Memorial Day weekend in New Orleans is a vibrant blend of remembrance, culture, and family-friendly festivities. Whether you’re honoring the nation’s heroes, exploring world-class museums, or enjoying local traditions, the city offers something for everyone. Here’s your comprehensive guide to making the most of the holiday weekend. Tap on the event titles to learn more details.
Patriotic Events
Memorial Day Commemoration at The National WWII Museum
On Monday, May 26, from 11 a.m. to noon, The National WWII Museum will host a solemn ceremony at the US Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center. This event features remarks from Gold Star Family Member Gail Joyce, performances by the Victory Belles and the American Legion Post 377 band, and a Missing Man Table presentation by the Civil Air Patrol. This event is free and open to the public, with registration encouraged.
Paver Visitation Day
Also on May 26, the museum invites guests to commemorate their paver honorees during a special breakfast and program starting at 9:30 a.m. Attendees can view their personalized pavers and participate in additional Memorial Day programming.
Museum Discounts
Several New Orleans museums offer special discounts and free admission during Memorial Day weekend:
- New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA): Louisiana residents receive free general admission on Wednesdays, courtesy of The Helis Foundation. Children under 12 always enter for free. Active-duty military personnel and their families will enjoy free admission through the Blue Star Museums program from May 17 through Labor Day.
- National WWII Museum: Beyond the Memorial Day events, the museum offers free admission to active-duty military personnel and their families from May 17 through Labor Day as part of the Blue Star Museums program.
- Other Participating Museums: Institutions like the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience, JAMNOLA, Louisiana Children’s Museum, Presbytère, Vue Orleans, and the New Orleans Jazz Museum also offer discounts for service members.
Family-Friendly Festivities & Outdoor Activities
Greek Fest New Orleans
Celebrate Greek culture at the 50th Annual Greek Fest, held at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral along Bayou St. John. From May 23-25, enjoy authentic Greek food, live music, Hellenic dancers, and cathedral tours. Admission is $10, and children under 12 enter free.
New Orleans City Park
Spend a day at City Park, a 1,300-acre oasis featuring moss-draped oaks, walking paths, and attractions like Storyland and the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park. Rent a swan boat on Big Lake or explore the Couturie Forest’s nature trails.
Lafreniere Park in Metairie
Just outside New Orleans, Lafreniere Park offers expansive green spaces, a bird sanctuary, and recreational areas perfect for family picnics and outdoor activities.
The Fly
Located along the Mississippi River, The Fly is a popular spot for picnics, frisbee, and watching the sunset.
Bayou St. John
Pack a po-boy or some crawfish and relax along the scenic Bayou St. John, a favorite local spot for leisurely afternoons.