Whitney White Linen Night is a free block party in downtown New Orleans mixing art and entertainment. (Photo via Flickr user John W. Schulze)

August at a Glance: 5 Must-Do New Orleans Events

Think August is a slow month in Crescent City? Think again.

In New Orleans, higher temperatures and longer days don’t discourage us from our usual festivities. The good times keep rolling with extra-special events!

If you’re ready for some only-in-New-Orleans fun, here are the most exciting events to add to your itinerary for your August NOLA adventure.

One of the highlights of Satchmo SummerFest in New Orleans this August is the ‘Satchmo Salute’ Second Line Parade honoring Louis Armstrong.
Photo: @matthintonphoto via Instagram

Satchmo SummerFest

At the very start of August, New Orleans celebrates its most famous son, Louis Armstrong, with a two-day weekend festival known as Satchmo SummerFest.

This lively musical showcase features three stages of local brass bands and jazz performers. And there are special events to attend, including informational presentations about the life and times of Armstrong.

There will also be kid-friendly activities and tons of New Orleans’ signature dishes to enjoy. With options like po-boys, crawfish pies, and shrimp remoulade, we suggest you come hungry!

It’s a birthday party fitting for Satchmo himself that takes place July 31-August 1 this year. Plus, the show kicks off within a 15-minute walking distance from our French Quarter hotel!

Whitney White Linen Night is a free block party every August in downtown New Orleans mixing art and entertainment.
Photo: @hospitalitynola via Instagram

White Linen Night

On Saturday, August 7, 2021, Julia Street in the Warehouse District will host the annual art gallery crawl known as White Linen Night.

Art lovers dress up in their best white outfits and stroll through Julia Street’s incredible galleries. Come join the fun and admire works of art from the city’s vibrant art scene. There’s also plenty of music and food to enjoy and blocks of the street will be closed to vehicular traffic for this block party bash.

A pure-white outfit isn’t required, but dressing the part is definitely encouraged! The main event is free to attend and takes place from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.

The Red Dress Run is a Fun Charity Event Every August in New Orleans
Photo: @vsimmons63 via Instagram

Red Dress Run

Every year on the second Saturday of August, the city runs red with a special NOLA tradition: the Red Dress Run. And whether you’re running or not, the day is filled with fun and excitement.

Open to everyone, Red Dress Run does have a dress code: participants are required to dress up for the occasion (in a red dress, of course).

The race starts at 9 a.m. at Crescent City Park, with runners weaving their way through the Marigny and French Quarter neighborhoods with drinks in hand. Everyone meets back at the park for an 11:30 lunch, and that’s when the party kicks off. There’s food, live music, and great company to enjoy!

Enjoy Criollo's special COOLinary menu, available all month long this August inside Hotel Monteleone in the French Quarter

COOLinary

Our personal favorite of all the New Orleans August events is COOLinary, a month-long culinary extravaganza.

Every summer, restaurants across the Crescent City take part in this special tradition that offers dining experiences at New Orleans’ finest restaurants with exclusive menus at unbeatable prices – including our very own on-site restaurant, Criollo!

This year, Criollo will be serving up a special COOLinary menu with a 3-course prix-fixe feast – including a classic cocktail – for just $25. You’ll have your choice of options like Balsamic Marinated Ponchatoula Strawberries, Blue Crab and Corn Beignets, Grilled Airline Chicken Breast, Pan Roasted Speckled Trout, and more. You can view the full menu options here.

exploring new orleans' French Quarter, in the heart of the city at hotel monteleone

The Perfect Spot For Exploring New Orleans This August

Planning a trip to the French Quarter before summer ends? Book your stay at Hotel Monteleone and experience the best that New Orleans has to offer!

August in New Orleans brings plenty of summer fun. From White Linen Night to Red Dress Run, add these festive events to your New Orleans vacation plans.

HOTEL MONTELEONE
TOUR GUIDE OF NOLA

Explore some of our favorite things to do in New Orleans, including our suggestions for shopping, dining, and historic attractions.

Cuddle Up to the Top 5 Cozy Bars in New Orleans

Discover our top five cozy bars in New Orleans' French Quarter – each a historic haven within a mile of Hotel Monteleone. Candlelit, high-style spaces ...
Read More

Have any questions, need further information, or help booking?

SUMMER RATES THAT ARE JUST RIGHT

Book your summer stay at Hotel Monteleone and enjoy 15% off standard rates.


make a reservation

You have Successfully Subscribed!

Scroll to Top