New Orleans will be the first stop as America welcomes the tall ships of the world to the Port of New Orleans for a nationwide celebration of America's 250th anniversary! Between May 27 and June 1, 2026, we will celebrate America's Sestercentennial with the largest-ever flotilla of tall ships from around the world creating a majestic nautical spectacle along the historic Mississippi River. Along with the majestic tall ships flotilla, a diverse array of events, festivities and celebrations will be held across the entire region to educate, entertain and engage audiences from across the country and across all communities. Join us in 2026 for this unforgettable once-in-a-generation event.

Mark your calendars, music lovers! The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival returns April 23 - May 3, 2026, and I'm here to help you navigate one of the world's greatest music celebrations from my home base at Jean Lafitte House, right on the edge of the French Quarter.

Easter in New Orleans is not a single event. It is a full day of layered celebration, rooted in centuries of Catholic tradition, refracted through the city's irrepressible love of parade, pageantry, and the pleasures of the table.

The short-term rental landscape in New Orleans has dramatically shifted as over 1,000 unlicensed Airbnb properties were recently removed from the platform following the city's enforcement of rigorous new permitting regulations. This massive purge, which began in August 2025, represents one of the most significant changes to New Orleans tourism accommodations in years, leaving many travelers scrambling to find alternative lodging options for their French Quarter visits.

Rising majestically from the heart of New Orleans' downtown landscape, the Caesars Superdome stands as more than just a sports venue – it's an architectural wonder, a symbol of civic pride, and a testament to human resilience. Whether you're a passionate NFL fan planning to witness the Saints in action or a curious visitor exploring New Orleans' iconic landmarks, the Superdome's remarkable history offers fascinating insights into both engineering ambition and the indomitable spirit of the Crescent City.

New Orleans in the early 1800s was a city where empires collided, fortunes were won and lost with the turn of a card, and men like Jean Lafitte could transform from outlaws to patriots overnight. It was an era when the Mississippi River carried more than cargo – it carried the dreams and ambitions of a rapidly expanding nation, while the narrow streets of what would become the French Quarter witnessed negotiations between pirates and presidents, smugglers and statesmen. 3 exceptional History Channel productions have recently showcased the dramatic events, larger-than-life personalities, and pivotal moments that shaped New Orleans during this extraordinary period.

Connecting these water-divided communities are some of America's most impressive and historically significant bridges. Everyday the Big Easy welcomes guests who arrive via these engineering marvels, each with its own story to tell. Whether you're driving across the state or approaching from neighboring regions, understanding these bridges helps you appreciate both the journey and the destination.

Planning your first visit to the Big Easy? New Orleans can feel overwhelming with its rich history, unique culture, and endless entertainment options. At Jean Lafitte House, we've welcomed countless first-time visitors to our historic French Quarter property, and we've compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you make the most of your inaugural New Orleans experience.

New Orleans' relationship with American independence is complex. When the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, the city was under Spanish rule. It wasn't until 1803 – a full 27 years after the Declaration of Independence – that New Orleans became American through the Louisiana Purchase. This unique history created New Orleans' distinctive approach to celebrating American independence.

What better way to celebrate the founding of the United States than with a spectacular fireworks show along the mighty Mississippi River? This Independence Day, New Orleans offers one of the most patriotic and picturesque celebrations in the country with the return of Go 4th on the River – a free fireworks extravaganza that transforms the New Orleans Riverfront into a dazzling display of red, white, and blue.

At Jean Lafitte House, our intimate courtyard plunge pool offers guests an exclusive escape from the bustling French Quarter streets – a tranquil oasis where you can cool off, unwind, and recharge before your next adventure. When the New Orleans heat reaches its peak, there's nothing quite like having your own private sanctuary to retreat to.

Each year, over 400,000 visitors experience this cultural phenomenon where music, food, art, and heritage combine to create an atmosphere unlike any other festival in America. The 2025 edition promises to continue this tradition with an exceptional lineup spanning eight remarkable days.

Discover exceptional value at one of New Orleans' most distinctive boutique hotels. Our special offers are designed to enhance your experience while providing outstanding savings for travelers visiting The Big Easy. Book directly on our website or with our Guest Services Team for the best rates available.

The French Quarter Festival is returning to the heart of New Orleans from April 10-13, 2025, bringing with it the unmistakable sounds, flavors, and energy that make this free musical celebration one of the city's most anticipated events. We're excited to share the insider's guide to making the most of this extraordinary weekend.

This distinctive moniker has become an integral part of New Orleans' identity, appearing on everything from local business names to tourism materials. The nickname beautifully captures both the physical shape of the city and its ever-changing, dynamic nature. Like many aspects of New Orleans' rich history, the "Crescent City" nickname has several fascinating origin stories, each highlighting a different aspect of this unique metropolis:

As the final notes of jazz fade into memory and the last beads are swept from the streets, we at Jean Lafitte House reflect on what can only be described as a triumphant return to form for New Orleans' beloved Mardi Gras season. The 2025 celebration exceeded all expectations, with the crown jewel of our Mardi Gras day experience being the enchanting St. Anne Walking Parade that passed right by our doorstep.

At Jean Lafitte House, our guests often ask about the origins of our city's most famous celebration. As we prepare for another magnificent Mardi Gras season, we thought we'd share the fascinating history behind this beloved tradition that has become synonymous with New Orleans culture.

As we celebrate another successful Super Bowl here in New Orleans, we at Jean Lafitte House can't help but reflect on our city's remarkable legacy as one of America's favorite Super Bowl destinations. With Super Bowl LIX now in the books, New Orleans has proudly hosted the NFL's championship game eleven times – a testament to our city's enduring appeal and unmatched hospitality.

The French Market, just a short stroll from Jean Lafitte House, stands as America's oldest continuously operating public market, dating back to 1791. Originally a Native American trading post along the Mississippi River, the market evolved into the commercial and cultural hub we know today.

At Jean Lafitte House, we cherish our role as caretakers of New Orleans history. On this election day, we reflect on one of the most significant land deals in American history - the Louisiana Purchase of 1803 - which brought our territory into the United States and forever shaped the destiny of New Orleans. Our property witnessed New Orleans' transition from French colonial port to American city, making it a living testament to this pivotal era.