NEW ORLEANS, October 24, 2026 — New Orleans’ French Quarter is preparing for a major Halloween celebration tonight as the Krewe of BOO! Parade returns with monster-themed floats, costumed performers and more than 100,000 spectators expected along downtown streets.
The free parade begins at 6:30 p.m. Central Daylight Time (CDT), traveling approximately three miles from Elysian Fields Avenue through the French Quarter and Canal Street before finishing in the Warehouse District. Road closures and public transit detours could complicate travel for residents and visitors.
Krewe of BOO Parade 2026: Date, Time and Key Details
- Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
- Start time: 6:30 p.m. CDT
- Starting point: Elysian Fields Avenue
- Ending point: Andrew Higgins Drive
- Distance: Approximately three miles
- Admission: Free public viewing
- Expected crowd: More than 100,000
- Lineup: 15 floats, 600-plus riders and 45 subkrewes
The procession may take approximately two to two-and-a-half hours, suggesting a finish around 8:30–9 p.m. However, organizers have not confirmed an exact ending time or float arrival schedule for individual streets.
Full Krewe of BOO Parade Route Through New Orleans
The official route follows these streets:
- Elysian Fields Avenue: The procession begins and heads toward North Peters Street.
- North Peters Street: Floats continue toward Decatur Street.
- Decatur Street: The parade passes Jackson Square.
- North Peters Street: Riders proceed toward Canal Street.
- Canal Street: Floats travel toward Burgundy Street.
- Burgundy Street: The procession makes a U-turn.
- Canal Street: The parade returns toward Tchoupitoulas Street.
- Tchoupitoulas Street: Floats enter the Warehouse District.
- Andrew Higgins Drive: The parade reaches its endpoint.
Decatur Street near Jackson Square offers a historic French Quarter setting, while Canal Street provides a central downtown viewing area. Tchoupitoulas Street is convenient for spectators planning to attend the afterparty.
Road Closures, Parking Restrictions and RTA Detours
Traffic restrictions are expected around Elysian Fields Avenue, Decatur Street, North Peters Street, Canal Street, Burgundy Street and Tchoupitoulas Street.
The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority says parade-related detours may begin as early as 4:30 p.m., two hours before the procession starts.
- Routes 47 and 48: Canal Streetcar service will terminate downtown-bound trips at Canal and Liberty streets, with connecting buses.
- Route 11 Magazine: Temporary downtown detours will affect regular service.
- Route 80 Desire–Louisa: Buses will be diverted near Elysian Fields Avenue and Decatur Street.
Passengers should consult the official New Orleans RTA parade advisory for updated service information.
Drivers should follow posted no-parking signs and allow extra travel time. Exact street reopening times have not been confirmed.
Monster Floats and Interview With the Vampire Tribute
New Orleans artist James Michalopoulos leads this year’s procession, while authors Christopher Rice and Eric Shaw Quinn serve as co-grand marshals.
A special Interview with the Vampire float marks the 50th anniversary of Anne Rice’s celebrated novel, reflecting the city’s literary and supernatural history.
The parade’s 15 Halloween-themed floats feature ghosts, vampires and other creatures. Riders are expected to distribute Zapp’s Potato Chips, MoonPie Minis, PEEPS, pralines, light-up beads, plush toys and collectible glitter pumpkins.
The Halloween procession draws on the same krewe traditions that define New Orleans’ Carnival season. Elaborate floats, costumed riders and parade throws also feature in the city’s Mardi Gras and Fat Tuesday celebrations, although Krewe of BOO! brings those traditions to Halloween.
Zombie Run, Monster Mash and Halloween Events
Saturday’s celebrations extend beyond the evening parade:
- 7:30 a.m.: Zombie Run registration at Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar, 701 Tchoupitoulas Street.
- 9 a.m.: New Orleans Zombie Run, a two-mile Halloween-themed race.
- 6:30 p.m.: Krewe of BOO! Parade begins.
- 8 p.m.: Monster Mash afterparty at Generations Hall, 310 Andrew Higgins Boulevard.
The parade is free and family-friendly, while Monster Mash and private VIP viewing areas require separate tickets. Published VIP packages range from $200 to $275, subject to availability.
Viewing Tips for Families and Visitors
Spectators should arrive early, choose a viewing location before traffic restrictions begin and bring water, comfortable footwear and a bag for parade throws.
Families may prefer areas with convenient restroom access and less congestion. Visitors should avoid crossing active parade routes and follow instructions from police and event personnel.
Other major American holiday parades also attract large crowds. New York’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2026 will celebrate its 100th edition on November 26, featuring giant balloons, decorated floats and marching bands.
Founded in 2007, Krewe of BOO! brings Mardi Gras-style pageantry to New Orleans’ Halloween season. With large crowds expected tonight, checking transportation changes and parking restrictions before traveling will be especially important.
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