Bonnets, Bunnies & Bourbon Street: Easter in New Orleans, Unwrapped

Where Bonnets Meet Beignets: A Sophisticated Take on Easter in the Crescent City

There’s Easter — and then there’s Easter in New Orleans.

Here, the holiday unfolds in layers of history, fashion, pageantry, and joie de vivre. Mass at St. Louis Cathedral meets Champagne brunch on a sunlit patio. Parade floats glide past gas lanterns while antique carriages roll through the Vieux Carré. And at every turn, there’s a little more sparkle, a little more style, and a deep sense of celebration.

Whether you’re stepping out in spring pastels or sipping mimosas in your garden, Easter in New Orleans offers a timeless blend of elegance and exuberance. Here’s your curated guide to the season’s most beloved traditions, refined indulgences, and locally loved experiences.

A Legacy of Style: The Origins of the Easter Parade

In the early 20th century, it was customary for families to promenade through the French Quarter after Easter Sunday Mass, dressed in their spring finest. Wide-brimmed hats, crisp linen suits, gloves, lace, and parasols—all displayed with a quiet confidence that said, we’ve waited all winter for this.

That tradition blossomed into the French Quarter’s now-iconic Easter parades, where refinement meets revelry and self-expression is elevated to an art form.

Mark Your Calendar: A Selection of Esteemed Easter Events

The Historic French Quarter Easter Parade

Begins at Tableau Restaurant | Easter Sunday, 9:45 AM

A graceful procession of horse-drawn carriages, antique convertibles, and carefully costumed locals. After a traditional Easter Mass at the cathedral, this parade sets the tone for the day: lighthearted, elegant, and distinctly New Orleans.

The Chris Owens Easter Parade

Begins and Ends at the Omni Hotel | Easter Sunday, 1:00 PM

An homage to the late Bourbon Street icon, this dazzling spectacle features feathered fascinators, sequined gowns, brass bands, and Bourbon Street’s signature flair. Expect pageantry and personality in equal measure.

The Official Gay Easter Parade

French Quarter | Easter Sunday, around 4:30 PM

A beloved celebration of New Orleans’ LGBTQ+ community and one of the city’s most vibrant displays of spring fashion, creativity, and inclusivity. Horse-drawn carriages, couture costumes, and a joyful atmosphere combine to create a memorable close to Easter Sunday. Proceeds benefit local LGBTQ+ charities, making this event both glamorous and deeply meaningful.

The Easter Table: Elevated Brunch Experiences

If there’s one thing New Orleans does with signature finesse, it’s brunch. Easter Sunday offers the perfect excuse to indulge in a long, luxurious meal surrounded by fresh flowers, fine linens, and friends who feel like family.

Brennan’s | French Quarter

Timeless Creole sophistication. Enjoy tableside Bananas Foster, Easter-exclusive dishes, and an iconic courtyard setting just steps from the parades.

Jack Rose | Garden District

An artful space with bold design and an equally imaginative menu. Think deviled eggs with caviar, French 75s, and the kind of service that encourages you to stay a while.

The Country Club | Bywater

A true hidden gem, beloved for its lively yet refined garden setting. Expect an inclusive atmosphere, elevated fare, and a joyful crowd dressed for the occasion.

Café Degas | Mid-City

For a quieter, romantic brunch, this French bistro offers a treehouse-like ambiance with classics such as crabmeat omelets, croque madame, and exceptional wine pairings.

Easter, the New Orleans Way: A Few Refined Traditions

• Dress the Part

  Bonnets, linen suits, floral dresses, bow ties — the look is timeless spring with a little personality. There’s no such thing as overdressed on Easter in New Orleans.

• Take a Leisurely Stroll

  Meander through Royal or Chartres Street, iced coffee in hand. The Quarter on Easter morning feels like stepping into another era — all balconies, blossoms, and beautifully dressed locals.

• Host with Style

  If you’re staying in, a backyard garden party is a must. Think rosé, citrusy cocktails, and locally inspired touches — crawfish cakes, sweet potato biscuits, or heirloom deviled eggs.

• Support Local Causes

  Many Easter events serve a greater purpose. From youth outreach to LGBTQ+ health initiatives, giving back is part of the holiday’s spirit here. A stylish celebration with substance — that’s the New Orleans way.

A Personal Note

What I love most about Easter in this city is that it’s both reverent and radiant — a time when tradition and imagination walk hand in hand. Whether you’re soaking in the sunshine from a sidewalk café or catching the breeze from a balcony as a parade rolls by, I hope this Easter brings you moments of beauty, joy, and connection.

And if spring has you feeling inspired to start a new chapter — whether that’s a fresh view, a first home, or a garden of your own — I’d be honored to guide you every step of the way.

Warmly,

Richard W. Hébert

Real Estate Advisor, Engel & Völkers New Orleans

Luxury isn’t a price — it’s a process.