Forget the tourist traps! This weekend in New Orleans is packed with weirdly wonderful local activities, from watching ostrich races to catching a super quirky, DIY parade. Don't miss the last chance to explore City Park's Arts Market before it wraps up!
Quick Picks
Arts Market New Orleans
City Park (Mid-City)
Browse incredible local art along the Popp Bandstand Corridor.
The Power of We :: Law and Democracy for Scouts
WWII Museum (CBD)
An engaging, indoor dive into civic engagement perfect for curious kids.
Free Family Sunday at Longue Vue House and Gardens
Longue Vue House and Gardens
Explore gorgeous grounds for free this Sunday morning.
· January 31
3EXOTIC ANIMAL RACES COLLEGE DAY : You seriously have to see this—they race ostriches, camels, and even zonkeys! It’s the wildest way to spend a Saturday afternoon at the Fairgrounds.Where else can you watch a zonkey race? This is classic, quirky New Orleans fun that kids aged 3-14 will never forget.
THE POWER OF WE :: LAW AND DEMOCRACY FOR SCOUTS : Scouts and other kids can dive into how laws keep the country running strong. It’s a great way to get a real history lesson focused on civic engagement.It’s a civic-minded workshop disguised as a program, perfect for older kids interested in how things actually work.
ARTS MARKET NEW ORLEANSFREE : Take a stroll along the Popp Bandstand Corridor and check out local artists selling jewelry, ceramics, and paintings. Great way to get fresh air and see local creations.It’s a fantastic, low-pressure, free way to support NOLA artists while getting outdoors in City Park.
· February 1
3'TIT RƏX PARADEFREE : This is one of the coolest, most unique parades—totally quirky, artistic, and DIY. Perfect for teens and older kids who appreciate the unique NOLA vibe.This parade is known for being weird and wonderful, making it the anti-tourist event of the weekend.
FREE FAMILY SUNDAY AT LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENSFREE : Head over to Longue Vue for free admission on Sunday! It's gorgeous for just wandering around and letting the kids explore the grounds.A completely free way to enjoy one of the city's most beautiful estates—a real win for the family budget.
ANNIE JR. MATINEE : Catch the matinee showing of *Annie Jr.* on Sunday afternoon! Tickets are super cheap for kids ($5), making it a fun little theater outing.It’s a staged youth production that’s affordable and hits that sweet spot for younger theater fans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in New Orleans this weekend (Jan 31 - Feb 1)?
This weekend features two excellent free options: you can browse the local creations at the Arts Market New Orleans in City Park on Saturday, or enjoy Free Family Sunday at Longue Vue House and Gardens all day Sunday.
Where can I find unusual, quirky activities for older kids?
For something truly unique, check out the wildly obscure Exotic Animal Races on Saturday afternoon at the Fairgrounds, or catch the totally DIY 'tit Rəx Parade in the Marigny on Sunday.
Are there any affordable indoor options for a Saturday afternoon?
Yes! If you need an indoor spot, The Power of We :: Law and Democracy for Scouts at the WWII Museum on Saturday morning lets kids dive into civic engagement.