Fidelity Bank White Linen Night 2026

NEW ORLEANS (July 2026) – Arts District New Orleans (ADNO), the organization that founded White Linen Night in 1994, proudly announces the return of the 32nd annual Fidelity Bank White Linen Night on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 5–10 p.m. in New Orleans' historic, Downtown Warehouse Arts District. 

For one evening each summer, the Arts District transforms into the largest celebration of contemporary art in New Orleans as galleries, museums, artists, and cultural organizations come together for a community-wide celebration of visual art and culture.

Founded more than three decades ago as a gallery stroll designed to connect the public with contemporary art, White Linen Night has grown into one of New Orleans' most anticipated cultural traditions centered around visual art, attracting upwards of 50,000 visitors. 

Presented in conjunction with ADNO's monthly First Saturday Gallery Openings, guests are encouraged to don their signature white linen attire and spend the evening exploring the district's galleries, museums, artist activations, and public art experiences. Throughout the district, live musical performances, local food and beverage offerings, and gathering spaces will create a vibrant backdrop for an evening centered on art, culture, and community. 

This year's event marks an exciting new chapter through a partnership with French Quarter Festivals Inc. The collaboration will bring enhanced production, expanded cultural programming, and a dynamic lineup of local musical talent while preserving White Linen Night's longstanding mission: celebrating art and supporting the creative community that makes New Orleans unique.

 "White Linen Night began with a simple idea: invite people into our galleries and create a deeper connection between artists and community, driving economic stimulus for our neighborhood businesses amidst the quiet peak of the summer months," stated Matthew Weldon Showman, Co-President of Arts District New Orleans. "Thirty-two years later, that vision remains the heart of the event. White Linen Night is an opportunity to discover extraordinary artists and celebrate the creative energy that makes New Orleans one of the most culturally vibrant cities in the world."

Chris Ferris, CEO of Fidelity Bank, says: “White Linen Night is a celebration of creativity, community, and connection—values that align closely with Fidelity Bank’s mission. We’re honored to be the title sponsor and to support the Arts District, a trusted Community Partner that helps make our city a more vibrant place to live, work, and create.”

As a fundraiser for Arts District New Orleans, proceeds from White Linen Night support the organization's year-round efforts to promote the district's galleries, museums, artists, and creative businesses while advancing New Orleans as a destination for arts and culture.

2026 EVENT DETAILS

The event is free and open to the public. Full event details to be announced in the coming weeks.

More than twenty galleries, museums, and cultural institutions throughout the district will debut new exhibitions and special programming during the event. Participating venues will showcase works by emerging and established artists from New Orleans and beyond, transforming the district into a walkable, open-air celebration of contemporary art.

ART ACTIVATIONS - COMING SOON

FOOD TRUCKS & VENDORS - COMING SOON

A WEEKEND IN THE ARTS DISTRICT RAFFLE - COMING SOON

OFFICIAL AFTER PARTY AT THE CAC - COMING SOON

OFFICIAL COOL DOWN LOUNGE AT COMMON HOUSE - use code EARLYBIRD for 50% off

MAIN STAGE (300 block of Julia) - LINEUP COMING SOON

NOCCA STAGE (600 block of Julia) - LINEUP COMING SOON

WITH GRATITUDE TO OUR SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

White Linen Night 2026 is made possible through the generous support of title sponsor Fidelity Bank, as well as Sazerac, the Goldring Family Foundation, The Helis Foundation, New Orleans & Company, Arts New Orleans, the Downtown Development District, and numerous community partners. Recycling Efforts coordinated by REALCYCLE, courtesy of Downtown Development District.