Issue 03: Summer Update, Summer in New Orleans and at CastleDay

undefined • June 1, 2026

ISSUE 03

WHAT'S HOT IN NEW ORLEANS.

Whoever told you summers are slow in New Orleans needs only to read this article. The heat can be oppressive but imagine you have a refreshing pool to dip into. Or two freezers to hold those bulk bags of frozen daiquiris. We've compiled a short but sweet guide of how to make the most of your summertime stay at CastleDay. 

Thanksgiving feast illustration: turkey, candle, fruit, pitcher, and whimsical frog on a crescent moon.

Summer is here!

Summers here are hot! We won't pretend its not. However, we fight against the notion that New Orleans Summers are "Slow" There are actually so many fun and incredible moments that can be had in New Orleans all summer long!! Whether you embrace the heat, or can't stand it, we have designed CastleDay to be an incredible place to enjoy a perfect, albeit sweltering New Orleans' summer vacation.

Black line drawing of small flowers with leaves on a branch

BEAT THE HEAT

With a claim like "Summers in New Orleans aren't slow" we need to back it up with cold hard proof (sounds kind of refreshing in this heat, huh?). Luckily, we are locals and know exactly where to find that New Orleans magic in the summer. 

We've compiled a short list here for you to reference!


Music

Livewire

 WWOZ's running calendar of who's playing where, every night. The list locals actually use.

Free Tips

Tipitina's free Friday shows. No cover, real bands, all summer long.

Balcony concerts at the Jazz Museum 

 Tuesdays at five on the balcony of the old Mint. Bring a chair, they don't provide them.

Frenchmen Street

Three blocks, a dozen rooms, something going on every single night.


Festivals

Essence Festival of Culture (July 3 to 5)

The nation's largest annual African-American event, with more than fifty acts a night across five stages at the Superdome.

Experience New Orleans


Tales of the Cocktail (July 19 to 24) 

The international bar and spirits world descends on the Ritz-Carlton for six days of tastings, seminars, and special events.

French Quarter


Satchmo SummerFest (Aug 1 to 2)

A free festival honoring Louis Armstrong with live music, second lines, and food throughout the Quarter.

New Orleans


Red Dress Run (Aug 8)

A sea of red takes over downtown for a run, a walk, and a great deal of beer, all for charity.

 New Orleans


Southern Decadence (Sept 3 to 7)

The last big hurrah of the season over Labor Day weekend, with parties, parades, and costumes in the French Quarter. New Orleans


Full summer festival calendar lives here.


Things around the city

Snoballs at Hansen's Sno-Bliz

The original, and worth standing in line for.


Crescent Park

River breeze and a skyline view, a short walk from the house. Now connecting all the way to the French Quarter for those wanting a nice and safe walk. Part of the wharf  closes at 7:30pm, where you will have to take the bridge.


NOMA and the Besthoff Sculpture Garden


The National WWII Museum

A full day of air conditioning, very well spent.


A river cruise on the Steamboat Natchez

In August, the only dependable breeze is on the water.


More ways to beat the heat here.


Summer 20 26:

The Cold Plunge

We love summer at Castleday. It’s when New Orleans is at its most authentic self: the long days, the humidity, and the classic afternoon thunderstorms.


We find that our summer guests end up spending the most time on the property, which is exactly how it was designed to be used. While we love the energy of spring, summer gives you the time to really settle in and enjoy the amenities like hanging by the pool, using the outdoor showers, and watching TV under the fans.


The city also slows down. If you're coming with a large group, summer is the time to visit.

You can actually get a reservation for 12+ people at the best restaurants without a hassle.


We are also really excited to be adding a major wellness upgrade: Cold Plunges! Arriving this summer and available for rent during your stay, they offer the ultimate remedy to the New Orleans heat.


Group of people relaxing in a hot tub on a sunny day in a backyard with a pool.
Three black stars on a white background.
Three black stars of varying sizes against a white background.

The CastleDay Shop

 Have you visited our Castleday Shop yet?


We’ve launched an online concept store featuring a selection of our own designs—including prints of the artwork found in our spaces and some fun apparel. While we are starting with the essentials, we will be adding more of our favorite things to the collection over time.


Visit The Shop
Swirly arrow pointing left.

LOOKING

AHEAD



 is nearly completely booked but for those flexible enough, consider enjoying a few days in paradise for a fraction of the price by booking during the week.



The Insider Move:

 Weekends book fast, but mid-week stays still have solid availability and better pricing. If your group has flexibility, Tuesday through Thursday is how you get the full experience without the full price.


Direct booking

A quick reminder that you will always get the lowest rate by booking directly with us—guests often save $500+ per stay by booking directly with us.

Book Direct and Save
Two money bags and coins.
Feather quill and ink well illustration.

Suggestions & Feedback

As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out with any suggestions, feedback, or questions. We love hearing from you and are always looking for ways to make CastleDay even better.

Best,

Sam, written in a cursive, salmon-colored font.

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