New Orleans is one of very few American cities permitting open alcohol containers on public streets and sidewalks, provided the beverage is in a plastic cup rather than glass; this go-cup tradition is woven into Mardi Gras and tourism culture.
City Code Chapter 10 governs alcoholic beverages and authorizes consumption on public sidewalks and streets when poured into a plastic, paper, or aluminum container. Glass containers are prohibited in the public right-of-way to reduce broken-glass injuries. Bars routinely offer go-cups at last call. Limits exist around designated parade routes during Mardi Gras and on certain festival grounds, where additional rules may apply. Drinking is still prohibited inside vehicles regardless of container under Louisiana's open container in motor vehicles statute, and public intoxication that breaches the peace remains a misdemeanor under Chapter 54.
Glass container possession carries fines under Chapter 54 misdemeanors, typically up to $500 plus potential brief detention. Open container in a vehicle is a Louisiana state offense with separate fines.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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