Welcome to Day 3 of our theme week on city nicknames! Today we’re heading down to the Gulf Coast to explore the vibrant, musical, and endlessly fascinating city of New Orleans – “The Big Easy.”
The nickname “The Big Easy” is often tied to New Orleans’ rich jazz heritage. In the early 20th century, the city was a haven for jazz musicians who found its relaxed pace and open, welcoming spirit the perfect environment for creativity. Unlike the frenetic energy of places like New York City, New Orleans offered a more laid-back vibe—where gigs were plentiful and inspiration was everywhere. Musicians may have coined the term to describe just how easy it was to find work and play music there.
The phrase gained even more fame thanks to the 1970 novel The Big Easy by James Conway—and later the 1986 movie adaptation starring Dennis Quaid and Ellen Barkin—which helped cement the nickname in popular culture.
But New Orleans’ story goes back much further. Founded in 1718 by French colonists, the city was once the capital of French Louisiana before joining the United States through the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. By 1840, it was the third largest city in the nation, and the biggest in the American South until after World War II.
At the heart of the city lies the French Quarter, known for its Creole architecture, jazz clubs, and world-famous Bourbon Street. It’s also the epicenter of Mardi Gras, a massive annual celebration that draws more than a million visitors each year. (Fun fact: though New Orleans made it famous, Mardi Gras actually started in Mobile, Alabama, in 1703!)
Music has always been the heartbeat of New Orleans. It’s the birthplace of jazz and home to musical legends like Louis Armstrong. The city’s unique sound emerged from a blend of European instruments and African rhythms, creating something entirely new—and uniquely American.
Of course, New Orleans’ cuisine is every bit as iconic as its music. From beignets at Café du Monde to gumbo, jambalaya, po’ boys, muffulettas, and étouffée, the city’s Creole and Cajun dishes are a celebration of flavor and culture. Even cocktails have history here—the Hurricane, a sweet and strong rum-based drink, was first served at Pat O’Brien’s in the 1940s.
But for all its warmth and joy, New Orleans also has a mysterious, mystical side. Often called one of America’s most haunted cities, it’s steeped in stories of voodoo queens, vampires, and restless spirits. The city’s atmospheric streets have inspired countless films and shows—from Interview with the Vampire to American Horror Story and True Blood.
New Orleans is truly one of a kind—a city of contrasts and creativity, of history and resilience. It’s also been dubbed “Hollywood South” thanks to its booming film industry, and remains one of the top ten most-visited cities in the United States.
And if you love trivia, here’s a few extra fun facts:
🎭 The first opera house in the U.S. was built in New Orleans.
🎬 It had the first commercial movie theater (in 1896).
🎲 The modern versions of poker and craps took shape here.
🍌 And yes, Bananas Foster and even dental floss were invented in The Big Easy!
From its music to its mystique, its food to its folklore, New Orleans truly lives up to its nickname—The Big Easy, where life moves to its own rhythm.