Gay things to do in new orleans
NOLA is a urban area rich in LGBTQ history with a slew of stellar queer-owned restaurants, bars, and activities to explore.
New Orleans is a popular destination known for its mouthwatering food, festivals, parties, and parades. And while many visitors know that the Louisiana municipality is steeped in history and customs, they may not know that the city’s queer history stretches all the way back to , which was when the first mention of homosexuality in the town was recorded. Since then, queer people contain helped build Novel Orleans into the destination it is today.
Artist Gaston Pontalba designed the cast-ironwork on the Pontalba Buildings in the French Quarter, while gay musicians—like rhythm and blues keyboardistJames Booker—left their mark on the city’s singular musical scene. Then there’s Fat Monday Luncheon, the oldest organized activity in all of Louisiana LGBTQ history, started in , and the now closed Steamboat Club, which was the city’s oldest social organization for gay men, founded in The urban area is also residence to the oldest continually-running gay lock in the Merged States, Cafe Lafitte i
By Dr. Laura McGuire
Welcome to the second installment of Traveling While Queer! Unite me as I journey across the country to discover our shared lgbtq+ history and sightsee in some of my favorite cities. Along the way, we will explore secret havens, places of LGBTQ significance, and help you plan your dream va-gay-tion. Next stop, NOLA!
Why I Love NOLA
I’ll admit I’m a bit biased—I loveNew Orleans. I first visited The Big Easy in , right after Hurricane Katrina wreaked its havoc. While I mourn the fact that I never got to see this vibrant city before that flooding and devastation, I am so grateful to experience its unparalleled tradition now.
New Orleans, Louisiana has long been a safe haven for artists, LGBTQ folks, and others who exist outside of society’s conventional norms. Photo by Dr. Laura McGuire.
You may be surprised to know that, every day I have traveled to New Orleans, it has been for a social justice-related conference. Although the city hardly gets enough credit for it, Fresh Orleans has a extended history of including and supporting visionaries and outside
Gay New Orleans – Best Lgbtq+ Hotels, Bars & Clubs, Events and More in
Best Queer Bars & Clubs
When it comes to gay nightlife, New Orleans knows how to throw a party. For the best queer bars and clubs to verify out in the Big Straightforward, read our full review here.
When to Go
New Orleans is a year-round destination, but what truly sets it apart are the countless LGBTQ+ and LGBTQ-friendly festivals and events that fill the calendar. From world-famous celebrations fancy Gay Mardi Gras to unusual experiences like the Red Dress Run, there's always something stimulating happening in the Crescent City.
Gay Mardi Gras (February/March) – A glittering twist on the city’s most famous event, featuring fabulous costume balls, parades, and parties galore.
French Quarter Festival (April) – A celebration of local meal, music, and culture, with free outdoor concerts scattered across the Quarter.
Jazz Festival (April/May)– A must for music lovers, this festival blends jazz, blues, and pop with a lively and diverse crowd.
New Orleans Pride (June)– A weekend full of parades, parties, and
10 best gay bars & LGBTQ Nightlife in Recent Orleans
New Orleans is a city that knows how to party and its LGBTQ nightlife scene is no exception. From legendary drag shows to high-energy dance clubs and intimate lounges, the Big Easy offers a diverse array of venues catering to the homosexual community. Whether you're searching a wild night on Bourbon Street or a cozy neighborhood lesbian pub with strong cocktails and approachable locals, there's a prevent for every vibe. Here's your updated guide to the top gay bars in New Orleans, each offering a unique trial filled with history, business, and, of course, delicious drinks.
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The Most Legendary Celebrations in Recent Orleans
New Orleans is a city that thrives on celebration, and two of its most iconic events—Southern Decadence and Mardi Gras—bring an explosion of paint, music, and unfiltered pleasure to the streets. Southern Decadence, often called the "Gay Mardi Gras," is a Labor Day weekend festiva