• Planetary Parade: How To Watch in Louisiana

    3 Min Read

    A rare celestial spectacle is unfolding across the evening sky tonight, February 28, 2026: six planets are tracing a graceful arc in what astronomers are calling a planetary parade or alignment.

    Louisiana stargazers, grab a blanket, head to a spot with clear western and southern views, and look up shortly after sunset. The planets involved are Mercury, Venus, Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune.

    Four of them—Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, and potentially Mercury—shine bright enough to spot with the naked eye under good conditions, while Uranus and Neptune typically require binoculars or a small telescope to see clearly.

    This alignment doesn’t form a perfectly straight line but appears as a gentle curve across the sky because we’re viewing the solar system from Earth along the plane of the planets’ orbits (the ecliptic).

    The event has been building through late February and peaks around tonight, though the planets have been visible together for several days.

    Planetary Alignment: Best Time To Watch in Louisiana

    The best time to observe the six-planet alignment (a “planetary parade”) on February 28, 2026, in Louisiana is shortly after sunset, specifically about 30 to 60 minutes after sunset.

    This window maximizes visibility for the low western planets before they set, while brighter ones higher up remain in view.

    • Key details for Louisiana (times vary slightly by exact location, e.g., New Orleans vs. Shreveport, but central/southern areas are similar):
    • Sunset in places like New Orleans is around 5:58 p.m. local time (CST).
    • Optimal viewing starts roughly 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. CST (or adjust for your precise sunset time).
    • Look toward the western horizon initially for the lower planets (Mercury, Venus, Saturn, Neptune), then scan upward/southeast for Jupiter (higher and brighter). Uranus is between Saturn and Jupiter but fainter.
    • The planets form a loose arc across the sky rather than a perfect straight line.
    • Visibility notes:
    • Naked-eye visible (brightest/easiest): Venus (very bright), Jupiter (high and prominent), Saturn, and possibly Mercury (lowest and trickiest—needs a clear, unobstructed western view and fades quickly in twilight).
    • Uranus and Neptune require binoculars or a telescope (and darker skies away from city lights).
    • Clear skies and low light pollution are essential—head to a spot with an unobstructed western horizon.

    This alignment peaks around February 28 but is visible for several days around it. Sources like NASA, National Geographic, Star Walk, and local Louisiana reports (e.g., Shreveport Times, WDSU New Orleans) consistently recommend this post-sunset timing for the best shot at seeing as many as possible. Enjoy the view if the weather cooperates!

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  • Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana: What to know before you go.

    Mardi Gras 2026 In New Orleans: What To Know Before You Go

    6 Min Read

    As the holiday lights twinkle a little brighter along Magazine Street and the scent of fresh king cake wafts from every corner bakery, New Orleanians know it’s time to turn our gaze toward the season that puts our city on the map: Mardi Gras. With 2026 upon us, the Crescent City’s streets are already buzzing with anticipation for a Carnival extravaganza that’s equal parts tradition, spectacle, and unbridled joy.

    From the first rollicking streetcar parades to the glittering floats of Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras isn’t just an event—it’s the heartbeat of New Orleans, featuring plenty of good food that the city is known for.

    Whether you’re a lifelong local plotting your ladder spots or a visitor dreaming of beads and brass bands, here’s everything you need to know to dive into the madness of Mardi Gras 2026.

    This article will tell you everything you need to know about Mardi Gras 2025 in New Orleans.

    Mardi Gras: Everything You Need To Know

    One of the highlights of Mardi Gras in New Orleans is the elaborate parades organized by various krewes (social organizations). Read our guide on the parade routes.

    Each parade features colorful floats, marching bands, and costumed riders throwing beads, toys, and other trinkets to the crowd. Some of the most popular parades include those organized by the Krewe of Endymion, Krewe of Bacchus, and Krewe of Zulu.

    When Is Mardi Gras 2026?

    Mark your calendars, krewe captains and parade chasers: The 2026 Carnival season kicks off on Twelfth Night, Saturday, January 6, with the ceremonial arrival of the baby Jesus on the king cake and the first waves of costumed revelers hitting the streets.

    It all builds to a fever pitch on Fat Tuesday, February 17, when the city shuts down for parades, parties, and that one last indulgence before Lent begins.

    Unlike fixed holidays, Mardi Gras dances to the rhythm of the ecclesiastical calendar, always falling 47 days before Easter (which lands on April 5 in 2026).

    That means six weeks of escalating festivities: early walking krewes in the Marigny and French Quarter, family-friendly daytime parades Uptown, and the blockbuster nighttime spectacles that light up St. Charles Avenue like a river of gold doubloons.

    Expect school closures, street sweeping crews on overtime, and that familiar crunch of confetti underfoot from mid-January onward. Pro tip: Download the official Mardi Gras app now to track routes and avoid missing your favorite throws.

    How Long Is Mardi Gras 2026?

    Mardi Gras in New Orleans lasts for several weeks, with the culmination on Fat Tuesday, which is the day before Ash Wednesday. The entire period leading up to Fat Tuesday is filled with parades, parties, and celebrations, often referred to as the Mardi Gras season or Carnival season. The exact duration can vary slightly from year to year, but it usually spans from early January to the day before Ash Wednesday.

    The date shifts annually because it’s tied to Easter, which falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox—47 days later, you get Mardi Gras. In 2025, Easter is April 20, making March 4 the big day.

    Festivities, especially in places like New Orleans, ramp up in the weeks leading up to it, with major parades often scheduled in late February and early March. Enjoy the beads, king cake, and chaos!

    King cakes are a traditional Mardi Gras dessert in New Orleans. These oval-shaped cakes are decorated in the colors of Mardi Gras (purple, green, and gold) and often contain a hidden plastic baby figurine. According to tradition, whoever finds the baby in their slice of cake is responsible for hosting the next party or providing the next king cake.

    When Should You Go To New Orleans For Mardi Gras?

    Because of the high cost of hotels, it makes sense to book a hotel the weekend before Fat Tuesday. That’s when the majority of visitors come to the city and it’s also when some of the largest parades take place.

    Book an affordable hotel in New Orleans.

    What Happens At Mardi Gras In New Orleans?

    Mardi Gras in New Orleans is more than just watching parades and throwing beads from a hotel balcony. The event is a celebration of the city’s culture.

    You’ll see participants usually dressed in some combination of green, gold and purple along with an assortment of beads. There are also colorful floats that represent many of the city’s krewes, or social clubs.

    Along with the parades and music, there will be second-line bands and plenty of parades.

    : The French Quarter is the heart of the Mardi Gras festivities in New Orleans. The streets are filled with music, dancing, and revelry, and many bars and restaurants host special events and parties during this time

    Why Do They Throw Beads In New Orleans?

    You might be intrigued to know why people throw beads in New Orleans. Lore has it that the practice can be traced to early religious festivals that ushered in the tradition of the lent season.

    In modern times, the beads have come to symbolize a hospitable gesture that parade participants engage in to reward the crowds.

    What Is the History of Mardi Gras in New Orleans?

    The first American whisper of Mardi Gras echoed on March 3, 1699, when French explorer Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne, Sieur d’Iberville, and his crew celebrated near the mouth of the Mississippi—about 60 miles south of what would become New Orleans—naming the spot “Pointe du Mardi Gras.”

    history.com Fast-forward to 1718, when Iberville’s brother Bienville founded La Nouvelle-Orléans, and by the 1730s, masked balls and street processions were already testing the patience of Spanish governors. But the modern blueprint?

    That arrived in 1857, courtesy of the secretive Mistick Krewe of Comus—a band of bon ton businessmen—who lit torches, mustered brass bands, and rolled out illuminated floats for the first organized parade, blending European pomp with Southern flair.

    Over the decades, Mardi Gras absorbed waves of influence: Creole elegance from Rex’s royal court, African American ingenuity in Zulu’s coconut throws and the Black Masking Indians’ beaded suits, and feminist fire from all-women krewes like Muses.

    Today, it’s a multicultural mosaic—part Catholic rite, part street theater—that draws over a million souls to our streets each year. As we gear up for 2026, it’s a reminder: In New Orleans, history doesn’t just linger; it parades right past your front porch.

    How To Attend A Mardi Gras Parade

    There will be several parades throughout the city for Mardi Gras. The best place to see the parade routes is here.

    Final Word

    If you plan on visiting the city for New Orleans, you should know that the area you’re staying in is safe.

    Mardi Gras can be a crowded and chaotic event, so it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and follow basic safety precautions. Be respectful of other revelers and local residents, and remember that public intoxication and nudity are not tolerated.

    Expect to indulge in many foods that New Orleans is known For, including Gumbo, Beignets and more.

    Read about things to see and do in New Orleans.

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  • Brian Kelly buyout

    Why LSU Had To Part Ways With Brian Kelly

    7 Min Read

    The decision was as swift as it was seismic: Just 24 hours after a humiliating 49-25 home loss to Texas A&M, LSU athletic director Scott Woodward pulled the trigger on Brian Kelly’s tenure as head football coach.

    The move, confirmed by multiple sources including ESPN’s Pete Thamel, ends Kelly’s four-year experiment in purple and gold with a staggering $54 million buyout attached – the second-largest in college football history.

    Inside Brian Kelly’s Buyout at LSU

    Brian Kelly’s buyout at LSU is approximately $54 million.

    This figure stems from Kelly’s 10-year, $100 million contract extension signed in December 2021, which includes a buyout clause requiring LSU to pay 90% of his remaining salary and supplemental compensation if he’s terminated without cause during the season.

    As of October 26, 2025—midway through the fourth year of the deal—the exact amount is estimated at $52.38 million to $53.29 million, depending on prorated bonuses and the precise timing, but it’s widely reported as rounding to $54 million in media coverage.

    This makes it one of the largest coaching buyouts in FBS history, second only to Texas A&M’s $76.8 million owed to Jimbo Fisher in 2023. Negotiations could potentially reduce it through mutual agreement, but sources indicate no resolution yet on the full payout.

    Why Brian Kelly Had To Go At LSU

    For a program built on national titles and unrelenting expectations, the parting was not just inevitable; it was overdue. But why now? And why Kelly, whose 34-14 overall record (.708 winning percentage) on paper looks respectable?

    A deep dive into the Tigers’ unraveling reveals a toxic brew of on-field mediocrity, cultural disconnect, locker room erosion, and a fanbase pushed to the brink.

    The Breaking Point: A Season of Squandered Promise

    LSU’s 2025 campaign began with glimmers of hope. An opening-week road upset over Clemson hinted at the explosive potential Kelly’s offense could muster, buoyed by a top-10 recruiting class and key transfer portal additions like quarterback Garrett Nussmeier’s evolution into a bona fide SEC starter.

    But the shine faded fast. Back-to-back gut punches – a 24-17 stumble at Vanderbilt and the A&M rout – dropped the Tigers to 5-3, exposing a defense that surrendered 49 points on their home turf for the first time since 2016.

    Texas A&M’s Marcel Reed, a dual-threat freshman, carved up LSU’s secondary for 278 total yards and four scores, turning Tiger Stadium into a tomb of silence.

    This wasn’t an isolated collapse. Kelly’s Tigers have now lost three of their last four SEC games, including a 34-24 defeat to Ole Miss that foreshadowed defensive woes.

    The A&M loss, however, was the dam-breaker. Fans streamed out early, chanting “Fire Kelly!” as the fourth quarter dragged on – a scene eerily reminiscent of the 2023 Florida debacle.

    “Unacceptable,” Kelly called it in his postgame presser, a word that rang hollow after three-plus seasons of similar mea culpas.

    Woodward, facing his own scrutiny after high-profile misses like the 2022 hire of defensive coordinator Matt House, couldn’t ignore the math any longer.

    With Alabama looming on November 8 and the transfer portal window cracking open, stasis meant stagnation.

    Firing Kelly midseason – a rarity for LSU since Les Miles in 2016 – signaled a desperate bid to salvage bowl eligibility and roster stability.A Gilded Record Hiding Deeper FlawsKelly arrived in Baton Rouge in November 2021 as a $100 million savior, fresh off a 113-40 Notre Dame run and armed with promises of championships.

    His early returns dazzled: A 10-3 mark in 2022, capped by an SEC West title and Jayden Daniels’ Heisman Trophy, felt like a return to the Ed Orgeron glory days. But peel back the layers, and the shine dulls.Kelly’s 34-14 ledger masks a 5-11 skid against ranked opponents – a glaring indictment in the SEC’s gladiatorial arena.

    No College Football Playoff berth. No SEC Championship Game appearance. His teams went 6-2 in SEC play in both 2023 and 2024, respectable but far from the dominance LSU boosters crave after the 2019 national title.

    The 2025 offense, once a juggernaut averaging 35 points per game in 2022, has sputtered to 28.5 this fall, plagued by turnovers (12 in eight games) and red-zone inefficiency (72% touchdown rate, down from 85% last year).

    Defensively, the regression is stark. Kelly’s units ranked 12th nationally in yards allowed in 2022 but ballooned to 45th in 2024 and a woeful 78th through eight games this season.

    The firing of House after 2023’s 34th-place finish did little to stem the tide; interim schemes under new DC Blake Baker have yielded zero improvement. Critics point to Kelly’s micromanagement – a hallmark from his Grand Valley State days – as stifling adaptation in the modern, high-scoring SEC.

    In a conference where Georgia and Alabama feast on top-25 matchups, Kelly’s Tigers feasted on cupcakes.

    Eight of his 34 wins came against unranked non-conference foes, a scheduling quirk that inflated stats but crumbled under prime-time pressure.

    “He’s a regular-season coach, not a playoff guy,” one anonymous SEC assistant told ESPN.

    For LSU, where “ring culture” isn’t a slogan but a mandate, that distinction proved fatal.

    The Intangibles: Arrogance, Culture Clash, and a Fractured Locker Room

    Numbers tell part of the story; vibes tell the rest. Kelly’s brash persona – the awkward sideline dances, the post-win sideline scuffles, the infamous “LSU is better than Notre Dame because we prioritize football” quip – never meshed with Baton Rouge’s blue-collar fervor.

    Fans, who embraced the swashbuckling Ed Orgeron as one of their own, saw Kelly as an outsider: A Yankee transplant more at home in South Bend than the bayous.

    The disconnect ran deeper. Former LSU star and current NFL linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. – wait, no, that’s a current player; actually, ex-Tiger Devin White lambasted Kelly publicly last week, accusing him of fostering a “country club” environment where accountability evaporated.

    Reports of locker room brawls and player-led mutinies surfaced in the wake of the Vanderbilt loss, with sources citing Kelly’s “coaching down” style – berating rather than elevating – as alienating a roster of Louisiana-bred talent.

    “He doesn’t get it,” White said on a podcast. “LSU is family. Kelly treats it like a job.”

    youtube.comSocial media amplified the unrest. X (formerly Twitter) lit up post-A&M with calls for Kelly’s ouster, from booster-backed accounts decrying his “mediocrity” to everyday fans like @smoovedog1 labeling him a “dumbass.” One viral thread from @PatSimonTV broke the firing news first, racking up thousands of views as Tigers faithful exhaled in relief.

    @PatSimonTV Even national pundits piled on: USA Today’s Ross Dellenger framed Kelly’s LSU stint as a “four-act tragedy,” from triumphant arrival to inevitable exit.

    The Bottom Line: Money, Momentum, and the Path Forward

    The $54 million albatross loomed large, but inaction would have cost more in lost revenue and recruiting ground. LSU’s 2025 class, ranked No. 7 nationally, includes blue-chippers like five-star QB Bryce Underwood, but rivals like Texas and Alabama were circling amid the chaos.

    Portal poaching could decimate the roster; talents like edge rusher Sai’vion Jones and WR Nic Anderson have already decommitted verbally.

    Boosters, weary of $150 million facility upgrades yielding zero rings, demanded change. Woodward’s job hangs in the balance – social media users branded him “clueless” after the Kelly hire – but swallowing the buyout buys time.

    profootballnetwork.com Interim coach Frank Wilson, a Louisiana recruiting savant with ties to the program’s golden era, steps in to steady the ship through Alabama and beyond.

    Speculation swirls around replacements: Ole Miss’ Lane Kiffin, whose Ole Miss teams mirror LSU’s aspirational blueprint; Louisiana native Jon Sumrall of Tulane; or even a splashy reunion with Marcus Freeman.

    Kiffin, in particular, emerges as the fan favorite – “Get Lane at whatever cost,” one fans said.

    A Necessary Reckoning for Tiger Nation

    Brian Kelly didn’t fail LSU; he simply wasn’t the right fit for its insatiable soul. In a sport where legacies are forged in Death Valley’s roar, his calculated approach clashed with the chaos that breeds champions.

    The firing, painful as it is, resets the clock on a dynasty dormant since Joe Burrow’s 2019 miracle.As running back Caden Durham told reporters post-meeting last night, “We play for LSU, not a coach.”

    With Wilson at the helm and the carousel spinning, the Tigers eye redemption. Geaux Tigers? Damn right – but only if they learn from this parting.

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  • nba youngboy new orleans concert

    NBA YoungBoy Serenades Louisiana for 1st Time in 7 Years

    5 Min Read

    In a night that pulsed with raw energy and unfiltered emotion, NBA YoungBoy reclaimed his throne as the voice of Southern rap’s resilient spirit during his electrifying performance at the Smoothie King Center on Sunday, October 19.

    The Baton Rouge native, whose “Make America Slime Again” (MASA) Tour has been a whirlwind of highs and hurdles, turned his hometown-adjacent stop into a cathartic celebration of survival, street poetry, and unbreakable fan loyalty.

    NBA YoungBoy Makes Triumphant Return To Louisiana

    For Atlanta’s hip-hop faithful—still stinging from the abrupt cancellation of YoungBoy’s State Farm Arena days earlier — this NOLA spectacle served as both a vicarious victory and a reminder of why the 25-year-old phenom remains a force impossible to contain.The arena, packed to its 18,000-capacity brim after selling out in mere hours.

    Earlier in the night, the Smoothie King crowd thrummed with anticipation as opening acts NoCap, DeeBaby, Mellow Rackz, Baby Mel, K3, and Lil Dump set the stage ablaze with gritty Louisiana-flavored anthems.

    But when the lights dimmed and a sea of green slime-themed apparel lit up under strobing LEDs, all eyes locked on the man of the hour.

    Emerging in a black hoodie emblazoned with his Never Broke Again logo, YoungBoy—fresh off house arrest and legal battles that have shadowed his meteoric rise—wasted no time diving into a two-hour set that blended his signature melodic trap with moments of haunting vulnerability.

    Kicking off with the thunderous “Outside Today,” a track that feels like a personal manifesto of defiance, YoungBoy commanded the crowd like a conductor of chaos. Hits like “Bandit,” “My Window,” and “Rags2Riches” had fans on their feet, phones aloft in a glowing constellation of shared nostalgia. The energy peaked during a mid-set medley of deeper cuts from Sincerely, Kentrell and The Last Slimeto, where YoungBoy paused to address the room directly: “Y’all the reason I keep fightin’. New Orleans raised me—y’all my blood.”

    His voice cracked on the line, drawing roars that shook the rafters and a wave of tears from the front rows. It was a rare glimpse into the artist behind the headlines, one that left even the most stoic attendees visibly moved.What elevated this from a standard tour stop to a bona fide triumph, however, was the palpable sense of homecoming redemption.

    Amid heightened security—over 400 NOPD officers, drones, and tactical units patrolling the perimeter following cancellations in Atlanta, Chicago, and Detroit due to safety concerns, the night unfolded without a hitch.

    No fights, no evacuations; just pure, unadulterated vibe. YoungBoy’s setlist leaned heavily into his catalog’s themes of struggle and triumph, culminating in an extended rendition of “4KTREY,” where he brought out local legend Lil Wayne for an unannounced guest spot that sent the crowd into delirium.

    (Wayne, ever the ATL-NOLA connector via his Cash Money roots, shouted out “What’s good, A-Town?”—a nod to the Peach State fans who made the four-hour drive south.)As the final notes faded on “Make No Sense,” the real magic unfolded.

    On the streets after the show, the rapper courageously went out onto Canal and Bourbon streets with no security (although he did have his entourage). Fans didn’t care, they showered him with love like he was Michael Jackson.

    Fans surged toward the stage in a euphoric rush, chanting YoungBoy’s name like a battle cry. Overwhelmed by the love, the rapper lingered onstage, mic in hand, visibly reluctant to leave. “I ain’t tryna go,” he admitted with a grin, before security and police intervened—not in force, but with a gentle escort that saw officers literally carrying him toward his waiting SUV outside. Videos circulating online capture the surreal scene: YoungBoy, sans personal security detail, hoisted shoulder-to-shoulder with cops amid a swarm of adoring supporters, laughing and waving as if the weight of his past battles had finally lifted.

    It was chaotic, yes—but in the best way, a testament to the bond he shares with his audience.For Atlanta’s rap ecosystem, where YoungBoy’s influence echoes in rising stars like Gunna and Lil Baby, this show hits especially close to home

    The State Farm cancellation left a bitter taste, sparking impromptu block parties in East Atlanta Village where fans blasted bootlegs and grilled in solidarity.

    hotnewhiphop.com “We couldn’t get the live experience here,” said ATL native and concertgoer Tiana Brooks, who caravanned to NOLA with a crew of 10.

    “But seeing him pour his soul out like that? Worth every mile. He’s our mirror—flawed, fierce, and still standing.”As the MASA Tour rolls on to Birmingham and beyond, Sunday’s NOLA triumph underscores YoungBoy’s enduring grip on the culture. Legal woes and tour disruptions be damned; in the Crescent City, he proved once again that his slime runs deep. Atlanta, take note: when he circles back, we’ll be ready.

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  • Bayou Boogalou festival is the best festival in New Orleans

    Bayou Boogaloo Festival: Dates, Time, Info

    3 Min Read

    The Bayou Boogaloo Festival is one one of New Orleans best festivals — and this will promises to be no difference. The event, which is known for its crawfish-eating contest, has music acts like Big Freedia’s Gospel Revival and Honey Island Swamp Band.

    The festival traces its roots to 2006 when it was created as a post-Hurricane Katrina initiative to bring together the Bayou St. John neighborhood and promote recovery through cultural celebration.

    In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the Bayou Boogaloo Festival.

    When Is the Bayou Boogaloo Festival Taking Place?

    The Bayou Boogaloo Festival is set for May 16-18, 2025.

    When it comes to food, the Bayou Boogaloo Festival offers a wide array of Creole, Cajun, and Southern dishes from local vendors, including:

    • Crawfish po’boys, gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, fried oysters, and alligator sausage.
    • New vendors in recent years, like Joel’s Lobster Roll (lobster rolls, clam chowder) and Nori Guys (sushi tacos).
    • Returning favorites like Fritai (Haitian crab mac ‘n’ cheese) and Ajun Cajun (soft shell crab po’boys).

    Festivalgoers can experience the event from land or water, with many arriving by kayaks, canoes, paddle boats, inflatables, or homemade barges, creating a “floating party” atmosphere.

    Who’s Performing at the Bayou Boogaloo Festival?

    Big Freedia’s Gospel Revival: High-energy bounce music with a gospel twist. 420 Funk Mob feat. Members of Parliament/Funkadelic: A special 4:20 p.m. set on Sunday. Honey Island Swamp Band’s Dark Side of the Bayou: A Pink Floyd tribute show.

    • Tribute Acts:
      • Jagged Little Pill: Alexis Marceaux performing Alanis Morissette songs.
    • Other Notable Acts:
      • Leo Nocentelli (The Meters), LSD Clownsystem, glbl wrmng (rap collective), Crowe Boys, Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph, Desert Nudes, Billy Iuso, Bo Dollis Jr. & the Wild Magnolias, James Andrews & The Crescent City Allstars, Ghalia Volt, Alexis & The Sanity.
    • Variety Stage Performances:
      • Music: John “Papa” Gros (solo), Joy Clark, Mikayla Braun, Shawan Rice.
      • Comedy/Cabaret: Inferno Burlesque, Happy Time Healing Sheaux (comedy/improv), Roast Battle League New Orleans, Asylum Variety Show, Drag Bingo with Katrina Waters, Banks St. Comedy Brunch, Comedy Gumbeaux, Greetings From Queer Mountain, and interactive shows by Ryan Rogers and Marcus Bond.

    Schedule (subject to change; check thebayouboogaloo.com for updates):

    • Friday, May 16: Typically starts in the afternoon and runs until evening.
    • Saturday, May 17: Full day of performances, arts market, and food vendors.
    • Sunday, May 18: Concludes in the evening, often with a headliner at 4:20 p.m

    The festival features two stages in 2025 (down from four in previous years):

    • Orleans Stage: The primary music stage, showcasing traditional New Orleans genres like jazz, funk, brass, zydeco, and Mardi Gras Indian performances.
    • Variety Stage: Formerly the Comedy and Cabaret Tent, now expanded to include singer-songwriters, comedy, burlesque, and interactive performances

    Final Word

    Starting as a small, free neighborhood event, the Bayou Boogalou Festival has grown into a major New Orleans festival, attracting over 35,000 attendees annually, rivaling larger events like Jazz Fest in local significance.

    Live music is a part of New Orleans’ culture for sure. from jazz clubs to the city’s diverse bar scene, from historic cocktail bars to trendy craft beer spots. listening to lie music is a popular nighttime activity, especially in areas like the French Quarter and the Warehouse District.

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  • Veterans Day deals in New Orleans

    Veteran Day Food Deals: Where You Can Eat For Free Or Cheap In New Orleans

    2 Min Read

    If you previously or currently serve in the U.S. military, you can eat for free in New Orleans on Veterans Day. It’s all part of the restaurant industry’s celebration of honoring America’s heroes with a meal.

    Veterans Day is Monday, Nov. 11, 2024 this year so these food deals are only good for one day. Don’t miss it!

    Veterans And Military Can Eat For Free At These Restaurants

    Amici’s East Coast Pizzeria

    15% off takeout orders. Applies to veterans, active-duty military personnel, and first responders.

    Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar

    Free Big Daddy’s All-American Burger and side. Applies to veterans and active-duty military personnel. Must show valid military ID. Must be redeemed between 11 AM-4 PM.

    Bar Louie

    Free craft burger or flatbread of your choice. Applies to veterans and active-duty military personnel.

    BJ’s Restaurants and Brewhouse

    Complimentary entrée up to $14.95, plus a free Dr. Pepper. Applies to veterans and active-duty military personnel. Must show valid military ID or proof of service.

    Black Angus

    All-American steak plate, plus all the fixings and a non-alcoholic beverage for $10.99. Applies to veterans and active-duty military personnel. Offer valid at select restaurants. Contact Black Angus for additional details.

    Bruegger’s Bagels

    Free medium, fresh-brewed hot or iced coffee with your breakfast order. Applies to veterans.

    California Pizza Kitchen

    Free entree and complimentary drink from a prix fixe menu. Receive a “Thank You for Your Service” Buy-One-Get-One (BOGO) that can be redeemed from November 12-21, 2022. Applies to veterans. Must show proof of service. Dine in only.

    Carabba’s

    Complimentary appetizer or dessert with a non-alcoholic beverage. Applies to veterans and active-duty military personnel. Dine-in only.

    Earl’s Kitchen and Bar

    10% off. Applies to veterans.

    Einstein Bros. Bagels

    Free hot or iced medium coffee. Applies to veterans and active-duty military personnel.

    Final Word

    New Orleans has one of the best restaurant scenes in the Southeast, and with state of Southern cooking and an emphasis on the culinary arts at an all-time high, that’s saying something.

    When New Orleans’ food is mentioned on a national level, it somehow always reverts back to gumbo, which is the best around, although the city’s eateries certainly represent those dishes well, there’s so much more.

    More From NolaFi.com:

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  • Master P Tapped as Music Maestro for New Orleans Super Bowl

    3 Min Read

    Legendary rapper and businessman Master P has been appointed as entertainment ambassador for the Super Bowl, which is in New Orleans early next year.

    The big game will be held February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome, the venue’s 11th Super Bowl and first since 2013.

    In a Facebook post, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell announced Master P’s role, saying “I’m thrilled to announce Percy “Master P” Miller as New Orleans’ new Entertainment Ambassador! This partnership marks a pivotal moment for our city as we strive to elevate our community through meaningful initiatives that will strengthen our nighttime economy, cultural economy, and overall economic development.

    “Master P, born and raised in the Calliope Projects, has significant influence in the entertainment world and beyond, advancing opportunities that will benefit us all. As we prepare for major events, this collaboration will help ensure that New Orleans remains on the world stage,” Cantrell said.

    “Together, we’re building a city that honors our past and celebrates our future,” she continued.

    Master P, born Percy Miller, is a highly influential figure in the music, entertainment, and business industries. Here are some of his major accomplishments:

    1. Founder of No Limit Records: Master P founded No Limit Records in 1991, which became one of the most successful independent record labels in hip-hop. The label released numerous platinum and gold albums, contributing significantly to the success of Southern rap.
    2. Music Career: As a rapper, Master P released several successful albums, including Ice Cream Man (1996) and Ghetto D (1997), which featured the hit single “Make ‘Em Say Uhh!” His music played a key role in popularizing Southern hip-hop.
    3. Entrepreneurship: Master P is a savvy businessman with ventures in various industries, including film, television, real estate, and fashion. He created P. Miller Enterprises, which oversees his numerous business ventures.
    4. Film and Television: Master P has acted in and produced several films, including I Got the Hook-Up (1998) and Foolish (1999). He also starred in his reality TV show, Master P’s Family Empire.
    5. Basketball: Master P briefly played professional basketball, signing contracts with the Charlotte Hornets and Toronto Raptors during the 1998-1999 NBA preseason.
    6. Philanthropy: He has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including funding scholarships, supporting underprivileged communities, and disaster relief efforts.

    Final Word

    Master P is a good look for the city’s culture but what music acts he highlights remains to be seen.

    Entertainment is a part of New Orleans’ culture for sure. from jazz clubs to the city’s diverse bar scene, from historic cocktail bars to trendy craft beer spots. listening to lie music is a popular nighttime activity, especially in areas like the French Quarter and the Warehouse District.

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  • Bronner Brothers returns to New Orleans.

    Bronner Bros International Beauty Show Coming to New Orleans

    3 Min Read

    The Bronner Bros International Beauty Show is returning to New Orleans this fall for more follicle fun. The event, one of the largest hair shows in the world, will showcase the show’s theme “Rhythm of Beauty: The Cadence of Culture” and will celebrate the vibrant culture of multicultural beauty.

    When Is The Bronner Brothers Show In New Orleans?

    The Bronner Brothers show in New Orleans takes place from August 17th to 19th, 2024 at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. This year’s show promises to be an immersive experience, one that celebrates the innovation of beauty for people of color. 

    “We are thrilled to bring the Bronner Bros International Beauty Show back to New Orleans for another unforgettable weekend celebrating the beauty of diversity and creativity,” said James Bronner, President of Bronner Bros. “From showcasing the latest trends in multicultural hair to spotlighting influential voices in beauty, this year’s event promises to be our most exciting yet,” said Bronner.

    The beauty landscape is constantly evolving, and the Bronner Bros International Beauty Show remains at the forefront of showcasing the latest trends and innovations in multicultural hair and beauty. From embracing natural textures to celebrating cultural heritage through hair and makeup, attendees can expect to be inspired by a dynamic lineup of events, exhibits, and workshops designed to elevate and celebrate beauty in all its forms.

    Key highlights of the 2024 Bronner Bros International Beauty Show in New Orleans:

    1. Multicultural Hair and Beauty Trends: Experience the awe-inspiring artistry of some of the top beauty and hair professionals from across the nation who will showcase their skills and creativity during the show. With scheduled competitions that will feature everything from intricate braids and bold color styles to the legendary “Bronner Bros. Hair Battle”, this electrifying showcase will celebrate the diversity and versatility of all things in Black beauty.
    2. Influencer Spotlight: Get up close and personal with some of the most influential voices in beauty as they share their expertise for achieving the new trends in multicultural hair and beauty. From celebrity hairstylists to social media influencers, attendees will have the opportunity to learn from the best in the industry and gain valuable insights into the ever-changing world of beauty. Some of the most exciting, new brands and the influencers who started them will be attending this show!
    3. Beauty Innovation Hub: Discover the latest products, technologies, and trends shaping the future of multicultural beauty at the Beauty Innovation Hub. From cutting-edge haircare products to revolutionary skincare treatments, attendees will have the opportunity to explore a curated selection of exhibits and demonstrations showcasing the latest innovations in beauty. 

    Final Word

    These are very exciting times for our business and the fantastic momentum that we generated in 2023 has carried us into the new year,” added Norberg. “We are positioning ourselves to embrace this continued growth and are thrilled to be able to bring our highly craveable and high-quality products to more communities.”Live music is a part of New Orleans’ culture for sure. from jazz clubs to the city’s diverse bar scene, from historic cocktail bars to trendy craft beer spots. listening to lie music is a popular nighttime activity, especially in areas like the French Quarter and the Warehouse District.

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  • The Rolling Stones Will Play New Orleans Jazz Fest

    3 Min Read

    The Rolling Stones will headline the New Orleans Jazz Fest, but the live music and good times won’t end there.

     The legendary band fronted by Nick Jagger will perform on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at the Fair Grounds in front of thousands.

    The concert will be a part of the Stones’ 16-city domestic tour.

    When Is New Orleans Jazz Fest 2024?

    The New Orleans Jazz Fest for 2024 will take place over two weekends beginning on Thursday, April 25:

    Thursday, April 25 – Sunday, April 28 

    And:

    Thursday, May 2 – Sunday, May 5

    The festival will be held at the historic Fair Grounds Race Course and feature over 5,000 musicians across 14 stages performing virtually every style of music.

    Of course, there will be nearly every type of mouth-watering food imaginable plus a juried crafts fair and much more. 

    New Orleans Jazz Fest: How To Get There

    Traveling to the New Orleans Jazz Fest can be a fun experience! Here are some easy and safe ways to get there:

    1. Public Transportation: New Orleans has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and streetcars. Check the schedule and routes to see if there’s a convenient option that gets you close to the festival grounds. The Regional Transit Authority (RTA) offers special event shuttles during Jazz Fest to help attendees get to and from the festival.
    2. Ridesharing: Services like Uber and Lyft operate in New Orleans and can be a convenient option for getting to the Jazz Fest. Just keep in mind that there may be increased demand during the festival, so plan accordingly and expect potential surcharges during peak times.
    3. Biking: If you’re staying relatively close to the festival grounds, biking can be a fun and eco-friendly way to travel. New Orleans is relatively flat and has bike lanes in some areas, making it bike-friendly. Just be sure to bring a lock for your bike and check the festival’s bike parking options.
    4. Walking: If you’re staying nearby, walking to the festival can be a pleasant option, especially if the weather is nice. Just be mindful of traffic and pedestrians, and wear comfortable shoes for the journey.
    5. Shuttle Services: Some hotels and event companies offer shuttle services to and from the Jazz Fest. Check with your accommodations or local event organizers to see if they have any shuttle options available.

    When Did the New Orleans Jazz Fest Begin?

    The New Orleans Jazz Fest began in 1970 and has grown into an event that lures almost 500,000 people to the city annually to celebrate the unique culture and heritage of New Orleans and Louisiana.

    If you plan on visiting the city for New Orleans, you should know that the area you’re staying in is safe.

    Expect to indulge in many foods that New Orleans is known For, including Gumbo, Beignets and more.

    Read about things to see and do in New Orleans.

    More From NolaFi.com:

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  • Po-Boy Festival in New Orleans

    Po-Boy Fest: Dates, Times, Info

    2 Min Read

    If you love po-boys, then there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be in the place to be this weekend in New Orleans. It’s the Oak Street Po-Boy Fest!

    There’s going to be good food, fun and most of all, as you can imagine, delicious po-boys everywhere.

    Po-Boy Fest: What To Know

    The Po-Boy Fest brings together the people and food that make the city so fun. There’s going to be a 300-foot po-boy construction project as well.

    When Is Po-Boy Festival In New Orleans?

    The Oak Street Po-Boy Festival is set for Saturday, Nov. 19, 2023. The event will run from  10:00 AM – 6:00 PM CST.

    Advance tickets to the Oak Street Po-Boy Festival cost from $10 to $125 (VIP).

    The festival takes up seven whole city blocks and features more than 30 food vendors on hand to serve you some of this, that “dat” and more.

    Where Will the Po-Boy Festival Take Place?

    The Oak Street Po-Boy Festival will take place on and around 8100-8800 Oak St, New Orleans, LA 70118. Here’s a map so that you can find it.

    Final Word

    As a top-tier convention city, New Orleans is known for its many festivals, parties and events. Is the city safe? Of course. That also means that Nola is also a top travel destination.

    Want real-time tips on how to save when you’re on a trip? Read our Travel Savings Guide,

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