After a strong and successful 2025, New Orleans is already looking ahead, and the outlook for 2026 is shaping up to be even brighter.
Walt Leger, CEO of New Orleans & Company, says last year helped build momentum that’s carrying straight into the future. From major festivals to international gatherings, the city continues to attract attention from around the world and planners are already thinking far ahead.
“2025 was a great year for us and really set the stage for what’s coming next,” Leger says. “Last year we booked over two million rooms into the future.
That's about five hundred million dollars of investment.”
Leger says while the 2026 calendar is still being finalized, with a few surprises still in the works, the lineup is filling quickly.
"We're looking forward to The Rocking One Thousand Band's first appearance in the United States at the end of January, LIV golf brings a new tournament in June, and this will be Fit Fete's first year highlighting health and wellness in city park.
He says some events are already booked years, and even decades, into the future.
“We're booking events in the 2030s and even early 40s.”
With a mix of beloved traditions and new experiences on the way, Leger says 2026 will welcome many new faces while continuing to offer what locals and visitors alike love about New Orleans.
“There’s a lot to be excited about,” he says. “New Orleans is ready.”
