Regift Your Christmas Trees to the Wetlands:&nbsp;Participate in the Annual Christmas Tree Recycling Program!&nbsp;

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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE DAY

Pledge of Allegiance Day on December 28th commemorates the date Congress adopted the "The Pledge" into the United States Flag Code.

Congress formally gave recognition for the Pledge of Allegiance on December 28, 1945. Francis Bellamy receives credit for writing the Pledge of Allegiance. The Youth's Companion, a magazine for young people, first published it anonymously on September 8, 1892, under the title "The Pledge." It was written in celebration of the 400th anniversary of the discovery of America.

In 1923 and 1924, the National Flag Conference inserted text of the pledge into legislation. Though modifications were made, the pledge remained nearly the same. At the same time, the conference didn't designate it as the official pledge. In its original form, it read:

“I pledge allegiance to my Flag and the Republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

The small changes resulted in this version:

“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

On Flag Day in 1954, Congress added the words “under God” in response to the anti-Communist opinion sweeping the country during the Cold War.

Gretna Farmer’s Market

Event Date:

Saturday 28

from 8:30 am - 12:30 am

Gretna Market

301 Huey P Long Ave

Gretna, LA 70053

Enjoy fresh local produce and crafts at the Gretna Farmers Market, every Saturday from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, rain or shine, under the covered Gretna Market Building, Huey P. Long Avenue between 3rd and 4th Streets in historic downtown Gretna.

Abraham Lincoln is often depicted wearing what kind of hat?

The application period for selection to volunteer on a police district-based Police Community Advisory Board (PCAB) is NOW OPEN!

Police Community Advisory Boards are volunteer, independent, police district-based, citizen led advisory groups that communicate and engage with their police district community at large to provide at least four quarterly PCAB/community meetings. The PCAB led quarterly community meetings are designed to gather the police district community together to allow it to discuss New Orleans Police Department policy and policing with the goal of then identifying board recommendations to improve policy and policing for NOPD to consider.

The eight police district-based PCABs are seeking applicants willing and able to provide the time to this important civic work.

In terms of basic requirements, applicants must be at least 18 years old, a resident of New Orleans (Orleans Parish), a resident of the PCAB police district, and must be willing and able to provide the time to assist with organizing the PCAB/community meetings, to spend time learning about NOPD policies and operations, to meet and regularly communicate with your fellow district PCAB members as necessary and as a team, and to participate in PCAB outreach that builds awareness of the district PCAB so that community participation at quarterly PCAB/community meetings is robust.

Selected members of a police district-based Police Community Advisory Board serve at least one two-year term with an option for a second two-year term.

The DEADLINE to SUBMIT is 5 pm, Monday, December 30, 2024.

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Join us every Saturday,

9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for over 80 local artisan vendors, including produce, prepared foods, jewelry, art, crafts, plants, music and more!

Abraham Lincoln is often depicted wearing a top hat, also known as a stovepipe hat:

Style
The stovepipe hat is a tall, cylindrical hat that was popular in the 19th century. Lincoln's hat was made of beaver fur, a traditional material for the style.
Symbolism
Lincoln's top hat became a symbol of his presidency and is considered an important piece of American history.
History
Lincoln started wearing the stovepipe top hat in the 1850s and wore it throughout his presidency. He may have worn it to stand out from his contemporaries, who he towered over at six feet four inches tall.
Personal touches
Lincoln's top hat had a black silk mourning band added in remembrance of his son Willie. He also often carried documents and letters inside the hat.
Last time worn
Lincoln's last time wearing his top hat was on April 14, 1865, when he went to Ford's Theatre.
Abraham Lincoln's Top Hat | Smithsonian InstitutionAt six feet four inches tall, Lincoln towered over most of his contemporaries. He chose to stand out even more by wearing high top...
Smithsonian Institution
Top hat - WikipediaThe style most commonly referred to as the stovepipe was popularized in the United States by Abraham Lincoln during his presidency...

Wikipedia

Regift Your Christmas Trees to the Wetlands: Participate in the Annual Christmas Tree Recycling Program!

NEW ORLEANS – The City of New Orleans today reminded residents of the annual Christmas Tree Recycling Program to restore our wetlands. For over 26 years, this program has contributed to the restoration of the Bayou Sauvage Urban National Wildlife Refuge, while also preventing them from being placed in landfills. Thanks to residents who participate in the program each year, recycled trees have restored an area of marsh equal to approximately 200 football fields. The trees also create an important habitat for birds, fish, crabs, crawfish and shrimp.

"Our annual Christmas Tree Recycling Program is a powerful example of how we can work together to restore and protect our wetlands, which are critical for our resilience against storms and hurricanes,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “This program reflects our commitment to sustainability and community-driven solutions. I encourage all residents to participate in this meaningful tradition and help us continue making a tangible impact on our coastal restoration efforts."

The program is coordinated by the City of New Orleans’ Office of Resilience and Sustainability (ORS) and Department of Sanitation, in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Louisiana Army National Guard (LANG).

“Our wetlands are our first line of defense from storm surge, hurricanes and tropical events,” said ORS Environmental Affairs Administrator Cheryn Robles. “The Christmas tree recycling program is a great way for residents to get involved in the fight to restore our coast. Thanks to all residents who participated last year, our Office of Resilience and Sustainability’s Christmas Tree Recycling Program won the prestigious 2024 Public Relations Society of America, New Orleans Chapter Anvil Award which makes our residents winners, too!”

“Last year, we were very excited to collect double the number of trees from the prior year for a total of 8,000,” said Sanitation Director Matt Torri. “Our 2025 goal is to collect 8,000 trees at a minimum. Our curbside collection contractors find it very rewarding to contribute to the reuse of the trees to build marsh and wetlands.”

This year, the City added expanded dates and several new drop-off sites on the East Bank and West Bank to make it easier for residents to recycle their trees. Here’s when and how to participate:

December 26 through January 3 – Call 311 for curbside pickup via the “Christmas Tree” service request. A contractor will pick up the first 400 trees called in to 311
December 26 through January 5 - Drop your trees at these locations:
East Bank: Lafitte Greenway, 2930 Lafitte Ave.
West Bank: Bodenger Park, 3400 Kansas St.
January 6 through January 10 - Place your trees on the curb by 5 a.m. on your regular garbage pick-up day. A recycling truck will follow your regular garbage truck
Residents in the French Quarter and Downtown Development District should place their trees curbside before 4 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 9th only

Trees cannot be flocked or have remnants of tinsel, and all ornamentation and lighting should be removed before recycling pick up.

The trees will be sorted, bundled and airlifted by helicopter to be dropped in targeted sections of the Bayou Sauvage Urban National Wildlife Refuge. The annual Christmas Tree drop represents a long-standing partnership between LANG and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The project benefits the City of New Orleans and surrounding coastal environment while also providing valuable training hours for pilots and crewmembers of the 1st Assault Helicopter Battalion, 244th Aviation Regiment.

To learn more, go to nola.gov/ChristmasTreeRecycling

December 29th, in the Church

10 am - Lessons and Carols in the church (one service only)

Christ Church Covington | 120 S. New Hampshire Street | Covington, LA 70433 US

Rodrigue:

Before the Blue Dog

A new Louisiana State Museum exhibition Rodrigue: Before the Blue Dog, opens at the Cabildo .

This new exhibit presents more than fifty of Rodrigue's unique paintings alongside Louisiana State Museum artifacts related to Cajun culture.

20 years of the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture GardenThis year, the New Orleans Museum of Art celebrates 20 years of the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, one of the city's favorite places for discovery, wonder, and respite. Free and open to all, NOMA's Besthoff Sculpture Garden features world-class artwork from the 19th century to the present day, all set within the unique landscape of South Louisiana.

Open seven days a week, 10 am–6 pm.

Travel Back in Time with Dinosaurs at Audubon Zoo

EXTENDED by Popular Demand

Now - January 5, 2025

Enjoy even more time with the popular Dinosaurs at Audubon Zoo exhibit featuring over 50 life-size animatronic dinosaurs & dino-themed activities.

Hurry before they are extinct!

Now - January 5, 2025 only

| Daily 10AM - 5PM (Last entry 4:30PM)

Experience the awe-inspiring world of the pre-historic era with our spectacular collection of over 50 life-size, lifelike dinosaurs. This must-see exhibit at Audubon Zoo is perfect for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages.

Stroll through our immersive outdoor adventure at your own pace and marvel at the wonders of 65 million years ago. Encounter iconic dinosaurs such as the Tyrannosaurus Rex, Velociraptor, Brachiosaurus, and Stegosaurus. Don't miss this thrilling journey into the past!

NOLA ChristmasFest opens today for its 11th anniversary and will welcome thousands of guests into 300,000 square feet of holiday excitement, activities, parades and performances through Dec. 30 at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Visitors to NOLA ChristmasFest are transported from New Orleans to the North Pole, enjoying an indoor winter wonderland of activities, such as ice bocce courts, an indoor ice-skating rink and four ice slides, plus the return of festival favorites like Skating with Santa.

The brand-new Yuletide YoYo ride brings a whimsical, high-flying twist to the festivities, adding a dash of adventure for carnival enthusiasts. Combined with the debut of Merry Mini Golf, these fresh attractions make 2024’s event the most dynamic yet, offering something for everyone to enjoy in the indoor festival.

For more information about NOLA ChristmasFest 2024, programing and a full schedule of events and activities, visit nolachristmasfest.com.

To see a full schedule of events, visit nolachristmasfest.com/special-events/.

NOLA ChristmasFest Schedule

Dec. 28 – 30: 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Tickets are $25 for weekdays and $30 for Saturdays and Sundays. Each ticket is valid for a single admission on the specific day and session selected. Each session is 4.5 hours in length, except on Christmas Day. Invite a friend and mark your calendars for NOLA ChristmasFest 2024 and Skating with Santa! Purchase tickets online at nolachristmasfest.com/plan-your-visit. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times during their visit.

NOLA ChristmasFest 2024 is a credit card-only event, including ticket purchases and onsite concessions.

To take care of parking in advance, use ParkMobile. Click Here for ParkMobile Online Parking Reservations.

The Big Freezy and Festival Favorites:

This year, The Big Freezy returns as the only real ice-skating rink in the area, complete with magical indoor snowfalls at regular intervals. The Big Freezy zone also features two ice bocce courts, four dueling ice slides and the Polar Pub, a cozy spot for adults to enjoy festive cocktails. Whether you're gliding across the ice or relaxing with a drink, this zone is a can’t-miss highlight of NOLA ChristmasFest.

Pictures with Santa:

Families can capture holiday memories with professional photos of Santa from Dec. 20–23. Prices vary based on photo size and package. For details on Creole Santa and Papa Noel’s schedule, visit NOLA ChristmasFest special events page.

Free Program

Step into 1920s Holiday Traditions at HNOC’s Organ Demonstrations

Experience the sound and history of HNOC’s restored 1925 Aeolian player pipe organ at free demonstrations held Wednesdays through Sundays at 11 a.m. This December, the presentation highlights how the rapid modernization of the 1920s shaped holiday traditions.

Organ demonstrations

Wednesday–Sunday, 11 a.m.

Barbara S. Beckman Music Room, 520 Royal Street

Free admission and no RSVP required

Los Jefes Grill

Brunch isn’t brunch without bottomless drinks… and now a mariachi band. Weekend brunch Saturday + Sunday 11AM — 2PM. KIDS EAT FREE!

THE JAYWALKERS

11:00PM-1:45PM

boardwalker & the

3 finger swingers

1:30PM-6PM

JOHNNY MASTRO BLUES

6:30PM-9:30PM

PAGGY PRINE & SOUTHERN SOUL

10:00PM-2:00AM

SUNDAY DECEMBER 29

open at 11:00 Am

Aaron Levinson & friends

11:00am-1:00pm

YOUSE

1:30PM-5:00PM

MIDNIGHT BRAWLERS

5:30PM-8:30PM

ED WILLS BLUES 4 $ALE

9:00PM-12:00AM

monDAY DECEMBER 30

OPEN AT 1:00 PM

the rug cutters

1:00PM-5:00PM

jon roniger band

5:30pm-9:30pm

LES GETREX AND CREOLE COOKIN'

9:00PM-12:00AM

TUESDAY DECEMBER 31 NEW YEAR'S EVE

OPEN AT 1:00 PM CELEBRATE WITH US say goodbye 2024, hello 2025

The City of Covington's 12 Days of Christmas walking tour is up and ready to go! Grab the family or a friend and get your Christmas jogging jingle onor get in the car and make it a Christmas cruise

Racing Schedule

Thursday through Sunday

We love seeing horses in the paddock again! Doors open at 12, first race is at 12:45

FRITZELS DECEMBER 2024 MUSIC CALENDAR

SUNDAY

12:30PM DOYLE COOPER BAND (12/1, 12/15, 12/29) MARTY PETERS BAND (12/8, 12/22)

5PM SAZERAC JAZZ BAND

8PM FRITZELS ALL STAR BAND W/MIKE FULTON

MONDAY

1PM MATINEE ALL STARS BAND

5PM TIN MEN

8PM RICHARD SCOTT AND FRIENDS

TUESDAY

1PM RICHARD "PIANO" SCOTT (CLOSED FOR PRIVATE PARTY 12/17)

5PM COLIN MYERS ORCHESTRA

8PM FRITZELS ALL STAR BAND W/JAMIL SHARIF

WEDNESDAY

1PM RICHARD "PIANO" SCOTT

5PM BOURBON STREET STARS

8PM FRITZELS ALL STAR BAND W/KEVIN RAY CLARK

THURSDAY

12PM RICHARD "PIANO" SCOTT

2PM DOYLE COOPER BAND

5PM JOHN SAAVEDRA BAND

8PM FRITZELS ALL STAR BAND W/CHUCK BRACKMAN

FRIDAY

12:30PM RICHARD "PIANO" SCOTT (SAZARAC JAZZ BAND 12/13)

2:30PM SAM FRIEND JAZZ BAND

6PM WOODIS/LANGE BAND (12/13, 12/27)) SAM LOBLEY BAND ( 12/6, 12/20)

9PM FRITZELS ALL STAR BAND W/KEVIN RAY CLARK

SATURDAY

12:30PM RICHARD "PIANO" SCOTT (SAZARAC JAZZ BAND 12/28)

2:30PM STEVE DETROY BAND

6PM BOURBON MATINEE JAZZ BAND W/CHUCK BRACKMAN

9PM FRITZELS ALL STAR BAND W/JAMIL SHARIF

Kevin Ray Clark

Clark Entertainment Consultants, LLC

619 23rd Street

Niagara Falls, NY 14301

contact: kevinclarkentertainment@gmail.com

website: www.kevinrayclark.com

nightcrawlers website: www.neworleansnightcrawlersbrassband.com

Music Director

Fritzel's Jazz Pub

"Bourbon Street's oldest jazz club"

733 Bourbon Street

New Orleans, LA 70116

www.Fritzelsjazz.com

Check out our Daily SPECIALS Y’all!

4101 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Metairie, LA, United States, Louisiana
(504) 324-6841

The Victory Belles Illuminate the Night

Bring the whole family to this comedic rendition of all seven Harry Potter books reenacted in 70 hilarious minutes

After several successful North American tours and over 1,000 performances at Horseshoe Las Vegas, London’s West End hit Potted Potter: The Unauthorized Harry Experience – A Parody by Dan and Jeff is coming to the New Orleans area!

Created by two-time Olivier Award–nominated BBC Television actors Daniel Clarkson and Jefferson Turner, and seen by over 1,000,000 Potter fans around the world, the show will cast a spell over the Jefferson Performing Arts Center from December 26 through January 5.

Selling out to crowds around the world, Potted Potter will have you flying off your seat (or broomstick) with laughter. The perfect show for muggles, witches and wizards of all ages, this production of the boy-who-lived’s story combines all seven books into 70 hilarious minutes. The cleverly curated show includes all of your favorite characters, perfect Potter props and even a live Quidditch match!

Starvox Touring and Potted Productions first introduced the fabulously funny show to North American audiences in Toronto in 2012, where it received rave reviews. Over the past several years the show has completed multiple tours across the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Dubai, and Canada. Whether you’re team Gryffindor or don’t know the difference between a Death Eater and Dumbledore, this show is a seriously good time.

Potted Potter at Jefferson Perf Arts Center

Dec
28
Saturday 02:00 PM
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12/28/24
Dec
28
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12/28/24
Dec
28
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12/29/24
Dec
29
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12/29/24
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12/30/24
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12/30/24
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12/31/24
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1/2/25
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02
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1/3/25
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1/3/25
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1/4/25
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1/4/25
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1/4/25
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04
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1/5/25
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05
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Potted Potter: The Unauthorized Harry Experience

Meet, Mix, & Mingle with Current Krewemates. Info session to learn more about membership, ask questions, and join Louisiana's first ever Latin Dance Marching Group!

12/28 Saturday, 3-5p

NO Jazz Museum

Education Ctr

Snacks & Light Refreshments provided.

for more info or questions please reach out to our Director B via email, Nolafleaux@gmail.com or ritmeauxkrewe@gmail.com

December 28 & 29

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Join our signature vocal trio the Victory Belles for an evening of 1940s tunes paired with our state-of-the-art outdoor sound and light show, Expressions of America. Join us at Kilroy's Bar & Lounge in The Higgins Hotel for our Premium Dinner Experience or grab drinks and snacks by The American Sector Restaurant & Bar. Ticketholders also receive 20% off at Rosie’s on the Roof at The Higgins Hotel before and after the show.

https://ticketing.nationalww2museum.org/webstore/shop/viewItems.aspx?cg=Tickets&c=VBITN

Join us at the city of Kenner's Magical Christmas Village, where you can enjoy lights, snow, music, food, arts, crafts, and a special appearance from Santa Claus himself. Don't miss out on exciting vendors and entertainment!

Admission: Free
Location: Heritage Park in Rivertown, located at 2015 Fourth Street
Date: This event is open to the public every day in December from 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM.

Vendors and entertainment will be present every Friday & Saturday.

We're excited to announce that our Holiday in the Park is now open until Sunday, January 5, 2025. Location: 5601 Read Boulevard, New Orleans, La. 70127. Time: Nightly, from dusk until 9:00pm. Big 'Thank You' goes to our sponsor, New Orleans East Hospital! We appreciate you! For more information, call 504-658-3052.

(504) 895-9323

glenn@charliessteakhousenola.com

4510 Dryades St, New Orleans, LA, 70115

Make Memories to Last a Lifetime

Thru - January 3

City Park’s largest fundraiser, Celebration in the Oaks, is THE New Orleans holiday tradition. This incredible light festival has enchanted Park visitors since the 1980s and is vital to the Park’s maintenance, care, and beautification year round. Make memories with your loved ones in City Park this holiday season.

Tickets On Sale!

Purchase Now

Everyone’s favorite holiday party is now a little bit more festive!

Get Tickets

MON-THURS + SUN HOURS

Driving Tour: 6pm–10pm

Walking Tour: 6pm–10pmFRIDAY/SATURDAY HOURS

Driving Tour: 5pm–11pm

Walking Tour: 5pm–11pm *Christmas Hours: 6pm–9pm

Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres

512 Williams Blvd, Kenner, LA, United States, Louisiana
(504) 454-9449

21400 Koop Dr, Mandeville, LA 70471-7506, United States

The Holiday of Lights transforms into a "Walk-Thru" experience along Koop Drive & Santa's Yuletide Forest along the Tammany Trace in Mandeville.

The following weekends will be available for a walk-thru from 6-9 p.m.

• December 28

• January 3 & 4

Photos with Santa, rides and snow will NOT be available during the walk-thru experience weekends and will return in 2025.

Download a scavenger hunt checklist on the Holiday of Lights website for your family to find all of our jolly inflatables and displays!

For more information: https://www.stpgov.org/.../25th_annual.../activities.php

SatDec28

6pm

Tuba Skinny

RSVP

Known as world-class interpreters of traditional jazz, over the years Tuba Skinny has also branched out into jug band music, spirituals, country blues, string band music, ragtime, and New Orleans R&B. Their musical approach is a true reflection of Americana, encompassing the full genealogy of popular American music from an early 20th century perspective.

SatDec28

10 PM

Kid Chocolate + the Free P.O.C

$10

Leon “Kid Chocolate” Brown brings his impeccable trumpet sounds to any gig he blesses. The veteran performer picked up the horn at the tender age of nine, and by 15 was touring the world.

SunDec29

6:00PM

Treme Brass Band

End your weekend with New Orleans' premier traditional brass band, led and founded by Benny Jones Sr!

SunDec29

9:30PM

Vegas Cola Band

Vegas Cola Band is the living accumulation of the bandleader’s expert experience and captivating charisma. Soul. Funk. R&B.

MonDec30

6pm

Secret Six Jazz Band

RSVP

Which of these slang terms is roughly synonymous with "fashionable"?

The Secret Six are a New Orleans traditional Jazz Band evoking the rich style of collective improvistion and ensemble playing. Specializing in stomps, blueses, rags, and no frills hot jazz!

MonDec30

9:00pm-1:00am

The Jump Hounds

The Jump Hounds is a New Orleans-based sextet that specializes in ‘jump’, the jazz-based rhythm and blues that bridged the gap between swing and rock & roll. To keep this often-overlooked style of music alive, the band plays a mix of Jump Era classics and original compositions within the idiom. The result is a repertoire that balances energetic up-tempo numbers, slow blues, and cozy mid-tempo swingers. This breadth of material makes for dynamic live shows that are tailored to the audience.

groovy - something very pleasing or cool · hip - something or someone that's very fashionable or in-the-know · outta sight - something so cool ...

Comedy House New Orleans

THE BEST COMEDY SHOW EVERY FRIDAY!

Get ready for a night of non-stop laughs with the BEST stand-up comedy in New Orleans every Friday! Tickets are selling fast – grab yours now before they're gone!

Don't miss out on the funniest night in town!

Tickets

Kevin Louis & Palm Court Jazz Band

SNUG HARBOR

UPCOMING EVENTS

Now 7 Nights per Week Again!

NEW SHOW TIMES:

at 7:30pm

& 9:30pm Nightly

Herlin Riley Quartet

Sat Dec 28 @ 7:30 pm

Herlin Riley Quartet

Sat Dec 28 @ 9:30 pm

Sun Dec 29 @ 7:30 pm

Kevin Louis & Palm Court Jazz Band

Sun Dec 29 @ 9:30 pm

Charmaine Neville Band

Mon Dec 30 @ 7:30 pm

Charmaine Neville Band

Mon Dec 30 @ 9:30 pm

LOCATION:

SNUG HARBOR JAZZ BISTRO

626 Frenchmen St.

New Orleans, LA 70116

504-949-0696

www.snugjazz.com for Tickets

ADMISSION:

GENERAL SEATING

$20.00 - $40.00

SNUG HARBOR JAZZ BISTRO

626 Frenchmen St.

New Orleans, LA 70116

504-949-0696 to purchase tickets

Louisiana Tech Football

Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (5-7, 4-4 Conference USA) vs. Army Black Knights (11-2, 8-0 American Athletic Conference)

Date: Saturday, December 28

Time: 9:15 PM ET // 8:15 PM CT

Location: Independence Stadium - Shreveport, Louisiana

TV: ESPN

2836 Lasalle Street, New Orleans, LA, United States, Louisiana 70115

John Papa Gros – A Yuletide Soire

Chickie Wah Wah Presents

Saturday, Dec 28 @ 09:00 PM

Skate Country, located at 1100 Terry Parkway in Terrytown,

Skate Country is open from 8-11 p.m. on Thursdays, 7-10 p.m. on Fridays and from 1-10 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Admission prices range from $8 to $15, and skate rentals are $5.

Skate Country’s schedule offers the following events:

“Adult Night” from 8-11 p.m. Thursdays
“Top Music Chart Night” from 7-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday
“Family Matinee” from 1-3:30 p.m. and 4-6:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday

“Sunday Night Skate” from 7-10 p.m. Sunday.

Comedy House New Orleans

Saturday nights just got a lot funnier!

Join us in the heart of NOLA’s Arts District for Super Standup Saturday, featuring top local talent and visiting comics seen on Netflix, MTV, and more. Don’t miss out!

610 Fulton St, New Orleans, LA 70130-1612, United States, New Orleans, LA, United States, Louisiana
(504) 444-9553

Takin' It to the Streets

Weekly Brass Band events:

Mondays - Big 6 Brass Band at Da Jump Off Lounge (1901 N. Claiborne Ave.) - 9pm

Tuesdays - TBC Brass Band at Maple Leaf Bar (8316 Oak St.) - 9pm

Tuesdays - Sporty's Brass Band at Hi Ho Lounge (2239 St. Claude Ave) - 9pm

Tuesdays - Brass Band at Rabbit Hole (1228 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.) - 10pm

Wednesdays - New Breed Brass Band at Blue Nile (532 Frenchmen St.) - 9:30pm

Thursdays - Brass-A-Holics at Jazz Playhouse (300 Bourbon St.) - 7:30pm

Thursdays - Where Y'At Brass Band at Blue Nile (532 Frenchmen St.) - 9pm

Fridays - Sporty's Brass Band at Brass Hall (1104 Decatur St.) - 9pm

Fridays - Trumpet Slim & Brass Flavor at Blue Nile Balcony Room (532 Frenchmen St.) - 10pm

Saturdays - Marigny Street Brass Band at Blue Nile Balcony Room (532 Frenchmen St.) - 10pm

Saturdays - City of Trees Brass Band at Maison (508 Frenchmen St.) - 10pm

Sundays - Brass Band Sundays at Treme Hideaway (1234 N. Claiborne) - 10pm

Sundays - Street Legends Brass Band at Blue Nile (532 Frenchmen St.) - 10:30pm

Sundays - Hot 8 Brass Band at the Howlin' Wolf (907 S. Peters St) - 10:30pm

NATIONAL CHOCOLATE CANDY DAY

National Chocolate Candy Day offers an opportunity for us to polish off the last of the specialty candies we received as gifts. Celebrated on December 28th, the day points us to the truffles and chocolate oranges tucked into stockings. Check those boxes of candy that may or may not have guides to help us choose cream-filled or ganache.

The word "chocolate" comes from the word "xocoatl" or "chocolatl." Mayan "school" means hot or bitter, and the Aztec "atl" means water. Chocolate comes from the seed of the tropical Theobroma cacao tree. Cacao has been cultivated for at least three millennia and grows in Mexico, Central America, and Northern South America. The earliest known documentation of using cacao seeds is from around 1100 BC.

But before it was ever made into a sweet candy, it was ground into a beverage. In the ruling class society, the beverage was used for medical purposes.

In 1828, Dutch inventor and chemist, Coenraad Van Houten, developed a way to produce chocolate in solid form. His hydraulic press made it possible to remove the cocoa butter from the cacao. His invention leads to producing a powder opening the way for the first chocolate confections. It's thanks to Van Houten we can enjoy the variety of chocolates we do today.

Chocolate Facts

Whitman's produced their first box of chocolate in 1842.
In 1847, British chocolate company J.S. Fry & Sons combined cocoa butter, cocoa powder, and sugar-producing the first edible chocolate bar.
The invention of the conching machine by Rodolphe Lindt in 1879 ushered in the mass production of the creamy treat.
The first chocolate Easter egg was made sometime in the early 19th century. In 1875 John Cadbury introduced his first chocolate egg.
When Allied troops stormed the beach of Normandy on D-Day, part of emergency rations and in soldiers' packs included the D ration bar designed by Hershey Chocolate company for the U.S. Army.
Americans consume 12 pounds of chocolate each year.

Coming on December 28, 2024

National Days

NATIONAL CHOCOLATE CANDY DAY

NATIONAL SHORT FILM DAY

HOLY INNOCENTS DAY

NATIONAL CARD PLAYING DAY

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE DAY

Coming on December 29, 2024

National Days

NATIONAL PEPPER POT DAY

TICK TOCK DAY

Which group founded Boston in 1630?

Boston was founded all the way back in 1630 by a man named John Winthrop. Winthrop led 700 English Puritans, who were leaving England to avoid persecution for their beliefs, to the shores of Massachusetts in a fleet of 11 ships.

December 28th Celebrated History

1869

The U.S. Patent Office issued patent No. 98,304 to William Finley Semple of Mount Vernon, Ohio for chewing gum. However, the first person to commercially produce chewing gum was John B. Curtis of Maine.

1886

The U.S. Patent Office issued patent No. 355,139 to Josephine Garis Cochran for her invention of the "dish washing" machine. She is the first inventor to successfully produce a commercially marketable dishwasher. The inventor soon established the Cochran’s Crescent Washing Machine Company. In later years, the company would become part of KitchenAid.

1895

Pioneering filmmakers, brothers Auguste and Louis Lumière presented 10 short films in their first public performance.

1981

Elizabeth Jordan Carr was born at Norfolk General Hospital. She was the first American baby conceived using in vitro fertilization.

December 28th Celebrated Birthdays

Woodrow Wilson - 1856

The 28th President of the United States saw the country through World War I and established his Fourteen Points to guide the nation into peace. His efforts following the war earned Wilson the 1919 Nobel Prize for Peace.

Stan Lee - 1922

The comic-book writer and editor became the executive vice president and publisher of Marvel Comics in the 1970s. Throughout Lee's career, he created some of the comic-book world's most iconic characters including Spiderman, Hulk, Doctor Strange and Black Panther.

Maggie Smith - 1934

The award-winning actress of stage and film began her career in 1956. Since then, Smith has developed a considerable portfolio of work. The English actress is most recently recognized for her roles in the Harry Potter films and the Downton Abbey television series.

Kary B. Mullis - 1944

The Nobel Prize-winning chemist is recognized for inventing the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique that is used to replicate and analyze DNA rapidly.

Linus Torvalds - 1969

In 1991, the programmer developed the operating system known as Linux.

John Legend - 1978

The award-winning singer-songwriter rose to stardom with his 2004 debut album, Get Lifted.

2300 block St. Claude Avenue in New Orleans in the 1940s

Louisiana Memories

Bourbon Street at St. Peter in the French Quarter in New Orleans in 1975

Louisiana Memories

Pontchartrain Beach Skyride in the early 1980s

Louisiana Memories

The “Doodlebug”Trolley Car that ran from Abita thru Covington Louisiana and onto the excursion boat dock in Mandeville, where the steam powered boats would ferry New Orleanians back and forth between the heavily wooded North Shore and West End on the south shore. Shown here crossing the Bogue Falaya near Covington.

Transit ticket and photos from the St. Tammany & New Orleans Railway & Ferry Co for roundtrip from Mandeville to Covington on December 30, 1915, 109 years ago .

Louisiana (History)

Need help? Here are some tips for streaming from a phone from WWOZ's Video Director.

DAILY CALENDAR

Gambit Listings

OnlineWire - New Orleanrtual gig calendar

Welcome to

OffBeat‘s live music listings!

CHANUKAH

Chanukah also spelled Hanukkah and known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the re-dedication of the Holy Temple (the Second Temple) in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt of the 2nd century BCE. Hanukkah (Hebrew: חֲנֻכָּה, usually spelled חנוכה pronounced [χanuˈka] in Modern Hebrew, also romanized as Chanukah or Chanuka), is observed for eight nights and days. According to the Hebrew calendar, it starts on the 25th day of Kislev, which may occur from late November to late December in the Gregorian calendar.

Did you know these facts?

Hanukkah is less religiously significant than other Jewish holidays.
The menorah holds nine candles. In the center stands the shamus or servant. The shamus lights the eight other Hanukkah candles.
The Hanukkah candles are strictly for pleasure. They are not to be used for any useful or productive purpose. The shamus is available, so the Hanukkah candles are not accidentally used to light a fire in the fireplace or for another useful purpose.
Gift-giving is not traditionally a part of the Hanukkah holiday.
Playing dreidel is a gambling game popular during the Hanukkah holiday.
Fried foods are traditional during the holiday, representing the oil used to light the lamps.

The winter holiday of Hanukkah commemorates the victory of the Maccabees and the subsequent rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem. The eight-day festival is a joyous occasion, so greeting Jewish friends, family and colleagues with warm Hanukkah wishes will surely be welcomed.

Due to its proximity to Christmas, Hanukkah has become one of the most well-known Jewish holidays, despite being a minor holiday that isn’t even mentioned in the Torah. While “Happy Holidays” isn’t inappropriate to say during the Festival of Lights, there are several Hanukkah-specific phrases you can use to greet someone on Hanukkah.

In English, it’s perfectly normal to say “Happy Hanukkah.” To say Happy Hanukkah in Hebrew, you can say chag chanuka sameach, (pronounced chahg cha-nu-KAH sah-MAY-ach.)

In Israel, it is common to just say chanuka sameach. Some Israelis prefer chag urim sameach (pronounced chahg oo-REEM sah-MAY-ach), which literally translates to “Happy Festival of Lights.”

Prefer Yiddish? Wish your friends Ah Freilichin Hanukkah, (a happy Hanukkah). Less common but also beautiful: A Lichtiger Hanukkah, meaning a Hanukkah full of light.

And in Ladino (Judeo-Spanish) you can say Hanukah alegre — happy Hanukkah!

Positioning Your Menorah

The ancient rabbis felt it was important to publicize the miracle of Hanukkah. Therefore, many Jewish organizations erect large outdoor menorahs in their towns. You can also publicize the miracle by placing your menorah in a window facing the street. In most places, passers-by enjoying seeing the candles through the window. In moments when antisemitism has endangered Jewish lives, some Jews have chosen to light the menorah in a window as an act of defiance and bravery.

Placing and Lighting Your Candles

Your menorah should have eight spots for candles — one for each night — and an extra ninth spot that is at a different elevation. This ninth spot is for the shamash, or helper candle, that is used to light the others.

Support My Jewish Learning

On the first of Hanukkah’s eight nights, only two candles are placed in the Hanukkah menorah: the shamash, or “helper” candle, which has its own designated spot (usually in the center), and another candle that designates it is the first night. The first night’s candle is placed in the right-most spot. Each night, another candle is added so that on the eighth and final night of Hanukkah, all nine candles (the shamash plus eight others) are lit. To complete the ritual on all eight nights with one menorah, you will need a total of 44 candles per menorah. Most boxes of Hanukkah candles contain 45.

The candles are placed in the menorah from right to left (just as Hebrew is written from right to left), but are lit from left to right. The blessings are said before the candles are lit. In Ashkenazi communities, the shamash candle is the first one lit, and it is used to light the others, starting with the left-most one. (Think of it as lighting the candle representing the current night first.) In Sephardi communities, an extra candle — not part of the menorah — is used to light the candles that represent the nights, and then the shamash is lit last and the extra candle used for lighting is blown out.

When to Light

Hanukkah candles are lit after sundown, when it is dark. But there is one exception. Since Hanukkah lasts for eight nights, the holiday will inevitably overlap with Shabbat at least once. Lighting a fire during Shabbat is forbidden according to Jewish law, so there are slight adjustments to Hanukkah candle lighting on both Friday and Saturday nights. According to Jewish law, the menorah should be lit before the Shabbat candles on Friday evening while it is still light out. As for Saturday night, the candles are lit after the sun goes down and Shabbat has ended, but there are differing opinions regarding whether the menorah should be lit before or after the havdalah rituals are completed. There is no consensus among Ashkenazi rabbis, and the most widespread Sephardic custom is to recite havdalah first.

The Blessings

Before lighting the candles (but after placing them in the menorah), it is traditional to recite three blessings on the first night and then two on every night thereafter. Click here to download a printable PDF of the Hanukkah candle blessings.

Blessing #1

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יי אֱלוֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם אֲשֶׁר קִידְשָׁנו בְּמִצוֹתָיו וְצִיוָּנוּ לְהַדְלִיק נֵר שֶׁל חַנֻכָה

Baruch atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech haolam, asher kid’shanu b’mitzvotav v’tsivanu l’hadlik ner shel Hanukkah.

Praised are you, Lord our God, Ruler of the universe, who made us holy through your commandments and commanded us to kindle the Hanukkah lights.

Blessing #2

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יי אֱלוֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם שֶׁעָשָׂה נִסִּים לַאֲבוֹתֵינוּ בַּיָּמִים הָהֵם בַּזְּמַן הַזֶּה

Baruch atah, Adonai, Eloheinu Melech haolam, she-asah nisim la’avoteinu bayamim hahem bazman hazeh.

Praised are you, Lord our God, Ruler of the universe, who performed wondrous deeds for our ancestors in those ancient days at this season.

Blessing #3: Shehechiyanu (First Night Only)

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יי אֱלוֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם שֶׁהֶחֱיָּנוּ, וְקִיְּמָנוּ וְהִגִּיָּענוּ לַזְּמַן הַזֶּה

Baruch atah Adonai, elohenu melech ha’olam, shehecheyanu, v’kiyimanu, v’higiyanu lazman hazeh

Praised are you, Lord our God, Ruler of the universe, who has given us life and sustained us and enabled us to reach this season.

Other Candle-Lighting Rituals

Many families follow candle lighting with traditional Hanukkah songs, playing dreidel, eating gelt or sufganiyot or latkes, or opening gifts. Happy Hanukkah!

A Vanishing Bounty: Louisiana’s Coastal Environment and Culture

Explore the beauty and history of Louisiana's natural environment and the threats to its continued existence posed by human habitation.

Enjoy the Outdoors at Audubon Louisiana Nature Center

8:30 am - 3:00 pm

Audubon Louisiana Nature Center

11000 Lake Forest Blvd

New Orleans LA 70127

Notes regarding time

Trails are open Monday - Saturday. Interpretive Center Thursday and Saturday 10 am - 2pm. Ranger Programs Saturdays at 11 am.

Description

The walking trails are open at Audubon Nature Center so take your kids on a nice little hike! Audubon Louisiana Nature Center is a cherished community resource. Located adjacent to Joe Brown Park in New Orleans East on 86 acres of hardwood bottomland forest, its creation was a project of the Junior League of Greater New Orleans, opening March 23, 1980. The Main Boardwalk and Adventure Trail (and restrooms) are open Mon-Sat 8:30 am - 3:00 and are monitored by rangers. The Interpretaive Center is open Thursdays & Saturdays 10 am - 2pm and the Ranger Programs are on Saturdays at 11:00 am. Click here to learn more.

Who

Everyone - family friendly.

Cost

FREE

HE 2025 MARDI GRAS GUIDE has begun limited distribution. Copies may be found at all Barnes & Nobles, Beads by the Dozen, Plush Appeal, Mardi Gras Bead Factory, TJ's Carnival Supply, Jefferson Variety, with more outlets coming daily. Our 49th annual edition makes the perfect stocking stuffer for the Mardi Gras fan in your family.

Free Admission to Contemporary Arts Center

11:00 am - 5:00 pm

FREE

Contemporary Arts Center

900 Camp Street New Orleans LA 70130

What else can you do? You have to laugh to keep from crying, right?

Speaking of, have you heard the latest?

How many Saints players does it take to change a flat tire?

One, unless it’s a blowout, in which case they all show up.

Or this one?

What’s the difference between the Saints and a dollar bill?

You can still get four quarters out of a dollar bill.

BY JEFF DUNCAN

LSU Women's Basketball

LSU has one more non-conference game remaining when it returns from the break on December 29 in the PMAC against Albany.

Sun.

Dec 29

vs.

Albany

Baton Rouge, La. (Maravich Center)

Presented by

1:00 pm CT

Thu.

Jan 2

Arkansas

Fayetteville, Ark. (Bud Walton Arena)

8:00 pm CT

BATON ROUGE, La. – The LSU Tigers

The Tigers are 10-2 entering the week-long Christmas holiday break. LSU’s final non-conference game is set for Dec. 29 at 6 p.m. CT against Mississippi Valley State.

Join us here at Palmettos on Sundays from

10 am to 3 pm for an authentic

Louisiana Jazz Brunch.

1901 Bayou Ln,

Slidell, LA 70458-3227

JAZZ BRUNCH HOURS

SUN0AY

10 am – 3 pm