Did you know 2018 marks the 300th anniversary of our beloved city’s founding?
This year, New Orleans is going all out in celebration of its Tricentennial. In addition to several citywide projects, New Orleans will host an array of events in recognition of the city’s incomparable culture and storied history. Visitors can enjoy exclusive exhibits in the city’s most notable art galleries and museums, watch unique performances in venues across the city and indulge at Tricentennial festivals through the end of the year.Â
The first major Tricentennial event of 2018 happens this Saturday, January 6, to welcome in the Carnival Season. Pay a visit to The Carousel Bar & Lounge, then head down to the riverfront for the King’s Day Celebration fireworks show at 9:00 p.m. and let the Mardi Gras-themed display get you ready for parade season! After that, check out some of the can’t-miss events below before New Orleans’ 300th year ends!
Notable Tricentennial Exhibits
Prospect.4 [Now until February 25, 2018] – New Orleans’ citywide contemporary arts triennial features creations and installations from local, national, and international artists in venues across the city. Residents and visitors can view Prospect.4 exhibits in a wide range of spaces from local coffee shops to the Contemporary Arts Center in the Warehouse District.
The Historic New Orleans Collection’s exhibition “New Orleans, the Founding Era” [February 27 – May 27, 2018] – The Historic New Orleans Collection will display rare artifacts, artwork, and documents from the city’s first inhabitants over its first few decades. Admission is free to this captivating exhibit.
New Orleans Museum of Art’s Duke of Orleans Exhibit [October 25, 2018 – January 27, 2019] – Phillip II, Duke of Orleans (and our city’s namesake), collected a range of works that showcase New Orleans’ growth over the course of his lifetime. You will be able to see his collection starting this fall at NOMA.Â
Notable Tricentennial Performances
Tabasco: A Burlesque Opera [January 25-28, 2018] – This short-run opera made its initial debut in 1894, and the New Orleans Opera Association is reviving this spicy performance in celebration of both the Tricentennial and the makers of Tabasco hot sauce, the McIlhenny Company’s 150th anniversary.
Chinese Opera by the Houston Chinese Consulate [February 16, 2018] – Welcome in the Chinese New Year with a New Orleans-inspired by the Chinese Opera inside Harrah’s Casino.
Festivals & Concerts with a Tricentennial Flaire
Tricentennial Symposium: Making New Orleans Home [March 8 – 11, 2018] – Enjoy a compelling schedule of lectures and programming centered around the city’s rich history.
Up From the Streets Tricentennial Concert [March 10, 2018] – This electrifying concert will celebrate New Orleans’ role in the birth and rise of jazz music across the globe. Local and international musicians will join together for this can’t-miss performance for the Tricentennial.
Neighborhood Block Parties [April 22, 2018] – Head to Armstrong Park for a community celebration then take a ride up to City Park for an extravagant fireworks display.Â
New Orleans Jazz Fest Closing and Tricentennial Fireworks Display [May 6, 2018] – The second weekend of Jazz Fest will end with a huge fireworks display over the Fair Grounds Race Course in Gentilly. You’ll want to bring your fold-out chair for this festival closer!
Luna Fete [December 1 – 31, 2018] The short-run lights festival will extend its dates for the Tricentennial year. Don’t miss the outdoor light projections and interactive multimedia displays at this downtown holiday festival.
Celebrate 300 Years with Us!
The Hotel Monteleone is the perfect place to stay when you visit for the Tricentennial. Our French Quarter location makes exploring the city’s many exhibits and installations a breeze. Join us for a Big Easy celebration that’s 300 years in the making before we turn 301!