True Voodoo History of NOLA's Congo Square with Local Guide

Voodoo has long reigned in New Orleans legends, folklore, and history. It is shrouded in mystery and secrecy and often misrepresented in popular culture. Spirituality was hidden among the enslaved persons of the 1700s, popularized and commercialized by the famous Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau in the 19th century, and still functions as a valid religion in the modern-day city. Explore the vibrant heart of Congo Square, where enslaved Africans once gathered to practice their cultural rituals and music, laying the foundation for the city’s rich Voodoo traditions. Discover the life and legends of Marie Laveau, the most famous Voodoo practitioner in history. Voodoo Dolls, Vevers, and Gris-Gris Bags: Get hands-on with Voodoo artifacts, learning about dolls, vevers, and gris-gris bags, and learn their meanings and uses. Voodoo Authentica and other modern temples: End the tour outside contemporary Voodoo temples, including Voodoo Authentica, to witness modern practices and rituals.

1. 1

   Louis Armstrong Park

   Pass by

   The tour takes you to Congo Square in Armstrong Park. Guests will visit the traditional location for Voodoo traditions and gatherings for 100's of years.

2. 2

   Congo Square

   Pass by

   Explore the vibrant heart of New Orleans, where enslaved Africans once gathered to practice their cultural rituals and music, laying the foundation for the city’s rich Voodoo traditions.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   Pass by

   Discover the life and legends of Marie Laveau, the most famous Voodoo practitioner in history. Due to new security regulations by the Archdiocese of New Orleans pilgrimages, this tour does not visit St. Louis #1 Cemetery. Offerings to Marie Laveau's tomb are discouraged.

4. 4

   Conjure New Orleans

   Pass by

   A small and teeming network of laissez-faire living lounged out on the balmy banks of the Mighty Mississippi, the French Quarter has long been a port of call for folks in search of a good time and a great story.

5. 5

   Voodoo Authentica

   20 min

   We end outside the Voodoo Authentica of New Orleans Cultural Center and Collections. You will have as much time as you'd like to explore after the tour. This is not only a shop, but also a temple and educational space. Everyone working here is a practitioner of Voodoo, and everything in the shop (save the African and Haitian art pieces) are made by local practitioners.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.