Super Bowl LIX is coming to town this February, and along with it comes a starry slew of parties, concerts, experiences, activations and fun-filled watch parties at bars around town. The Big Game—with Kendrick Lamar headlining the halftime show—kicks off at 6:30pm (local time) on February 9, but the fun starts well in advance. Even better? New Orleans will be in full carnival mode, decked out in purple, green and gold with all the standard celebrations leading up to Mardi Gras and plenty of king cake to go around.
If you’re not lucky enough to snag tickets to the game, don’t sweat it. New Orleans knows how to throw a party. From epic tailgates to citywide celebrations, there will be no shortage of ways to revel in the festivities. Here are the best events happening Super Bowl weekend in New Orleans, with plenty more to come. Between events, be sure to check out all the top restaurants, bars and things to do in New Orleans while you’re here.
February 3 at Caesars Superdome
Head to the Superdome to welcome and celebrate the AFC and NFC champions as they arrive in New Orleans. Hear from players and coaches in their only public appearance before Super Bowl LIX, sneak a peek at the Super Bowl imagery and shop exclusive NFL merch. There will be family-friendly activities, photo ops and more.
February 5-8 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
This immersive event features meet-and-greets with current and former NFL players, plus games, clinics and photo ops with the Lombardi Trophy and all 58 Super Bowl rings. See how your 40-yard-dash stacks up against virtual NFL players, shop for exclusive gear and snag a few autographs while you’re there.
February 5 at the Mahalia Jackson Theater
Here’s a more inspirational option in the lead-up to the Big Game: this NFL-sanctioned, soulful concert event is set to be an uplifting night of joyful music and praise. The event brings together NFL players and award-winning musical artists—past participants include Kirk Franklin, Patti LaBelle, Earth, Wind & Fire, T-Pain and Snoop Dogg—together on one stage. The concert will be taped—to be broadcast on February 8 on FOX—and you can be a part of the live audience.
February 7-8 at the French Market
Get a little culture with your football festivities at this celebration of Louisiana’s rich heritage. The festival will highlight the many cultures of Pelican State with unique booths and activations featuring local Native American tribes. There will be crafts, storytelling, regional cooking and dance demos. Catch jazz and zydeco performances throughout the festival.
February 7 at The Fillmore
The one and only Post Malone is bringing his signature moves and newer country croons to the Fillmore, making this one of the hottest events of Super Bowl Weekend. The intimate concert is free, but you’ll have to do your part to win tix by following Bud Light on Instagram or Facebook.
February 7 at Mardi Gras World
Shaquille O’Neal’s signature party is set to deliver some larger-than-life fun, with midway, rides, games, circus performers and carnival foods. The stellar music lineup includes Ludacris, John Summit and the big man himself as DJ Diesel. Tickets include an open bar, and all the fun takes place with the backdrop of colorful floats and props at Mardi Gras World. And if previous events are any indication, some of Shaq’s megawatt friends (like Jamie Foxx, Rob Gronkowski, Diplo, Reggie Bush and Lil Jon) are likely to join in on the fun.
February 8 in the French Quarter
It wouldn’t be a New Orleans event without a parade, and Super Bowl does fall in the thick of Carnival season. This first-ever, Mardi Gras-style parade from the Super Bowl Host Committee will feature Super Bowl-themed floats, local dance groups, high school and college marching bands, NFL-inspired throws and a star-studded lineup of celebrity guests and athletes. Reigning as king of the parade will be Raising Cane’s CEO Todd Graves. Kicking off at Esplanade and Decatur, the parade will wind through the French Quarter, CBD and Warehouse District.
February 8 at The National WWII Museum
Featuring amazing food, entertainment and appearances by NFL greats, this longstanding philanthropic event remains a highlight of Super Bowl Week. This year’s installment will be hosted by Andrew Zimmern, Carla Hall, Tim Love, Lasheeda Perry and Mark Bucher plus an additional 25 chefs, including many from New Orleans. Participating local restaurants include Brennan’s, Dakar Nola, Dooky Chase’s, Restaurant R’evolution and Zasu. Proceeds benefit GENYOUth, whose goal is to end student hunger and help increase equitable access to school meals among at-risk children in New Orleans and around the U.S.
February 8 at Mardi Gras World
This star-studded event has long been considered one of the preeminent parties of Super Bowl Week. When past attendees have included the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio, Kim Kardashian, Alex Rodriquez, Justin Bieber, Shaquille O’Neal and Kevin Hart, you know it’s the place to be. This year’s edition will take place in the always-colorful Mardi Gras World, with tunes supplied by headliners Dom Dolla and Diplo.
February 9 on Canal Street
The Players Tailgate has earned the reputation as the best pre-game experience on Super Bowl Sunday. It draws active NFL players, celebrities and other notables for top-notch food, drink and entertainment before the big game. Hosted by Sage Steele, this year’s event features a live performance by DJ Irie, premium open bars and all-you-can-eat dining with gourmet dishes prepared by celebrity chefs like Bobby Flay and Aaron May.
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