Southern Decadence Events
A weekend with dramatic performances and an interactive atmosphere is on par with New Orleans, especially during the city's annual Southern Decadence, which is a celebration of the city's LGBTQ+ community every Labor Day weekend.
There is a lot to see and do for Southern Decadence, so make sure to visit their website and social media pages to see everything that is going on.
Drag Shows at The Elysian Bar
Recognized as a staple at The Elysian Bar, "Spill the Tea: A Very Decadent Drag Brunch Show" offers an environment of flair, freedom, and fun. The event, taking place at the Hotel Peter and Paul, features hand-made cocktails, a stacked brunch menu, and stellar performances from some New Orleans' fabulous drag queens.

The show is scheduled for Sunday, August 31, and will be hosted by Lexis Redd D'Ville with performances by Virginia SlimJim, Zephyr, and Otto Von Blotto across two seatings. Hotel Peter and Paul, the home of The Elysian Bar, is located at 2317 Burgundy St. Organizers remind those interested to book reservations early, as tables are limited.
For more information on ticket prices and seating times, click here.
Southern Decadence Celebrations at Virgin Hotels New Orleans
The festivities continue with a slew of events at Virgin Hotels New Orleans. Party-goers in the Big Easy can attend a weekend filled with performances, music, and even a pool party.
Saturday, August 30
I Beg Your Parton: Drag and Burlesque Brunch
Guests can enjoy this Dolly Parton-inspired show held at the Common Club Bar and Restaurant, featuring drag and a burlesque brunch. Dining, which will offer a two-course "boozy brunch," lasts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Two shows are scheduled for the event with one at 11 a.m. and the other at 1 p.m. Information on booking reservations can be found here.
Sunday, August 31
Fruit Salad |12-6 p.m.
Guests can beat the heat and have fun with this poolside celebration offering scintillating sounds from DJs, dancing, drinks, and beautiful city views from the Pool Club of Virgin Hotels New Orleans. General admission tickets include rooftop access, music, and bar service. However, a separate Pool Day Pass is required for guests to use the pool.
Monday, September 1
STRUT| 12-7 p.m.
Strut your stuff to help close out the Southern Decadence weekend at Virign Hotels. Guests can attend STRUT, a celebration highlighting Sasha Colby, the winner of RuPaul's Drag Race season 15. This event is set to feature drag stars, fashion shows, pop-up shops, and more. The event runs from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.
Virgin Hotels New Orleans is located on 550 Baronne St. For any additional details about reservations or showtimes, visit Virgin Hotels New Orleans' website.
Southern Decadence Stroll in the French Quarter
The last stop for Southern Decadence festivities is the big parade! Funneling its way through the historic French Quarter, the procession is set to kick off later than its normal start time as a way to defeat that heat. This year, the Decadence parade will take place on Sunday, August 31, with a 5 p.m. start time, showcasing unique floats, eccentric costumes, music, and overall great energy.
The parade will kick off at the Golden Lantern, located at 1239 St.