New Orleans' Quirky Red Dress Run

Photography by David Fary

Get ready to witness one of New Orleans' most colorful and eccentric events - the annual Red Dress Run! At Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte, we're excited to give you the inside scoop on this unique celebration that turns our city into a sea of crimson each summer.

What is the Red Dress Run?

The Red Dress Run is a charity fundraiser where participants - regardless of gender - don red dresses and run (or walk, or stumble) through the streets of New Orleans. It's a day filled with laughter, camaraderie, and of course, plenty of red outfits!

A Dash of History

The tradition began in 1988 when a young lady wearing a red dress arrived in Southern California to meet a running club. She was unaware it was a running event, but decided to run anyway, red dress and all. The Hash House Harriers running club immortalized the event, and it spread to chapters worldwide, including New Orleans.

New Orleans' Red Dress Run, organized by the New Orleans Hash House Harriers (NOH3), started in 1995 and has since become one of the largest events of its kind globally.

When and Where?

The Red Dress Run typically takes place on the second Saturday in August. The run starts in the French Quarter, just a short walk from Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte. The exact route changes yearly, but it always winds through some of the most iconic parts of the city.

More Than Just a Run

While the 2-mile run (or walk) is the main event, the Red Dress Run is an all-day affair. Here's what you can expect:

1. Pre-run gathering: Participants meet in the morning for registration and socializing.

2. The run: A leisurely 2-mile jaunt through the French Quarter and surrounding areas.

3. Post-run party: Live music, food, and drinks keep the festivities going well into the evening.

It's All for Charity

The best part? It's all for a good cause. The New Orleans Red Dress Run raises hundreds of thousands of dollars each year for local charities. By participating, you're not just having fun - you're giving back to the community.

Tips for Participants

1. Register early: Spots fill up quickly!

2. Get creative with your red dress: The more outrageous, the better.

3. Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking.

4. Stay hydrated: New Orleans in August is hot!

5. Pace yourself: It's a marathon, not a sprint (metaphorically speaking).

Spectator Info

Not running? No problem! The Red Dress Run is a spectacle worth watching. Find a spot along the route or in the French Quarter to enjoy the parade of red-clad runners.

Your Red Dress Run Headquarters

At Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte, we're perfectly situated for Red Dress Run participants and spectators alike. Our historic property in the heart of the French Quarter puts you right in the middle of the action. After the run, you can easily return to the comfort of your room to freshen up before heading out for more New Orleans adventures.

Whether you're joining the run or just enjoying the spectacle, the Red Dress Run is a uniquely New Orleans experience you won't want to miss. Book your stay with us at Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte and get ready to paint the town red! Remember, in New Orleans, we don't hide our crazy - we parade it down the street in a red dress!