Culture & Traditions

• Birthplace of Jazz New Orleans is internationally recognized as the birthplace of jazz music, a unique blend of African and Creole rhythms with European styles.
• "Laissez les bon temps rouler": The city's unofficial motto translates from French to "let the good times roll!"
• Mardi Gras Colors: The official Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold were chosen in 1872 to represent justice, faith, and power, respectively.
• Voodoo History: The city has a deep history with Voodoo, a religion brought by enslaved Africans and the West Indies. Marie Laveau, the famous Voodoo Queen, is a legendary figure whose tomb attracts many visitors.
• Unique Street Directions: Locals rarely use North, South, East, or West. Instead, they use "Uptown," "Downtown," "Riverside," and "Lakeside" to navigate.

History & Architecture

• Above-Ground Tombs: New Orleans is famous for its unique cemeteries with above-ground tombs. A common misconception is that this is due to the high water table; however, it is primarily a tradition brought from French and Spanish architectural styles, as in-ground burials are also common.
• Spanish Architecture in the French Quarter: Most of the historic buildings in the French Quarter were built during the Spanish rule in the late 1700s, after two major fires destroyed the original French colonial wooden structures.
• Louisiana is Unique: Louisiana is the only state in the U.S. that is divided into parishes rather than counties.
• The Crescent City: The city earned its primary nickname because it was built on a sharp bend of the Mississippi River.