Bourbon Street has a carnival atmosphere on most weekends, but Labor Day Weekend is a party like no other in the Dirty South. Southern Decadence, SoDec or Gay Mardi Gras is a legendary circuit party that has gone on for more than three decades. Hurricanes, oil spills and other disasters haven’t stopped LGBT travelers from flocking to the Crescent City. If anything, it’s given “the city that care forgot” another reason to lift a plastic cup.
The center of the action takes place where Bourbon Street meets St. Ann Street. This is the area where you’ll find most of the gay bars. The most popular, the Bourbon Pub and Oz couldn’t be easier to find. They’re across the street from one another on Bourbon. If you’re looking to dance, these are the two venues you’ll want to check out. If you’re looking for something low-key there are plenty of options nearby, including Cafe Lafitte’s in Exile, Napoleon’s Itch (both on Bourbon Street) and Old Friends (on St. Ann).
Southern Decadence isn’t just about going to the bars, there are also outdoor concerts and parades. On the Sunday before Labor Day, many will don their most elaborate dress and gather to see the floats, performers and half to completely naked partiers. This year the theme is “Leather and Feathers” and the colors—black, powder blue and purple. Keep in mind this is “Gay Mardi Gras” so expect requests to flash for beads or get hit in the head with a set intended for someone else.
During any trip to New Orleans you will meet more than your fair share of fun and eccentric people. The laissez-faire lifestyle of the people who live here, like a good hurricane (the drink), is intoxicating. Where else could you see a Drag Race? Drag queens racing each other in the middle of Bourbon Street in shopping carts! Take that RuPaul!
If you’ve shot your wad on summer getaways to Provincetown or Fire Island, New Orleans is the perfect spot for a fall gaycation. Hotel rates are reasonable, drinks are cheap and depending where you go, you can eat very well for very little. Despite the oil disaster in the Gulf, local restaurants still prepare and serve seafood better than any other city in the country.
Weekend passes are available for special events and entry into clubs like Oz and the Bourbon Pub, but they’re only worth buying if you actually plan on going to the bars in the evening or plan on going to a lot of the events. Most bars on and around Bourbon Street are open 24 hours and during the day, most don’t charge a cover. If you do plan on just showing up and paying general admission, be prepared to wait in line at many of the venues past 9 pm.
There are two great bars just for the ladies. Rubyfruit Jungle is in the French Quarter. Three dance floors packed with beautiful ladies?! Needless to say, you’ll never get bored. The other venue, Club Tribute is arguably the most popular lesbian bar in the area, however, it’s located in Metairie, a city close to but not exactly in New Orleans. Drink specials are offered every night of the week, this may keep Club Tribute packed, but the hot women working behind the bar don’t hurt either.
Since Hurricane Katrina, more and more gay and lesbian tourists from around the world are discovering Southern Decadence. Approximately 100,000 LGBT out-of-towners gather for this uninhibited celebration, according to neworleansonline.com
Maybe I should have told you sooner, but if you are planning on going to SoDec, it’s a good idea to book your hotel room early. The best locations (to make sure you’re never too far away from the fun) are on or near Bourbon Street or Canal Street . A major tourist destination, there’s no shortage of great properties to stay at when you’re in New Orleans .
W French Quarter is next to Jackson Square. This is an eclectic area where you’ll find street performers, palm readers and artists selling their wares. After a long day of living it up, head back to the hotel and lounge around in the outdoor courtyard or take a dip in the illuminated outdoor pool. Now if want to goose lady luck, W New Orleans is located close to Harrah’s Casino, great shopping and the Warehouse District.
Not to far away from W New Orleans on Canal Street, you’ll find the New Orleans Marriott. Offering more than one thousand guestrooms and suites, this lavish property offers a chic wine bar, rooftop swimming pool, fully-equipped fitness center and a number of other amenities. These are just a few options. There are a variety of hotels, fitting pretty much any budget.
Gorgeous people, incredible food and music … you’ll find plenty of all three in NOLA. New Orleanians have seen and been through it all, but they always bounce back, put on a smile and find a reason to celebrate! 