You Can Say “I Do” in Jackson Square
(As Long as You Say “I Will” to a Few Rules).
If you’re like many brides in New Orleans, as soon as he popped the question, you’ve had a question of your own: “Can I get married in Jackson Square?” As long as you don’t mind having Andrew Jackson for a groomsman, the answer is “yes.”
Jackson Square is a public park which means it may be used for smallish weddings as long as you secure the written permission of the Department of Parks and Parkways. But there’s a hitch to getting hitched there: The Square must remain open to the public. The good news is only one wedding or event is allowed in the Square at a time, so you won’t have to fight with event coordinators, film producers or another bride for space.
Here’s What Else You Need to Know.
- You can get married here, but the reception has to be elsewhere. No food or drink is allowed in Jackson Square before, during or after the ceremony.
- At least two weeks in advance, you must submit a formal Booking Request Form detailing the date, time, number of guets, number of chairs, music, runners, podiums and any other items you’d like to bring. This form can be found at the link above or by calling 504-658-3200.
- You must put down a non-refundable $50 processing fee before reservations are scheduled. You may also need additional permits. For more information visit the Parks & Shelter Permits page.
- Upon receipt of the booking request form, you will receive a letter of permission/approval detailing the deadline for fees/deposits and provisions to be met.
- A litter/damage deposit is required but you’ll get it back if you’ve complied with all the rules and all vendors and other parties involved have vacated the premises on time. All litter including flowers and rose petal must be removed immediately after the ceremony. In the land of red beans and rice, rice is strictly prohibited as is birdseed. Provided there’s no damage to the square’s plant materials, fixtures or any other park amenity, you’ll get your deposit back.
- All second line parades require a special permit from the NOPD. Contact Sgt. Walter Powers, Jr. with NOPD Special Events and Permits at (504) 658-6243.
- A copy of the permission letter must be presented to Parkways staff upon arrival in the square.
- A small three to four-piece ensemble may play up to three selections during the entire ceremony. No amplified music is allowed.
- Only the paved portions of the Square may be used. You may set up stanchions and chairs no more than one hour before the ceremony, and they must be removed immediately after the event. The limit of 100 chairs must be adhered to in order to avoid forfeiture of deposit.
For up-to-date information on usage fees and litter/damage deposits, click here.