Event Dates
From: Thursday, February 4, 2027
To: Wednesday, February 10, 2027
New Orleans Gay Mardi Gras 2027
The New Orleans Gay Mardi Gras Weekend takes place from Friday to Fat Tuesday during Carnival – dates vary depending on the fall of Easter.
One of the most colourful and liberal parties in the USA.
Although the Mardi Gras in New Orleans runs for weeks, the gay part of Mardi Gras is held in the lower French Quarter over five days of nonstop fun and party nights in the clubs and bars. Hotels in this district are the first to fill up, so book your trip now. The following hotels are popular with our readers:
- The Royal Sonesta – 5 Star hotel right on Bourbon Street.
- Bourbon Orleans Hotel – Rated Fabulous, this 4 star hotel is in the middle of the French Quarter.
- Place D'Armes Hotel – Charming 2 star hotel with comfortable rooms and great location.
When is Mardi Gras in New Orleans?
- Next Edition: Thursday, February 4th, 2027 – Wednesday, February 10th, 2027
- Many people believe that Mardi Gras is a single day of celebration. Mardi Gras or “Fat Tuesday” is actually the climax for the Carnival season.
- Formal Gay Balls and walking parades begin on the twelfth night of Christmas (Kings Night – Jan 6th). Most of the larger balls begin a week or two before Fat Tuesday.
- Larger Parades take place over several nights on the final Carnival weekend in both New Orleans and in Metairie.
Where is the Gay Mardi Gras?
- The lower French Quarter is the center for New Orleans Gay Mardi Gras. This is where you'll find the more extravagant costumes.
- People come from all over the world just to strut around in costumes of their own design. Of course, going home with a prestigious Bourbon Street Award is often the motivation for their sequined madness.
- Many of the biggest parades go down Canal St which divides Downtown and Uptown. (Most of the gay events and nightlife are located downtown).
- Stay close to all of the gay events and parties at The Hotel Monteleone, rated “Wonderful” by guests with a perfect location, modern gym, spacious rooms and a legendary reputation.
The Gay Carnival Balls
- Currently in New Orleans there are eight Gay carnival organizations know as Krewes. These organizations stage magnificent, elegant Masked Balls and costume contests.
- Some of the LGBTQ Krewes and balls to look out for during Mardi Gras and its Carnival season, via their respective websites, including the 60-year-old Petronius, Armeinius, the largely POC Krewe of Mwindo,
The Ball Schedule 2027
- Awaiting confirmation of dates for the 2027 editions.
- Petronius – The oldest Gay Mardi Gras Krewe in New Orleans. Their ball is typically held a week or two before Mardi Gras. At Sigur Civic Center
- Armeinius – One of the most outrageous Balls with over-the-top costumes and spectacular drag queens. At Sigur Civic Center.
- Not Your Dad’s Ball – Kinky queer ball with live performances, underground dance music, and busy darkrooms.
- Lords of Leather Experience an early taste of South Decadence at one of the kinkiest balls during Mardi Gras.
- Krewe of Stars – Cabaret-style Gay Ball focusing on live music and live show spectaculars.
- Mwindo – Black and queer Mardi Gras Ball featuring queer rap legends and guest stars.
- Narccissus, Apollo and Amon Ra all take place in January.
Gay Circuit Parties
- Most of the gay parties are held in the French Quarter. Underground and queer events are centered around Marginy and Bywater.
- The two main clubs, OZ and The Bourbon Parade host special Mardi Gras theme nights and parties throughout the weekend.
- Phoenix hosts the Lords of Leather afterparty on the Sunday of Mardi Gras.
- The Silverfox (Rawhide) is home to all things leather and cruisey with a bustling dark room during Mardi Gras.
- Golden Lantern is one of the oldest gay bars in the city and hosts elaborate Mardi Gras Drag spectaculars.
- Stay in the “Fantastic” rated Peter & Paul, a historic hotel in the Marigny district with beautifully designed, spacious rooms and high-end amenities.
The Greasing of the Poles
- Friday, February 5th 2027 – Celebrate the start of Mardi Gras WEEKEND in New Orleans at the iconic Greasing of the Poles, a unique NOLA tradition.
Annual Bourbon Street Awards Show
- On Mardi Gras day (Tuesday 9th February, 2027) the Annual Bourbon Street Awards Show presents the ultimate costume contest. This you have to see to believe. The show begins at noon at 800 Bourbon Street corner of St. Ann (OZ).
- And let’s not forget the world famous Mardi Gras beads! The beads are given in appreciation to the boys that show their assets (the better the asset the bigger the beads) so don’t be shy. Get lots of beads.
- Mardi Gras New Orleans is a 24/7 event over five days so you do need to find the right hotel if you want to get some sleep. Hotels book up well in advance so reserve early.
The Carnival Parades
- There are 100's of carnival parades taking place throughout the Carnival festivities. Most take place outside of the gay district. We recommend you catch at least one parade during your visit.
- With so many to choose from, we suggest you stick with one of the “Super Krewes”. The three super krewes in the city of New Orleans are Orpheus, Bacchus and Endymion.
- Orpheus, Bacchus, and Endymion: The three super parades happen every year, typically on Saturday Feb 14th, 2026, Sunday Feb 15th, 2026, and Monday Feb 16th, 2026 – before Mardi Gras day.
- Orpheus and Bacchus usually follow the traditional Uptown route going from the beginning of St Charles through Uptown, down Canal, and ending in the CBD.
- Endymion starts in Midcity and goes the length of Canal Street.
- Whilst there’s no formal definition of a super krewe, they usually have at least 1,000 members and at least 500 riders participating in the parades, making for quite the spectacle of floats!
- Try to catch some of the parades in the French Quarter. These parades are on foot and have a totally different feel from the vehicle driven parades of the Super Krewes. For a complete list of all the parades visit the official Mardi Gras Site.
Where to Stay for Mardi Gras?
The best place to stay is in the French quarter, which is where you will find most of the gay bars and clubs. Our top choices close to all of the parties are as follows:
The Roosevelt Hotel, Omni Royal, Royal Sonesta Hotel, French Market Inn.
Read our insider guide to Gay New Orleans for the best bars, restaurants and places to party.
Save on Hotels
hotels book well in advance for Carnival.
Book Now and Pay on arrival!
Where we stay!
The Hotel Monteleone is where we stay
when in New Orleans, by the gay bars
Official Website
For information and advice on
Gay Mardi Gras, Website
Gay Map of New Orleans
If you want to be close to all of New Orleans famous attractions, including the top gay-nightlife options in the city, the French Quarter remains the hub of where to stay, with dozens of hotels of all types and grades.. Adjacent to the Quarter and just downriver, you'll find a number of gay-friendly smaller properties in historic and trendy Faubourg Marigny, which is also home to several gay-popular restaurants and bars.
Address: 130 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
- Historic grand-hotel steps from the French Quarter.
- Elegant lobby, stylish rooms and marble bathrooms.
- Rooftop pool, spa and upscale dining on-site.
- Famous Sazerac Bar — ideal for cocktails and jazz-era ambiance.
- Great for travellers seeking comfort, history and central location.
- Website
Address: 300 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- Luxury hotel on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter.
- Elegant rooms, some with balconys, others quiet & courtyard-facing.
- On-site pool, bars, restaurants, jazz club — full-service resort feel.
- Excellent location: walkable to nightlife, historic sites and transport.
- Good balance of historic charm and modern convenience for any stay.
- Website
Address: 100 Gravier St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- Historic-style hotel with spacious, comfortable rooms.
- Pool deck, fitness center and on-site dining for added convenience.
- Calm and quiet interior despite central downtown location.
- Easy walking distance to French Quarter, nightlife and transport.
- Good choice for travellers wanting comfort and city access.
- Website
Address: 541 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- Hotel on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter.
- Modern rooms with courtyard or street views.
- Outdoor pool and a relaxed bar on-site.
- Easy access to music, nightlife and dining.
- Good pick for a central, no-fuss stay.
- Website
Address: 830 Conti St, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
- Hotel in the French Quarter, steps from Bourbon Street.
- Clean, basic rooms with WiFi, AC and sometimes fridge, good value.
- On-site bar/restaurant (Bombay Club) + café for easy meals
- Friendly staff and convenient central location.
- Street noise possible at night if room faces busy areas.
- Website
Address: 626 Saint Ann St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- Historic French-Quarter hotel with classic charm.
- Calm courtyard spaces and small outdoor pool.
- Simple, comfortable rooms with useful amenities.
- Friendly team and reliable, relaxed atmosphere.
- Steps from Jackson Square, cafés and nightlife.
- Website
Address: 801 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- Gay bar & club on Bourbon Street with two floors.
- Downstairs: video-bar vibe; upstairs: dance floor + balcony.
- Drag shows, go-go dancers, video nights, themed parties.
- Inclusive mixed LGBTQ+ crowd and welcoming atmosphere.
- Top pick for late-night fun, dancing, meeting people.
- Open: Mon–Sat 12pm–5am, Sun 12pm–3am
- Website
Address: 2513 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70117, USA
- Gay dive-bar on Royal St in Marigny, New Orleans.
- Dim, unpretentious vibe with pool table and jukebox.
- Cheap strong drinks, friendly bartenders and regulars.
- Mixed crowd of locals, gay men and travelers.
- Great for casual drinks or a quiet night out.
- Open: Mon–Sun 10:00am–3:00am
Address: 718 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- Gay bar with a relaxed, dive-bar feel.
- Dim lighting, wooden bar and cheap strong drinks.
- Local regulars mixed with visitors from the Quarter.
- Good for conversation, casual drinks and low-key nights.
- A simple, friendly stop away from Bourbon Street noise.
- Open: 24/7
Address: 1328 St Bernard Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- Gay bar in New Orleans with dive-bar + music-club vibe.
- Live bands, DJs and underground-style nightlife events.
- Mixed crowd of locals, queer community and party-goers.
- Casual, unpretentious atmosphere, strong drinks & outdoor space.
- Good for late-night partying, music and social nights out
- Open: Mon–Thu 8pm–4am · Fri–Sat 8pm–6am · Sun 8pm–4am
Address: 2240 St. Claude Ave, New Orleans, LA 70117, USA
- Gay lounge and cabaret with drag, burlesque and live shows.
- Cabaret/theater upstairs + bar/lounge downstairs for drinks.
- Mixed gay crowd, nightlife locals and performance-arts fans.
- Affordable drinks, regular events and relaxed vibe.
- Good for nights of shows, cocktails or low-key partying.
- Open: Daily 6pm–2am
- Website
Address: 800 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- Gay dance club on Bourbon Street, French Quarter.
- Two floors: dance floor + balcony for people-watching.
- Drag shows, go-go dancers & DJs nightly.
- Mostly gay men, party-goers and travelers.
- Energetic nightlife spot with classic gay-club vibe.
- Open: Mon–Wed 6pm–4am, Thu–Sun 12pm–4am
Address: 2021 Foucher St, New Orleans, LA 70115, USA
- Gay bar uptown with a small-town, dive-bar feel.
- Casual, cozy interior — low-key atmosphere.
- Affordable drinks, daily specials and friendly bartenders.
- Mixed crowd: locals, regulars and gay visitors.
- Nice spot for relaxed drinks instead of club chaos.
- Open: Mon–Thu 4:30pm–12am,
- Fri–Sat 4:30pm–1am, Sun 4:30pm–12am
Address: 2301 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70117, USA
- Gay dive-bar in Marigny with laid-back, welcoming vibe.
- Wrap-around bar, pool table, jukebox and casual seating.
- Cheap drinks and friendly staff make it easy to relax or socialise.
- Mixed crowd of locals, travellers and LGBTQ regulars.
- Good for chill nights, pre-party drinks or quiet hang-outs.
- Open: Mon–Thu 12pm–2am, Fri–Sun 11am–2am
Address: 634 Louisa Street, New Orleans, LA 70117, USA
- Upscale bar-restaurant with a clothing-optional pool.
- Creative cocktails and refined Creole-leaning food.
- Garden, cabanas and relaxed daytime pool vibe.
- Weekend drag brunch draws an LGBTQ crowd.
- A chic mixed venue in the Bywater.
- Open: Mon–Fri 10am–11pm, Sat–Sun 9:30am–11pm
Address: 901 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- Gay bar claiming to be the oldest continuously operating in the USA.
- Downstairs dive-bar vibe + upstairs Balcony Bar for people-watching.
- Frequent drag, music, dancing and welcoming LGBTQ crowd.
- Historic spot on Bourbon St with long legacy & lively nightlife.
- Great for cocktails, late-night fun & nights out during festivals.
- Open: Daily 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Address: 740 Burgundy St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- Gay leather-bar in the French Quarter for cruising, drinks.
- Pool table, jukebox, leather crowd and dive-bar ambiance.
- Strong drinks, happy hours and occasional karaoke or themed nights.
- Mixed-age men’s crowd — bears, leather, locals & travelers.
- Raw, unpolished nightlife spot a classic leather-bar experience.
- Open: Wed–Sun 1 pm–3 am (bar may be closed Mon–Tue)
- Website
Address: 740 Dauphine St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- Gay bar in the French Quarter with two floors and local-bar charm.
- Downstairs bar with pool, TV screens and casual drinks.
- Upstairs balcony pub gives a quieter, laid-back vibe.
- Friendly staff, affordable drinks, welcoming regulars and visitors.
- Good mix of chill atmospheres & lively party nights when events hit.
- Open: 24 h / day (open continuously)
Address: 940 St. Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
- Gay bar in the French Quarter with dive-bar + dance-show vibe.
- Pool table, bar, nightly go-go dancers and drag-show energy.
- Affordable drinks, strong happy-hour specials and friendly service.
- Mixed crowd of gay men, travellers and nightlife regulars.
- Good for casual drinks, drag nights or full party-mode late evenings.
- Open: Mon–Sun 12pm–2am
Address: 834 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- Gay bar in the French Quarter with cocktail-bar energy.
- Cozy brick courtyard, full bar and easy-going indoor vibe.
- Drag shows, karaoke or “Boylesque” nights several times a month.
- Welcoming crowd of locals, tourists and regulars alike.
- Good for relaxed drinks or a low-key night out rather than club night.
- Open: Sun–Thu 11am–2am, Fri–Sat 11am–3am
Address: 1012 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- Gay bar/restaurant with cocktails, food and drag/tea-dance events.
- Stylish interior + courtyard for relaxed drinks or nights out.
- Menu with tacos, burgers, shared plates and affordable drinks.
- Mix of locals and travellers, open to LGBTQ+ community.
- Served as casual hangout or pre-party spot rather than full nightclub.
- Open: Mon–Sun from 3pm closing 1am (varied depending on events)
Address: 941 Elysian Fields Ave, New Orleans, LA 70117, USA
- Gay leather and bear bar with a tough, classic dive feel.
- Two floors with a pool table and a relaxed patio space.
- Regular leather, bear and fetish nights for men.
- Strong drinks and a crowd that’s easy to meet.
- Long-running spot for late nights and social energy.
- Open: 24/7 (always open)
- Website
Address: 1239 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- Gay bar on Royal St with long local history.
- Famous as the birthplace of Southern Decadence.
- Casual dive-bar mood with strong cocktails.
- Regular drag and easygoing crowd.
- Good spot for cheap drinks and meeting people.
- Open: 24 hours / 7 days a week (always open)
- Website
Address: 439 Dauphine St, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
- Gay bar in the French Quarter with relaxed vibe and comfort food.
- Steampunk-inspired décor, pool table, screens and casual seating.
- Popular for burgers, drinks and laid-back socialising.
- Friendly service, mix of locals and visitors from around the world
- Good for chill nights, meals /post-party drinks without club chaos.
- Open: Mon–Sun 7:00 am–1:00 am (last orders around 1am)
Address: 940 Elysian Fields Ave, New Orleans, LA 70117, USA
- Gay bar in Marigny with drag shows and party nights.
- Casual dive-bar vibe plus lively performances and cocktails.
- Welcoming staff, mixed crowd of locals and travellers.
- Linked to guest-house accommodation — handy for visitors.
- Good for nights out when you want shows and easygoing nightlife.
- Open: Mon–Tue 11am–1am · Wed–Thu 10am–2am ·
- Fri–Sat 10 am–4am · Sun 10am–2am
Address: 542 North Rampart Street, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
- Gay bar in the French Quarter on 542 N Rampart St.
Black-owned and local-community oriented.
Pool table, jukebox, relaxed dive-bar vibe and affordable drinks.
Mixed crowd of locals and LGBTQ visitors.
Good spot for laid-back nights & after-hours drinks. - Open: Mon–Thu 5 pm–3 am | Fri–Sun 3 pm–3 am
Recommended Hotels in New Orleans By Booking
Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in New Orleans that keep you close to all the shops, restaurants & bars
The Roosevelt Hotel
5 Star, Luxury
- 5 Star – Lovely Rooftop Bar, Full-Service Spa
- A short walk to the gay bars
- 42-inch TV, luxury amenities
- Elegant 5-star hotel, 15 minutes to Jackson Square, with a rooftop bar, fully equipped spa, and luxurious rooms.
Omni Royal, 4 Star
Sophisticated & Stylish
- 4 Star – 4-Diamond Luxury, Pinnacle Award Winner
- Close to the gay district
- Fashionable corner location
- On St. Louis at Royal, offers 4-diamond luxury, award-winning meeting services, and sophisticated style.
Royal Sonesta, 4 Star
Right on Bourbon Street
- 4 Star – On Bourbon Street, Outdoor Pool
- Close to the gay district
- WiFi, flat-screen TV, refrigerator
- In the French Quarter, offers accommodation with an outdoor pool, bars, jazz club, and modern art.
French Market Inn
3 Star Central Location
- 3 Star – Located in an Historic 1800s Building
- Close to the gay district
- Coffee facilities, air-conditioned
- Historic hotel in the French Quarter, built in the 1800s, simple rooms with coffee facilities and a short walk from Jackson Square.
Video Of New Orleans Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras World, New Orleans,
Top Gay Neighbourhoods in New Orleans
New Orleans doesn't have distinct gay neighbourhoods in the same way as some other cities like West Hollywood or Chelsea in New York City. However, the city is known for being LGBTQ+ friendly, and you'll find gay-friendly establishments and events scattered throughout various neighbourhoods, especially along Bourbon Street in the French Quarter.
French Quarter | Home to Bourbon Street
Photo: Laissez les bons temps rouler! Bourbon Street is at the heart of Gay NOLA.
- The French Quarter is the historic heart of New Orleans and is located along the Mississippi River.
- Famous for its lively nightlife and vibrant atmosphere along Bourbon Street and the legendary Oz and Bourbon Parade Pub.
- The quarter is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in New Orleans and is known for its distinctive Spanish and French Creole architecture.
- Discover the best things to see and do in the French Quarter
Marigny
Downriver from the French Quarter with colourful, eclectic houses & a vibrant arts scene along Frenchman St.
Bywater
East of the Marigny and close to Crescent Park with stunning views of the River and the NOLA skyline.
Warehouse District
Known as the Arts District, perfect for art enthusiasts & museum-goers with trendy restaurants & boutique hotels.
Downtown
The CBD offers easy access to Bourbon Street and a variety of dining options, shops, and cultural attractions.
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