NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – Downtown New Orleans recorded 2.2 million total visits during the two-week Carnival stretch from the Friday of the Krewe of Cleopatra through Mardi Gras Day — the highest level of visitation during Carnival since 2020, according to data from Placer.ai analyzed by the Downtown Development District.
The total represents a 10% year-over-year increase from 2025, underscoring Downtown’s continued momentum as a destination for residents and visitors during Carnival. From parades and riverfront celebrations to restaurants, retail and cultural attractions, Downtown once again served as the center of the Mardi Gras experience.
“These visitation numbers show that Downtown remains the economic engine of our city during Carnival,” DDD President and CEO Seth Knudsen said. “A 10% year-over-year increase reflects meaningful momentum for our restaurants, hotels, retailers and cultural attractions. We remain focused on delivering a clean, safe and welcoming environment that allows businesses to thrive.”
In addition to supporting enhanced public safety, sanitation and hospitality services throughout the season, DDD sponsored The Riverwalk’s 40th annual Lundi Gras Festival. The riverfront celebration welcomed approximately 7,000 attendees, offering live music, local food and a family-friendly atmosphere along the Mississippi River…