Things to Do in Southern Louisiana This October

October in Southern Louisiana is one of the most exciting times of the year. The air gets a little cooler, the leaves begin to change, and the region bursts with music, food, festivals, and a good dose of spooky fun. From historic haunted sites to family-friendly fairs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this fall. If you’re planning your calendar, here are some of the best things to do in Southern Louisiana this October.

Haunted Spots Worth a Visit

Spooky season is here, and Southern Louisiana embraces it with open arms. If you’re someone who loves ghost tours and haunted history, you’ll find plenty of places to explore.

In New Orleans, the St. Louis Cemetery is as eerie as it is beautiful, filled with above-ground tombs and centuries of stories. In Baton Rouge, the Guaranty Building is often called one of the city’s most haunted places, with tales that make it a favorite among paranormal enthusiasts. On the Northshore, the SSA Nunnery in Covington still makes the list for ghost hunters hoping to catch a glimpse of the unexplained.

Even if you’re not into the paranormal, these landmarks offer fascinating history and a glimpse into Louisiana’s unique culture.

Festivals Across Southern Louisiana

Of course, October isn’t only about haunted happenings. It’s also one of the busiest festival months of the year. Food, music, culture, and community take center stage, and no matter where you are—from New Orleans to Baton Rouge to the Northshore—you’ll find something happening every weekend.

New Orleans

Foodies can kick off the month with the National Fried Chicken Festival (Oct 4–5), where more than 40 restaurants come together to serve their best recipes, paired with live music and a fun run/walk. A few days later, the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Fest (Oct 10–12) fills the streets with jazz, blues, barbecue, and local art.

If you’re in the mood for a classic, Oktoberfest runs through weekends in October with German food, beer, and music. Gretna Fest (Oct 3–5) promises three days of music across five stages, while NOLA Funk Fest (Oct 17–19) dives deep into Louisiana’s musical roots. And no October in New Orleans would be complete without the Krewe of BOO! (Oct 25) parade, with a zombie run, floats, and an afterparty that keeps the Halloween energy going all night.

Baton Rouge

In the capital city, October brings music, food, and family fun. Federal Fest (Oct 4) is a full day of country, rock, and Americana, paired with Southern eats. Mid-month, the Fifolet Halloween Festival (Oct 16–19) returns for its 15th anniversary with a pub crawl, Halloween ball, a 5K pumpkin run, a parade, and more. Bourbon lovers won’t want to miss the Louisiana Bourbon Festival (Oct 18), while families will enjoy the Haints, Haunts & Halloween! (Oct 26) at LSU’s Rural Life Museum.

Northshore

The Northshore also comes alive with fall celebrations. The St. Tammany Parish Fair (Oct 1–5) is always a highlight, along with the family-friendly Olde Towne Pumpkin Festival (Oct 4). Beer enthusiasts can raise a glass at the Northshore Beer Festival (Oct 12), featuring tastings from 17 breweries.

The Madisonville Wooden Boat Festival (Oct 18–19) draws boat lovers and families alike with more than 100 classic boats and kids’ activities. Music takes center stage at Abita Fall Fest, while shoppers can explore antiques and crafts at the Olde Towne Slidell Fall Street Fair (Oct 25–26). Wrapping up the month, the Festivals of the Lake (Oct 24–26) celebrates community spirit by the water.

Why October is Special in Southern Louisiana

What makes October so unique in Southern Louisiana is the balance of spooky and celebratory. You can spend your morning walking through a haunted cemetery, your afternoon listening to live jazz, and your evening at a family festival with local food and crafts.

Whether you’re drawn to ghost stories, live music, or simply spending time outdoors with friends and family, October offers endless ways to connect with the culture that makes this region so special.

First Time in New Orleans?

If it’s your first time exploring the Crescent City, make sure you check out some of the must-see spots that belong on every visitor’s list. Here’s a handy guide with more ideas: Things to Do in New Orleans.