Planning an outdoor festival is no small feat. From the entertainment and crowd control to ensuring your guests are comfortable and engaged, every detail matters. And one of the most important aspects of event planning is securing the right rentals. At Big Easy Events, we know what it takes to transform a blank outdoor space into a vibrant festival atmosphere. Whether you’re organizing a food and music fair, a cultural celebration, or a community fundraiser, having the right rental items can make or break your event. Below, we explore the essential rentals you need to host a successful outdoor festival in New Orleans.
Shelter and Shade Are Non-Negotiable
New Orleans weather is unpredictable—sunny and humid one minute, then stormy the next. That’s why tents and canopies are among the most critical festival rentals. Whether you’re covering food vendors, merchandise stalls, or performance areas, a sturdy tent setup ensures that both your guests and equipment are protected from the elements. From elegant high-peak tents to sprawling festival tents, party rentals in New Orleans LA should always include a variety of shading options to suit the scale and layout of your event.
Equally important are sidewalls, flooring, and climate control features. These additions can help your event feel more comfortable, especially if you’re hosting during the hotter or wetter months. Flooring helps keep walkways safe and clean, while portable fans or misting systems can keep guests cool and happy.
The Right Seating Sets the Scene
No one wants to stand for hours on end at a festival. Offering a range of seating options—like folding chairs, picnic tables, cocktail tables, and lounge furniture—ensures that your guests can relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Whether you’re planning casual seating for food areas or elegant arrangements near performance stages, event space rental in New Orleans often includes flexible seating solutions that can adapt to your layout and guest count.
Additionally, don’t forget about table linens and décor. These small details can help unify your festival’s theme and add a polished, professional look to the overall space.
Lighting and Sound for a Vibe That Lasts
When the sun sets, your festival doesn’t have to end. Quality lighting rentals—like string lights, uplighting, spotlights, or LED installations—can keep the party going and create a memorable ambiance. For performances and announcements, you’ll also need audio and sound equipment that’s reliable and easy to operate. Coordinating with a vendor that specializes in event venues in New Orleans will ensure your lighting and sound solutions are appropriately scaled and installed for maximum effect.
Whether you’re booking local musicians or playing a pre-recorded playlist, crystal-clear sound and appealing visuals are essential for any outdoor celebration.
Sanitation and Safety Essentials
A festival is only as successful as it is safe and sanitary. That’s why portable restroom rentals and handwashing stations should always be a priority. Depending on the size and length of your event, you may need everything from standard porta-potties to deluxe restroom trailers with running water and mirrors.
Also consider barricades, fencing, and signage to manage crowds, create designated zones, and keep everyone informed. These components are especially important if alcohol is being served or if your festival is family-oriented and needs secure areas for children.
Food and Beverage Service Equipment
Whether you’re working with food trucks, local vendors, or handling catering yourself, having the right concession equipment is a must. Think drink stations, serving counters, mobile bars, ice chests, trash bins, and buffet tables. Beverage dispensers, popcorn machines, and cotton candy makers can also add a fun flair to your festival and boost guest satisfaction.
Many party rentals in New Orleans LA include not only the infrastructure for food service but also extras like branded signage, lighting, and themed accessories to enhance your vendors’ booths.
Don’t Forget the Extras That Make It Memorable
Finally, every great festival has a few extra touches that keep guests talking. Photo booths, inflatable games, dance floors, and décor elements like archways or stage backdrops can help turn your event into an unforgettable experience. Work with a company that specializes in event venues in New Orleans and knows how to elevate both small- and large-scale outdoor events.
Whether you need crowd-pleasing attractions or elegant finishing touches, Big Easy Events has the inventory and expertise to deliver.
Ready to Plan Your Outdoor Festival?
At Big Easy Events, we’re passionate about making festivals in New Orleans unforgettable. From event space rental in New Orleans to a full catalog of party rentals in New Orleans LA, our team provides everything you need to execute your vision—on time, on budget, and with flair. Let us help you create a fun, functional, and flawless outdoor event.
Contact Big Easy Events today to start planning with the best in event venues in New Orleans.