NATIONAL OYSTERS ROCKEFELLER DAY

National Oysters Rockefeller Day on January 10th recognizes a dish so rich there was only one man's name this dish could bear at the time. At least, that's the story according to the chef who so masterfully created famous recipes in the French Quarter.

In 1889 in the renowned kitchen of Antoine's, Jules Alciatore developed a recipe for baked oysters on the half shell with sauce and bread crumbs that would earn the name Oysters Rockefeller. A dish so rich Alciatore himself admitted, "...I know of no other name rich enough for their richness."

While other restaurants serve similar dishes, only historic Antoine's (founded by Antoine Alciatore, Jules Alciatore's father in 1840) serves the original Oysters Rockefeller. Food Network's Alton Brown even told us on Good Eats that Alciatore took the recipe to his grave. Others have tried to determine the finer ingredients without success. Only Antoine's and the Alciatore family have the authentic recipe.

Having served over 3.5 million orders of Oysters Rockefeller, and counting, Antoine's recipe has withstood the test of time and garnered the praises of culinary critics. Since 1889, the restaurant has numbered each order. Even today's customers receive their privileged number identifying their place in the history of Oysters Rockefeller.

Open on Sundays AND Mondays?! Yes, please!

Laissez les bon temps rouler with Haydel’s EVERY DAY of the week with our updated Mardi Gras hours:

Sunday: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Monday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Tuesday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Wednesday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Thursday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Friday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Saturday: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Pre-order your king cakes with us today by calling our bakery. Happy Almost Mardi Gras Season!

The FBI and City of New Orleans Open Family Assistance Center for Victims of New Years Day Bourbon Street Tragedy 

NEW ORLEANS – In partnership with local, state, and federal partners, the FBI has opened the Family Assistance Center (FAC), centralized location where victims and their loved ones can receive in-person information and assistance following the Bourbon Street tragedy on New Years Day. The FAC will provide services from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (hours subject to change)The following is a message from the NOLA Ready Emergency Alert System:

In coordination w/local & state partners, the FBI is moving the Family Assistance Center to 701 Loyola Ave, 11AM-7PM. (504)355-0846 available 24/7.

Stay safe!

-The Team at NOLA Ready

Managed by the New Orleans Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness

This space is open for those individuals who were present at the Bourbon Street attack, even if they were not physically injured. There are several agencies present providing crisis assistance, financial assistance, legal and lodging assistance, needs assessments, mental health services, returning personal effects and many other additional resources. Interpretation services are available.

For those unable to visit the Family Assistance Center, you are encouraged to fill out the Victim Questionnaire at https://forms.fbi.gov/bourbonstreetvictims/. For more information, please call (504) 355-0846. 

Further resources for victims can be found at https://www.crimesurvivorsnola.org/jan-1-help or fbi.gov/bourbonstreetvictims. 

This week, St. Tammany Parish will experience freezing temperatures in the mid to low 30s. Please remember the 4 P's: People, Pipes, Pets & Plants! Check in on loved ones, wrap your pipes, bring your pets indoors and cover plants!

If you choose to run water during freezing temperatures, remember to only run a trickle of cold water to reduce the usage load on utility systems.

City of New Orleans Extends Freeze Plan Activation 

NEW ORLEANS — The City of New Orleans today announced the extension of the activated Citywide Freeze Plan (CFP), which went into effect Monday, Jan. 6. It has been extended through overnight Friday, Jan. 10, in anticipation of additional cold weather. 

The National Weather Service (NWS) predicts "feels like" temperatures at or slightly below freezing during this time-period and continuing through the night Friday into Saturday morning. This projected range is within the CFP activation threshold of below 35 degrees Fahrenheit (inclusive of wind chill) for over four hours. 

The City of New Orleans Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (NOHSEP) is coordinating closely with the NWS and will update residents via NOLA Ready if the likelihood of local impacts from the wintry weather increases. A hard freeze is still not expected in New Orleans at this time, but residents should be prepared to protect people, pets, pipes, and plants from the cold. 

Shelter for Unhoused Individuals   

The freeze plan will include the extension of temporary shelter for unhoused residents. If someone is in need of shelter, please call the City’s non-emergency line at 3-1-1. Individuals needing shelter will be accepted free of charge at the following locations: 

• Ozanam Inn (2239 Poydras St.) 
• New Orleans Mission (1130 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.) 
• The Salvation Army (4526 S. Claiborne Ave.) 
• Low Barrier Shelter (1530 Gravier St.)
• Rosenwald Recreation Center (1120 S. Broad Ave.)  

Cold Weather Preparedness 

Residents are encouraged to take precautions to protect people and pets during cold weather, using these tips:  

Stay Warm 

• Stay inside in heat during extreme cold 
• If you go outside, wear layers, a hat and gloves, and carry a cell phone 
• Check on neighbors, children, the elderly, and chronically ill to make sure they are safe 
• Bring pets inside   

Practice Fire Safety & Prepare Your Home 

•  Never leave space heaters unattended
•  Never use a stove or an oven to heat your home
•  Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure active and working
•  Have a fire extinguisher and know how to use it

Residents are encouraged to sign up for NOLA Ready emergency text alerts by texting “NOLAREADY” to 77295. More information about winter weather is available at https://ready.nola.gov/winter. 

# # #

King Cake Hub opens for regular business at 8:30 a.m.

King cake from around the city at King Cake Hub at the Zony Mash Beer Project in New Orleans - clockwise from top, chocolate king cake from Bittersweet Confections, praline from Caluda's King Cakes, chocolate from Gracious Bakery + Cafe, bananas Foster from Brennan's. (Photo by Chris Granger | The Times-Picayune | The New Orleans Advocate)

PHOTO BY CHRIS GRANGER

This year, there will be some 100 different king cakes cycling through from producers including Bittersweet Confections, Breads on Oak, Brennan’s, Bywater Bakery, Caluda’s, Cannata’s, Caywood and Randazzo Bakery, District, Hi Do Bakery, Gracious Bakery, Joe Gambino’s Bakery, the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA), Sugar Love, Nolita, Mad Batter Bakery and Marguerite’s King Cakes, Tartine and La Vie en Rose.

King Cake Hub operates daily from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Lundi Gras (March 3 this year, and the countdown is already on).

Buttermilk drop King Cakes: a great tasting string of beads!

Also carrying Original McKenzie and Tastee Donut King Cakes! Stop by today at 5000 W Esplanade!

HAPPY KING’S DAY FROM MANDEVILLE! Thank y'all for making today a great one!

We’ll be stocking King Cakes all season. More varieties are arriving soon in Mandeville. Come see what we offer from the Northshore, New Orleans, and beyond.

• 631 N. Causeway Blvd, Mandeville, LA, United States, Louisiana
• (985) 951-2501
• jenniferj@acquistapaces.com

Krewe of Confetti Kids Parade - Algiers Point

Saturday

January 11, 2025

10:30 am - 11:30 am

 Confetti Park

451 Pelican Avenue

New Orleans LA 70114

(504) 658-3201

Notes regarding time

Lineup begins at 10:30 a.m. in Confetti Park (corner of Pelican and Verret) stretching up the 300 and 400 block of Verret St.

Description

A very special, very Algiers Point parade! Celebrate with vibrant costumes, colorful wagon floats, lively music, and tons of fun for all ages. Don’t miss out on the excitement — come and be part of the festivities! Krewe of Rolling Elvi, Muff-a-Lottas, Krewe of Dolly, and Pussyfooters will all be joining us for this amazing tradition. We will line up at 10:30 in front of Confetti park and roll at 11. King Cake party to follow! Decorate a bike, wagon or stroller, wear a costume and march along or watch the Parade from your porch! Open to all of New Orleans. This parade is presented by Confetti Kids, Inc. and the Algiers Point Association. https://www.facebook.com/confettikids

Who

All are welcome - all kids

Cost

FREE

How

Just show up!

 The Christmas season has come to a close, and you might be wondering what to do with your tree.

Jefferson Parish officials are reminding residents of its Christmas tree recycling program as residents get ready to ring in the new year.

According to the parish, residents in unincorporated Jefferson Parish and the Town of Jean Lafitte can bring real Christmas trees with no lights, garland, tinsel, ornaments, tree stands or plastic bags to 400 David Drive or 6440 Lapalco Blvd. from Jan. 4 through Jan. 14.

Parish officials also said residents can place their trees on their curbs on Wednesday, Jan. 8, to be collected on Jan. 9, 10 or 11.

Flocked, painted and artificial trees will not be collected.

Parish officials said the recycled trees will be used to build wave-dampening fences to reduce coastal erosion in the Barataria Basin.

The 30 best New Orleans restaurants right now in every price range, from upscale to joints

Here are Ian McNulty's top picks across dining categories.

• BY IAN MCNULTY

Redfish is finished tableside at Dakar NOLA, a modern Senegalese restaurant in New Orleans. (Photo by Sophia Germer, NOLA.com, The Times-Picayune)

This is New Orleans. We love to eat, and we love to talk about restaurants. I’ve been covering restaurants in this city for more than 20 years, and the conversation has been endless.

We talk about which restaurants are the best and which are our favorites. These are not necessarily the same. The best can be a matter of critical scrutiny. Our favorites come through how they make us feel, a combination of the food, the personality, the expression of hospitality.

This guide combines the very best and my own favorites. With a few significant exceptions, it’s focused on the city itself, since we have a lot of company coming to town in the months ahead and I want them to experience New Orleans to the fullest.

Making the list

The gumbo at Liuzza's by the Track is distinctive, with a dark roux and fresh seafood added just before it's served.

Staff photo by Ian McNulty

My challenge to finishing this guide, as always, was cutting back to a comprehensible number (30 in this case). To get there, I asked myself two basic questions: Would I cross town for a meal, and is it a spot I’d bring someone to show why I love eating in New Orleans?

This list is what I’d put in the hands of anyone who wants to understand what makes our dining scene great, and what makes it ours. After all, New Orleans has its own food culture, one that's vibrant, increasingly diverse and anchored by a cuisine that is our own.

Restaurants are arranged alphabetically within their categories. A price key is at the bottom.

Unforgettable upscale dining experiences

Brennan’s Restaurant

417 Royal St., French Quarter, $$$$

Majestic in scale and historic elegance, imbued with history and a mighty wine list — they don’t build restaurants like Brennan’s anymore. Fortunately, restaurateur Ralph Brennan decided to resurrect this one a decade ago. Today it feels like a grand dame that has kept up with the times. Chef Ryan Hacker’s menus honor the Creole tradition here by moving it forward.

Commander’s Palace

1403 Washington Ave., Garden District, $$$$

This mansion is the flagship of modern New Orleans dining, where a big-deal meal can also feel like a party. A hub for the local culinary community with a long history and reach, it brings the fun but is also braced by high standards held over generations. Lunch can be relatively affordable (those 25-cent martinis!) or go big with chef Meg Bickford’s playground of a menu.

Emeril’s Restaurant

800 Tchoupitoulas St., Warehouse District, $$$$$

The new Emeril’s argues that New Orleans has a place at the highest level of global gastronomy, and it succeeds. Led by the celebrity chef’s son, E.J. Lagasse, it’s now a tasting menu restaurant where every detail of the experience has been calculated for high-touch excellence. The Wine Bar at Emeril’s gives a more casual glimpse of the new era here. And a new way to try it out with a Friday lunch four-course tasting menu begins Nov. 1 (see more here).

Dakar NOLA

3814 Magazine St., Uptown, $$$$$

Some dishes tell stories. This entire restaurant is the tale of chef Serigne Mbaye’s journey from Senegal through modern American cuisine. It’s a tasting menu restaurant where the whole dining room partakes at once, through courses that show the African roots running through Louisiana flavor. It feels simultaneously inspiring, intimate and of the moment.

MaMou

942 N. Rampart St., French Quarter, $$$$

In this tiny, art nouveau jewel box of a bistro, chef Tom Branighan explores what New Orleans cuisine would be like today if the city had spent more time under the French flag. It’s intricately wrought and technically precise modern French cuisine with a Creole accent. The room is romantic, the menu is thrilling and the wine list is deep enough for a restaurant four times the size.

Saint-Germain

3054 St. Claude Ave., Bywater, $$$$$

A bucket list-tasting menu restaurant is hiding in this humble-seeming shotgun house. The bearing is casual in the 12-seat dining room. All the intensity seems concentrated on the French bistro technique that co-chefs Blake Aguillard and Trey Smith transform with doses of fermentation, aging and unforeseen pairings. The no-reservations patio is open if you just want to drink great wine outside.

Only in New Orleans, upscale traditional

Defining Creole flavor in fine dining settings

Brigtsen’s Restaurant

723 Dante St., Uptown, $$$$

The onetime protege of Paul Prudhomme, chef Frank Brigtsen has godfather status in New Orleans food. His kitchen will make you a believer, from trout meuniere to luscious cochon de lait. This homey cottage feels like an expression of the extended family he and wife Marna have built over four decades.

Clancy’s Restaurant

6100 Annunciation St., Uptown, $$$$

Much younger than the old-line Creole restaurants, Clancy’s shares their DNA, trading some of the historic grandeur for a gently updated menu. Crabmeat and veal, duck and pompano are all in play, though the character of Clancy’s is a key ingredient. It’s an upscale restaurant with the soul of a neighborhood joint.

Dooky Chase’s Restaurant

2301 Orleans Ave., Treme, $$$

The rooms are imbued with civil rights history, the walls are a gallery of African American art, and the spirit of the late matriarch Leah Chase is palpable at this multi-generation family restaurant. Over fried chicken, gumbo, redfish court bouillon and cocktails you can watch a mosaic of New Orleans life convene in perhaps its most hospitable space.

Galatoire’s Restaurant

209 Bourbon St., French Quarter, $$$$

History and tradition anchor this French Creole classic. But what really animates it is the way regulars have made it part of their rituals and celebrations. It’s an experience more than just a meal. Devote half a day for the boozy Friday lunch; dinner gives a quieter account of its charms. (Note: Times-Picayune owner John Georges is an owner of Galatoire’s).

Only in New Orleans, casual traditional

Neighborhood joints for the soul of local flavor

High Hat Café

4500 Freret St., Uptown, $

This restaurant feels like it’s been around for much longer than its dozen years. It works a classic New Orleans template, but also gives a fresh, rejuvenated edge. Produce is seasonal, blackboard specials show chef Kat Mann’s hand and the gumbo, po-boys and fried chicken are textbook.

Li’l Dizzy’s Cafe

1500 Esplanade Ave., Treme, $

Sometimes I wish I could go back in time to experience the Black Creole cafes of yesteryear, like Chez Hélène or Buster Holmes. Then I remember I can just go to Li’l Dizzy’s, the next generation of a family heritage in soulful cooking going back to the 1940s. It’s counter service-casual for a definitive Creole gumbo and composed plate lunches.

Liuzza’s by the Track

1518 N. Lopez St., Mid-City, $

Here’s a corner bar near the horse track (and Jazz Fest) with a collection of neighborhood characters and a menu all about local flavor done one better with a distinctive house style. With a schooner of beer, gumbo with a fresh pop to the seafood and a garlic oyster po-boy in hand, New Orleans life truly feels grand.

Rosedale

801 Rosedale St., Navarre, $$

Few chefs command the kind of respect that Susan Spicer has earned and now her well-hidden neighborhood restaurant has been the focus of her attention. It’s a love letter to New Orleans food, with a sense of place, no pretense, many nightly specials and a bistro-worthy wine list. The lovely, leafy patio in back feels like an excursion to the country.

Modern upscale

Contemporary cuisine across New Orleans

Coquette

2800 Magazine St., Uptown, $$$$

Always different, never predictable, what chef Michael Stoltzfus started 15 years ago remains a fresh vision for what contemporary Creole cuisine can be. Count on a house style that mixes wide-ranging culinary imagination with the plain dealing of exuberantly fresh ingredients. The long bar is one of the best for solo dining or a quick bite. For a tasting menu version of this, see Coquette’s sibling restaurant, Wild South.

G.W. Fins

808 Bienville St., French Quarter, $$$$

The seafood variety on hand is impressive, and the ways chef Mike Nelson serves it seem boundless, including dry-aged fish and seafood charcuterie. It’s an artful, innovative, high-end expression of modern Louisiana seafood, and a recent renovation gracefully aligns the setting with this identity.

N7

1117 Montegut St., 9th Ward, $$$$

This garden patio feels like stepping through a portal to wine country, while the snug bar is like a tap room designed with a filmmaker’s eye. Yuki Yamaguchi’s cooking is modern French with a subtle, transformative touch of Japanese. The approach is casual, the cooking exquisite and the wine program epic.

Peche Seafood Grill

800 Magazine St., Warehouse District, $$$$

Donald Link’s upscale/casual seafood restaurant is built around a wood-fired grill, a raw bar and a nose-to-tail approach to seafood for a fresh read on this city’s relationship to the Gulf catch. Chef de cuisine Nicole Cabrera Mills has gradually added more pan-Asian influences, to often electrifying effect.

Palm & Pine

308 N. Rampart St., French Quarter, $$$

Upscale/casual, inventive and full of personality, this is precisely the kind of restaurant the French Quarter needs. Co-chefs Amarys Koenig Herndon and Jordan Herndon draw from the Caribbean, Latin America, Texas and their own journeys through New Orleans fine dining. This restaurant feels vibrant, inclusive and attuned to its community.

Toups’ Meatery

845 N. Carrollton Ave., Mid-City, $$$$

Isaac Toups cooks with Cajun gusto, not Cajun cliché. If you want a taste of rural Louisiana with a chef’s lens, and maybe a cup of cracklin’ to pair with Champagne, this mural-clad clubhouse for meat lovers is your place. The restaurant family here also marshals a community feeding effort that is heroic.

Zasu

127 N. Carrollton Ave., Mid-City, $$$$

There’s a stylish, relaxed elegance that speaks softly and delivers big at chef Sue Zemanick’s tiny upscale bistro, tucked into a neighborhood full of classic joints. It manages to keep a low profile, making its discovery that much more rewarding. Her kitchen’s way with golden-crusted fish is especially masterful.

Global flavors

Expanding the New Orleans table with a diversity of flavor

Acamaya

3070 Dauphine St., Bywater, $$$

Ana Castro gained wide attention for the former Mexican tasting menu concept Lengua Madre. Now she and her sister Lydia run this more casual, comfortably stylish take in the Bywater. It’s the kind of seafood restaurant you might find in Mexico City, if you had the right guide. In New Orleans, it’s a mesmerizing display of what Mexican flavor can do for local seafood.

Addis NOLA

2514 Bayou Road, 7th Ward, $$

This Ethiopian restaurant is a vibrant tableau of African homeland culture, and Prince Lobo directs it with a joyful energy. Tables fill with platters of meat, seafood and vegan dishes. Eat it all with your hands and pieces of crepe-like injera. Meals feel like communal celebrations.

Alma

800 Louisa St., Bywater, $$

There’s been a strong Honduran presence in New Orleans for generations. Melissa Araujo gives a modern read on its flavors as casual comfort food from a chef-led kitchen at brunch and lunch. The impressive Friday dinner service goes more upscale, and evening hours will expand soon.

Costera

4938 Prytania St., Uptown, $$$

Whenever I look at this modern Spanish menu, I want to taste it all, and with a few people at the table that’s just about possible. Anything seared on the plancha will be fantastic. For a different pace, pull up to the long bar for a drink and snack or more casual dinner.

Jewel of the South

1026 St. Louis St., French Quarter, $$$$

This upscale tavern is rightly celebrated for cocktails, with Chris Hannah directing a bar that revives classics from the archives and always has new ideas. It’s also a distinctive restaurant with chef Phil Whitmarsh’s take on modern British cuisine, coaxing vegetables to new heights, elevating uncommon meats, for a pairing that always makes memorable meals.

Mister Mao

4501 Tchoupitoulas St., Uptown, $$$

Sophina Uong calls her restaurant a “tropical roadhouse,” which translates to fun, loose and fiercely tasty with a retro feel and globetrotting menu. Dashes of Southeast Asia, India and Latin America are in play, not as fusion so much as a gallery of big flavors. Her kitchen frequently hosts visiting chefs, bringing more into the local scene.

Saffron NOLA

4128 Magazine St., Uptown, $$$$

There’s a New Orleans influence here, obvious in the curried gumbo and the oyster roast. But really Saffron NOLA is an Indian restaurant brought to the highest level by a culinary family with a mastery of flavor and hospitality, the father-and-son duo Arvinder and Ashwin Vilkhu in the kitchen. From cocktails to raw seafood to tandoor meats, dining here is always eye-opening and a joy.

Outside the city

Experiences to plan a special outing around

Mosca’s Restaurant

4137 U.S. 90, Westwego, West Bank, $$

This Italian classic belongs to a tradition unto itself. It starts with a journey to the edge of the exurbs (about 30 minutes from downtown) and recalling the stories that adhere to this place like the garlic cloves studding its magnificent whole chicken. Everything is family-sized to share; the more people you bring, the more pleasure you take.

Seither’s Seafood

279 Hickory Ave., Harahan, $

Midway between the city and the airport, visiting Seither’s feels like getting invited to a backyard bash from a master seafood boiler. Jason Seither also has a mischievous style in the kitchen, blending sushi bar and taqueria with Louisiana standards. Most seating is outside, where bands play on the weekends.

Price key: average meal per person

$: under $20

$$: from $21 to $50 per person

$$$: from $51 to $100 per person

$$$$: from $101 to $200 per person

$$$$$: more than $200 per person

anexpohq.com/fanexponeworleans/buy-tickets/

https://fanexpohq.com/fanexponeworleans/our-schedule/

JANUARY 10 - 12, 2025

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center

Fan Expo New Orleans features ‘Back to the Future’ panels, comics and cosplay Jan. 10-12

• BY JAKE CLAPP Jan 5, 2025 

Claudia Wells’ first film role was in “Back to the Future” as Jennifer Parker, Marty McFly’s patient, encouraging girlfriend. Wells had been acting on television for several years before the 1985 film, and she landed the role as Jennifer after a long audition in front of writer Bob Gale, director Robert Zemeckis and producers Steven Spielberg and Kathleen Kennedy.

Filming “Back to the Future” was a great experience, Wells says. But after her mother was diagnosed with cancer, Wells decided to retire from acting and passed on returning for “Back to the Future Part II” in 1989. Actor Elisabeth Shue was cast as Jennifer for the series’ second and third films.

Wells went on to open a men’s clothing store, and her shop, Armani Wells, recently marked its 34th anniversary. As for “Back to the Future,” it was a fun moment that she left in the past — until around 2012 when she was invited to attend a reunion at a comic con in Burbank, California.

“‘Back to the Future’ had started to become such a big deal, and I would get fans coming in [to the store] from all over the world,” Wells says. “You’d see people with a camera around their neck. I had people from the Netherlands and Australia and Japan and everywhere.”

Over the last decade, Wells has frequently participated in “Back to the Future” panels at fan conventions around the world. She’ll next be at Fan Expo New Orleans this weekend for a panel and to sign autographs and take photos.

There are a number of events celebrating the 40th anniversary of “Back to the Future” at this year’s Fan Expo New Orleans, which takes place Friday, Jan. 10, through Sunday, Jan. 12, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. The annual fan convention celebrates all things comics, sci-fi, fantasy, horror, anime and gaming, and will feature celebrity meet-and-greets, panels, workshops, cosplay competitions, comic book sales and artists displaying their works.

Michael J. Fox — who has done fewer public appearances in the last decade due to living with Parkinson’s disease — and Christopher Lloyd are among the 11 Fan Expo guests who took part in “Back to the Future.” They’ll join actors Lea Thompson and Tom Wilson and musician Huey Lewis on Friday, Jan. 10, for a panel sharing stories and answering questions about the film. Comics writer Victor Dandridge will moderate the panel.

Wells will take part in a panel on Sunday, Jan. 12, with more members of the film’s cast, including Charlie Croughwell, James Tolkan, Harry Waters Jr., Frances Lee McCain and Jeffrey Weissman.

Fan Expo will screen “Back to the Future” on Sunday, and there will be an Enchantment Under the Sea dance on Saturday. New Orleans Burlesque performers Ramona Rose and Fox Monroe host a “Back to the Future” themed trivia show also on Saturday, and there will be photo ops with the DeLorean time machine, scavenger hunts, film-specific cosplay meetups and other events throughout the weekend.

There’s also plenty happening outside of “Back to the Future.” This year’s Fan Expo — organized by a group producing fan conventions across the country — will feature interview sessions with Andy Serkis, William Shatner, Heather Locklear and Giancarlo Esposito.

Actors Tom Welling and Michael Rosenbaum will read scenes and tell stories from the TV show “Smallville.” Tyler Hoechlin and Bitsie Tulloch will talk about their titular roles in “Superman & Lois.” Plus, actors Brandon Routh and Dean Cain, who both also played Superman, will be at the convention.

“Hazbin Hotel” creator Vivienne Medrano and voice actors from the adult animated comedy will take part in panels, and other events will feature actors from the Dragon Ball anime series, “One Piece” and “My Hero Academia.” There also will be panels and workshops focused on accessibility at fan conventions, the film industry in New Orleans, the history of horror comics and more.

Cosplay workshops and meet-ups run throughout the convention. The weekend includes podcast recordings, karaoke sessions, video game tournaments, a Comics and Cocktails happy hour, drag bingo, foam sword fighting, artist competitions, table top gaming and more.

Several New Orleans fandom organizations also will be present, including the local Star Wars-themed 501st garrison, the Louisiana Ghostbusters and the Krewe of Japan. Two post-expo parties also are planned: The group Anime Soiree will host the Dimensional Dance Party at 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 10, at the Howlin’ Wolf, and there is the Purikura Panic After Party at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, at the Rabbit Hole.

It was almost kismet that Wells ended up in “Back to the Future.” Wells was cast as Jennifer across from Eric Stoltz, who was originally hired to play Marty. But soon after the audition, a television pilot for “Off the Rack,” which Wells had filmed the previous spring, was picked up by ABC and suddenly she had to pass on “Back to the Future.” Wells went on to film six more episodes for the TV comedy with Ed Asner and Eileen Brennan, while “Back to the Future” began production.

Over on the film set, though, things with Stoltz weren’t quite working out and the part of Marty was recast with Michael J. Fox. Because of the break and a desire to have a love interest closer in height to Fox, Wells was called back to play Jennifer.

“Fans have expressed to me how important the role of Jennifer was,” Wells said recently from her home in Los Angeles. “If Jennifer hadn’t signed ‘I love you’ with the phone number on the clock tower flyer, Marty wouldn’t have had it in the ’50s to know when the [lightening] was going to stop the clock … And other people have pointed out that ‘Marty really got through it because of his love for you.’”

For Wells, participating in these fan events has been rewarding. She says she loves hearing about what “Back to the Future” has meant to people who grew up with the film, but it has also given her a chance to become closer with fellow stars Christopher Lloyd, James Tolkan, Donald Fullilove and Lea Thompson.

“We’re a bit of crew, a bit of a family, and they’re very special people to me,” Wells says. “We share this camaraderie of having all taken part in this amazing experience. As fun as it was to do the movie, for me, the most fun is what the movie has provided as part of my life today.”

Fan Expo tickets are $39-$60 per day and $89 for 3-day passes. Find more info at fanexpohq.com/fanexponeworleans.

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. 

Zuppardo's Family Supermarket

It's finally Muffuletta King Cake Season

A few might be available to grab & go, but to guarantee you have what you need, please order a day or 2 in advance!

• 5010 Veterans Memorial Boulevard, Metairie, LA, United States, Louisiana

• (504) 887-1150

• zuppardos.com

These gorgeous gateaux des rois by the amazing pastry team at Gracious. Pre-order online or walk in, and try to snag one! Our house made puff pastry, filled with rum flavored almond frangipan.

• 4930 Prytania Street and 2854 St Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA, United States, Louisiana
• (504) 301-3709
• info@graciousbakery.com

Louisiana Supreme Court upholds state authority to clear homeless encampments

Nolan Mckendry,

The Louisiana Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the state’s authority to clear unauthorized homeless encampments from public property, dissolving a lower court’s injunction that had temporarily blocked such actions.

The decision, issued on Thursday, affirms the constitutional power of the Louisiana State Police and other state agencies to enforce laws protecting public health and safety.

The controversy began on Nov. 22, when State Police began distributing “Notice to Vacate” flyers to individuals living in unauthorized encampments.

The notices cited state law prohibiting camping on public property and provided a 24-hour deadline for vacating, along with resources for assistance and relocation. The initiative came ahead of high-profile events like the Bayou Classic, Sugar Bowl, Super Bowl, and Mardi Gras — all major tourism draws for New Orleans.

Three days later, on Nov. 25, plaintiffs sought a temporary restraining order to block the state’s actions, accusing officials of prioritizing the “aesthetic comfort” of tourists over the rights of unhoused individuals.

The plaintiffs’ legal challenge argued that the state’s actions violated local ordinances and overstepped its authority, demanding compliance with municipal rules established by the City of New Orleans.

On Dec. 13, Orleans Civil District Court Judge Lori Jupiter granted the restraining order, imposing restrictions on state agencies.

Judge Jupiter’s ruling mandated that state officials must notify individuals living in encampments that they are free to leave, provide 24-hour notice before clearing encampments, and avoid destroying or disposing of personal property without due process.

The Louisiana Supreme Court found the lower court’s ruling improper, stating that it “unconstitutionally interferes with the police powers of the State of Louisiana” as outlined in state’s constitution. “The district court’s judgment improperly interferes with the state’s exercise of its constitutionally authorized police power,” the court wrote, ordering the immediate dissolution of the injunction.

Attorney General Liz Murrill praised the Supreme Court decision on X, saying, “State Police has every legal right to clear the encampments. I appreciate the Louisiana Supreme Court for coming to a common-sense conclusion on this important public safety issue. I’m proud of the hard work of my Solicitor General’s Office & Deputy Solicitor General Zach Faircloth.”

Gov. Jeff Landry also weighed in, highlighting the timing of the decision in light of recent and upcoming events.

“This comes at a very important time given the events of last week, the upcoming Super Bowl, and Mardi Gras,” Landry posted on X.

The issue of homelessness in Louisiana remains a significant challenge. A 2023 study by the National Alliance to End Homelessness reported that while more than 5,000 state residents were permanently housed that year, 8,564 individuals entered into homelessness during the same period.

Critics argue that clearing encampments addresses symptoms rather than the root causes of homelessness, such as lack of affordable housing and mental health resources.

State officials, however, emphasize the importance of balancing public safety with compassion.

n its decision, the Louisiana Supreme Court underscored that the case is “not about keeping New Orleans beautiful; it is about public safety and health.”

This Supreme Court cited the attack on Bourbon Street on New Year’s Day, which heightened concerns about security ahead of major events.

With the court’s ruling now settled, state agencies are poised to resume enforcement actions.

Check out our Daily SPECIALS Y’all!

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

Who has the best King Cake on the Northshore? YOU BE THE JUDGE! Join us for Boutique Krewetacular on Friday, January 10, 2025, at the Southern Hotel, located in the heart of downtown Covington.

Local bakeries, eateries, and grocery stores will compete to see who has the tastiest King Cake on the Northshore. This family-friendly event will feature dancing, music, local vendors, kids' activities, King Cake tastings, and more! You definitely don't want to miss out on this one of a kind event!

​

This event, presented by Butterfly FX Cosmetics, benefits the Northshore Food Bank. You participation in this event will go directly to support their mission—to help end hunger in St. Tammany

VIP Shopping Tickets are on sale on eventbrite! Get yours before they are gone!

www.boutiquekrewetacular.com

Let them eat King Cake this Friday, January 10, 2025 from 1 - 3 pm at The Shop at The Historic New Orleans Collection

Admission is free and open to the public. No registration is required.

Don your finest purple, green, and gold and kick off the Carnival season at the Shop at the Collection at our annual party featuring live New Orleans music, entertainment, and a variety of king cakes from bakers across the city!

The Historic New Orleans Collection

520 and 533 Royal Street

New Orleans, LA

70130

(504) 523-4662

• 617 Piety Street Suite B, New Orleans, LA, United States, Louisiana

• (504) 301-3222

• bratzyall@gmail.com

• bratzyall.com

King Cake pretzels are coming out on Tuesday! We have Bavarian cream and a new one: German chocolate king cake pretzels y’all! It’s finger licking amazing. Just saying.

Bratz Y'all

We're pleased to announce that Kid Cafe', a free after-school meal program for youth- ages 18 and under, is now underway. In partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank, No Kid Hungry, and Share Our Strength, the program ensures that low-income children at afterschool program sites across New Orleans have access to nutritious meals during the school year. Kid Cafe' meals are available Monday through Friday from 3:00pm to 6:00pm at multiple NORD rec centers. For more information, call us at 504-658-3052.

If you really love chocolate, prove it and order the ultimate chocolate king cake! Our Bittersweet King Cake has a rich layer of chocolate mousse between our brioche dough filled with chocolate cream cheese. It's covered in chocolate ganache icing, the trio Mardi Gras colors, and dark chocolate truffles!

• 725 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA, United States, Louisiana

• (504) 523-2626

• cakes@bittersweetconfections.com

bittersweetnola

COME IN FOR 

WINE DOWN

FRIDAY

--------------------------------------

Wine Down Friday with one of the largest wine selections in the city.

With one of the largest selection of wines in the Greater New Orleans area, Langenstein's and Prytania Wine & Spirits has WINE DOWN FRIDAY.

Wine Down Friday is a weekly 10% discount on all bottles of wine purchased every Friday.

So join us every Friday to "Wine Down!"

The Wine Down Friday discount is limited to wine in stock at our three Langenstein's locations in Uptown, Old Metairie, River Ridge...and every Friday at Prytania Wine & Spirits too!

UPTOWN

1330 Arabella Street, New Orleans, LA 70115

Phone: (504) 899-9283 | Mon-Sat: 7:00am to 7:00pm

Sun: 8:00am to 6:00pm

Breakfast served Daily: 7:00am to 10:00am

Lunch & Dinner on our Hot Bar Daily: 11:00am to 6:00pm (Closes at 5 pm on Sunday)

OLD METAIRIE

800 Metairie Rd, Metairie, LA 70005

Phone: (504) 831-6682 | Mon-Sat: 7:00am to 8:00pm

Sun: 7:00am to 7:00pm

Breakfast served Daily: 7:00am to 10:00am

Lunch & Dinner on our Hot Bar Daily: 11:00am to 6:00pm (Closes at 5 pm on Sunday)

RIVER RIDGE

122 Sauve Rd, River Ridge, LA 70123

Phone: (504) 739-1000 | Mon-Sat: 7:00am to 8:00pm

Sun: 7:00am to 7:00pm

Breakfast served Daily: 7:00am to 10:00am

Lunch & Dinner on our Hot Bar Daily: 11:00am to 6:00pm (Closes at 5 pm on Sunday)

PRYTANIA WINE & SPIRITS

1300 Arabella St, New Orleans, LA 70115

Phone: (504) 891-0448 |

Mon-Sat: 10:00am to 7:00pm

Sun: Closed

Free wine tastings every Friday.

FACEBOOK: @PrytaniaWineandSpirits

INSTAGRAM: @prytaniawineandspirits

(504) 895-9323

glenn@charliessteakhousenola.com

4510 Dryades St, New Orleans, LA, 70115

LSU Women's Basketball...

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Kailyn Gilbert hit a late-game shot with 0.9 second remaining and No. 6 LSU (18-0, 3-0 SEC) walked away victorious over Tennessee (13-2, 1-2 SEC) Thursday night in Thompson-Boling Arena, 89-87, marking the Tigers’ third consecutive win in Knoxville, becoming just the second program ever to win three straight visiting the Lady Vols.

Thu.

Jan 9

at

Tennessee

Knoxville, Tenn. (Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center)

Mon.

Jan 13

vs.

Vanderbilt

Baton Rouge, La. (Maravich Center)

Presented by

6:00 pm CT

Sun.

Jan 19

at

Florida

Gainesville, Fla. (Stephen C. O'Connell Center)

12:00 pm CT

• Listen Live
• SEC Network
• Live Stats

Thu.

Jan 23

at

South Carolina

Columbia, S.C. (Colonial Life Arena)

7:00 pm CT

• Listen Live
• ESPN
• Live Stats

Sun.

Jan 26

vs.

Texas A&M

Baton Rouge, La. (Maravich Center)

Presented by

3:00 pm CT

gamine

/gəˈmiːn/

Definition: A girl or young woman who is playful, mischievous, and often has an appealingly boyish charm.

Origin: French, from "gamin," meaning "boy."

Example: The actress's gamine demeanor captivated the audience, making her the perfect choice for the whimsical role.

The term "gamine" encapsulates the essence of a playfully mischievous girl, embodying a spirit that is both free-spirited and charming. Such girls often exude a sense of youthful exuberance, characterized by their playful antics and boyish style. They tend to challenge conventions with their carefree attitudes and spirited personalities, inviting both affection and admiration from those around them. The gamine archetype is often associated with a certain innocence and spontaneity, making them endearing figures in both literature and popular culture. Their lively nature adds a delightful spark to any situation, leaving a lasting impression on everyone they encounter.

XANADU opens FRIDAY! Jan 10-26

all the music you know & love! 80's attire & rollerskates encouraged! 

Strap on your roller skates and ride a wave of 1980s nostalgia in Xanadu, the glittering collision of myth, magic, and totally tubular tunes! Follow Kira, a Greek muse sent to inspire a struggling artist to create the ultimate masterpiece: a roller disco! With hits like "Magic," "Suddenly," and "Xanadu," this jukebox joyride is a love letter to dreams, neon lights, and following your heart.

Packed with laughs, outrageous costumes, and irresistible energy, Xanadu will have you dancing in your seat. Perfect for all ages, it’s a journey you don’t want to miss!

GET TIX HERE!

https://www.rivertowntheaters.com/

Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts - 325 Minor Street - Kenner, LA 70062

(504) 461-9475

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!

Orange Bowl - No. 6 Penn State vs. No. 7 Notre Dame

IRISH WIN THE 2025 ORANGE BOWL

THE NOTRE DAME FIGHTING IRISH ARE MOVING ON TO THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

A trip to the College Football Playoff National Championship will be on the line when (7) Notre Dame faces (6) Penn State in the Orange Bowl semifinal game on Thursday. It also will mark the 19th meeting between the programs with the all-time series deadlocked at 9-9-1.

NATIONAL BITTERSWEET CHOCOLATE DAY

Chocolate lovers, rejoice! National Bittersweet Chocolate Day on January 10th gives you the excuse to indulge in some chocolate satisfaction. (National Bittersweet Chocolate with Almonds Day is celebrated on November 7th.)

Chocolate comes from the seed of the tropical Theobroma cacao tree. Cacao, which has been cultivated for at least three millennia, is grown in Mexico, Central America, and Northern South America. The earliest known documentation of the use of cacao seeds is around 1100 BC. The cacao tree seed has an intensely bitter taste and must be fermented to develop the flavor.

Once the seeds have been fermented, the beans are then dried, cleaned, and roasted. After roasting, the shell is removed to produce cacao nibs. The cacao nibs are then ground into a cocoa mass which is pure chocolate in rough form. Usually, the cocoa mass is liquefied then molded with or without other ingredients. This is called chocolate liquor. The chocolate liquor may then be processed into two components: cocoa solids and cocoa butter.

Bittersweet chocolate is chocolate liquor to which sugar, cocoa butter, and vanilla have been added. It does have less sugar and more liquor than semisweet chocolate. However, the two of them may be interchangeable when baking.

Studies have revealed that there are certain health benefits from eating bittersweet chocolate in moderation, such as lowering blood pressure and helping to protect the heart.

Construction of the Greater New Orleans Bridge in the 1950s

Louisiana Memories

Canal Street in New Orleans in 1903

Louisiana Memories

Jules Pujol

Born in New Orleans on December 12, 1864, Jules Pujol was an infielder and outfielder for several professional teams in and around New Orleans during the 1880s.

Year Team League

1886 New Orleans Gulf League

1886 Mobile Gulf League

1887 New Orleans Pelicans Southern League

1888 Galveston Giants Texas League

1888 Houston Babies Texas-Southern League

1888 Galveston Giants Texas-Southern League

1889 Mobile Southern League

Pujol caught the eye of businessman Toby Hart, who had been unsuccessful in securing a franchise for New Orleans in the newly formed Southern League in 1885. Hart and Conrad Leithman arranged for two teams from New Orleans to face off against two teams from Mobile in the Gulf League – New Orleans, Mobile, the Acid Iron Earths, and the Robert E. Lee’s.

Among his teammates on the New Orleans club were Joe Dowie and Mike Shea.

Baseball being a tenuous endeavor at this time, particularly as a start-up league, Pujol played for both New Orleans and Mobile in 1886. Information regarding the games played and player statistics are nearly non-existent.

In 1887 New Orleans was admitted to the Southern League and Pujol was a member of the New Orleans Pelicans. He played 51 games in center field, 29 games at third base, 3 games in right field, and 1 game at shortstop. He even appeared as pitcher in a single game, giving up five hits and two earned runs in the one inning in which he appeared.

His offensive production was better than average, compiling a .314 batting average for the pennant winning Pelicans in their inaugural season in the Southern League.

The next season saw Pujol in the Texas-Southern League with both the Galveston Giants and the Houston Babies. The fragile league was up and down and finally collapsed after less than 24 games. Pujol managed to post a .175 batting average, but clearly the 16 games in which we played was not enough to be representative.

Pujol played eight games for the Mobile franchise in 1889 before returning home and retiring from professional baseball. His heart was no longer in the game, and he felt a higher calling.

Pujol had been a non-paid member (volunteer) of the New Orleans Fire Department while playing baseball. Along with his brother Louis, he joined Pelican Hook & Ladder Company No. 4 on April 3, 1883, first as a Ladderman and later as a Tillerman. He is shown second from the left in the photograph below. His brother Louis was a Driver of Pelican Hook & Ladder Company No. 4, and is shown at the far right in the photograph below.

In the early morning hours of October 31, 1892, Pelican Hook & Ladder No. 4 responded to a tremendous fire at Baronne and Canal Streets which was consuming a building known as Grunwald Hall. The ground floor served as a piano warehouse while the upper floors were occupied by the families of Louis Hess and Joseph Mutz.

Cut off from escape by the smoke and flames, there were nine people from the Hess and Mutz families who seemed destined to perish in the blaze. Realizing that their ladders were too short to affect a rescue by conventional means, Pujol and four other firemen ascended the fire escape on the adjoining Chess, Checkers and Whist Club. From that vantage point they swung by rope to the roof of the burning building, hauling a ladder over to bridge from one building to the other and passed the nine endangered persons across the ladder bridge one-by-one to safety.

For their courage and resourcefulness, Pujol and four other firefighters, including his brother Louis, were awarded the department’s highest honor and were feted with a parade through downtown New Orleans.

Pujol rose through the ranks of the department and was an Assistant Chief on February 23, 1924, when he responded to an early morning fire at the Marks-Isaacs warehouse on Canal Street. The 59-year-old Pujol died after being trapped in the building when the floors and walls collapsed. Five other firefighters were seriously injured.

Pujol is interred at Greenwood Cemetery in New Orleans.

Baseball in New Orleans

Derby Gisclair 

Gumbel Fountain has been a staple in Audubon Park since 1918. Check out this photo from the 1920s!

Audubon Park

If there is a need for emergency assistance, you should always call 911. However, DDD’s SafeWalk is a service provided to Downtown residents, workers and visitors, so people can feel safe and confident walking to and from anywhere Downtown. Downtown SafeWalks are offered free of charge within the Downtown DDD boundaries. To schedule a SafeWalk, contact the DDD Public Safety Rangers during regular operating hours: 7 days a week, 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Call or text (504) 415-1730 to check availability. If texting, include name, location and time of meet-up.

HE 2025 MARDI GRAS GUIDE has begun 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

Meet the newest member of the family…King Cake Beignets. Available throughout carnival season.

Bakers Dozen Donuts New Orleans

lovebakersdozen.com

https://www.lovebakersdozen.com

Bakers Dozen Donuts Wed-Sat 5am-11am Sundays 6:30am-11am CLOSED MONDAYS & TUESDAYS 3305 Jefferson Hwy., Jefferson LA 504-828-2811 

You know it’s the start of Carnival season when the smell of King Cakes are in the air! Stop by Randazzo’s Camellia City Bakery to pick up a king cake in store, or have one shipped to your front door! www.KingCakes.com

• 3501 Pontchartrain Dr, Slidell, LA, United States, Louisiana
• (985) 781-2253

2025 NOCCA King Cake Menu

• Gluten-Free Cinnamon: This is ideal for anyone who loves the taste of a classic New Orleans king cake but can't do gluten. Soft and pillowy inside, with a not-too-sweet cinnamon ribbon and crust, vanilla glaze, and shimmery edible glitter, this is a cake for everyone to enjoy!
• Satsuma Almond: This king cake is made with rich almond paste and tart, tangy Louisiana satsumas. It's braided with a brioche-style dough, glazed with even more satsuma, and dusted with purple, green, and gold edible glitter. Give it as a gift or enjoy it yourself.
• Salted Caramel Apple: This king cake is spiced apples and lightly sweetened cream cheese in a brioche dough, glazed with salted caramel, and finished off with crunchy caramel bits and edible glitter. It's like a whole Carnival parade in a box, and is available through January 26, 2025.
• Additional limited-edition flavors will be announced at a later date, including a special Valentine's Day King Cake.

All proceeds support NOCCA's Culinary Arts program, helping cultivate the next generation of New Orleans culinary talent. The partnership with French Truck Coffee adds an extra dimension, with their special "Big Chief" Carnival blend benefiting the NOCCA Foundation.

Event Details: Available January 6 to March 2, 2025 | Pre-order at NOCCAMarketplace.com| Local pickup at NOCCA and select retailers

The ULTIMATE

"SUPER-MARDI GRAS" 2025

EACH Remarqued Signed & Numbered Print is

HAND-PAINTED in GOLD by artist ANDREA MISTRETTA - Year #40

Limited Edition of only 777 prints 18" x 24"

Poster Includes KREWE's names in CALLIGRAPHY

https://mardigrasgraphics.com/order.html

LPO celebrates carnival time in New Orleans with an energy-filled program with a Mardi Gras flair featuring Saint-Saëns’ Carnival of the Animals and a special performance by LPO Academy string students!

𝐆𝐞𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝗚𝗼𝗻𝘇𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀! Join us on 𝑱𝒂𝒏. 𝟏𝟏-𝟏𝟐 at Lamar-Dixon Expo Center!

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Jan. 11-12 - Sat. 9-5; Sun. 10-4

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲: Lamar-Dixon Expo Center

𝗔𝗱𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻: Adults $10; 6-11 $2 (Cash at the door)

Los Jefes Grill

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

A celebration you don’t want to miss!

FULL DESCRIPTION

Our New Orleans Mac & Cheese Festival will be held as a food crawl (think bar crawl, but for Mac & Cheese instead)!

So, round up your crew, bring your family, and get ready to take a tour around New Orleans to sample all kinds of Mac & Cheese creations from some of the best spots in the Big Easy (some would say the Big Cheesy).

YOUR TICKET INCLUDES: A sample of Mac & Cheese from EVERY participating location

PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS:

List will be updated, so be sure to check back!

- Cafe at the Square - TBD

- Gus's World Famous - TBD

- **Hammered Harry's - Queso Mac with Bacon Bits

- Hideout - Buffalo Mac & Cheese

- Mr. Ed's PoBoy Shop - Debris Mac & Cheese

- Pour House @ District - Smoked Gouda Mac

- St James Cheese Co - St James “Cheesemonger’s” Mac & Cheese

- Three Legged Dog - Smokey, Creamy, Cheesy Mac & Cheese Bites

- Trenasse - TBD

- Ugly Dog Saloon - Creamy Cheddar Gold

- Voodoo Chicken & Daiquiris - Chicken Mac & Cheese (Sauce Options: Voodoo Sauce, Buffalo, Hot Honey, BBQ)

& MORE TO COME

 **Denotes check-in location.

*Mac & Cheese vendors & varieties are subject to change

MAC & CHEESE CRAWL LOGISTICS:

Please purchase tickets based on the check-in location noted. You will go there to receive your punchcard-

which you will need to receive your Mac & Cheese samples!

Check in will end promptly at 3:00 pm to allow an adequate amount of time to participate in the event

Only guests with punchcards will be able to participate. One punchcard/sample per guest

A volunteer will be located at each restaurant to mark your punchcard & answer any questions that you may have

Please do not congregate in large groups outside each restaurant. If the line looks long, please proceed to another spot and then circle back!

Enjoy your Mac & Cheese while walking around New Orleans!

This event will be held rain or shine

EVENT RULES:

Restaurants may have limited seating, please do not sit at a table at a participating location unless you are purchasing additional food and/or drinks

Please throw away any trash inside the restaurant or in trash cans along the sidewalk

Please be kind & patient. Lines or some wait time to receive your Mac & Cheese are possible

WHERE YOU BUY MATTERS: Tickets are sent via email as a PDF attachment and includes the order confirmation number (we will accept mobile tickets at the door). The only way to know your ticket is the real deal is to buy through us directly on our New Orleans Mac & Cheese Festival page. We will NOT accept tickets that are purchased outside of us and will NOT be responsible for refunds.

A HUGE thank you to all of our sponsors, participants, volunteers, and local restaurants!

Hammered Harry's

300 Decatur St. , New Orleans, LA 70130, USA

https://www.nolamacfest.com/

We are honored to invite you to a very special event aimed at bringing our community together in the wake of the recent New Year’s Day tragedy.

Free Community Concert at Dillard University

🗓 Saturday, January 11, 2025

⏰ 12 PM – 4 PM

📍 Georges Auditorium, PSB Building

Dillard University, 2601 Gentilly Blvd., New Orleans, LA

Hosted by Dillard University and the New Orleans Musicians’ Clinic and Assistance Foundation, this concert will feature over 30 talented local musicians coming together to provide solace, strength, and healing through the power of New Orleans’ renowned music.

🎶 Performances By:

• Margie Perez
• Sharon Martin and First Take Band
• Naydja Cojoe
• Rechell Cook
• Terrence and The Fortress Band
• Kenneth Hagans Brass Band
• Philip Joseph
• Le Bon Ton Baby Dolls
• …and many more!

Why Attend?

• Experience the healing power of live music.
• Access mental health resources and professional guidance on-site.
• Show your support for the victims of the Bourbon Street attack and their families.

While the concert is free, we encourage attendees to consider making donations to help those impacted by this senseless act of violence.

As Dr. Monique Guillory, President of Dillard University, stated:

"It is important that we take this moment—and many more—to collectively support those who have been impacted. Together, we can show the resilience of our NOLA-strong communities."

Let’s come together to heal, support, and honor our community’s strength.

For more information, contact Nick Harris at 504-473-1141 or nharris@dillard.edu.

We look forward to seeing you there.

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

Gymnastics

Sprouts Farmers Market Collegiate Quad

Sat.

Jan 11

at

Session II with Cal, Oklahoma and Utah

Sprouts Farmers Market Collegiate Quad

Oklahoma City, Okla. (Paycom Center)

3:00 pm CT

• Buy Tickets
• ABC / ESPN+

Fri.

Jan 17

vs.

Florida

Baton Rouge, La. (Maravich Center)

Presented by

6:30 pm CT

• Buy Tickets
• ESPN2

Fri.

Jan 24

at

Arkansas

Fayetteville, Ark. (Barnhill Arena)

6:45 pm CT

Jeanne Nathan 

We want to personally invite you to a special gathering this Sunday, January 12th from 12 - 3 pm to celebrate James Macdonell's inaugural museum exhibition at the Ohr-O'Keefe Museum in Biloxi, and carnival season with a King Cake celebration at our art and antiques-filled home at 2326 Esplanade Avenue.

You may have heard of the dynamic musician James Macdonell p/k/a as Jimmy Mac of the band Loup Garou. For over 2 decades Jimmy has inspired so many with his energetic and evocative zydeco influenced music.

But here's the news: for the last 20 years he has been working in his studio on Elysian Fields producing thought provoking, original and unique artworks. On Thursday, January 16th, he will open his exhibition for public viewing at the world's leading architect Frank Gehry designed Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art in Biloxi Mississippi titled: Safe Passage.

In addition, Jimmy will be signing copies of his new book James Macdonell: Retrospective 2004-2024 published by Artvoices Books Publishing. The book is scheduled to be released Worldwide on April 22nd, 2025, but you will have an opportunity to get an advanced signed copy at the museum exhibition.

Please send an email to jnathan.ci@gmail.com to RSVP for this celebration.

We look forward to sharing James Macdonell's art and book in a city that should be better known for its ever evolving contemporary art scene that complements its legendary cultural history.

See you on the 12th,

Outta This World Family Fest

Sunday

January 12, 2025

11:00 am - 5:00 pm

 The Tigermen Den

3113 Royal Street

New Orleans LA 70117

 Google Map

Description

This coming January 12th, Art Camp 504 is hosting its first ever house float launch party, dubbed Outta This World Family Fest at its mission control center, The Tigermen Den in the Bywater. This fundraising and community event is the culmination of a semester-long series of space themed after school classes and holiday break camps where little earthlings have used their creativity to go beyond our atmosphere. The Outta This World Family Fest will not only lift off the celestial Mardi Gras house float that Art Camp 504 kids built, but will also include local food, music, dancing, vendors and of course, galactic art workshops for kids of all ages. 11am to 2pm: Cosmic Cajun Brunch - Galactic gumbo & sips - Live music - Terrestrial two-step lessons - Art workshops, face painting & more! 2pm to 5pm: House Float Launch Party - Space float lift off ceremony - Alien art workshops, astronaut costume design, Tshirt printing & more! - Cosmic Cantina and Big Bang Bake Sale - Dancing to Space DJs

Who

Earthlings of all ages!

Cost

$5-1$5

Parran's Po-Boys of Kenner

Hungry? Red Beans and Rice Monday.

Kenner

2321 W Esplanade Ave 504-305-6422

Metairie

3939 Veterans Memorial Blvd 504-885-3416

Open 11-7:30 pm

In Person Classes in New Orleans

Mondays, 7:30-8:30pm

"Shimmer" Bellydance Basics

For all levels. Ongoing

$60 per month or $18 drop in.

10 classes, used within 10 wk., $120

At: "The Movement Collective"

3921 St. Claude Ave, (Bywater)

New Orleans

 Tamalyn Dallal

Movement Collective - New Orleans

Public 

 ·

Mondays, 7:30-8:30pm

Come and dance...

Bring veils, zils, and your hips to do lots of shimmies.

$18 per class, $60 per month

10 classes for $120

www.tamalyndallal.net

The Bluegrass Pickin' Party is an open acoustic bluegrass jam. Bring your guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, bass, dobro, harmonica, or singing voice to join the jam circle. Beginners welcome to come and learn traditional bluegrass music. Intermediate and advanced players welcome as well. This weekly jam is also open to anyone and everyone who'd like to come listen and enjoy the music.

Mon, Jan 13

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Mon, Jan 20

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Mon, Jan 27

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Feb 2025

Mon, Feb 3

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Feb 10

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Feb 17

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Feb 24

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mar 2025

Mon, Mar 3

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Mar 10

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Mar 17

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Mar 24

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Mar 31

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Apr 2025

Mon, Apr 7

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Apr 14

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Apr 21

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Apr 28

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

May 2025

Mon, May 5

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, May 12

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, May 19

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, May 26

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Jun 2025

Mon, Jun 2

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Jun 9

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Jun 16

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Jun 23

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Jun 30

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Jul 2025

Mon, Jul 7

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Jul 14

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Jul 21

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Jul 28

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Aug 2025

Mon, Aug 4

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Aug 11

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Aug 18

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Aug 25

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Sep 2025

Mon, Sep 1

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Sep 8

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Sep 15

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Sep 22

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Sep 29

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Oct 2025

Mon, Oct 6

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Oct 13

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Oct 20

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Oct 27

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Nov 2025

Mon, Nov 3

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

Mon, Nov 10

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Interested

GW Fins Restaurant

New Orleans shines brightest in moments of despair. We know there’s no way to get through hardship without coming together - that is a part of who we are. We are a city truly defined by community.

As we continue to hold the victims and their families of the New Year’s Day Bourbon Street tragedy in our hearts, we are proud to partner with the Louisiana Restaurant Association’s Fleur du Coeur: A Culinary Tribute.

From January 13-19, 2025, please join us and other French Quarter restaurants and bars in celebrating the vibrant culinary traditions of New Orleans while supporting the New Orleans New Year’s Day Tragedy Fund.

At GW Fins, all proceeds from the sales of one of our signature dishes, Lobster Dumplings, will be donated directly to the fund, which serves as a resource to provide assistance to the families of those whose lives were taken and those seriously injured or impacted by the tragedy.

Comedy House New Orleans

The most unique comedy show in New Orleans is The Open Mic From Hell, hosted by Chris Trew (as seen on MTV, Comedy Central, America's Got Talent)

CHNO ( Comedy house New Orleans)

609-610 Fulton St

New Orleans, LA 70130

Mon,January 13

8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

(Entry at 7:30 pm)

The Open Mic From Hell is the most unique night of comedy in New Orleans.

Everything about the show is chaotic and unpredictable in the most beautifully hilarious way. 

The list of performers? A total mystery. 

The jokes they’ll tell? Nobody knows, not even them. 

How does it work? Comedians sign-up on the list an hour before showtime. At least 13 names get pulled out of the bucket. 

When a name gets pulled they come on stage and make a choice - do they do an entirely new set based on words from the audience, or a special challenge set. 

Past challenges have had comics doing their set outside on the street, with noise canceling headphones on, and with a designated heckler in the crowd. We are always adding new, improved, and ridiculous challenges to the show. 

Shellebrate ‘Tide-y’ Tuesdays & ‘Water-full’ Wednesdays with us!

Dive into our ‘pearl’-fectly delicious raw $1 Dollar Oysters on the half shell Happy Hour from 3-5:30 PM.

Slide on over to THE Original French Market Restaurant and Bar for a ‘mer-mazing’ time!

• 1001 Decatur Street, New Orleans, LA, United States, Louisiana
• (504) 525-7879
• Catrena@fmnola.com

• 6711 Airline Dr, Metairie, LA, United States, Louisiana

(504) 733-2248

• 5442 E Judge Perez Dr, Violet, LA, United States, Louisiana
• (504) 272-0262

PLEASE be INFORMED! The Baby Dolls BLESSINGS of the STREETS will be Next Saturday January 18th, 2025! 11am Due to the Friged Weather!

Same time!Same Place! New Orleans Jazz Museum 400 Esplanade! Please enter on Barrck St!

Thanks SOOO Much WWOZ for Your Continued SUPPORT of the Baby Doll Culture

Jan 20, 2025, Monday @ 8:00 am - 1:00 pm

Industry Coffee Break

514 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA, United States, Louisiana 70130, 514 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130-2110, United States

Hosted By New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

Join Ogden Museum in celebrating the life and legacy of Civil Rights pioneer Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Visit the Museum for a family-friendly, FREE admission day exploring art and activism.

Enjoy a museum-wide social justice scavenger hunt, art activities, community partner tables, entertainment, a food truck and more!

2025 Mardi Gras Parade Schedule

The Mardi Gras season is upon us again! Here's the parade schedule for 2025 (subject to change):

Saturday, January 25

6pm Krewe Mosaique - French Quarter

Saturday, February 1

7pm Krewe of Chewbacchus

Friday, February 14

7pm Krewe Bohème - Marigny/French Quarter

Saturday, February 15

6:30pm Krewe du Vieux - French Quarter

followed by krewedelusion

Sunday, February 16

1pm Krewe of Nefertiti - New Orleans East

4:30pm 'tit Rex - Marigny

Friday, February 21

3pm Cork - French Quarter

5:30pm Oshun - Uptown

followed by Cleopatra

Saturday, February 22

9:30am Krewe of Pontchartrain - Uptown

followed by Legion of Mars

followed by Choctaw

followed by Freret

5:30pm Knights of Sparta - Uptown

6:15pm Krewe of Pygmalion - Uptown

Sunday, February 23

11am The Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale - Uptown

12:30pm Krewe of King Carrollton - Uptown

1:30pm Krewe of King Arthur - Uptown

2pm Krewe of Barkus - French Quarter

Wednesday, February 26

6:15pm Krewe of Druids - Uptown

followed by Krewe of Alla

Thursday, February 27

5:30pm Knights of Babylon - Uptown

followed by Knights of Chaos

followed by Krewe of Muses

Friday, February 28

11:30am Krewe of Bosom Buddies - French Quarter

5:30pm Krewe of Hermes - Uptown

6:30pm Krewe d'Etat - Uptown

7pm Krewe of Morpheus - Uptown

Saturday, March 1

10:45am - Krewe of NOMTOC - Westbank

11am Krewe of Iris - Uptown

12pm Krewe of Tucks - Uptown

4:15pm Krewe of Endymion - Midcity

Sunday, March 2

11am Okeanos - Uptown

followed by Krewe of Mid-City

12pm Thoth - Uptown

5:15pm Bacchus - Uptown

LUNDI GRAS Monday, March 3

2pm Red Beans - Marigny

5:15pm Proteus - Uptown

6pm Orpheus - Uptown

MARDI GRAS Tuesday, March 4

7am Half-Fast Walking Club - start at Commander's Palace

7:30am Mondo Kayo Social and Marching Club - start at Third & Magazine

8am Zulu - Uptown

10:30am Rex - Uptown

followed by Krewe of Elks Orleans

followed by Krewe of Crescent City

Morning - Societé de Sainte Anne - Marigny/French Quarter

New Orleans Jazz Club 1-26

JAZZ, JAZZ, JAZZ... we're back this Sunday, for some great Jazz from fantastic musicians at Mo's Chalet from 2:00 to 6:00 pm. It's an open Jam Session to Trad Jazz musicians and those who love the music which is FREE and open to the public. NOTICE to musicians...all musicians are welcome to play whether you're a regular or new to the Club. Keyboards and drums are provided so bring your ax and sign in and you'll be assigned 1 of 4 sets to perform in. Mo's provides a safe and welcoming environment for an afternoon of New Orleans Jazz. Bring your family and friends to create your own Jazz party where outside food is OK with a cash bar hosted by Sandy, Metairie's finest plus join in on our 50/50 cash drawing. Become a member and be a part of New Orleans music history by supporting America's oldest Jazz Club which was started in 1948. The NOJC Jam Session's are held on the last Sunday of the month from 2:00 to 6:00 pm.

Join the St. Louis IX Art Society | Sainte-Chapelle Studios | Joie de Vivre for our 3rd annual soirée fundraiser, "A Masquerade of Sacred Beauty," on the afternoon of Saturday, February 1st, 2025, at Jesuit High School in New Orleans!

The event will begin with a "Silver Mass" in celebration of the sacred arts with Archbishop Alfred Hughes and Rev. John Brown, SJ, and then we will enjoy an afternoon of live music, a wide-ranging sacred art auction, life-giving community, and more!

Your support allows us to continue our mission to create a more beautiful and cultured Catholic Church in South Louisiana.

To register, click the link below!

Jesuit High School, New Orleans

4133 Banks St.

New Orleans, Louisiana 70119

US

https://sl9art.betterworld.org/events/masquerade-sacred-beauty?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0BMAABHd3y-FdrQv_btg5ZxHJnJlQg8nTHmXKuWiKk8PsIktgYQMYHPbo2zQuOvw_aem_BZgcDBOy8uCB3V174b-cHw

NFL on FOX 

WE GOT NEXT.

See you in New Orleans for Super Bowl LIX on FOX

Just two days after Super Bowl LIX, Jefferson Parish will celebrate its 200th birthday on Feb. 11. Bicentennial festivities kicked off at the State of Jefferson address Tuesday with the unveiling of the official poster, depicting a pelican before the Mississippi River in vivid pink and blue hues. It is illustrated by Louisiana artist Becky Fos, known for designing the 2023 state "I Voted" sticker, modeled after the Louisiana state flag.

A limited supply of signed and numbered posters can be purchased for $150, with proceeds going toward the Jefferson Community Foundation.

Courtesy of Jefferson Parish

The parish will celebrate the bicentennial on Feb. 11 with a Light the Night event, followed by a community-wide king cake party at Lakeside Mall on Feb. 15.

The following month, a bicentennial-themed Senior Expo will take place at the Alario Center on March 20, and a "Park to Park" 10K run will happen March 22 at Lafreniere Park.

Festivities for the parish's 200th birthday will come to a close June 14 with the Bicentennial Ball at Lakeside Mall, hosted by the Jefferson Community Foundation. Lee Sheng said she wanted parish events to involve the entire community and asked residents and local business owners to get involved.

"I want our bicentennial to feel like everybody's a part of it," Lee Sheng said in her address.