32nd Annual Fidelity Bank White Linen Night Set for August 1, 2026

NEW ORLEANS – Arts District New Orleans (ADNO), the organization that founded White Linen Night in 1994, announced the return of the 32nd annual Fidelity Bank White Linen Night on Saturday, Aug. 1, 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.

“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,” said 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.”

This year’s event marks an exciting new chapter through a partnership with French Quarter Festivals Inc. (FQFI). The collaboration will bring enhanced production, expanded cultural programming and a 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. “At French Quarter Festivals, Inc., we believe that access to the arts is essential to New Orleans’ cultural identity and quality of life. Partnering with The Arts District New Orleans on White Linen Night unites two organizations committed to celebrating our city’s creativity, supporting local artists, and keeping cultural experiences accessible to everyone,” said Emily Madero, president and CEO of FQFI. “Together, White Linen Night and Satchmo SummerFest create an incredible weekend that showcases the best of New Orleans while driving meaningful economic activity for galleries, restaurants, musicians, artists, and small businesses. We’re proud to support this celebration of the creative spirit that make New Orleans unlike anywhere else.”

“White Linen Night is a celebration of creativity, community, and connection—values that align closely with Fidelity Bank’s mission,” said Chris Ferris, CEO of Fidelity Bank. “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.