Summer in South Louisiana means one thing: celebration is in the air! From the soul-stirring sounds of ESSENCE Festival to riverside fireworks, second lines, and old-fashioned family fun, the Greater New Orleans area is bursting with ways to celebrate Juneteenth, the Fourth of July, and everything in between. Whether you’re after cultural connection, patriotic pageantry, or just a great spot to watch the sky light up, this guide rounds up the can’t-miss festivals, parades, and fireworks displays across Orleans, Jefferson, St. Tammany, and beyond.
Fireworks & Parades
July 3, 2025 (New Orleans)
This free community event kicks off at 6 p.m. with festive performances and patriotic sing-alongs. As evening falls, guests are treated to a stunning fireworks display launched from atop the Peristyle at 9 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs and arrive early to secure a spot—food and beverages (including beer, wine, snacks, and snowballs) will be available for purchase.
July 4, 2025 (New Orleans)
Celebrate Independence Day with the iconic “Go Fourth on the River” fireworks show in New Orleans. This annual event features a spectacular fireworks display over the Mississippi River on the Historic Downtown Riverfront, accompanied by live music and family-friendly activities. The event is free and open to the public, making it a perfect way to enjoy the holiday. Fireworks will begin around 9 p.m.
July 4, 2025 (Mandeville)
The City of Mandeville will celebrate Independence Day by lighting up Lake Pontchartrain on the Mandeville lakefront at its annual “Light Up the Lake” celebration. Guests are invited to picnic in the lakefront park beginning at 10 a.m. The event kicks off with a Mandeville Milkshakers parade at 3 p.m., followed by musical acts starting at 4 p.m. It is free and open to the public. The celebration features fireworks over Lake Pontchartrain at 8:45 p.m. and also includes the Keep Mandeville Beautiful kids’ tent and a variety of food and drink vendors.
Madisonville Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration
July 4, 2025 (Madisonville)
The Madisonville Old-Fashioned 4th of July Celebration brings timeless charm to the Tchefuncte Riverfront with a full day of family-friendly festivities starting at 10 a.m.This free event invites attendees to enjoy classic Independence Day traditions like kids’ games, cornhole and horseshoe tournaments, a Veterans’ Salute, watermelon-eating, and rooster-crowing contests — all set against the historic backdrop of the old town hall. Visitors are encouraged to bring chairs, coolers, and picnic baskets to relax riverfront-style as the festivities unfold. The celebration wraps up with a spectacular fireworks display at dusk (around 8:45 p.m.).
July 4, 2025 (Metairie)
Jefferson Parish hosts the annual Uncle Sam Jam at Lafreniere Park in Metairie. This free event features live music, food vendors, and a dazzling fireworks display to cap off the evening. The festivities begin in the afternoon and continue into the night, offering fun for the whole family. Gates open at 3 p.m. and the first band starts at 4 p.m.
Festivals
3rd Annual Juneteenth Freedom Festival
June 14, 2025 (Wallace)
Celebrate culture, community, and liberation at the 3rd Annual Juneteenth Freedom Festival, held at Whitney Plantation from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. This free, family-friendly event (registration required) offers a full day of live music, panel discussions, storytelling, and interactive activities honoring Black history and celebrating freedom. Visitors can browse a vibrant marketplace of Black artists and artisans, sample delicious fare from local food trucks, and even explore the Whitney Plantation grounds with a free self-guided tour. Highlights include performances by Move Ya Brass, Girls Play Trumpets Too, and The Maroon Band & Show, along with a Father’s Day ceremony, prayer, and a special “Black Rosies” panel spotlighting trailblazing women. It’s a powerful, joyful way to honor Juneteenth with the whole family.
July 3–6, 2025 (New Orleans)
The 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture returns to New Orleans, celebrating the theme “We Are Made Like This” and honoring 55 years of ESSENCE Magazine. This four-day cultural extravaganza features performances across daytime empowerment panels and evening headline concerts at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and Caesars Superdome, showcasing icons like Boyz II Men, Maxwell, Nas, Summer Walker, Davido, GloRilla, Donell Jones, Buju Banton, The Isley Brothers, and a special Quincy Jones tribute curated by Jermaine Dupri. Powered by major partners including AT&T, L’Oréal Groupe, and Target, attendees can use the E360 app for real-time schedules, perks, and event updates. More than just music, the festival offers a holistic celebration of Black excellence—featuring workshops, film screenings, wellness sessions, fashion showcases, and a vibrant marketplace—all designed to uplift and inspire.
Jefferson Parish Bicentennial Call
June 14, 2025 (Metairie)
Celebrate 200 years of Jefferson Parish history at the elegant Bicentennial Ball at Lakeside Shopping Center in Metairie. This formal affair, encouraging festive red, white, and blue attire, features a night of live music, dancing, and gourmet cuisine across multiple stages and food stations. Vocal powerhouse Kristin Chenoweth will headline with the Jefferson Performing Arts Orchestra, joined by icons such as Sister Sledge, Irma Thomas, Deacon John, The Yat Pack, Rachel Fleetwood, Tom Hook, and NOLA Vox. Guests will also enjoy over 40 world-class restaurant offerings, two martini bars, six libation stations, historic parish exhibits, and a tribute to Lakeside Shopping Center—as tickets ($150 general, $250 VIP) benefit the Jefferson Community Foundation’s work in education, equity, health, and community revitalization.
June 19, 2025 (New Orleans)
On June 19, join the NOLA Juneteenth Festival at Louis Armstrong Park for a day of music, food, and community. The festival celebrates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and highlights the contributions of Black culture to New Orleans’ identity. The event is free and open to the public. The event kicks off with a second line at noon, followed by musical acts and even a youth DJ!
June 28, 2025 (Slidell)
Returning for its 27th annual celebration, the Slidell Heritage Festival unfolds at picturesque Heritage Park from 4:30–11 p.m. This beloved family-friendly fundraiser brings together live local music beginning at 5:30 p.m., a lively children’s area featuring water slides, pony rides, face painting, pony rides, junior firefighter challenges, arts and crafts, and more. Food trucks and vendors will offer an array of bites and beverages. A spectacular fireworks display will light up the sky at 9 p.m. Admission is $15 for ages 13+ (free for ages 12 and under)—and best of all, 100% of proceeds benefit local charities, with over $1 million raised to date.
Tips for Enjoying Summer Events
- Arrive Early: Popular events can get crowded quickly. Arriving early ensures you get a good spot and can enjoy all the activities.
- Stay Hydrated: Summer in Louisiana can be hot and humid. Be sure to drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen. Consider bringing a handheld fan or two!
- Public Transportation: Parking can be limited during major events. Consider using public transportation or rideshare services to get to and from events.
- Check Event Websites: Event details can change at the last minute due to weather or any other unforeseen circumstances. Always check the official event websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready for a summer filled with fireworks, music, and unforgettable memories!