Weekend in New Orleans
This weekend itinerary offers a fantastic blend of free community events and engaging ticketed attractions, carefully planned for families with children aged 3-12. From lively festivals and a children's museum's special day to an authentic Second Line parade and relaxing park time, it focuses on memorable experiences while keeping the budget in mind. Activities are scheduled to allow for relaxed travel, meal breaks, and early bedtimes.
Friday Evening - Festival & Show Fun
Friday, October 3Gretna Fest
Kick off the weekend at Gretna Fest, a popular community festival across the Mississippi River.
This multi-day event features live music, delicious food vendors, carnival rides, and a vibrant atmosphere. Families can enjoy browsing the arts and crafts, listening to music, and letting the kids enjoy the rides. While entry is often free, individual rides and food will have costs.
Perfect for energetic kids to run around and enjoy carnival rides. There are usually plenty of food options for picky eaters and clean restroom facilities. Stroller-friendly paths are available. Plan for a few hours of fun. Age suitability: All ages, but especially engaging for 3-12 year olds.
Parking is available in designated areas in Gretna, though it may be busy. Consider taking the Algiers Point Ferry from the French Quarter to Algiers and then a short ride-share or walk to Gretna, depending on the exact festival layout. Ferry is stroller accessible.
Sesame Street Live Show
Delight your little ones with 'Sesame Street Live: Elmo and Friends Say Hello'.
This engaging stage show brings beloved characters to life with singing, dancing, and interactive fun, making for a memorable early evening entertainment.
A magical experience for young children (ages 3-8, but enjoyable for all younger kids), with familiar songs and characters. The venue offers comfortable seating and restrooms. The show typically runs for about an hour and a half, including an intermission, making it ideal for young attention spans and early bedtimes.
Ample parking is available at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center. The venue is located in Metairie, requiring a short drive from central New Orleans.
Saturday - City Park Adventure Day
Saturday, October 4Children's Museum Folklife Day
Spend your morning at the Louisiana Children's Museum, which hosts its 4th annual Family Folklife Day on Saturday, October 4, 2025.
Enjoy a day filled with stories, songs, and traditions, along with the museum's fantastic interactive exhibits focusing on literacy, health, arts, culture, environmental education, and STEM.
Perfect for energetic kids to explore hands-on exhibits indoors and outdoors. Plenty of restrooms, stroller access, and quiet areas if needed. This special event offers added cultural engagement. Age suitability: 12 months+ (excellent for ages 3-10). Plan for 2-3 hours of play.
Located in City Park, the museum has dedicated parking lots on Henry Thomas Drive and across the street. It's accessible by car or ride-share. Stroller-friendly routes throughout City Park and the museum.
Fried Chicken Festival Lunch
Head to the National Fried Chicken Festival, running October 4-5, 2025.
This lively outdoor event at the New Orleans Lakefront offers a fantastic opportunity for a budget-friendly and delicious lunch with a variety of fried chicken dishes from local restaurants. Enjoy the festival atmosphere, music, and people-watching.
Kids will love the casual outdoor setting and the chance to try different fried chicken options and sides. There are usually activities or open spaces for kids to enjoy. Portable restrooms and hand-washing stations are common at festivals. Great for affordable and diverse lunch choices.
Parking is usually available at the Lakefront, but expect crowds. Public transportation or ride-sharing might be a good option. Consider bringing a small wagon for younger children.
Botanical Garden Exploration
Explore the beautiful New Orleans Botanical Garden, which is hosting its Fall Garden Festival on October 4, 2025.
This provides a serene yet engaging afternoon activity amidst lush landscapes. Kids can enjoy open spaces, sculptures, and perhaps special activities related to the festival, offering a gentle wind-down after a busy morning.
A relaxed outdoor environment perfect for children to explore nature. Stroller-friendly paths, plenty of open space for walking, and benches for resting. Restrooms are available. This offers a good balance of activity and calm. Age suitability: All ages.
Conveniently located within City Park, with parking nearby. Can be accessed by walking from the Children's Museum or a short drive. The park offers many walking and biking paths.
City Park Dinner & Play
Enjoy an early, casual family dinner at Acorn, the restaurant located within the Louisiana Children's Museum campus in City Park, or a nearby family-friendly spot.
Afterwards, let the kids burn off any remaining energy at one of City Park's many playgrounds, such as the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park playground area (check hours and if ticketed for rides) or a free public playground within the park.
Acorn offers kid-friendly menu options and is conveniently located. City Park provides extensive green spaces and several playgrounds suitable for different age groups, perfect for a relaxing evening before heading home. Ensure proper hydration and sunscreen if playing outdoors.
Easy access with parking available in City Park. The playgrounds are often a short walk from parking areas. Stroller access is good throughout the park.
Sunday - Relaxed Culture & Play
Sunday, October 5Farmers Market Stroll
Start your Sunday morning with a leisurely visit to the Crescent City Farmers Market, located in City Park.
This market offers fresh produce, local goods, and often live music. It's a great spot for a relaxed breakfast or picking up some local snacks while enjoying a family-friendly atmosphere.
A wonderful sensory experience for kids, with colorful produce and local treats. Plenty of space to walk around, and fresh air. Restrooms are available in nearby City Park facilities. Great for finding unique souvenirs and trying local flavors. Open until 12:00 PM. Age suitability: All ages.
Ample parking available in City Park. Easy to navigate with strollers. It's a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly area.
Second Line Parade Watch
Immerse your family in a unique New Orleans cultural experience by catching the Family Ties Second Line Parade, scheduled for Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
These vibrant street parades, with brass bands and dancing, are a joyful and free spectacle that kids will absolutely love.
A truly authentic and exciting New Orleans experience for children, offering a chance to see live music and dancing up close. It's a free, outdoor event, so be prepared to stand and move with the parade. Bring water and snacks. Restroom access might be limited along the route, so plan accordingly. Age suitability: All ages, but younger children might enjoy watching from a safe vantage point.
Second Line routes change, so research the specific route closer to the date. Parking can be challenging along parade routes; consider public transport (streetcar, bus) or ride-sharing to get close and walk. Stroller access can be difficult in dense crowds, so a carrier might be better for very young children.
Park Play & Treat
Wind down your weekend with some free play at a local playground in New Orleans City Park.
This gives the kids a final chance to run, climb, and burn off energy before heading home. Afterwards, grab a sweet treat like a sno-ball or ice cream as a special end-of-weekend reward. City Park offers numerous playgrounds, including those near Carousel Gardens.
Perfect for a relaxed conclusion to the weekend, allowing children to enjoy outdoor play in a safe environment. Restrooms are available in various locations throughout the park. Good for all ages, with equipment typically catering to a range of abilities.
Plenty of parking available throughout City Park. Playgrounds are easily accessible by foot from parking areas or other City Park attractions. The area is very stroller-friendly.
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