10 Ways to Ring in 2017 NOLA style!
10 Ways to Ring in 2017 NOLA style!
If you made a resolution to do something besides watch TV on New Year’s Eve, don’t let the ball drop! If you’re going to be in New Orleans, you’re in luck. Along with toasting to 2017 at any of our world-famous restaurants, hotels or night spots, you can celebrate at the events listed below. There are even special celebrations planned for kids in New Orleans.
1. Fleur de Lis Drop at the Crescent City Countdown
At midnight, the Fleur de Lis will begin to fall from the roof of Jax Brewery followed by a free fireworks show over the Mississippi River. Great spots to watch can be found on both sides of the river. Avoid traffic and parking problems by staying at a hotel. For options downtown, in the French Quarter, on the West Bank and more, visit BestNewOrleansHotels.com.
2. Free Concerts at the Jax Brewery Parking Lot
Park your family and friends at Jax Brewery for free concerts by Jason Derulo and Panic! At The Disco, thanks to the Allstate Sugar Bowl Fan Fest and “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest. Highlights include the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, David Garibaldi and a New Year’s Eve parade. Afterwards, spend the night in the French Quarter.
3. Natchez’ New Year’s Eve Extravaganza
Ring in the New Year with Old Man River aboard the Steamboat NATCHEZ. The cruise will feature a festive holiday buffet, premium open bar, a live dance band and the best seats in New Orleans for the fireworks on the river. Reservations are required and holiday attire recommended. Make reservations here.
4. A Romantic Dinner for Two in a Famous New Orleans Restaurant
Sometimes two is all you need. Celebrate one other and your life together at a renowned New Orleans restaurant. For ideas and reservation information, visit NewOrleansRestaurants.com.
5. Countdown to Noon at the Louisiana Children’s Museum
The Louisiana Children’s Museum is back with its annual New Year’s Eve Countdown to Noon, featuring a colorful confetti toss, a balloon release and the sounds of Blu Kru Brass Band. Events begin at 9:30 a.m. and tickets are $10 per person for non-members and $5 per person for members. Buy tickets at LCM.org.
6. Zoo Year’s Eve at the Audubon Zoo.
Join the Swing Setters at the Zoo for a dance party, games, juggling and greetings with your favorite ice princesses, trolls, spidey superhero and more, starting at 10:30 a.m. The event is complimentary for Audubon members or included with Zoo admission. Holiday “ice” skating will also be available from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Skating is $5 extra for Zoo members and $7 for non-members.
7. New Year’s Eve Frank Sinatra Style
Put on your best “retro glam” and jitterbug over to BB’s Stage Door Canteen at the National World War II Museum, 945 Magazine St. for a a four-course dinner, big band music and dancing, beer, wine, a chocolate buffet and a champagne toast at midnight. Seating begins at 9 p.m. Visit the museum’s website for reservations.
8. Tip the Champagne Glass at Tip’s with Galactic plus Boyfriend
Avoid the downtown traffic at Tipitina’s, 501 Napoleon Ave. General admission and VIP tickets are available. Visit Tipitina’s website for more info.
9. Pretty Lights at Mardi Gras World
Enjoy entertainment by Curren$y and the Soul Rebels, Manic Focus and Chris Karns. Tickets are available online.
10. Amy Schumer at the Mahalia Jackson Theater
Laugh all the way to 2017 with Emmy-winner Amy Schumer. Along with her show Inside Amy Schumer on Comedy Central, Amy co-wrote and starred in the movie Trainwreck. Tickets are available online.