* Last updated December 2018
We hope all of our readers had a happy and healthy holiday season! As we gear up for the New Year, we're already looking for the top things to do in New Orleans this January. We figured we share some exciting events to kick off the New Year. Our recommendations are suited to solo travelers who love to meet new people and be in the hustle and bustle of things. Check out the list:
Allstate Sugar Bowl
If you’re a sports fan, the Allstate Sugar Bowl is a great start your 2019. As the second oldest bowl game, the Sugar Bowl takes place each year in New Orleans. This year Texas will play Georgia on January 2 in the Superdome, home to the New Orleans Saints. In addition to related events such as Fan Fest and Fan Jam, there is also a parade happening on New Year’s Eve that is sure to be a good time (and a great preview to Mardi Gras).
Mardi Gras
Believe it or not, Mardi Gras begins on January 6th and lasts anywhere from 6-8 weeks, ending on “Fat Tuesday”. This day is the culmination of Carnival Season, and is immediately followed by the first day of Lent. It’s a great time to visit New Orleans--or stick around if you’re a local--because there are endless celebrations and parades. A few of the parades to be sure not to miss include Bacchus, Endymion, Muses, Rex, and Zulu.
King Cake Festival
The 6th annual King Cake Festival will take place on January 27th in Champions Square, and is free and open the public. The festival is host to live music, lots of beverages, and even more king cakes to choose from. King Cake season is traditionally celebrated from the 12th night after Christmas on, which is January 6th. It’s also the start of Mardi Gras season and a time to stuff yourself with king cake morning, noon and night. Hundreds of thousands of king cakes are eaten each season in New Orleans alone, although they are eaten in places such as Portugal and France as well.
Do you have anything else planned? We'd love to know what our readers are up to this January!
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Author: Julia Ballard
Julia was the first member of the Astrid Solo Travel Advisor team, and has helped shape our unique approach to travel writing which focuses on affordable, luxury ideas for the solo traveler. She is on top of all the cutting-edge in everything from technology to travel, and works to share her insights with our audience. To read more about her and each one of our Solo Travel Advisors, head over to the About page!
Every female solo traveler is different when it comes to exploring a city alone at night. Some are reluctant to leave the comfort of their hotel, others are eager to hit the town, and some want to be out and about, but don’t want to drink alcohol. Our list of 7 things to do at night as a solo traveler in New Orleans has something to suit every preference!