Thanksgiving in New Orleans: The Ultimate Family Guide to Holiday Fun

Thanksgiving in New Orleans isn’t your typical holiday. Instead of cold weather and crowded dining rooms, you’ll find sunny 70-degree days, parades, and incredible food that goes far beyond turkey and stuffing.

The city comes alive with holiday spirit—special menus at famous restaurants, family-friendly events, and plenty of festive energy. And with a stay at Hotel Perle, you’ll be right in the middle of it all, with spacious suites that make group gatherings easy. This guide highlights the best ways to celebrate Thanksgiving in the Big Easy.

Why Thanksgiving in New Orleans Hits Different

November in New Orleans feels just right. While much of the country is pulling on heavy coats, here you can wander the French Quarter in a light sweater—or even shorts during the day. The sticky summer heat is gone, replaced by perfect walking weather that makes exploring the city a pleasure.

Add in the food, and Thanksgiving becomes something special. Local chefs give holiday classics their own twist with dishes like turkey and andouille gumbo, sweet potato beignets, and praline bread pudding. It’s a feast that goes far beyond the usual turkey and stuffing.

For a place to stay, Hotel Perle makes group travel easy. Multi-bedroom suites give families and friends room to spread out, and the location on historic St. Charles Avenue puts you close to parades, restaurants, and events. The rooftop pool and on-site dining are ideal for downtime, and the streetcar outside the door makes it simple to reach the French Quarter or Garden District. After a full day of celebrating, Hotel Perle feels like the perfect home base to come back to.

Best Thanksgiving Events and Activities in New Orleans

Thanksgiving Day Race for the Food Bank

Date: Thanksgiving morning
Location: City Park

Start your Thanksgiving morning with a good cause – and work up an appetite for all that amazing food you'll eat later. The Race for the Food Bank includes both a 5K and a fun walk, so everyone in the family can participate. The atmosphere is festive rather than competitive, with families, friends, and even dogs joining in the fun.

Why it's perfect for Thanksgiving: Nothing beats earning your holiday meal while helping fight hunger in the community. Plus, City Park is gorgeous in November, and you'll meet plenty of friendly locals who make this race a tradition.

Holiday Parade of Boats

Date: Weekend after Thanksgiving
Location: New Orleans Lakefront

Watch dozens of boats decorated with thousands of twinkling lights cruise across Lake Pontchartrain. It's like a Christmas parade, but on water, and absolutely magical when the sun goes down. Pack some hot chocolate and claim a spot along the lakefront for the best viewing. Check the Lakeshore Foundation for exact dates and viewing locations.

Why it's perfect for Thanksgiving: Kids get mesmerized by all the lights, and there's something peaceful about watching the boats glide by. It's also free, which leaves more room in the budget for all that incredible food.

French Quarter Festival Preview Events

Date: Various dates throughout Thanksgiving week
Location: French Quarter venues

While the main French Quarter Festival happens in spring, many of the same musicians and artists host special Thanksgiving week performances in intimate venues throughout the Quarter. Check out spots like Preservation Hall or The Spotted Cat for authentic jazz performances.

Why it's perfect for Thanksgiving: Live music brings people together, and there's nothing quite like authentic New Orleans jazz to set the holiday mood.

Thanksgiving Day Football Watch Parties

Date: Thanksgiving Day
Location: Sports bars throughout the city

New Orleans takes football seriously, and Thanksgiving Day games become community events. Head to local favorites like The Saint or Finn McCool's Irish Pub for a lively atmosphere where Saints fans welcome visitors with open arms (especially if you're not rooting for the Falcons).

Why it's perfect for Thanksgiving: Even if your family isn't huge into football, the energy is infectious, and you'll get a taste of how locals celebrate together.

Sunset River Cruises with Holiday Themes

Date: Daily during Thanksgiving week
Location: French Quarter riverfront

Several companies offer special Thanksgiving-themed dinner cruises on the Mississippi River. The Steamboat Natchez and Creole Queen both put together holiday menus with incredible river views.

Why it's perfect for Thanksgiving: There's something about being on the water that makes holiday stress melt away, and the views of the New Orleans skyline at sunset are unforgettable.

Audubon Aquarium Holiday Events

Date: Thanksgiving week
Location: French Quarter

The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas often hosts special holiday-themed programs during Thanksgiving week, including behind-the-scenes tours and educational talks that are perfect for families.

Why it's perfect for Thanksgiving: It's a great indoor backup option if the weather doesn't cooperate, and kids love the interactive exhibits and penguin feedings.

Top Things to Do on Thanksgiving Day in New Orleans

Take a Self-Guided Food Tour

Thanksgiving Day is perfect for creating your own progressive meal throughout the city. Start with café au lait and beignets at Café du Monde, grab a po-boy for lunch at Johnny's Po-Boys in the French Quarter, and end with dinner at one of the restaurants mentioned above.

Why it works: You get to experience multiple neighborhoods and taste more variety than any single restaurant could offer.

Explore the French Quarter at a Leisurely Pace

Thanksgiving Day tends to be quieter in the Quarter, making it ideal for actually looking at the incredible architecture and popping into shops without fighting crowds. The cooler weather makes walking around comfortable, and many street performers are still out entertaining visitors.

Family tip: Stop by Jackson Square to see local artists, then walk down to the riverfront where kids can watch the ships go by.

Visit City Park and the New Orleans Museum of Art

City Park transforms into something magical in November. The ancient oak trees create a canopy perfect for family photos, and if anyone in your group needs some culture, the New Orleans Museum of Art has fantastic collections in a beautiful setting.

Perfect for mixed groups: Outdoor lovers can wander the park while art enthusiasts check out the museum. Everyone meets back up happy.

When you're staying at Hotel Perle during the holiday season, you're perfectly positioned to cool off with a dip in the rooftop pool after a day of walking around the city—something that's particularly nice when you've been indulging in all that rich Thanksgiving food.

Thanksgiving Foods and Drinks You Can't Miss

Pumpkin Bread Pudding at GW Fins

This isn't your typical pumpkin dessert. GW Fins takes their famous bread pudding and adds pumpkin and warm spices, creating something that tastes like Thanksgiving in a bowl. The whiskey sauce doesn't hurt either.

Sweet Potato Beignets at Café Beignet

Regular beignets are great, but sweet potato beignets during Thanksgiving week feel extra special. They're slightly denser than regular beignets, with a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with coffee. Find them at Café Beignet.

Turkey and Andouille Gumbo

Several restaurants around the city offer this Thanksgiving twist on classic gumbo. The turkey adds a holiday touch, while the andouille keeps it distinctly New Orleans. Try it at Mother's Restaurant or Dooky Chase's.

Cranberry-Pecan Pralines at Leah's Pralines

Traditional pralines get a Thanksgiving makeover with dried cranberries and extra pecans. They're perfect for snacking while you walk around the city or for bringing back home as gifts. Pick them up at Leah's Pralines.

Where to Eat Thanksgiving Dinner in New Orleans

Brennan's Restaurant

What makes it special: Brennan's takes traditional Thanksgiving dishes and gives them the royal New Orleans treatment. Their three-course Thanksgiving brunch includes everything from turtle soup to bread pudding with whiskey sauce.

Don't miss: The roasted turkey comes with cornbread stuffing that's loaded with Louisiana seasonings, and their praline sweet potatoes are basically dessert disguised as a side dish.

Reservation tip: Book early – Brennan's is popular with both tourists and locals for holiday meals.

Commander's Palace

What makes it special: This Garden District institution has been serving holiday meals since 1893, so they've had plenty of time to perfect their approach. The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between elegant and welcoming.

Don't miss: Their turtle soup is legendary, and the pecan-crusted fish of the day gives you something special alongside traditional turkey options.

Good to know: Commander's Palace offers both lunch and dinner seatings, and lunch is typically easier to book.

Ruby Slipper Café

What makes it special: If your group includes kids or anyone who prefers a more casual vibe, Ruby Slipper offers a fantastic Thanksgiving brunch with New Orleans flair at much more relaxed prices.

‍Don't miss: Their sweet potato pancakes with candied pecans capture all the flavors of Thanksgiving dessert in breakfast form.

Family-friendly bonus: Multiple locations, reasonable prices, and a menu that works for picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike. Check out their holiday specials.

Arnaud's Restaurant

What makes it special: Arnaud's brings French Creole elegance to Thanksgiving dinner, with dishes that honor both French techniques and Louisiana ingredients.

Don't miss: Their special Thanksgiving menu typically includes items like duck confit alongside traditional turkey, plus their famous bread pudding soufflé.

Perfect for: Adults looking for a more sophisticated holiday meal. Arnaud's also has an incredible wine list to pair with dinner.

Travel Tips for Your New Orleans Thanksgiving

Book Restaurant Reservations Early

Thanksgiving week is busy for New Orleans restaurants, especially the famous ones. Make reservations at least two weeks ahead, and have backup options in case your first choice is full.

Pack Layers

November weather in New Orleans can be tricky. Days might be warm enough for shorts, but evenings can get chilly. Bring a light jacket or sweater for dinner and evening activities.

Use the Streetcar System

Parking in New Orleans during busy times can be frustrating and expensive. The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority streetcar system connects most major neighborhoods and tourist areas, plus riding it is part of the New Orleans experience.

Plan for Walking

Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Many of the best Thanksgiving activities involve strolling through different neighborhoods, and you'll want to be comfortable exploring.

Download Ride-Share Apps

While streetcars and walking work great during the day, having Uber or Lyft as backup for late-night returns to your hotel or when the weather doesn't cooperate is smart planning.

FAQs | Thanksgiving in New Orleans

What's the weather like in New Orleans during Thanksgiving? 

November weather in New Orleans is ideal – typically 60s-70s during the day with cooler evenings. It's comfortable for walking around and much more pleasant than summer's heat and humidity.

Are restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day in New Orleans? 

Many restaurants offer special Thanksgiving menus, though hours may be limited. Popular spots like Brennan's, Commander's Palace, and Ruby Slipper Café typically serve Thanksgiving meals, but reservations are essential.

Is New Orleans crowded during Thanksgiving week? 

Thanksgiving week is moderately busy but not as crowded as Mardi Gras or summer peak season. You'll find shorter lines and more availability than during major festivals.

What should families with kids prioritize during a Thanksgiving visit? 

Start with the Race for the Food Bank, explore City Park, take a riverboat cruise, and don't miss the Holiday Parade of Boats. These activities are engaging for all ages and capture the city's holiday spirit.

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