Get ready for a busy weekend in NOLA! We have the grand reopening of Carousel Gardens, a chance to race dachshunds at the Fairgrounds, and some great community breakfasts happening. Here are the top 15 family picks for Saturday, Feb 28, and Sunday, Mar 1.
See our top picks
Free Family Sunday
Longue Vue House & Gardens
Free access to beautiful historic gardens all morning Sunday.
ST. Tammany Home & Remodeling Show
The Castine Center
Two full days of indoor exhibits across the lake.
Carousel Gardens Amusement Park :: Opening Day
City Park Carousel Gardens
The kiddie amusement park opens its doors for the season on Saturday!
· February 28
7: If your family enjoys seeing new designs or you need to tackle a home project, this two-day show is happening this weekend. Perfect for a full afternoon inside.It spans both Saturday and Sunday, offering flexibility.
: Head out to Violet for delicious food, live music, and family fun focused on coastal causes. Come hungry and support the area!It combines food tasting with supporting a local cause.
: The park opens for the season! Get your little ones on the classic rides at Carousel Gardens for the very first time this year. A perfect start to the spring season.This is Opening Day, making it a special first event of the season.
: Who doesn't want to watch tiny dogs run a short track? Get ready for some hilarious action at the Fairgrounds racetrack this afternoon.It’s a unique, funny local tradition that kids adore.
FREE : Take your young readers to practice their skills by reading aloud to real, live rabbits. This is a lovely way to encourage literacy in a relaxed setting.It combines animal interaction with early literacy practice.
FREE : Celebrate Mardi Gras a little early or just enjoy the local vibe at the Algiers neighborhood festival. Expect parades, music, and community fun.A true local NOLA festival experience that is family-focused.
: The massive trucks are back for high-octane stunts and air! This is loud, exciting action that older kids and teens will absolutely love.Huge, spectacular entertainment happening Saturday night.
· March 1
4PANCAKE BREAKFAST BENEFITTING DEPUTY OHLMEYER'S FAMILYFREE : Start Sunday morning right by enjoying pancakes while supporting a local deputy's family. It’s community service served on a plate!A great Sunday morning option that supports the community.
: Get your official spring/Easter photos taken early this year! Bring the kids (or pets!) to meet the bunny and snap some pictures at this pop-up event.It’s an early chance to get those coveted spring family photos.
: Celebrate the official opening of this new center dedicated to arts and education for kids. Expect hands-on activities and tours.It’s a brand new facility opening its doors to the community this Sunday.
MARCH 1-15 KIDS' CASTLE PLAYTIME : This ticketed playtime begins on Sunday and runs for the next two weeks, offering a dedicated spot for supervised kid fun inside the mall area.It launches this weekend and provides a structured indoor play environment.
Also On· anytime this weekend
2: A great way for kids who need a quieter environment to experience the museum. Check for specific admission details as this is an early morning dedicated session.It’s a dedicated time slot for families needing accommodations, making a major museum accessible.
FREE : Enjoy free access to the beautiful grounds and gardens at Longue Vue on Sunday morning. A great way to get outside without spending a dime.It’s a free day out at a beautiful historic location.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in New Orleans this weekend?
This weekend (Feb 28-01) there are a few great free options! Check out Free Family Sunday at Longue Vue House & Gardens on March 1st, or the Algiers Mardi Gras Festival on February 28th.
Is there anything happening in City Park this weekend?
Yes! The highly anticipated Opening Day for Carousel Gardens Amusement Park is Saturday, February 28th. Also, the Art Market New Orleans is taking place on Saturday at the Popp's Bandstand.
What's the best big event for older kids on Saturday night?
If your older kids like high-energy action, Monster Jam is happening Saturday evening, February 28th, at the Caesars Superdome.
