BY TPS STAFF

Halloween in New Orleans is unlike anywhere else. With the city’s rich history of voodoo, haunted lore, and year-round spooky vibes, Halloween is a particularly magical time. Whether you’re looking for haunted tours, festive parades, or just a great party, New Orleans has it all. Here’s how to make the most of Halloween in the Crescent City.

1. Attend the Krewe of BOO! Parade

Kick off your Halloween celebrations with New Orleans’ official Halloween parade, Krewe of BOO! Held annually in October, this ghoulishly fun event rolls through the French Quarter and features elaborately decorated floats, costumed riders, and plenty of festive throws. The parade ends with the Monster Mash afterparty, where you can dance the night away in costume.

• When: October 19, 2024
• Where: Starts in the Marigny and rolls through the French Quarter.

This parade is a family-friendly event, making it perfect for all ages. Just be sure to arrive early to snag a great spot along the parade route.

2. Take a Ghost or Voodoo Tour

New Orleans is famous for its haunted history, and Halloween is the perfect time to explore the darker side of the city. There are numerous ghost tours that will take you through the city’s most haunted spots, including the LaLaurie Mansion, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, and Pirate’s Alley. If you’re intrigued by the mystical side of New Orleans, book a voodoo tour to learn more about the spiritual practices that have shaped the city.

• Haunted History Tours and French Quarter Phantoms are two popular companies that offer these spine-chilling tours.

3. Party on Frenchmen Street

While Bourbon Street might be famous for its year-round party atmosphere, Frenchmen Street is where the locals go to celebrate Halloween. Known for its live music venues, Frenchmen Street turns into a massive Halloween block party, with people in elaborate costumes dancing in the streets. Many of the bars and clubs on Frenchmen offer live music, and you’ll find plenty of street performers adding to the fun.

• Where to Go: Check out popular spots like The Spotted Cat, d.b.a., and Snug Harbor for live jazz and funk performances throughout the night.

4. Visit the House of Shock or New Orleans Nightmare Haunted House

If you’re looking for a classic haunted house experience, New Orleans Nightmare (previously known as the House of Shock) is one of the best haunted attractions in the area. This interactive, multi-stage haunted house offers horrifying scenes, terrifying actors, and immersive storytelling, making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers during Halloween.

• When: Open select nights throughout October.
• Where: Located just outside the city in Jefferson, it’s a quick drive or ride-share away.

5. Explore the French Quarter in Costume

The French Quarter is always festive, but it really comes alive during Halloween. Many bars and restaurants host costume parties, and it’s common to see people dressed up as everything from traditional ghosts and witches to elaborately themed group costumes. Stroll down Bourbon Street or Royal Street, where you can join in the fun, and don’t miss the iconic Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, which often hosts one of the best Halloween parties in town.

• Pro Tip: Pack a creative costume—New Orleans takes Halloween seriously, and the more elaborate, the better!

6. Explore the Cemeteries

New Orleans’ above-ground cemeteries, often referred to as Cities of the Dead, are fascinating year-round, but they take on a special significance during Halloween. Consider visiting St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, the final resting place of voodoo queen Marie Laveau, or Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, which has appeared in numerous films and TV shows. Many tours are available, or you can explore on your own during daylight hours.

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From haunted tours to lively parades, New Orleans offers endless ways to celebrate Halloween. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in spooky history, party in costume, or experience a thrilling haunted house, the city’s rich cultural backdrop makes Halloween in New Orleans an unforgettable experience.