New Orleans destination wedding - question about timing

I can't speak for NOLA specifically, but I think travel would be harder for guests over Easter weekend more so than St. Patrick's Day weekend, both in price of flights and preset plans.

Whether you want the extra time before or after your wedding would probably depend on the extent of any DIYs you're planning - I ended up needing to take 2 days off before my wedding to prep DIYs that couldn't be done the weekend before (edible favors, fresh flowers, etc.) but if you don't have stuff like that to worry about, you may enjoy having the time off after the wedding more!

We had our wedding in New Orleans and it was a BLAST!! That being said, St. Patrick's Day in NOLA is crazy! The city absolutely loves celebrating holidays and they do it big! There are huge parades that will block streets and there is a huge influx in the amount of visitors that weekend. Unfortunately, the majority of those visitors are young college students ready to party/get rowdy (especially if the holiday coincides with Spring Break!) so be prepared for nudity, public intoxication, public urination and vomiting, depending on where you're at. It will take a lot longer to get a table at any restaurant or bar in the French Quarter, and hotels tend to raise their prices for that weekend (especially if it coincides with Spring Break). Likewise, many other vendors (officiants, photographers, videographers, cake bakers, etc.) raise their prices, or just don't work at all, on holidays. That's not to say you can't do it then, but just be prepared for the madness and plan accordingly. That would mean securing a hotel, wedding/reception venue, and a place to host your rehearsal/welcome dinner ASAP (because they book up quick around holidays); same with other vendors. Try to plan out meals and make reservations way in advance. If you want to do any of the tours, make sure you book them in advance also. And also be aware that crime rates spike during parade holidays - so make sure your guests know to be vigilant about safety.

Easter weekend would likely be much slower in the French Quarter, but you may run into scheduling conflicts with your guests. If they are willing to travel during Easter though, there are absolutely gorgeous churches in the area that they can attend Easter services (if religious).

Of the dates you presented, I would be inclined to choose the 9th. Having the time after the wedding would be a nice little "honeymoon" for you and your guests.

Thank you for the insight! New Orleans goes a little crazy for holidays, which is fun, but a bit stressful for planning!

This is very helpful, thank you! I figured St. Patrick's day would be madness! Easter could potentially be fun, but you're right, I think March 9th is the way to go. I'd love to hear about your New Orleans wedding!

I'll private message you