10 Ways to Celebrate Independence Day
New Orleans has countless opportunities for you to show your patriotic side this 4th of July. Don your red, white, and blue and watch elaborate fireworks displays, dance your heart out to your favorite beats, and sample delicious cocktails.
There's something for everyone this Independence Day, so be sure to check out these 10 exciting local events taking place in and around Greater New Orleans during and around July 4.
1. Go 4th on the River
Downtown Riverfront (from the French Market District to the Riverwalk Outlets)
go4thontheriver.com
You won't want to miss this spectacular free fireworks show over the Mississippi River this 4th of July. Visible from the French Market District to the Riverwalk Outlets, the fireworks show will begin at 9 p.m.
Come down early to enjoy a shopping spree and treat yourself to delicious New Orleans snacks. From 6:30 to 7 p.m., there will also be a water show featuring the historic General Roy S. Kelley fireboat.
2. ESSENCE Festival of Culture
Multiple Locations
essence.com/essencefestival2025
The ESSENCE Festival of Culture is a four-day-long music festival and celebration of Black culture, which occurs yearly over the 4th of July weekend. This year, the festival is happening from July 3 to July 6.
The music ranges from hip hop to gospel and features Black voices who are defining genres and perpetuating black excellence. ESSENCE is more than another music festival—it is a call for identity, pride, and power.
3. Creole Queen 4th of July Fireworks Cruise
Spanish Plaza
creolequeen.com
Get up close and personal with 4th of July
fireworks during the Creole Queen's 4th July Fireworks Cruise. Board the
Paddle-wheeler Creole Queen on July 4 from 7 to 8 p.m. and enjoy a cruise on the
Mississippi River from 8 to 10 p.m.
During the cruise, enjoy live jazz music, a buffet of American classics, an open bar, and fantastic views of New Orleans. Prices range from $20 to $149.
4. The Old School Converse Just Wear White Party (The Family Reunion)
Razzoo Bar and Patio
eventbrite.com
Darron Wheeler Entertainment is hosting a throwback party at Razzoo Bar and Patio. The dress code is all white with Converse sneakers.
Enjoy live DJs and a three for one drink special for the duration of the party ( July 4 from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m). Tickets are $5 per person. So, dig your beat-up, old Converse out of your closet and try not to spill on your white t-shirt!
5. Happy 3rd of July at City Park
City Park
neworleanscitypark.org
Get the festivities going early at City Park Conservancy's Happy 3rd of July event. The activities will last from 6 p.m. to 9:15 p.m, beginning with a performance by the Marine Forces Reserve Band and ending with fireworks from the Peristyle.
Attendees are also welcome to sponsor the event and earn VIP status. Doing so will support the Conservancy and will give you access to the VIP area, beverages, and indoor bathrooms.
6. New Orleans 4th of July Day Bar Crawl
Multiple Locations
eventbrite.com
Take your 4th of July plans to the next level at this patriotic bar crawl on July 4! Check-in is at 8 p.m. at Fétiche, the first of five stops, and ends at 10 p.m. After Fétiche, crawlers will move onto SNEAKY PETE'S, Calogero's, High Grace, and Bourbon Heat. The crawl will end at 2 a.m.
Attendees can expect free entry into these venues, a digital map, live DJs, and a wild night you won't soon forget! Early bird tickets are live now for $13.76 per person.
7. Uncle Sam Jam
Lafreniere Park, Metairie
unclesamjamjefferson.com
Headlined by Don McLean of "American Pie" fame, Uncle Sam Jam, a free concert and fireworks event, will take place at the Al Copeland Concert and Meadow Stage in Lafreniere Park on Thursday, July 3 from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Other artists performing will be Shenandoah, Bottomland, Payton Smith, The Marine Forces Reserve Brass Band, and the Victory Belles. The festival will also boast a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.
8. Light Up the Lake in Mandeville
Lakeshore Drive between Coffee and Carroll Streets, Mandeville
visitthenorthshore.com
Join the fun at this free, kids friendly celebration on the Mandeville Lakefront. Fireworks, food trucks, music, and kids activities—Light Up the Lake in Mandeville has it all.
Festivities begin at 10 a.m on July 4, and fireworks will be launched at 8:30 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring picnic blankets and chairs and spend a relaxing day by Lake Pontchartrain. Glass bottles and charcoal grills are prohibited.
9. Bing & the Belles
The National WWII Museum
nationalww2museum.org
While the National WWII Museum's "Bing & the Belles" Luncheon occurs a few days before July 4 on June 30, it is the perfect way to get into the patriotic spirit while also remembering music legend Bing Crosby.
Guests will enjoy a buffet luncheon at 11:45 a.m. before the show at 12:45 a.m. The food will be catered by the museum's American Sector Restaurant & Bar. The experience costs $52 per person for members and $55 per person for non-members. If you would like to only attend the show, tickets are $22 per person.
10. Red, White, and Brew Bar Crawl
Multiple Location
eventbrite.com
Not ready to stop the party? Continue celebrating on July 4 and July 5 at the New Orleans Red, White, and Brew Bar Crawl.
Your wristband will gain you access to buzzing bars and pubs with a map to help you navigate. Also enjoy discounted food and drinks, live music, a free afterparty, and a professional photographer and videographer! Show off your most patriotic outfit and keep the party going!
Red, White, and Blue for All
New Orleans is never lacking in things to do, and this Independence Day is no exception. With the range of parties, music, and family fun that the city has to offer, it's sure to be a 4th of July to remember for everyone.
