New Orleans is one of the world's most fascinating cities. Steeped in a history of influences from Europe, the Caribbean, Africa and beyond, it's home to a truly unique melting pot of culture, food and music.

You'll find bowls filled to the rim with gumbo, late nights in dark jazz clubs, strolls through historic neighborhoods, and tantalizing festivals throughout the year. Come down and experience New Orleans, one of America's most culturally and historically-rich destinations. NewOrleansOnline.com can introduce you to all of the Big Easy's greatest charms. As the official New Orleans tourism guide, the site is loaded with resources that will help you make the most of your visit. Download our free New Orleans city guide book for more information on things to do, where to eat and great places to stay.

Festival Season is Here New Orleans is the festival capital of the world. We have dozens of festivals that celebrate our unique food, music and multicultural heritage all year-long. Festival season in New Orleans is underway, y'all! Wednesdays at the Square | Bayou Boogaloo New Orleans Wine and Food Experience New Orleans Greek Festival | Asian Heritage Festival Creole Tomato Festival | LA Cajun Zydeco Festival US Freedom Pavilion – World War II Museum There's even more to explore at the National WWII Museum! Explore the tanks, planes and ships that defined The Great War, plus go aboard the USS Tang Submarine for an interactive experience you won't forget! Cultural Arts in May The cultural arts calendar is heating up this spring with Broadway's "Wicked" at the Mahalia Jackson, multiple offerings from the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra and Southern Rep's "Debauchery" and "6x6" at the Mid-City Theater. Bayou Boogaloo Enjoy three days full of music, art, and food on beautiful Bayou St. John during the 8th Annual Bayou Boogaloo. This FREE festival also features a kids' stage, which means there's plenty of fun for the whole family. N.O. Wine & Food Experience Fine wines and culinary delights abound at this annual springtime summit celebrating the very best in food from local chefs and restaurants and top-level labels from vineyards all across the world. FestiGals Grab your best girlfriends and head on down to NOLA for the ultimate ladies' weekend, featuring cocktail hours, workshops, home tours, decadent meals and tons of boa-clad festivities throughout the historic French Quarter. New Orleans French Quarter From the elegant hotels and restaurants to the fantastic music clubs, shopping and more…all are found here.

Dalai Lama's to Visit New Orleans His Holiness the Dalai Lama is coming to New Orleans for a three-day conference being held at the Convention Center. Tickets for his talks are on sale now - you won't want to miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!     Tales of the Cocktail It's a celebration of one of New Orleans' finest inventions – the cocktail! Mix one part education, two parts history and a hearty splash of fun – shaken or stirred, you've got the recipe for a great time! Essence Festival 2013 While we might have had most people at Beyonce, this year's Essence Fest has got so much more to offer in addition to Lady Bey, including exciting concerts, great shopping and empowering workshops. More New Orleans Stories: Zephyrs Baseball New Orleans Greek Festival Asian Heritage Festival Harrah's May Entertainment