Quick answer: The best time to visit New Orleans is February to May (Mardi Gras, French Quarter Fest and Jazz Fest, with pleasant weather) and October–November. Summer is very hot and humid, and hurricane season runs June–November (peaking August–September). Mardi Gras 2027 falls on 9 February.
New Orleans weather by month
| Month | Average high | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| January | 17°C | Cool; Carnival season starts 6 Jan |
| February | 19°C | Mardi Gras (9 Feb 2027) |
| March | 23°C | Pleasant; St. Patrick’s parades |
| April | 26°C | French Quarter Fest; Jazz Fest begins late April |
| May | 30°C | Jazz Fest (early May), warming up |
| June | 32°C | Hot, humid |
| July | 33°C | Hottest; Essence Fest |
| August | 33°C | Hurricane peak, cheap |
| September | 31°C | Hurricane risk |
| October | 27°C | Excellent; Halloween |
| November | 22°C | Pleasant |
| December | 18°C | Holiday lights, réveillon dinners |
Cheapest time
Late summer (July–September) and early December, outside big conventions. Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest weekends are the most expensive.
Search cheap flights to New OrleansFAQ: best time to visit New Orleans
When is Jazz Fest?
Usually over two long weekends from late April to early May. Check the official dates before booking.
Should I avoid hurricane season?
Not necessarily, but buy travel insurance and keep plans flexible in August–September.
More New Orleans guides
- New Orleans travel guide
- 20 best things to do in New Orleans
- New Orleans itinerary: 2, 3 or 4 days
- Where to stay in New Orleans
- New Orleans airport to the French Quarter
- Mardi Gras in New Orleans
- New Orleans swamp tours
- French Quarter guide
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