April showers bring May…heat. Welcome to New Orleans -home of high temperatures and even higher humidity. Don’t fret, however. Due to our close proximity to the Gulf Coast and location between a lake and a river (the Mississippi, that is), there is a near-constant breeze, which offers a much needed reprieve as it blows through our streets.
If you think the heat means “here come the lazy days of summer,” you’re strongly mistaken. The hottest months have some of the most popular outdoor festivals, events and concerts. These include: Bayou Boogaloo, New Orleans Wine and Food Experience, Essence Festival, The Running of the (NOLA) Bulls, Tales of the Cocktail, White Linen Night, Satchmo SummerFest…the list goes on and on. We’re not positive, but we think the peaking temperatures electrify the city’s joie de vivre.
Don’t let the summer heat scare you. It’s one of the best times to visit!
Our travel essentials packing guide will have you packing like a pro, even with New Orleans’ weather surprises.
Essential No. 1: Light Clothes
When we say “light,” we mean: light in color, light in weight, light in fabric. Summer humidity will be high, so wear loose-fitting clothes in lighter colors. You might want to save that LBD (little black dress) for a fall event. P.S. If you happen to be here the first weekend in August, head to White Linen Night -a block party in the Arts District where art galleries stay open late; locals stroll the street, wearing their best white linen and bands play till late in the evening.
Essential No. 2: Closed-Toe Shoes
Of course you want to bring dressy wedges for your fancy Garden District dinner, but be sure not skip on your trusty Tom’s® or tennis shoes. If you’re in the French Quarter, you’ll be doing a lot walking. Head down one of the more popular streets (we know you’ll have to take in the revelry of Bourbon) and there may be debris on the sidewalk from past revelers. When in the French Quarter, it’s always better to be safe than sorry, with soggy sandals.
Essential No. 3: Umbrella
New Orleans’ climate is officially classified as humid-subtropical. There are frequent pop-up storms, with rainfall peaking in the summer months. A mini-umbrella (that can easily fit into a purse) is a lifesaver if you are exploring one of our neighborhoods and get caught somewhere without a covering. Don’t worry -these showers come and go quickly. Already here and without one? Most hotels offer umbrellas in their guest rooms or at the bell stand.
Essential No. 4: Sprays
…of the mosquito and sunscreen varieties. Not either/or, both. Whether taking a swamp tour, kayaking in Bayou St. John (located in the middle of New Orleans, literally. It flows through the Mid-City neighborhood) or exploring one of our many unique boroughs, you will be under significant sunshine during the day and, depending on where you are in the city, in close proximity to mosquitos after sunset.
Essential No. 5: Go-with-the-Flow Attitude
The most important essential on our list. You’re in New Orleans. They don’t call it “The Big Easy” for nothing. When you’re here, you should relax, embrace our whacky residents, envelop yourself in our rich culture, dance in our streets and gorge on our delicious food. Leave your inhibitions at home (they probably wouldn’t fit in your suitcase, anyhow).
A perfect outfit for exploring New Orleans, rain or shine!
There you have it. You’re all set to explore our little city, regardless of whatever weather may creep up. A little final advice: leave room in your suitcase to take a piece of NOLA home with you, that is, if you decide to leave.