Things To Do In New Orleans On Thanksgiving - Bienville House Hotel

Thanksgiving means different things to different people. For some, the perfect Turkey Day entails staying in pajamas and watching football with family; for others, it’s a day off to explore and enjoy. If you’re in the latter camp, take a look at things to do on Thanksgiving in New Orleans.

Friendly Competition

The Southern Jaguars and the Grambling Tigers play one another in the Bayou Classic, a Thanksgiving tradition at the Superdome that celebrates one of the biggest team rivalries in the region. You may not find turkey with all the fixings, but there are plenty of concessions at the Superdome to keep you satiated and smiling.

Thanksgiving at the Fair Grounds Race Course

Thanksgiving is also opening day at the Fair Grounds Race Course. (Photo by MissMalaprop via Flickr)

Thanksgiving at the Track

If the weather is nice, you can head to the Fair Grounds Race Course in lieu of the dining table. Thanksgiving is opening day for thoroughbred racing season, and the course hosts a Thanksgiving buffet in the upper-level clubhouse to celebrate (guests must be 21 and older). Guests can also enjoy concessions on the lower level as they watch live racing from 11 a.m. until about 3 p.m. Come in festive finery – this event draws fanciful crowds who love a good costume and a good time.

Where to Dine

Our restaurant, Latitude 29, will be closed on Thanksgiving, but guests who book now at Bienville House can still take advantage of plenty incredible restaurants in the area. Criollo, the restaurant at our sister property Hotel Monteleone, will host Thanksgiving dinner from 12:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. French Quarter favorite The Court of Two Sisters is open from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. for lunch and then again from 5:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. for dinner. Luke, Borgne, Morton’s The Steakhouse, and Dickie Brennan’s Tableau are just a few of the many restaurants open on this food-filled holiday.

Give Thanks With Us

Celebrating Thanksgiving in New Orleans is always a festive experience, and there’s no better place to stay than at your home away from home with us. Be sure to check out our rooms and prime French Quarter location and book your visit today!