In this week’s post, we’ll tell you all the details about upcoming festivals and give you some tips for having a great, accessible stay in “The Big Easy.”
Mardi Gras
The streets of New Orleans are dressed in purple, green and gold. Although Mardi Gras is celebrated in different parts of the United States, it has special relevance in this city.
If you are thinking of attending next year, we recommend that you plan your trip well in advance, as accommodations are often fully booked by December. Although the key day is March 1, Carnival season starts after January 6.
Be aware that many streets will be closed and there will be thousands of visitors. Fortunately, the New Orleans Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) offers a parade schedule by neighborhood that allows you to plan ahead and get around in comfort. Buses are accessible, with drop-down ramps, priority seating and wheelchair areas. Also, the red streetcars have elevators that facilitate the entry of people with reduced mobility.
As recommended by MardiGrasNewOrleans.com, if you are traveling with children, you should avoid the French Quarter. The costumes are provocative and the atmosphere is only appropriate for adults.
French Quarter Festival
The French Quarter Festival will be held April 21-24. It is the perfect celebration to discover the gastronomy, art and culture of New Orleans. Stages and food booths flood the iconic Jackson Square and other corners of the city.
In addition to public transportation, you can get around a place with mobility equipment. You can turn to companies like Mobility City, which offer rental and repair services.
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
More than one hundred local and national artists come together in this event to provide a unique program and for Louisiana’s musical heritage to be heard forever. This year, it runs from April 29 through May 8. As always, in addition to being accompanied by great music, you’ll also see local food and craft booths.
Satchmo Summerfest
The Satchmo Summerfest pays tribute to the legendary Louis Armstrong. From August 6 to 7, live music and other special events will be enjoyed.
The venue is the New Orleans Jazz Museum, which is accessible. From the official website it is recommended that users with reduced mobility enter through Barracks Street. If you have any questions or special requests, you can contact them in advance. There are also open-air performances.
White Linen Night
White Linen Night will take place on August 6. Dressed in white to temper the heat, citizens will stroll through the more than 20 art galleries on display in the Arts/Warehouse District. As every year, there will also be live music and food booths.
Voodoo Music + Arts Experience
The famous Voodoo Music + Arts Experience festival is held at City Park. This year, it promises to bring an unforgettable experience for Halloween. Such is its popularity that it has attracted more than 2,000 artists and a million attendees. We look forward to hearing more details soon.
An advantage of these celebrations is that there are many outdoor food stalls. Although accessible restaurants can be found in all districts, keep in mind that many of them are located in historic buildings. However, the official tourism website of New Orleans recommend to book in advance and mention if you are a wheelchair user.
We also remind you that from Travegali we can find the best adapted accommodation for you. We recommend the following hotels for your stay:
- Omni Riverfront
- Homewood Suites By Hilton New Orleans
- Homewood Suites New Orleans French Quarter
- Doubletree Hotel New Orleans
- Embassy Suites By Hilton New Orleans
Tell us, would you like to attend any of the festivals mentioned? Would you recommend any others?
Sources: NewOrleans.com and MardiGrasNewOrleans.com
