, pork, and on it goes), the first thing you need to bring is a rollicking, party-ready attitude. New Orleans pretty much does the rest.

This will give you some background, foreground, and tips to help you get on your good foot for the biggies: Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest.