Memorial Day Weekend in NOLA
Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, is a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Originally known as Decoration Day, this holiday emerged in the aftermath of the Civil War, a time when communities across the nation began to commemorate their fallen soldiers by decorating their graves with flowers and flags. In New Orleans, the holiday has evolved to gathering with friends and family for picnics and barbecues. Whether you're spending the weekend having a picnic, barbecue or sno-ball, try to remember the fallen soldiers who sacrificed along the way. Here are some events happening in NOLA to do this Memorial Weekend.
WWII Museum
945 Magazine St., (504) 528-1944
nationalww2museum.org/events-programs/events/136417-memorial-day-commemoration
A commemoration ceremony will be held at the National World War II Museum this Memorial Day from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Everyone is invited to join in remembrance of those before us that have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country with special performances by the Victory Belles, the American Legion post 377 band, and remarks from Gail Joyce. The event is free and open to the public, although reservations are encouraged.
New Orleans Greek Fest
1200 Allen Touissant Blvd., (504) 282-0259
From Friday, May 23 through Sunday, May 25, New Orleans Greek Fest will celebrate 50 years of community and tradition at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Bring your family and friends to enjoy the wonderful authentic Greek cuisine, a run/walk race, Hellenic dancers, live Greek music, or cathedral tours this Memorial weekend. General admission tickets are $10, and weekend passes are $25.
All American Splash at The Pool Club
550 Barrone St., (504) 603-8000
virginhotels.com/new-orleans/entertainment/memorial-weekend-pool-party
A rooftop pool party is just what the doctor ordered this Memorial Day weekend, and the Pool Club at the Virgin Hotels wrote the script. Come for the views and stay for the vibes on Saturday, May 24, 2025, as C'est Funk and Rusty Lazer will be keeping the party grooving from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. This pool party is free and open to the public, although a VIP sofa section can be reserved for the ultimate experience.
Sun Sip Social at the Windsor Court Hotel
300 Gravier St., (504) 523-6000
Come sip on High Noon on Sunday, May 25, at the Windsor Court Hotel's rooftop pool. Enjoy a laid back afternoon with access to their 65-foot saltwater pool and the sounds of DJ G from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $60 per person and include three complimentary High Noon drinks to kick off your Memorial Day weekend with a sip and a smile.
Heat Check at the Pool Club
550 Baronne St., (504) 603-8000
virginhotels.com/new-orleans/entertainment/memorial-day-pool-party
Sun's out on Sunday, May 25 at the Virgin Hotel New Orleans for their Heat Check pool party. Vibe out to the legendary OTTO and Pretty Nasty as the sun rejuvenates your energy from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Come sip on some cool cocktails and enjoy the beautiful views. Early bird tickets begin at $25.
Free Fridays at Tipitina's
501 Napoleon Ave., (504) 895-8477
Be there for the first Friday of Free Fridays at Tipitina's on May 23, 2025 this Memorial Day weekend. This 15 week concert series is kicking off with local legends the Brass-a-Holics and Electric Tribe. Come wind down and dance the night away at Tipitina's, with doors open at 8 p.m. Admission is free for all guests, but space is limited.
