Seven ways to experience New Orleans’ Voodoo culture

New Orleans, Louisiana, or simply NOLA, is filled with fascinating cultures and historical places rooted in Voodoo. Experience it firsthand with one of these interesting and, at times, spine-chilling experiences. Walk through centuries-old cemeteries where the bodies lie above ground, visit the city’s prominent Voodoo landmarks and the Voodoo Museum, and have a reading — just a few ways to experience Voodoo culture in New Orleans.

The origins of Voodoo in New Orleans

Voodoo has been practiced in New Orleans since the late 1700s when the US brought enslaved West Africans and Haitians to the region. Over time, their religious beliefs and traditions merged with those of the existing Catholic population. Louisiana Voodoo, also known as New Orleans Voodoo or Voodoo-Catholicism, was born.

What is Louisiana Voodoo?

Louisiana Voodoo uniquely blends African, Haitian, and sometimes Native American traditions. It’s rooted in nature and based on the belief that spirits can interact with the physical world and that certain rituals can be used to summon or control them. The core belief of Louisiana Voodoo is that spirits, as well as God, are the powers that control the world around us. Connection with these spirits can be obtained through various rituals such as dance, music, chanting, and snakes. Voodoo practitioners connect with these spirits through rituals, dance, chanting, spells, and items like charms, talismans, and herbs. Voodoo practices are believed to help cure sickness and misfortune. Here are the best ways to experience New Orleans’ Voodoo culture.

1. Go to the heart of New Orleans Voodoo at Congo Square

Congo Square was a meeting place for enslaved Africans, where their culture and traditions were able to stay alive, from Voodoo and spiritual ceremonies to music. The location played a large part in the history of African American music, especially jazz. Today, Congo Square is an open space within Louis Armstrong Park and continues to host cultural events and meetings. It is one of NOLA’s most important landmarks.

2. Visit the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum

The Voodoo Museum in New Orleans is a great place to learn about the history and practice of Voodoo, as well as how it has influenced New Orleans culture. Open since 1972, it’s one of New Orleans’ most interesting museums. It hosts regular events and is a great place to ask questions to further your exploration of Voodoo in NOLA. It dives into the rich Voodoo culture that has shaped New Orleans for centuries, with the help of historic Voodoo relics, paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts throughout.

The Voodoo Museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and tickets cost around $10.

3. See the landmarks of NOLA’s Voodoo history on a walking tour

A walking tour of the city is the best way to learn about the historic New Orleans landmarks that have a deep Voodoo history. You’ll get to visit important sites like Congo Square, Marie Laveau’s house, and St. Louis Cemetery No 1. Your guide will tell you the history of each location, and tell you the stories and legends about the people who lived there. There are various themed tours available, like ghost and vampire tours, but whatever kind you choose, Voodoo is unavoidable in NOLA.

4. Visit the above-ground graves at New Orleans’ oldest cemetery

St. Louis Cemetery No 1 is home to the burial grounds of some of New Orleans’ most influential former residents, like Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. The cemetery has been in continuous use since 1789. The city’s famous above-ground graves are a must-see and you’ll discover why they are placed in full view, rather than six feet under, on a walking tour of St. Louis Cemetery No 1. The empty tomb owned by actor Nicolas Cage is unmissable — a nine-foot-tall white pyramid bearing no name, yet.

5. Get a reading at the Voodoo Spiritual Temple

Get spiritual guidance from Priestess Miriam at the Voodoo Spiritual Temple with a traditional reading. African bone casting, where stones or bones are thrown onto a special cloth or board, is used to help interpret the energy of your past and future. After the reading, you can explore the temple grounds and learn more about the spiritual traditions of Voodoo. There’s a shop too, where every item is designed, blended, or sourced by Priestess Miriam.

The Voodoo Spiritual Temple is open daily: Monday to Saturday, 10:30 AM-6:00 PM; Sunday, 11:00 AM-3:00 PM.

6. Visit Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo

Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo is a tiny museum dedicated to its former owner, Voodoo Priestess Marie Laveau, and arguably the most famous Voodoo place in New Orleans. It is also home to the oldest Voodoo shop in the neighborhood, packed with items such as voodoo dolls, talismans, potions, and spell kits, plus on-site psychic readings. If you’re curious about the history and practice of Voodoo, this is a great place to learn more and start your own journey with expert advice.

The House of Voodoo can be visited on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 11:00 AM-5:00 PM; Sundays, 12:00-5:00 PM. It is also included in some tours of the French Quarter.

7. Get Voodoo supplies at Voodoo Authentica

Feel enchanted by the power of Voodoo and inspired to start your own practice? Visit Voodoo Authentica for items such as gris-gris bags, dolls, powders and oils, charms, books, and art prints. The shop also offers classes and workshops for those looking to gain a deeper understanding of Voodoo and how it can be used. The shop is open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Good to know

Are Voodoo tours in New Orleans worth it?

Voodoo tours can be a great way to learn more about the history and culture of Voodoo in New Orleans. The tour guides are knowledgeable and will help you gain an understanding of how Voodoo is practiced today. If you’re interested in learning more about the tradition, it’s definitely worth considering taking a tour.

Are New Orleans Voodoo tours suitable for children?

For most Voodoo tours, it is not recommended to bring children, as the content often includes adult themes and language that may not be appropriate for children. Additionally, some practitioners believe that those under the age of 18 should never be present during a Voodoo ceremony, which some tours include. Check the details and ask the provider in advance if you are unsure.

Are Voodoo tours at night?

Most Voodoo tours are conducted during the day, although some may take place at night. Check with your tour provider for more information.

Who is Marie Laveau?

New Orleans' most famous Voodoo Queen, Marie Laveau was born in 1794 and practiced the religion of Voodoo until her death in 1881. She was a powerful practitioner of Voodoo rituals and ceremonies, and many people believed that she had supernatural powers. Her legacy lives on today as an important part of New Orleans’ culture.