New Orleans is riding a major wave of tourism momentum, and Walt Leger says the 2026 season proves it. Fresh off Mardi Gras, the New Orleans & Company leader shared strong numbers, improved safety, and a packed year of events already filling the city.
Mardi Gras Attendance Rebounds to Pre-COVID Levels
Leger says this year’s Mardi Gras delivered some of the best results since 2020. New Orleans saw an estimated 2.2 million total visits, including 1.2 to 1.3 million individual out-of-town visitors—a 20% increase over 2025. President’s Day lining up with Mardi Gras helped extend stays, but Leger credits stronger public safety coordination and a better experience for visitors and locals.
The city also continued expanding its Recycle Dat program. In partnership with Grounds Crew, Glass Half Full, and the City of New Orleans, crews collected more than 40,000 pounds of parade waste during the first week alone, with totals expected to surpass 80,000 pounds. Recycled items include glass, beads, and newer “usable throws” like food packets and crawfish trays.
Tourism Surge Continues After Mardi Gras
The celebrations barely ended before USA Volleyball brought 15,000 young athletes and spectators into town. Days later, 15,000 orthopedic surgeons arrived for a major conference, followed by thousands more for additional conventions. “No rest for the weary,” Leger said, noting that the city moves from one major event to the next.
Sail 250 Brings Global Attention
From May 27 to June 1, New Orleans will host Sail 250, part of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration. Tall ships and military vessels from countries including the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, and Uruguay will dock along the riverfront. The event is free, features tours, food, music, and cultural programming, and highlights the Port of New Orleans’ global importance.
Book Festival Returns
Leger also spotlighted the fifth annual New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University, running March 12–15, featuring more than 250 authors and expanded family programming.
New Orleans’ tourism machine, he says, is “rolling straight into festival season.”