New Orleans Art and Culture

New Orleans is a city full of life, flavor and culture, and they all come together to create an experience that is nothing short of extraordinary.

When it comes to art and culture, New Orleans is steeped in history and tradition. From the iconic architecture of the French Quarter to the vibrant street art that adorns the city's walls, there is no shortage of beauty to be found here. The city is home to numerous cultural institutions, galleries, and museums, including the

• National World War II Museum
• New Orleans Museum of Art
• Ogden Museum of Southern Art

If you fancy local art, Jackson Square is a wonderful place to check out up-and-coming artists, and occasionally find a bargain on original art.

One of the most unique aspects of New Orleans is its connection to Mardi Gras, which is celebrated at the start of the year in the weeks leading up to Lent. It is a time of parades, parties and costumes, and a celebration of the city's diverse cultural heritage. Although, the ARVO Annual Meeting falls about two months behind these exotic festivities, you can still visit Mardi Gras museums, which celebrate Carnival throughout the year.

Also year-round is the city's rich tradition of second line parades, which are are a street celebration of life and community led by brass bands. Music is at the heart of New Orleans culture. Known as the birthplace of jazz, this genre of music can be heard all over the city — from the famous Preservation Hall to small clubs and bars throughout the French Quarter and beyond. There is also a thriving blues, R&B and gospel music scene, as well as unique musical styles like Cajun and zydeco. You can enjoy these at countless festivals and events throughout the year, such as Wednesday at the Square — a free outdoor concert at Lafayette Square Park, which will be happening during ARVO 2023.

Overall, whether you're a music lover or an art enthusiast, New Orleans has something for everyone to explore and discover in this one-of-a-kind city.