Thanksgiving in Louisiana usually feels more like a mild autumn day than a chilly holiday. Afternoon highs often reach the upper 60s to low 70s, with cooler mornings in the 40s or 50s. So, you’re more likely to hang out comfortably outside than bundle up against the cold.
Where you spend the holiday makes a difference. Coastal spots like New Orleans tend to stay warmer and more humid, while northern cities like Shreveport might dip a bit cooler, especially at night.
Rain can happen, but it’s not a big deal most years. Outdoor plans usually work out with only a small chance you’ll need to duck inside for a bit.
This mix of mild temperatures, manageable rainfall, and decent daylight creates a unique setting for Thanksgiving. Whether you’re planning a family meal outside, exploring festivals, or traveling across the state, Louisiana’s climate offers a backdrop that’s both welcoming and practical for holiday activities.
Typical Thanksgiving Weather in Louisiana
Thanksgiving in Louisiana brings mild days and cooler nights. Temperatures usually feel comfortable for outdoor activities, with less humidity than summer and a lower chance of heavy rain compared to the wettest parts of the year.
Average High and Low Temperatures
In late November, average daytime highs in Louisiana hover between 65°F and 72°F (18°C to 22°C). Nights cool down to about 48°F to 55°F (9°C to 13°C), depending on whether you’re up north or closer to the Gulf.
New Orleans and Baton Rouge stay a bit warmer, while Shreveport and other northern spots run cooler. These temperatures make it easy to plan both indoor and outdoor gatherings without worrying about heavy winter coats.
The state’s humid subtropical climate means freezing weather is rare during Thanksgiving. You might want a light jacket at night, but afternoons often feel nice enough for short sleeves.
This balance of cool mornings and mild afternoons makes late November one of the most comfortable times of year in Louisiana.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
Rain can show up in November, but it’s not as frequent as summer. On average, 3 to 4 inches of rain fall across the state during the month.
Showers tend to be light or moderate and usually move through quickly. You won’t often lose a whole day to rain.
Coastal areas like New Orleans might see a bit more rainfall, while cities like Shreveport in the north often record less. Storms don’t pack the same punch as summer thunderstorms, and by late November, the risk of tropical systems is very low.
Louisiana’s climate stays relatively wet all year, so you should still plan for the chance of rain. Tossing an umbrella or light rain jacket in your bag is usually enough.
Humidity and Comfort Levels
Humidity drops off noticeably by late November compared to the sticky summer months. Average relative humidity lands between 65% and 75%, which most people find comfortable.
Afternoons aren’t muggy, and evenings feel cooler with lower dew points. It’s definitely easier to enjoy outdoor gatherings, football games, or parades without that heavy air.
You might still notice some dampness along the coast, but it’s nothing like June through September. For many visitors, this is honestly some of the nicest weather Louisiana gets all year.
Regional Variations Across Louisiana
Weather around Thanksgiving in Louisiana shifts depending on where you are. Coastal areas stay milder and more humid, while inland and northern regions cool off more, with sharper temperature swings.
New Orleans Weather Overview
In New Orleans, you’ll usually get mild afternoons and cooler evenings during Thanksgiving week. Highs often reach the low to mid-60s °F, and nighttime lows dip into the upper 40s or low 50s °F.
The Gulf of Mexico helps keep temperatures steady, so big drops are rare. Humidity can still hang around, but it’s lower than in summer.
A light jacket is often enough for outdoor activities, especially if you’re walking the French Quarter or along the riverfront. Rain chances are moderate, but showers pass quickly.
Sunshine is common, and breezes from the north can make the air feel crisp. If you’re dining outside, you’ll probably just want a light layer.
Baton Rouge Thanksgiving Climate
Baton Rouge runs a bit cooler than New Orleans but still feels mild compared to much of the country. Average highs hit the low 60s °F, and lows fall into the mid-40s °F.
The city’s inland spot means you might notice stronger swings between day and night temperatures. The air is drier than in summer, making outdoor gatherings more pleasant.
Light sweaters or long sleeves work for daytime, but evenings can feel chilly if the wind picks up. Rain is possible but not common.
Most years, you’ll see partly sunny skies and comfortable weather for football, parades, or outdoor meals.
Northern Louisiana and Natchitoches Conditions
Northern Louisiana, including towns like Natchitoches, feels the most seasonal at Thanksgiving. Daytime highs usually sit in the mid to upper 50s °F, and nights can drop into the upper 30s °F.
You’ll want warmer clothing here, especially if you’re outside after sunset. The cooler air gives this part of the state an early winter feel.
Clear skies show up often, but cold fronts can bring brisk winds and a sharper chill. Natchitoches is famous for its holiday lights festival, and those cooler evenings actually pair well with the event.
Heavier jackets are a good idea for nighttime activities, while afternoons stay comfortable for walking tours and riverside events.
Influences on Louisiana’s Thanksgiving Climate
Louisiana’s late November weather comes from a mix of coastal waters, inland rivers, and the state’s subtropical setting. These factors shape the balance between mild afternoons, cooler nights, and the regular shifts between dry and damp conditions.
Impact of the Gulf of Mexico
The Gulf of Mexico really shapes Louisiana’s Thanksgiving weather. Warm waters just offshore keep the air moist and stop temperatures from dropping too low.
That’s why you often see afternoon highs in the upper 60s to low 70s °F, even when other parts of the country cool off fast. Moisture from the Gulf also bumps up cloud cover and raises the chance of light rain.
For example, New Orleans averages about 7–8 days with measurable rain in November, often when cold fronts pick up Gulf moisture.
Humidity levels stay moderate, but you’ll still feel more dampness than in inland states. These conditions also make frost rare in southern Louisiana, even in late November.
Role of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River moderates temperature swings near its banks. Water warms and cools more slowly than land, so areas close to the river often stay milder at night.
You’ll notice this in Baton Rouge and New Orleans, where November lows average in the upper 40s to low 50s °F. The river also adds some localized humidity.
Morning fog shows up more in river valleys, especially when cooler air settles over warmer water. If you’re driving near the river around Thanksgiving, keep in mind that visibility might be reduced.
Flooding doesn’t cause problems this time of year, but the river still shapes microclimates. Towns along the Mississippi often feel just a bit warmer and more humid than nearby inland areas.
Subtropical Climate Characteristics
Louisiana’s subtropical climate defines the Thanksgiving pattern. Winters are short and mild, while summers drag on hot and long.
By late November, you’re in the early part of the cooler season, but harsh cold is rare. Average highs range from 65–72°F, with lows from 45–50°F depending on where you are.
Shreveport up north runs cooler, while coastal cities like New Orleans stay warmer. Rainfall is steady but not overwhelming.
Baton Rouge, for example, averages about 4–5 inches of rain in November, spread out over several days. Snow? Almost never.
This climate means you can expect comfortable outdoor conditions for Thanksgiving. Light jackets help in the evenings, and the subtropical setting keeps things variable, so you might see sunny, cloudy, and damp days all in one week.
Daylight, Sunshine, and Outdoor Activities
Late November in Louisiana brings shorter days, mild sunshine, and cooler air that feels just right for spending time outside. You’ll find conditions that support both travel and home gatherings, with enough daylight for outdoor cooking, yard games, or a stroll before dinner.
Average Daylight Hours in Late November
By late November, Louisiana averages 10 to 10.5 hours of daylight each day. Sunrise usually comes around 6:30–6:45 a.m., and sunset falls near 5:00 p.m.
This shorter window means you’ll want to plan outdoor activities earlier. Midday offers the brightest conditions, with the sun highest between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
If you’re traveling, keep in mind that evening driving will be in the dark. At home, some outdoor lighting in the garden or on the patio can stretch your usable space after sunset.
Families often schedule outdoor games or grilling in the late morning or early afternoon to make the most of available light.
Chances of Clear Skies and Sunshine
Thanksgiving week in Louisiana often brings milder, drier weather compared to the wet summer. Late November usually falls in the state’s drier season, which runs from October through March.
Skies are often clear or partly cloudy, and you get 5–6 hours of sunshine per day on average. A cool northerly breeze is common, and humidity drops, making outdoor conditions more comfortable.
Rain can happen but is less frequent than earlier in the year. If you’re traveling, you’ll probably deal with fewer weather delays.
At home, you can usually count on enough sun for outdoor seating or prepping food outside without worrying about heavy showers.
Popular Outdoor Thanksgiving Traditions
Many families in Louisiana take advantage of the mild weather for outdoor traditions. Popular activities include:
- Backyard football or casual games in the garden
- Frying turkeys outdoors, a classic Gulf Coast custom
- Fishing or hunting trips in the morning before the meal
- Neighborhood walks to enjoy fall colors and cooler air
If you’re traveling, local parks and riverside spots are usually open and less crowded. At home, outdoor cooking and yard games help you soak up the sunshine before the early sunset.
These activities fit the climate and let you spend more time outside with family.
Travel Tips and Best Time to Visit During Thanksgiving
Late November in Louisiana brings mild daytime temperatures and cooler evenings, making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities and holiday gatherings. Travel during this week can get busy, so planning ahead helps you avoid headaches and enjoy your trip more.
Packing and Clothing Recommendations
Weather in Louisiana around Thanksgiving usually ranges from the mid-50s to low-70s °F. You should prepare for both warmer afternoons and cooler mornings or nights.
A light jacket or sweater works well for evenings, while short sleeves or breathable long sleeves are fine during the day. Pack layers so you can adjust as temperatures shift.
Comfortable walking shoes are handy if you plan to explore cities like New Orleans or Baton Rouge. Rain is possible, though not heavy most years, so bringing a compact umbrella or light rain jacket is smart.
If you’re attending holiday gatherings, include casual but neat outfits that work indoors and outdoors. This way, you’ll feel prepared whether you’re at a family dinner, strolling through a festival, or enjoying a park.
Travel Considerations for Thanksgiving Week
Thanksgiving week is one of the busiest travel periods in the U.S. In Louisiana, airports and highways see heavier traffic, especially on the Wednesday before the holiday.
Flying in Sunday through Tuesday before Thanksgiving usually means less congestion than midweek. If you need to travel on Thanksgiving Day, flights early in the morning or late at night are often less crowded.
Driving is also easier if you leave before peak hours. Heading home on Friday or early Saturday can help you avoid the biggest crowds.
Booking flights and hotels early is important since demand rises fast around this holiday. Flexible schedules give you more options and might even save you a little money compared to peak days.
Comparing Thanksgiving to Other Seasons
Thanksgiving lands in late autumn, so it’s honestly one of the best times to visit Louisiana if you’re after mild weather. Summer, on the other hand, brings sticky humidity, wild thunderstorms, and the looming threat of hurricanes.
Winter feels damp and chilly, but at least it’s not as harsh as what you’d find up north. Spring draws a crowd for its festivals and blooming landscapes, though you never really know when a storm will roll in.
Late November usually means steady weather, fewer mosquitoes, and temperatures that make you want to stay outside. Crowds thin out compared to spring festival chaos, but you’ll see more people than in the quiet of mid-winter.
If you’re chasing that sweet spot of pleasant weather and local culture, Thanksgiving week hits the mark. It doesn’t have the sweat and extremes of summer, or the moody unpredictability of spring.
Louisiana’s Unique Thanksgiving Backdrop
Mild late fall temps let you actually enjoy being outside—no need for heavy coats like up north. You can wander through natural spots, check out historic sites, and soak up Louisiana’s unique scenery and culture.
Seasonal Scenery and Wildlife
By late November, most of Louisiana sees daytime highs in the low 70s°F and evenings that cool off into the 50s°F. That’s pretty much perfect for spending time outdoors during the holiday week.
The cypress swamps and bayous look different in fall. Bald cypress trees turn rusty orange and brown, so the wetlands pop against the green marsh grasses.
Wildlife stays active, too. Herons, egrets, and ducks move through the wetlands as migration patterns shift. Alligators don’t move as much in cooler weather, but you’ll still spot them sunbathing on mild afternoons, especially down south.
Birdwatchers get a treat this time of year. The Mississippi Flyway brings all kinds of species through Louisiana, so grab binoculars if you want to catch sight of migrating waterfowl along lakes and rivers.
Historic Plantations and Gardens
Thanksgiving week gives you a good window to tour plantations along the Mississippi River corridor. Warm afternoons and lower humidity make it way more comfortable to walk the grounds.
You might check out Oak Alley or Houmas House to see restored antebellum homes and those iconic oak-lined drives. These places sometimes host seasonal events, but honestly, the gardens and huge live oaks are worth it even without extra festivities.
Late fall means way fewer mosquitoes than summer, so you can hang outside longer without getting eaten alive. Cooler weather shows off the gardens’ structure, and you’ll start to notice camellias and other winter-blooming plants adding some color.
Coastal Destinations: Grand Isle
Grand Isle sits out on Louisiana’s barrier islands, right on the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a different kind of Thanksgiving spot, that’s for sure.
You’ll usually find mild temperatures here, and that sea breeze? It keeps things comfortable whether you’re fishing, birdwatching, or just wandering the beach.
Locals talk a lot about the saltwater fishing. In November, anglers chase speckled trout and redfish since the water cools but stays active.
If you’re more into birding, Grand Isle becomes a stopover for migratory birds. It really offers some great opportunities if you like spotting rare species.
You might want to check out the state park too. The trails wind through marshes and dunes, and the whole coastal vibe feels so different from the usual inland scenery.
It’s a nice way to see another side of Louisiana during the holidays.