September in New Orleans means football is back—and so are some of the city's biggest festivals. The Saints kick off the season on the road against the Detroit Lions on September 13, followed by a trip to Baltimore to take on the Ravens on September 20. Then it's time to pack the Caesars Superdome for the home opener against the Las Vegas Raiders on September 27. Whether you're cheering from the Dome or joining the crowd at one of New Orleans' legendary sports bars, game days are always an experience. And between kickoffs, the city keeps the celebration going with a full lineup of festivals, live music, and unforgettable events. Here's what's happening this September.
🌊 NOLA River Fest | September 12, 2026
Celebrate the river that helped shape New Orleans at this free festival at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. Expect live music, local food, presentations and plenty of Mississippi River culture, plus a second line kicking things off at Jackson Square. A mighty good way to celebrate the Mighty Mississippi. Learn more.
🍸 New Orleans
Cocktail
Week | September
21–27,
2026
Raise a glass (or two) during this citywide toast to the
cocktail scene. Sip
and savor at top spots like Tujague's, Oceana
Grill, and Mambo's. Cheers
to September in New Orleans. Learn
more.
🎶 International
Arts
Festival | September 24–27,
2026
Big names. Big vibes. This year’s lineup features twelve
performers including
New Orleans’ own Irvin Mayfield and Corey Henry and the Treme Funket. Music lovers, this one's
for
you. Learn more.
🎷 NOLAxNOLA | September 24 – October 4,
2026
A celebration of everything local—live music, comedy, art,
and pure New
Orleans soul. Support the venues and artists who make the city sing. Find your new favorite band
or catch a
surprise show—it’s all part of the magic. Get the
lineup.
✨ Rhinestones on the River: Dolly Cruise | September 25, 2026
Put on
your rhinestones and take Dolly Day to the river. The Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS hosts a
75-minute Dolly
Parton cruise featuring nonstop Dolly hits, light bites, themed cocktails, festive photo ops and
Mississippi River
views. The boat docks at 4:45 p.m.—just in time to head over and join the Krewe of Dolly parade at
5. A portion of
the proceeds benefits Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Learn
more.
💖 Dolly Day Parade | September 25, 2026
New
Orleans is showing a whole lot of love for Dolly. Join the Krewe of Dolly for a walking parade
through the
French Quarter followed by a celebration of Dolly Parton’s life, music and generous spirit.
September 25—yes, 9 to 5
Day—has officially been designated “Dolly Day” in New Orleans, making this a particularly fitting
way to celebrate
the Queen of Country. Learn
more
Posted: August 1 2025 | Blog