Mardi Gras Season: kicks off with the Feast of Epiphany and continues with countless street parties, parades and balls. The city of New Orleans is absolute mayhem, but great fun on the run up to Mardi Gras.

Battle of New Orleans Commemoration: is an annual re-enactment of the famous Battle of 1815. The scenario is complete with canons, uniforms and excitement.

Zulu Festival: held in early February and part of Mardi Gras celebrations, this annual festival is organised by the Audubon Institute and offers an enormous variety of live entertainment as well as delicious local food.

Dallas Autorama: this event should not be missed by car lovers, as hundreds of vehicles, ranging from vintage to latest model cars, are on show.

Black Heritage Festival: part of Black History Month, this festival sees numerous exhibitions highlighting African-American culture.

Children's World's Fair: this event is run by the Louisiana Children's Museum for children aged four to 14 years. The fair includes sports, games, food, craft and music from countries across the world.

Strawberry Jam 'n Toast to the Arts Festival: this is a very popular music festival which features an enormous range of musical styles. There are also dance performances and art workshops for children.

Jazz Fest: this is New Orleans premier jazz celebration, but it also sees performances from other genres such as blues, Cajun and swamp pop. Not only will you find great music, but also delicious food and a party atmosphere.

Annual Spring Fiesta: this is spread over two weekends and includes a tour of the French Quarter, Uptown and Garden district as well as musical performances and a presentation at Jackson Square.

New Orleans Wine and Food Experience: this event is held in late May and celebrates a selection of local cuisine and wine as well as allowing attendees the opportunity to sample dishes and drinks from around the world.

Greek Festival: also held in late May, this festival celebrates everything Greek. This event includes folk dancing, art, jewellery, music and food.

Back to the Beach Festival: held in early June, this annual event can be found along the banks of Lake Pontchartrain and features live music, games, local handicrafts and of course, the famous local food.

International Arts Festival: this is a celebration of music and culture from communities throughout South America, the Caribbean and Africa. It sees the city come alive in parades, performances and partying.

Independence Day: the Mississippi River is the place to head for 4 July celebrations. You will find the entire city out in force, celebrating with food, drink, music and an impressive firework display.

Swamp Pop Music Festival: this annual musical event features performances by local and national musicians as well as a beauty pageant, car show and a jambalaya cook-off.

Great Gospel Gathering: this is one of the most popular music events on the calendar. Gospel choirs from across the country gather together in mid-July to perform with famous musicians in a multitude of concerts held across the country. Venues are nearly always packed out, so be sure to get your ticket early.

Satchmo Summerfest: this festival, held in early August, celebrates the life of New Orleans’ most famous resident, Louis Armstrong. Live music can be heard city-wide and fans and experts hold seminars on the musician’s life and works. There is also, as with most festivals, and abundance of local cuisine on offer.

Southern Decadence: held at the beginning of September, this event celebrates gay life, music and culture.

Haunted House: held throughout the entire month, this event sees a specially designed haunted house that is opened to the public. It is the perfect lead up to Halloween and guaranteed to spook you.

Art for Art's Sake: is one of the biggest art events in the city. Highlights include a free gallery hop, an enormous party on Julia Street and the opening of a number of exhibitions.

Celebration in the Oaks: held for six weeks, this event sees the Spanish moss and old oak trees in City Park sparkling with Christmas lights. It marks both the beginning and the end of Christmas festivities.

Big Easy Comedy Fest: includes sketch comedy, one man shows and talent shows. Comedians from across the country gather to test their comic rating on excited audiences.

Christmas New Orleans Style: the whole of December sees numerous events and activities take place throughout the city. These include tours of 19th century decorated homes, festive cruises, Christmas cooking demonstrations, walking tours and gospel choirs performing at St Louis Cathedral.