The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) returns to the Crescent City April 17–20, 2026, for PCA26 at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in the heart of Louisiana’s most vibrant city. Whether you’re here to network, discover new premium cigars, or reconnect with old friends on the trade show floor, New Orleans offers endless opportunities for unforgettable evenings—just steps (or a short ride) away from the convention action.
Springtime in the Big Easy
April in New Orleans is pure magic. The city is alive with sunshine, festivals, and mouth-watering seasonal food like crawfish boils and sno-balls to cool off with after a warm afternoon stroll. And during PCA26, the legendary French Quarter Festival happens at the same time—meaning live music on every corner, sidewalk jazz, and the kind of laid-back energy that makes NOLA one of America’s favorite destinations.
Savor the Flavor
New Orleans isn’t just a destination—it’s a dining experience.
- Classic NOLA fare: Start with beignets and chicory coffee at the iconic Café du Monde, then make your way through po’boys, gumbo, jambalaya, and char-grilled oysters that define Crescent City cuisine. Check out the Cochon Restaurant in the Warehouse District for a selection of authentic Louisiana flavors and locally sourced ingredients or Gus’s World-Famous Fried Chicken on S. Diamond Street near the convention center for a delicious hot, crispy, Southern-style meal.
- Seafood & seasonal treats: April means crawfish—and many local spots serve them boiled, spicy, and delicious all over town. We recommend Drago’s Seafood Restaurant at the Hilton Riverside for some of the best seafood in the city–just make sure you make a reservation for a large group.
- Walking food tours & local bites: For something more curated, French Quarter food tours mix history with bites and sips (and often include cocktails).
Whether you’re dining al fresco or grabbing late-night bites after a show day, you’ll find something to please every palate.
Sip and Stroll
New Orleans takes drinking seriously (and deliciously):
- Spirits culture: From classic Sazeracs to inventive craft drinks, the city’s cocktail scene is world-renowned. Bourbon Street has its high-energy bars and famous dueling pianos, but for a more authentic vibe, head toward bars on Frenchmen Street or hidden courtyard lounges in the French Quarter. Try an anise-based liqueur cocktail known as a Ojen at Peychaud’s on Toulouse Street or grab a flavorful cocktail at the James Beard Award-winning Jewel of the South on Saint Louis St.
- Cigar lounges with style: Cozy lounges like Cuban Creations, the site of one of the PCA After Hours events, offer premium cigars and cocktails in a relaxed setting perfect for winding down after a day at the show.
- Local breweries & taprooms: If beer’s your preference, New Orleans’ brewery scene—including Urban South and NOLA Brewery—blends regional flavors with laid-back atmosphere.
And remember: in New Orleans, it’s perfectly acceptable to carry your drink while you explore the streets—just sip and enjoy (responsibly!).
Music, Culture & Nightlife
Jazz isn’t just music here—it’s part of the city’s soul. Live performances spill out into the streets as musicians play from bars, clubs, and festival stages alike.
- Frenchmen Street: Just a few blocks from the French Quarter, this vibrant stretch is lined with intimate music clubs where jazz, blues, and funk fill the night air.
- Festivals & local events: With French Quarter Fest happening during PCA26, you’ll catch live music, local artisans, and food vendors all around town.
For something different, ghost tours, historic walking tours, and architecture strolls offer after-dinner adventures that mix fun with local lore.
Explore Beyond the Trade Floor
When you’re ready to take a break from cigars and cocktails:
- Wander the French Quarter: Stroll through Jackson Square, explore art galleries, and take in the city’s unique architecture.
- Magazine Street & Garden District: For boutique shopping and gorgeous historic homes, head Uptown or along Magazine Street for a more relaxed vibe.
- City parks & river views: Lafayette Square and Crescent Park offer scenic spots to unwind with a picnic or an afternoon walk.
Tips for the Savvy Traveler
- Book early: April is peak season in New Orleans, not just for PCA26 but for festivals citywide. Book hotels and restaurant reservations well in advance.
- Plan your nights: With so much to explore after the trade floor closes, a rough plan for dining, music, and sightseeing helps you make the most of every evening.
From savory plates and smoky lounges to jazz clubs and festive streets, New Orleans during PCA26 is a sensory experience you won’t soon forget. Pack comfortable shoes, an appetite for adventure, and an eagerness to connect—you’re in for a remarkable trip in the Big Easy.
This story first appeared in PCA26 Attendee Guide. To receive a copy of this publication, you must be a current PCA member. Join or renew today at premiumcigars.org/membership.