Navigating Festival Season With Your Little Ones: A NOLA Mom’s Guide

Festival season in New Orleans is one of the most vibrant and exciting times of the year. From the lively music and incredible food to the unique art and culture, it’s a time when the city truly comes alive.

A few years ago, I went to French Quarter Fest on a Saturday afternoon with my then 1-year-old daughter. No chair, no blanket, and no plan…. Just a stroller, a diaper bag, and vibes. Navigating the festival and standing in crazy long lines with a baby and a bulky stroller was a nightmare. Now, I’m very intentional about festin’ with my little one. When you know better, you do better!

Here are my helpful tips for surviving festival season with your little ones:

1. Pick Your Festivals Wisely and Time Them Right: Not all festivals are made for families, and trust me, I’ve learned that the hard way. Those that are, definitely have a sweet spot that is more kid-friendly than other times. My advice is to arrive early before the heat and crowds kick in. This gives you a chance to claim a nice spot in the shade and grab some food and drinks before the lines get too ridiculous. By the time it’s sweltering and the crowds start to pour in, we’re packing up and heading home. 

2. Pack the Essentials (and Extras!): If you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready! I always bring sunscreen, hats, an umbrella, toilet paper or napkins (iykyk) and a change of clothes for my toddler. I also try to remember to pack plastic utensils and a tupperware container. This way, I don’t have to run back and forth to food stands for extra utensils and I am able to pack up leftover food. I like to be able to try different things without being wasteful. You know, very mindful! ✨

3. Have a Safety Plan: Festival crowds can get wild. We’ve developed a little family routine before heading out. First off, I make sure all of the older kids have phone numbers for at least 2 adults in our group written down or programmed into their phones. We always pick a clear meet-up spot—something colorful and unique like a big tent. 

I learned my lesson the first time my niece got separated from us at Jazz Fest. She dropped her fork and went to a nearby stand to grab a new one. When she started to make her way back to us she got mixed up and ultimately couldn’t find her way. Now, I make sure that all of the kids know to stay put and find a festival worker or police officer if anything happens. It’s these little things that ease my brain when we’re out and about..

4. Know When to Call It a Day: “My crew, let’s go!” I’ve realized that leaving while everyone’s still having fun is the best way to keep the festival memories positive. A few years ago, I stayed a little too long at the Fried Chicken Festival, and my kid had a complete meltdown– sis was ready to go!  Now, I pay close attention to her cues—when she starts getting cranky, it’s time to head home. There’s always next time.

What I love most about festival season is sharing New Orleans culture with my baby. It’s not just a day out—it’s a way to teach her about our cultural heritage. We listen to local musicians, try out new food, and get a chance to practice our footwork. My little one loves the second line, and seeing her shuffle her little feet to the sounds of a live brass band warms my uptown momma heart. I want my child to feel as connected to this city as I do, and festival season is one of the best ways to pass down real New Orleans pride.

Remember to take it all in—the music, the food, the people—and enjoy it with your little ones by your side. Festival season is as much theirs as it is ours, and that’s the beauty of raising kids in this amazing city.