Activity Overview
The Backstreet Cultural Museum is a fascinating museum in New Orleans which features the world's largest collection of cultural artifacts related to the city's African American community. In addition to containing numerous exhibits of items related to jazz, Mardi Gras, and other local traditions, the museum also features live music and dance performances throughout the year. If your family is interested in learning more about local culture, it's a great place to visit.
Things to Do
- View the collection of Mardi Gras Indian regalia, including elaborate suits made with beads, feathers, and stones that have been used in the city's annual Mardi Gras celebrations in previous years.
- Learn about the New Orleans tradition of jazz funerals by viewing items like photographs, videos, and memorabilia from these important ritual events.
- Explore the museum's film collection, which features all kinds of fascinating videos of jazz funerals and Mardi Gras celebrations.
Backstreet Cultural Museum Insider Tips
- Take a guided tour of the museum in order to learn more about African American culture in New Orleans.
- If you're visiting New Orleans on November 1st, make sure to attend the museum's annual All Saints Day Parade, which features a mock jazz funeral with a brass band and a parade.
- Don't miss the collections related to social aid and pleasure clubs, which were created to help support community members and provide entertainment through social events like parades and dances.
