About New Orleans
New Orleans is a vibrant and multifaceted city located along the banks of the Mississippi River in Louisiana. It is best known for its unique blend of French, Spanish, African, and American cultures displayed throughout its architecture and cuisine. The city's climate typically consists of hot and humid summers with periodic rain showers and cool winters with occasional snowfalls. New Orleans has a wealth of natural attractions, from lush gardens blooming in City Park to stunning views from atop St. Charles Avenue’s lacy iron balconies. The economy of New Orleans is driven by its port activities, tourism, health care industry, technology industry, and higher education opportunities.
New Orleans is an ideal destination for outdoor events due to its mild temperatures year-round, diverse selection of cultural attractions, scenic beauty, and capacity for entertainment. The city also houses some of the most iconic music venues in the United States, making it a must-visit destination.
Outdoor Event Options in New Orleans
- Equipment Rentals
In New Orleans, various rental companies can provide tents, tables, chairs, and other necessary equipment to host an outdoor event. Many offer delivery and set-up services to ensure everything is in place for the big day. Some vendors also offer additional items that could help make the event more memorable such as umbrellas or canopies for shade, portable stages for live entertainment, and sound systems for amplified music.
- Entertainment
Plenty of options are available when providing entertainment for outdoor events in New Orleans. From traditional jazz bands with their timeless brass sounds to DJs who can get the crowd on their feet, these professionals can bring life to any gathering. Event organizers may also be interested in local dance troupes specializing in Cajun or Zydeco styles as a unique way to liven up the festivities. And if you need something more unusual, some performers specialize in stilt walking, fire spinning, scavenger hunts, and more.
- Event Planners
Hiring an experienced event planner could be a great solution for those looking to host an outdoor event but unsure where to begin. Most planners in New Orleans have access to a wide range of services, such as catering, decorations, and staffing services which they can leverage while taking care of all the details along the way. Event planners will handle all aspects of planning, from scheduling venue visits and vendor meetings to creating timelines and overseeing execution on the day itself.
Outdoor Event Vendors in New Orleans
- Distressed Rentals and Revival
Distressed Rentals and Revival is a furniture rental company specializing in unique, high-quality pieces for private, wedding, and corporate outdoor events. They offer a variety of curated furniture and accessories that can transform any event space into an unforgettable experience. Their collection includes one-of-a-kind bars, dining tables, and lounge seating designed to elevate the atmosphere and create a powerful and elegant style. With their expertise, Distressed Rentals and Revival helps you select the right pieces that fit your outdoor event's vibe, ensuring your guests are comfortable and impressed with the ambiance.
- Toulouse Gourmet Catering
Toulouse Gourmet Catering is a catering service that offers a wide range of menus with fresh ingredients. They aim to stay updated with the latest trends and are known for their exceptional attention to detail. Whether it's a small lunch or a large wedding, Toulouse Gourmet Catering can cater to all events. They also provide a hassle-free experience for ordering catering for business meetings or office parties.
- New Orleans Party Sound
New Orleans Party Sound is a DJ company specializing in customizing wedding ceremonies and receptions and providing personalized services for events such as birthdays, anniversaries, block parties, corporate functions, and school dances. Their digital sound system is suitable for both large and small venues, and they offer crystal-clear music tailored specifically to your preferences. With thousands of songs from every era, guests of all ages will enjoy the music.
Pros and Cons of Outdoor Events in New Orleans
Outdoor events have certain advantages over indoor occasions. However, some possible negatives must be considered:
Advantages
- The beautiful scenery of New Orleans makes it an ideal destination for outdoor events, with its lush green spaces and historic architecture providing a picturesque backdrop.
- Outdoor events in New Orleans can create a fun and relaxed atmosphere with plenty of opportunities for guests to mingle, eat delicious cuisine, listen to live music, or explore different city areas they may have never seen!
- With its vibrant culture, diverse population, and world-renowned festivals like Mardi Gras available year-round, organizing an outdoor event in New Orleans offers unique experiences you won't find anywhere else in the world!
Disadvantages
- Pests such as mosquitoes, gnats, and other insects are especially problematic during summer, creating an unpleasant environment for guests.
- Depending on the location, a lot of noise pollution from businesses in the area or nearby construction sites could interfere with the event being held.
- Outdoor events can attract unwanted attention and create safety concerns if not well-monitored by security personnel or police officers.
Tips on How to Organize Outdoor Events in New Orleans
Outdoor events in New Orleans can be great for hosting an unforgettable occasion. To ensure the event goes off without a hitch, there are some key factors you must consider:
- Climate: Familiarize yourself with the city's climate and choose a time of year that won't be too hot or humid. Consider temperatures, humidity levels, and rain chances when selecting the date for your event.
- Venue: Choose a venue that fits your needs. Consider outdoor spaces like parks for big events, which offer plenty of space and amenities. Consider local gardens such as Audubon Park or Longue Vue Gardens for smaller events.
- Transportation: Make sure your event is close to public transportation stops so guests can get there easily and conveniently. Have a designated pick-up/drop-off area to make it easier for guests to get where they need to go without worrying about parking.
- Backup Plan: Plan for any weather and have backup plans in case of rain or other inclement weather conditions. Ensure you have ample shade and protection from the elements for yourself and your guests.
- Preparation: Prepare well in advance — apply for any necessary permits from the City of New Orleans early to avoid last-minute hassles or delays due to bureaucratic red tape. Have a list of vendors you can call upon quickly if needed — caterers, DJs, party planners, etc. — who are familiar with working in New Orleans' outdoor environment and understand what needs to be done before an event takes place outside safely and successfully.
Famous Locations in New Orleans
- St. Louis Cathedral
One of the most recognizable symbols of New Orleans, St. Louis Cathedral is an impressive sight! It's the oldest active cathedral in the US, founded in 1720 and dedicated to the King of France, Louis IX. Unfortunately, it suffered a significant loss in 1794 when much of the original building burned down in a catastrophic fire. It was restored using French Neo-Gothic and Spanish Colonial architecture to create today's grand look. The interior of this sacred place is breathtakingly beautiful; you can marvel at its stained glass windows, intricately painted ceilings, and life-size statues. Truly a wonder to behold!
- Chalmette National Historical Park
Chalmette National Historical Park is a stark reminder of the labor and sacrifices required to unite a nation. The 1815 Battle of New Orleans site, which prevented the British from capturing America’s vital waterway, is commonplace with reminders of the war — from cannon fire marks still imbedded in trees to the tombstones and burial plots at the Chalmette National Cemetery, established during the Civil War. However, it isn't only war-torn struggles that cemented this into a National Park; there was also a great deal of dedication from local communities who looked beyond bloodshed to see the potential in preserving their heritage for future generations.
- Irish Channel
The Irish Channel is one of the many districts of NOLA. Its boundaries span from Magazine Street in the north to Jackson Avenue in the east, and its western and southern edges hug the Mississippi River your way over to Delachaise Street. Sitting on a 7-foot ridge at 29°55′23″N 90°04′55″W, it's relatively small with an area of just 0.83 square miles — but don't let the size fool you because this community is packed with all sorts of incredible culture, food, and fun activities. Rocking some of that sweet low elevation means enjoying fantastic views from nearly every part of town!