As the world prepares to welcome 2026, cities across Louisiana are getting ready for a night filled with music, fireworks, parades, and countdowns. From riverfront fireworks in New Orleans to family-friendly noon celebrations and zydeco dances in Acadiana, the state is offering something for every kind of celebration.
At the same time, officials are reminding residents that ringing in the new year safely is just as important as celebrating loudly.
New Orleans rings in 2026 with music and riverfront fireworks
New Orleans hosts one of the state’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebrations with New Orleans Eve at Woldenberg Park. The free riverfront concert runs from 9 PM to midnight and features live performances by Dumpstaphunk, Sweet Crude, and DJ Captain Charles.
The night ends with the city’s signature Fleur-de-Lis drop and fireworks lighting up the Mississippi River.
Fireworks are not permitted for private use in Orleans Parish, but spectators can enjoy the midnight display along the river. Popular viewing spots include Woldenberg Park, Moonwalk Riverfront Park, Crescent Park near the French Market, and Algiers Point on the West Bank, which often offers a less crowded view.
Fire marshal urges caution with fireworks
The Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office is asking residents to be careful with fireworks on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Families are encouraged to attend public fireworks displays whenever possible. For those choosing to use fireworks at home, officials stress the importance of following local laws, keeping a safe distance from buildings, and supervising children at all times.
Parish-by-Parish fireworks
Fireworks laws vary widely across parishes. In Jefferson Parish, private fireworks are illegal in unincorporated areas. St. Charles Parish allows fireworks during specific hours on December 31 and January 1. St. Tammany Parish permits fireworks in unincorporated areas and in Covington, but bans them in cities including Slidell, Mandeville, and Pearl River, with violations carrying heavy fines and possible jail time.
Tangipahoa Parish allows fireworks, though individual cities set their own rules, and fireworks are restricted near churches, schools, hospitals, and public buildings. Terrebonne Parish permits fireworks outside Houma city limits during limited hours, while Lafourche Parish allows fireworks on set schedules but bans them in Thibodaux and most of Golden Meadow. St. John the Baptist Parish and St. Bernard Parish also allow fireworks during designated hours, with safety distance rules and supervision requirements for minors.
New Year’s Eve celebrations in New Orleans begin early with the Allstate Sugar Bowl Parade at 2 PM in the French Quarter. The Mardi Gras-style parade rolls along Decatur Street, passing the French Market, Café du Monde, and Jackson Square before ending at Canal Street. The parade sets the stage for the Sugar Bowl playoff game on January 1 at the Caesars Superdome, where Georgia faces Ole Miss.
Baton Rouge welcomes 2026 with the red stick drop
Baton Rouge celebrates with Red Stick Revelry in downtown’s Davis Rhorer Plaza from 8 PM to midnight. The free event features live music, laser light shows, and a fireworks display over the Mississippi River. At midnight, a nine-foot LED-lit red stick drops from the Town Square Beacon to mark the arrival of 2026.
Families can celebrate earlier in the day with Red Stick Rising, a daytime event with art activities, performers, and a noon countdown. The Knock Knock Children’s Museum also hosts its popular Noon Year’s Eve with hands-on activities and kid-friendly fun.
Lafayette blends Zydeco, parties, and kid-friendly countdowns
In Lafayette, New Year’s Eve celebrations reflect Acadiana culture. Vermilionville Historic Village hosts an evening dance with zydeco star Geno Delafose, while the Children’s Museum of Acadiana offers a Noon Carnival and Countdown for younger kids. Nightlife options include live music at Rock ’n’ Bowl de Lafayette and themed parties with DJs, fireworks, and midnight countdowns.
Music, cruises, and all-night parties in New Orleans
Live music lovers can head to Frenchmen Street, where clubs like The Spotted Cat, The Maison, and The Blue Nile host performances all night. DJ Soul Sister brings back her popular Soul Train party at the Civic Theatre, spinning classic funk, disco, and R&B. For a unique view of the fireworks, the Creole Queen and Steamboat Natchez offer New Year’s Eve cruises with music, food, and front-row seats on the river.