4 Events Not to Miss in New Orleans this January & February

Celebrate Mardi Gras and Super Bowl LIX in the Big Easy

Whatever else visitors and residents might have to say about it, New Orleans is certainly unique. With a breezy personality that earned the moniker “The Big Easy,” NOLA is known for its relaxed atmosphere, long cultural history, and thumping musical heritage. 

This reputation becomes even more true during the early months of each year when New Orleans transforms into a home base for such storied celebrations as Mardi Gras. In 2025, the city’s “vibes” are even more “on” as NOLA plays host to the upcoming Super Bowl. Since transportation in the city can get a little crazy during these highly popular events, City Sightseeing New Orleans is ready to become your partner in navigating NOLA efficiently and safely. Here’s a list of 4 events not to miss in New Orleans this January and February. 

Joan of Arc Parade & Statue

Starting on January 6 and concluding on March 4 this year, New Orleans will enter the throes of Mardi Gras season. A well-known cultural tradition highly associated with Louisiana (and New Orleans in particular), Mardi Gras began as a celebration by French-Catholic settlers who lived in the region during the 17th century. In 1699, the first known Mardi Gras event was held. It took almost two centuries for the season to finally be considered an “official holiday” by the state.

As per tradition, the first Mardi Gras parade begins with the illustrious Joan of Arc, the historical heroine known for leading armies during the Hundred Years War and, ultimately, sacrificing her life in service to her people. Described as a “birthday party” for the canonized saint, the parade features Joan of Arc riding a golden horse down Decatur Street in the French Quarter. 

You can check out the Joan of Arc Statue in the Place de France. This bronze monument depicts the “Maid of Orleans” on a horse while valiantly leading French troops into battle. Given by France as a gift to New Orleans, the statue is a symbol of the strong French cultural and ethnic roots that still exist in New Orleans today.

Visit the Joan of Arc statue in the French Quarter by disembarking City Sightseeing New Orleans’ Hop On Hop Off bus at Stop #2: The French Market.

Super Bowl LIX

Few things are a bigger deal than Mardi Gras in NOLA, but the National Football League’s Super Bowl LIX definitely qualifies. Scheduled for February 9, the Super Bowl is an event worth planning ahead for since it regularly attracts thousands of in-person spectators and media personnel. 

This year’s game is particularly noteworthy as it marks the 11th Super Bowl hosted by NOLA, which ties the city up with the NFL’s other frequent hosting spot, Miami. Played at Caesars Superdome, headliner Kendrick Lamar is slated to perform at half-time. The Superdome will also solidify its record as the stadium with the most championship games played on its turf (2025 marks its eighth game). 

Visit the Caesars Superdome by disembarking City Sightseeing New Orleans’ Hop On Hop Off bus at Stop #9: Hyatt Regency. Please note, the Hop On Hop Off will not operate on February 8th or 9th due to Super Bowl festivities and corresponding road closures.

The NFL Experience 

Get ready to prepare for the Super Bowl with family-friendly activities at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center! Most directly related to the big game is the NFL Experience, an opportunity for willing participants to engage in various football-themed activities, including obstacle courses, passing drills, and historical exhibits. Visitors will potentially get to meet professional NFL players and purchase exclusive gear only available to Experience participants.

Immerse yourself in interactive games and NFL FLAG clinics between activities. Fans can also take memorable pictures with the Vince Lombardi Trophy. Whether you’re a football aficionado or interested in learning some new skills, the NFL Experience makes for great conversation and even greater memory making.

Visit the NFL Experience by disembarking on City Sightseeing New Orleans’ Hop On Hop Off bus at Stop #16: Hall E of Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

Louisiana Civil Rights Museum 

The Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Convention Center offers other attractions for members of your group who might be a little “footballed” out. With a particular focus on small and local businesses, the center frequently holds events and trade shows open to the public for a small admission fee. For a little local history, the Louisiana Civil Rights Museum provides a narrative of the Civil Rights Movement from the late 1800s to the contemporary period. 

Watch preserved footage and listen to oral accounts of the many protests and marches that bring the movement to shimmering life. Don’t miss the museum’s state-of-the-art Dreamcube, a 5,000-square foot display that combines primary sources to recount the Bogalusa to Baton Rouge march and the process of New Orleans’ public school desegregation. 

Visit the Louisiana Civil Rights Museum  by disembarking on City Sightseeing New Orleans’ Hop On Hop Off bus at Stop #16: Hall E of Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

Travel with City Sightseeing New Orleans

Whether you’re attending one of the city’s major events or planning a sightseeing vacation, City Sightseeing New Orleans offers convenient, comfortable transportation to all your must-see New Orleans landmarks. Purchase one of our Hop On Hop Off single or multi-day tickets to board and disembark at any of our stops throughout the city. Have some fun in the Big Easy today!