October 2013 things to do
September flew by, and with it, the hot weather. Finally, the cooler weather is starting to settle in, and that means the festivals are back in a big way. Whether you love music or food, New Orleans has a festival that I’m sure you’ll love.
Of course, October also means Halloween, and New Orleans knows a thing or two about making this spooky holiday an unforgettable time of year.
Festivals
Ponderosa Stomp – Music lovers, I have a festival for you. October 3-5, Ponderosa Stomp takes over the Rock ‘n’ Bowl (3000 S. Carrollton Avenue) for a weekend full of American roots music from gritty garage rock to sultry soul and just about every genre in between.
Oktoberfest – Other cities celebrate this holiday, but you won’t find another celebration like Oktoberfest in New Orleans this side of the Atlantic. Oktoberfest in New Orleans means three fun-filled weekends of German food, beer, and music at the Deutsches Haus (415 Williams Blvd. in Kenner). Highlights include the music of The Brats (a progressive polka band), beer stein-holding contests and an extensive beer garden.
Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival – In Lafayette Square, the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival brings together music fans and BBQ enthusiasts. This year’s show (Oct. 18-20) is headlined by the legendary Mississippi bluesman James Cotton. Food includes traditional BBQ, innovative BBQ (not exactly sure what that means, but I can’t wait to find out), traditional festival favorites, and even options so the vegetarians don’t go hungry.
Halloween
Halloween in New Orleans is a lot more than just one night for the kids to dress up and go trick-or-treating. Sure, there’s trick-or-treating; there’s also Boo at the Zoo for the kids, but it’s much more than that. It’s not just one night either.
Here the adults get to join in the fun, and you’ll see everything from evil vampires (some real, some just college students in costumes) to sweet princesses. Of course Bourbon Street will be as festive as you expect, but you may want to mosey over to the block party on Frenchmen Street and party with the costumed locals. If you’re looking for more adventure, then check out a ghosts and spirits tour or visit one of the haunted bars.
Krewe of Boo – Since it’s New Orleans, you knew we’d have to have a parade. Krewe of Boo parades through the French Quarter with Halloween-themed Mardi Gras style floats and local throws that range from candy to handmade Voodoo pins. The parade starts Oct. 26 at 6:30 p.m., and the after-party kicks off at 8 p.m. with live music and more at Mardi Gras World.