Things to Do in New Orleans – August 2025
While the rest of the country melts under summer heatwaves, New Orleans turns up the volume with festivals, food, flair, and football. From mouthwatering meals at COOLinary to the vibrant sea of red at the Red Dress Run, August 2025 is bursting with uniquely NOLA experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Here’s your guide to the can’t-miss events lighting up the Crescent City this month. COOLinary New Orleans (All of August) Every August, New Orleans restaurants band together to serve up irresistible prix-fixe menus as part of the citywide COOLinary New Orleans celebration. This culinary showcase runs all month long and features two- and three-course meals at unbeatable prices, making it the perfect way to explore the city’s vibrant food scene without breaking the bank. Participating restaurants range from fine dining legends like Commander’s Palace to hip neighborhood gems and historic Creole kitchens. Whether you’re craving gumbo, Gulf oysters, or duck confit with a New Orleans twist, there’s a menu waiting to impress. Can’t-Miss COOLinary Spots: Pro tip: Book early, especially for weekends. These reservations go faster than beignets at Café du Monde. Satchmo SummerFest (August 2–3) Few names resonate through New Orleans like Louis Armstrong, the legendary jazz trumpeter born and raised here. Every year, Satchmo SummerFest transforms the historic French Quarter into a living tribute to Armstrong’s music and magic. Hosted at the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint, this two-day festival features: The vibe is festive, the horns are blaring, and the joy is contagious. So whether you’re a lifelong jazz lover or just learning about Armstrong’s genius, this event is a feel-good fusion of history and harmony. Red Dress Run (August 9) Yes, everyone wears a red dress, even the guys. Part bar crawl, part charity run, part costume party, the Red Dress Run is one of New Orleans’ most delightfully unhinged traditions. Held every second Saturday in August, this event sees thousands of participants donning red dresses (regardless of gender) and running (or dancing) through the French Quarter in the name of fun and philanthropy. What started as a quirky fundraiser has become a full-blown phenomenon. It’s not about who runs the fastest, it’s about who wears it best. What to Expect: Best of all, proceeds go to dozens of local charities. So you’re having fun and doing good. Now that’s a New Orleans win-win. Tip: This is a 21+ event. If you’re not into running, come for the people-watching, it’s always a blast. New Orleans Saints Preseason & Training Camp (Starting August 6) August means the return of Saints football, and the preseason energy is electric. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just in town for the weekend, the 2025 Saints Training Camp and Preseason Games offer a thrilling way to tap into the city’s sports pride. Key Dates: Fans can attend open practices at the Ochsner Sports Performance Center, where you’ll see rookies, including Kelvin Banks Jr, making their case and seasoned stars prepping for another big year. There will also be some extra fan interactions at training camp, including: And when it’s game day at the Caesars Superdome, the whole city lights up in black and gold. Expect tailgates, brass bands, and chants of “Who Dat?” echoing through the streets. NOLA Pickle Fest (August 6–10) Pickleball fever is sweeping the nation, and New Orleans is serving it up Big Easy style with the NOLA Pickle Fest. From August 6–10, pros, amateurs, and spectators will converge on the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center for five days of dinks, drops, and doubles. This isn’t your average tournament. It’s a hybrid sports festival and cultural celebration, complete with: NOLA Pickle Fest combines competition and community in a uniquely fun way! Bonus Fun: Book a Guided Swamp Tour Of course, no New Orleans trip is complete without getting out on the water, and August is the perfect month for a guided swamp tour. After all the festival food and French Quarter fun, you’ll crave something wild, scenic, and unforgettable. A guided swamp tour takes you deep into Louisiana’s hauntingly beautiful wetlands, where you’ll spot: It’s the perfect way to see the untamed side of New Orleans. Bring your camera, your curiosity, and your sense of adventure. Pro Tip: Book your tour in advance. August tours fill up fast, especially during festival weekends. Take Advantage of Everything NOLA Has to Offer in August Whether you’re grooving to jazz at Satchmo Fest, eating your way through COOLinary, or showing off your paddle skills at Pickle Fest, August in New Orleans is anything but boring. If you’re looking for that extra bit of fun and adventure, add in a swamp tour and you’ve got yourself a month to remember.