Best NOLA Events for the Weekend
National IPA Day at Port Orleans
Head out to Port Orleans on August 6 for one of the brewery's biggest holidays, National IPA Day. Try one of their many ales, lagers, and IPAs on tap at one of New Orleans' most popular breweries. All that beer will pair well with their great selection of tacos and burgers from Avo Taco. If you were not planning on celebrating IPA Day, now is your chance to do so.
Soul Rebels at Le Bon Temps Roule
lbtrnola.com/new-orleans-uptown-le-bon-temps-roule-events
See the band that has made Le Bon Temps Roule a go-to music venue on Thursday nights. The Soul Rebels, known who their mix of New Orleans brass, jazz, soul, and hip-hop, will be taking the stage at Le Bon Temps Roule once again. Music kicks off at 11 p.m., but there is plenty of fun to be had pre-show. Le Bon Temps Roule has a menu built for bar food and a great selection of drinks and cocktails for all your pre-show needs.
HNOC's Antique Forum
hnoc.org/events/antiques-forum-2026
From August 7 to 9, the Historic New Orleans Collection will host its annual New Orleans Antique Forum, bringing collectors, historians, and design enthusiasts together for a weekend exploring the stories behind decorative arts and material culture. This year's theme, "Material Belief: Objects of Faith, Spirit, and Tradition," examines sacred objects from across the Gulf South through lectures, panel discussions, and special experiences. Guests can also enjoy optional tours, receptions, and opportunities to explore the French Quarter alongside fellow attendees.
Ella Mai at Saenger Theater
us.atgtickets.com/events/ella-mai/saenger-theatre
Grammy-winning R&B star Ella Mai brings her "Do You Still Love Me?" Tour to the Saenger Theatre on August 7. Known for chart-topping hits and her smooth vocals, the multi-platinum singer will perform music from her newest album, alongside fan favorites that helped establish her as one of today's leading voices in R&B. The performance, scheduled for 8 p.m., is expected to be one of the summer's biggest concert events in New Orleans.
Red Dress Run
Thousands of runners dressed in red will take over the streets of New Orleans on August 8 for the annual Red Dress Run. Hosted by the New Orleans Hash House Harriers, the event combines a lighthearted fun run with a citywide celebration that raises money for local charities. Participants and spectators alike can expect a festive atmosphere filled with creative costumes, live entertainment, and plenty of community spirit. Packet pickup will take place at Crescent Park at 9 a.m.
Drew Brees Hall of Fame Induction Watch Party at Lakeview Harbor
Watch former Saints quarterback Drew Brees be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on August 8 surrounded by other Saints fans at Lakeview Harbor. Enjoy the ceremony with some traditional bar fare such as potato skins and mozzarella sticks, or order one of the many sit-down options such as steak or chicken alfredo. You can also pick up a Typhoon or any one of their many coastal cocktail options.
SERA Invitational Rodeo
serodeo.com/new-orleans-la.html
If you couldn't get enough of bulls after the Hondo Rodeo, the SERA Invitational has you covered with a second New Orleans rodeo this year. The Southeastern Rodeo Association is unlike most others, showing a commitment to African American competitors and their historic impacts on cowboy culture. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the action starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $54.
Dirty Linen Night
Take a stroll around the Royal Street Arts District on August 8 and check out the many artworks on display during Dirty Linen Night from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Royal Street will be transformed into a packed art district with vendors from across the city, including Black Butterfly Too, Le Jardin, and LolaNola. Have an extra "boozy" good time with drink vendors scattered down the street. Wristbands for Dirty Linen Night are $20, and raffle tickets for the chance to win artwork and other prizes are $10.
Temple Sinai Sisterhood Attic Sale
templesinainola.com/events/sisterhood-attic-sale
Help support Temple Sinai at the Sisterhood Attic Sale on August 9. Garage/attic sales like this are a great place to find unique things to liven up your house and even your life. From jewelry to kitchen appliances and knickknacks, you are sure to find something that piques your interest. The sale will take place from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Jefferson Parish Library Creative Storytelling & Songwriting Workshop
calendar.jplibrary.net/event/creative-story-telling-workshop-34588
Do you want to write a meaningful creative story or song, but don't know where to start? The Jefferson Parish Library has you covered with a creative storytelling workshop from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on August 9 at their East Bank Regional Library location on 4747 West Napoleon Ave. in Metairie. Writer, filmmaker, and songwriter/producer Steve Scaffidi will give attendees a look into his creative method and help each attendee create their own song, which he will record and play at another event. The event is free and open to the public.
