Glowing Halloween jack-o'-lantern with menacing eyes and stitched mouth carved in pumpkin in darkness

What to Expect at Boo Carre Halloween Haunt 2026

06:00 September 22, 2026
By: Makenna Mincey

[Eleni Petrounakou, Unsplash]

Boo Carre 2026

For one day only, the French Market will be transformed into a New Orleans Halloween staple because Boo Carre Halloween Haunt 2026 is happening on October 24, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Featuring a spooky second line, live music and entertainment, free activities for children, and, of course, trick-or-treating, the Halloween Haunt will be a scary good time for the whole family.

Starting on the 900 Block of North St. Peters St. in Dutch Alley, little trick-or-treaters in costume can receive a complimentary tote bag to hold all of the day's goodies from the French Market District. From there, be sure to check out the music stage and activity vendors who will be part of this years' Halloween Haunt.

Yellow entrance arch to the French Market with people shopping under covered stalls on a sunny day.
[Courtesy of French Market's Facebook]

Musical Performances

Johnette Downing

Johnette Downing is a native New Orleanian and an acclaimed author, poet, musician, singer, and composer. Hailed as the "Musical Ambassador to Children," she promotes cultural exchange and literacy through her music.

Krewe of Dolly

The Krewe of Dolly is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) that carries on the mission of the late Dolly Parton through their partnership with her Imagination Library. They deliver free books monthly across New Orleans.

Strange Roux

Strange Roux is a rock 'n' roll band that brings Louisiana flavor to the classic rock genre.

3rd Degree

Known as the "Hotboys of Frenchmen," 3rd Degree is a New Orleans Brass Band that marries hip-hop, funk, R&B, and jazz to create a sound like no other.

National Service Park Arrowhead Jazz Band

The Arrowhead Jazz Band is the official park ranger band of the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. Discover the history of jazz in the Crescent City through their sound.

Three glowing Halloween jack-o'-lanterns with different carved faces illuminated by candles at night.
[Taylor Foss, Unsplash]

Children's Activity Vendors

Adorn Me Antoinette

Adorn Me Antoinette by Antoinette de Alteriis is known for its custom creations and their one-of-a-kind feel. She previously hosted beaded bracelet making at the Creole Tomato Festival.

The New Orleans Baby Dolls

The New Orleans Babydolls are renowned for their masking, singing, and dancing tradition. Their performances honor the legacy and culture of the babydoll ladies in New Orleans, who broke barriers as the first women's masking and marching group.

Pixie Dust Biodegradable Glitter

Pixie Dust Biodegradable Glitter embraces the celebratory and festive nature of the city of New Orleans and the importance of sustainability. Their Sparkle Stations use eco-friendly glitter that look great on you and is great for the Earth.

Rowdy's Rascals Petting Zoo

Rowdy's Rascals Petting Zoo is a staple of the Boo Carre Halloween Haunt. Since 2004, Rowdy's Rascals Petting Zoo has brought the magic of ponies and other animals to the Greater New Orleans area.

Market Musical Instruments

Market Musical Instruments is bringing the love of music to the Halloween Haunt.

Be sure to come dressed to impress to enter the costume contest, and, if you're interested in the pie eating contest, just come hungry. This event is free and open to the public.

For more information on Boo Carre Halloween Haunt 2026, visit frenchmarket.org.

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