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U.S. employers announced 108,435 job cuts in January 2026, marking a dramatic escalation in layoffs and the highest number for the month since 2009, according to a report from global outplacement and executive coaching firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas.
The figure represents a 205% increase from the 35,553 layoffs announced in December 2025, and a 118% rise compared to the 49,795 cuts reported in January 2025.
This sharp monthly jump reverses a recent downward trend in layoff announcements and signals growing caution among businesses heading into the new year.
January’s total is the highest for the month since 2009, when 241,749 job cuts were announced amid the aftermath of the Great Recession.
It also stands as the largest monthly layoff figure since October 2025, when 153,074 cuts were recorded.
Experts note that January often sees elevated layoff announcements as companies finalize budgets, adjust staffing to meet financial targets, and respond to shifting economic conditions. However, the scale of this year’s increase stands out.
Key Drivers Behind the Layoffs
The transportation sector led the way with 31,243 announced job cuts, largely driven by logistics giant UPS, which cited the loss of a major delivery contract with Amazon as a key factor in plans to eliminate up to 30,000 positions and close multiple facilities.
The technology sector followed closely, with 22,291 cuts. Amazon contributed significantly to this total through restructuring and efficiency measures, including shifts toward automation.
Healthcare and related products companies announced 17,107 layoffs, the highest monthly figure for the sector since 2020.
Other notable drivers included contract losses (30,784 cuts), market and economic conditions (28,392 cuts), and restructuring efforts (20,044 cuts).
Artificial intelligence (AI) was directly cited as a reason for 7,624 layoffs in January—about 7% of the month’s total—continuing a trend where companies increasingly turn to automation to streamline operations.
Broader Labor Market Context
The surge in layoffs coincides with subdued hiring plans. Employers announced just 5,306 new positions in January—the lowest January hiring total on record since Challenger began tracking the data.
This wide gap between cuts and new hires echoes patterns seen during economic downturns and suggests a more challenging job market for workers seeking new opportunities.
Andy Challenger, chief revenue officer at Challenger, Gray & Christmas, described the data as a sign of pessimism about the 2026 outlook. “It means most of these plans were set at the end of 2025, signaling employers are less-than-optimistic about the outlook for 2026,” he said.
While the report tracks announced plans (actual job losses may occur over weeks or months and could be adjusted), the numbers highlight mounting pressure on the U.S. labor market amid uncertainties around economic growth, consumer demand, and policy changes.
As 2026 unfolds, economists and workforce experts will watch closely to see whether this January spike proves to be a seasonal blip or the start of a broader trend in corporate cost-cutting and restructuring.
Final Word
For now, the data paints a picture of a labor market shifting gears—away from expansion and toward caution.
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As we move deeper into 2026, Louisiana’s job market continues to show signs of steady, if modest, recovery. According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate stood at 4.3% in November 2025—the most recent full month available as of mid-January 2026.
Unemployed in Louisiana? Read This
This figure is below the national average of 4.6% and represents a 0.3 percentage point drop from November 2024, when it was 4.6%.
This rate places Louisiana tied for 33rd among the 50 states, reflecting a labor market that’s “muddling through” with gradual improvement rather than dramatic shifts.
The number of unemployed residents fell to approximately 88,700 in November 2025, down from about 96,100 a year earlier, while the civilian labor force hovered around 2.08 million.
Key Economic Factors Influencing Louisiana’s Unemployment Rate in 2026
Louisiana’s economy remains tied to traditional strengths like energy (oil and gas), manufacturing, trade/transportation (via major ports), and tourism/leisure & hospitality.
Recent BLS data shows modest nonfarm employment growth of about 0.7% over the past year, with gains in sectors like education & health services (+4.1%) and leisure & hospitality (+3.3%), offset by declines in mining/logging (-2.8%) and trade/transportation/utilities (-1.9%).Several factors are at play:
- Energy Sector Volatility — Fluctuations in global oil prices continue to impact mining and logging jobs, contributing to slight declines.
- Tourism and Hospitality Recovery — Post-pandemic rebound in events, festivals, and visitor traffic supports growth in leisure sectors, especially in New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
- Healthcare and Education Expansion — Strong demand for workers in these stable fields helps keep unemployment in check.
- Overall Stagnation with Slow Growth — Economists describe the state as experiencing flat-to-modest progress, with real GDP growth projected around 1-2% in 2026 and employment rising slowly (forecasts suggest the rate could dip toward 4.1% by late 2026).
- National Trends — Broader U.S. economic conditions, including AI adoption and fiscal policies, influence local hiring.
Despite these dynamics, Louisiana benefits from a relatively low unemployment rate compared to historical highs (like 13.5% during the 2020 pandemic peak).
How To Find A Job Right Now in Louisiana
Use State Resources
Start with Louisiana Workforce Commission tools like Star Jobs (laworks.net/Stars) for high-demand occupations, or Geaux Jobs (geauxjobs.org) for free training, veteran/senior programs, and events.
Major Job Boards
Platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and ZipRecruiter list tens of thousands of Louisiana jobs. Filter for “remote” to find flexible opportunities—hundreds are available in customer service, admin, tech, and AI-related fields.
Remote Work Opportunities
Remote roles are booming, with companies hiring for everything from data annotation ($40+/hr) to sales and virtual admin. Sites like Remote.co, FlexJobs, and LinkedIn’s remote filters are goldmines.
Check out our Remote Jobs Guide for Louisiana.
These cozy remote workspaces show how locals blend NOLA charm with productivity.
Attend Job Fairs and Network
Virtual and in-person events through LWC or local chambers remain effective. Here’s a classic example of community job fairs in action:
Local and Regional Sites
Get online and check out WorkNOLA.com for Greater New Orleans professional listings. LED FastStart (opportunities.ledfaststart.com) for statewide career exploration. Government jobs via jobs.la.gov for state positions.
If you’re a jobseeker, there are certain ways you can increase your chances to find work.
- Network: Use your phone contacts or social media followers to reach out to people you may know or those who work at your prospective employers.
- Jobs Websites: Apply on career sites like Indeed.com, Monster.com and LinkedIn.
- Job Fairs: Companies and organizations are hosting job fairs again. Check with your local Department of Labor to see if they have a calendar of events with job fairs listed for your area.
Final Word
It’s one of the best times to be job hunting right now, so you need to take advantage. If you’re looking for employment, here’s how to find a job.
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This year, Christmas and Christmas Eve fall on a Wednesday, and Thursday, which is a surefire way to predict the most hectic days that people will be shopping until the last minute at grocery stores in New Orleans, Louisiana and elsewhere.
If you need to go pickup an item or two, you may be wondering what the operating hours are for local stores. For instance, is Kroger open today? How long will Publix close? You’ve got questions and we’ve got answers.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about the grocery store hours for the major supermarket chains around New Orleans.
Is Kroger, Walmart, Whole Foods And More Open For Christmas And Christmas Eve?
On holidays we know that grocery store hours tend to change. Some stores are closed, while some adjust their hours to remain open just a while.
For the latest information, you should call your local grocery store to see if they have changed their hours on any particular day.
Quick Links: Grocery Store Holiday Hours
Is Albertson’s Open For Christmas Eve And Christmas Day?
Albertson’s is abiding by modified holiday hours for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. On Christmas Eve, Albertson’s will close early. On Christmas Day, the supermarket and pharmacy will be closed.
Albertson’s Holiday Hours:
- Christmas Eve — 6:00 AM-4:00 PM
- Christmas Day — Closed
What Are Costco’s Holiday Hours?
Costco usually stays open from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. daily. For Christmas and Christmas Eve, things will be a bit different.
Costco Holiday Hours:
- Dec 24: 10 am – 8:30 pm (Christmas Eve)
- Dec 25: Closed (Christmas Day
Rouses Market Holiday Hours
At Rouses stores, metro New Orleans locations will be closed for Christmas Day so that team members can enjoy it with their families. Stores will reopen as usual on Sunday, December 26.
Here are Rouses Market holiday hours:
- Christmas Eve — 8 p.m. close
- Christmas Day — closed
Sam’s Club Holiday Hours
Sam’s Club has altered its operating hours during the holidays, including on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Years Eve and New Years Day. Whole Foods is closed on Christmas Day.
Here are Sam’s Club’s holiday hours in New Orleans:
- Dec 24: 10 am – 10 pm (Christmas Eve)
- Dec 25: Closed (Christmas Day)
Is Walmart Open On Christmas Or Christmas Eve?
Walmart will be closed on Christmas Day. It’s the only day of the year when Walmarts all over are shut down. On the day after Christmas, December 26th, Walmart will resume regular hours.
Walmart Holiday Hours:
- Dec 24: 7 am – 10 pm (Christmas Eve)
- Dec 25: Closed (Christmas Day
Whole Foods Holiday Hours
Whole Foods is operating on modified hours during the holidays, including on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Years Eve and New Years Day. Whole Foods is closed on Christmas Day.
Here are Whole Foods holiday hours in New Orleans:
- Dec 24: 8 am – 7 pm (Christmas Eve)
- Dec 25: Closed (Christmas Day)
Winn-Dixie Holiday Hours
Winn-Dixie is open on Christmas Eve and closed on Christmas Day. The following day, the grocery store will resume regular store hours.
Winn-Dixie Holiday Hours:
- Dec 24: 7 am – 10 pm (Christmas Eve)
- Dec 25: Closed (Christmas Day
What’s Open On Christmas?
If you need any last-minute items, you can rest assured that gas stations will be open. But many drug stores, including CVS, Rite-Aid and Walgreens will all be open on Christmas Day.
Again, for specific stores near you, it is best to give them a call before you get in your car and drive there.
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So you and your person are hitting off big-time and you want to go public, as in go to a public place. Where can you go in New Orleans for a good date?
The Crescent City has some very nice places for two people to get to know each other over a meal or drink. In this article, we’ll list some of the best places for a date night.
These New Orleans Restaurants Are Perfect For Date Night
First things first, let’s go over some rules that can make your date a success:
- Always meet in a public place on a first date.
- Never accept a drink that doesn’t come directly from the bartender or server.
- Always drink responsibly. Know when enough is enough.
Now that we’ve got that out of the way, it’s time to talk about date-night options! Ready to check out our list of best date night restaurants in New Orleans? Let’s go!
Coquette
2800 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 265-0421
Here’s what one customer says about Coquette: “Every dish was a well balanced pairing of local flavor and impressive culinary capacity. The way they put these dishes together is going to stick with me for a while. Everything was wonderfully paired with the other components on the dish. Perfect for a nice dinner on a quiet night. Stick around for dessert and the Amaro list. We will be coming back again!”
Herbsaint
701 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 524-4114
Here’s what one diner says about Herbsaint: “The food deserve 5 stars, but I had to go with 4 because when we ate, almost everything was quite too salty. However we got there at almost 9pm with no reservation, and still they managed to give us a table, which was awesome. For VEGANS don’t be afraid to come eat here, the chef will prepare something at his discretion. And what I go it was Soo Good! My husband asked for 3 portion of short ribs, that’s how much he enjoyed them. My husband actually returned a dish back because it was too salty, and we appreciate that we were not charged for it. Service could have been more personable, but no complaints.”
Maypop
611 O’Keefe Ave, New Orleans, LA 70113 | (504) 518-6345
Here’s what one customer says about Maypop: “In a sea of restaurants that are [more or less] putting out the same types of food, it is guaranteed you will find completely unique and incredible eats at Maypop
“I’m not even sure what you’d classify this type of food. Definitely Asian fusion but it’s simply better than that. Everything here is simply delicious and unexpected.”
Panchita’s Mexican Criolla Cuisine
1434 S Carrollton Ave, New Orleans, LA 70118 | (504) 281-4127
Here’s what one reviewer says about Panchita’s: “First Time me and my Boyfriend Came here.Small Place Outdoor Sitting as Well as Indoors.Authentic Mexican Food.I had There Vegetable Burrito and He had the Carne Asada Plate.I Had a Glass of Chardonnay he had 2 Corona Lights we Both Had Water.The Waitress Was Also The Owner She had Other Employees Cooking. Very Clean and Quaint. Will Be Back. Thank You.”
Gumbo Ya-Ya
600 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 291-8600
Here’s what one customer says about Gumbo Ya-Ya: “We stopped by this gumbo place as we were walking toward the French Quarter. It was supposed to be a 30 minute wait but we were seated in about 10 mins. We ordered a seven steaks gumbo with jambalaya rice topping and a seafood and okra gumbo also with jambalaya rice topping for $6.50 each. It was a good portion, tasty, and filling. The view was very romantic and beautiful! And the service was fast and awesome – Kori was our server!”
Olde Nola Cookery
205 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 525-4577
Here’s what one customer says about Olde Nola Cookery: “The wait staff was very friendly. I loved the atmosphere of this place. As for the food, my shrimp was greasy and had too much breading. My husband got the fried oyster la and said the same thing. Also the collard greens were good but a tad too salty. I would visit again and maybe try the crab cakes.”
Atchafalaya
901 Louisiana Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 891-9626
Come for the Crab Cake Benedict, stay for the brunch Bloody Mary.
Here’s what one diner says about Atchafalaya : “Shrimp and Crab Cake Benedict special, Bananas Foster Waffle, Five “A” bloody Mary and mimosa. Everything was delicious and the outdoor seating area was perfect for us to enjoy the beautiful weather with our dog. Our waitress was amazing. If you want to hear the live music you’ll want to sit inside. Mask required inside and COVID vaccine or negative PCR test proof required. Pets allowed outside.”
Avila Grill French Quarter
817 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70112 | 504) 478-0796
At this Venezuelan restaurant, come for the Catira (shredded chicken dish), stay for the Pabello Criollo (beef stew).
Here’s what one patron has to say about the Avila Grill French Quarter: “We ordered a chicken patacon a delicious sandwich that uses plantains as the bun and the chicken arepa which has a corn based pocket stuffed with goodness. We wanted to try the empanadas so ordered a couple of those too. We ended loving those so much we ordered six to go to enjoy for lunch while we were driving the next day. Oooh and get the green sauce that comes with the empanadas for whatever you order! I want this in economy size!”
Final Word
Getting to know someone over lunch or dinner can be intimidating for many people, but hopefully the awesome restaurants we’ve listed can make it easier.
If you really want to take things to the next level, you can pay for exclusive dining by renting out a banquet room for a small group of family and friends.
Want to make it official? Here’s how to sweep her off her feet.
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New Orleans, the Crescent City where jazz notes linger in the humid air and every corner hides a story of resilience, has long been a beacon for travelers seeking soul-stirring music, Creole feasts, and that indefinable magic.
But in an era of headlines screaming about crime waves and global uncertainties, one question echoes louder than a second-line brass band: Is it safe to visit right now? As we settle into the new year—a season of twinkling holiday lights along the Mississippi and early whispers of Mardi Gras—the answer is a resounding yes, with a few caveats.
New Orleans is safer than it’s been in decades, buoyed by plummeting crime rates and bolstered security measures. Yet, like any vibrant metropolis, it demands street smarts. This guide cuts through the noise, blending fresh data, local insights, and practical advice to help you plan a worry-free escape to the Big Easy.
Is New Orleans a Safe City?
The short answer? Yes—New Orleans is safer than it’s been in decades for tourists sticking to the well-trodden paths. Crime rates are plummeting, the hurricane season is winding down without drama so far, and the U.S. State Department rates it a standard “Exercise Increased Caution” for urban crime risks, on par with many big U.S. cities. But like any vibrant metropolis, a dash of street smarts goes a long way. Let’s break it down with the latest scoop.
If you’re headed to New Orleans for Mardi Gras or another festive event, you should educate yourself on many things, crime, included. But, again, that doesn’t mean New Orleans is different than other similar cities.
How Safe is New Orleans: A Guide For Visitors
When it comes to travel, it’s natural to prioritize your safety first and foremost. That’s what you should do when visiting any city. But here’s what you need to know about the safety in the Crescent City.
This article will tell you how safe New Orleans is from two perspectives — crime and COVID.
Crime
New Orleans is as safe as its ever been these days. While there are news reports of murders on the regular, that is the case in many cities with populations as large as New Orleans.
The key is safety in New Orleans, like it is in many cities, is to do what you can to stay away from known trouble spots and to be awere of your surroundings at all times.
For what it’s worth, the city is known to look after its own and cater to tourists and weekend visitors.
COVID
What it comes to COVID, New Orleans has some of the lowest numbers its had in nearly three years. As of October 10, 2022, here are the city’s COVID levels.
Via Google.com To see the current status of COVID cases in Louisiana, check out the state’s official website. That being said, New Orleans doesn’t have any travel restrictions or quarantine requirements for travelers to abide by. Travel to the Crescent City does come with risks, as it does in any big city. The main reason has nothing to do with COVID.
Travel To New Orleans: What You Need To Know
Now let’s talk about traveling to New Orleans and the other aspects involved in that.
Read Hotel Reviews
To secure lodgings at a place that you can trust, it’s good to read up on hotel reviews in the area you want to stay. Some things you’ll want to take particular note of are:
- Cleaniness
- Customer service
- Free breakfast bar
- Parking (free or paid)
New Orleans is a mecca for revelers. That means there are frequently intoxicated tourists on the streets at all hours.
Here the best hotels in New Orleans.
Book Some Transportation
New Orleans has a lot of taxicabs, but just like everywhere else, Uber and Lyft has really reduced the need for public transit. That means that there are fewer taxicabs on the street. Always map your journey before you go and tell someone when you expect to arrive at your destination.
Here are some top taxi cab companies in New Orleans.
Stay Away From High-Crime Areas
Every city has places that would be best avoided by visitors. New Orleans is no different. If you look and feel out of place, there’s a good chance you are.
Here’s an example: In any city, you would want to make sure you park in well-lit areas and don’t dress too flashy when out on the town. It’s a recipe for a rough night.
Don’t know where to hang out in New Orleans? Talk to the locals.
Final Word
Urban crime has been a problem in many cities across America, and New Orleans, Louisiana, is no different. But how safe is the city?
If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans, like anywhere else, be aware of your surroundings at all times.
This one goes for where ever you go: Be mindful of your environment. There are pickpockets and scammers in every big cities in the world. If you plan to walk down Bourbon Street, you especially need to be careful.
If you’re thinking about traveling outside the country right now, safety should be your top priority. The COVID pandemic continues to rage around the world.
Instead of international travel, you might want to stick to one of the domestic cities like New Orleans, Louisiana. The food is good and there is plenty to see and do there.
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NEW ORLEANS — As the holiday lights twinkle along Bourbon Street, our beloved Crescent City is once again the epicenter of college football fever.
The Allstate Sugar Bowl, a New Orleans tradition since 1935, returns to the Caesars Superdome on January 1, 2026, hosting a College Football Playoff quarterfinal clash that pits the powerhouse Georgia Bulldogs against the winner of the first-round matchup between No. 6 Ole Miss and No. 11 Tulane.
Sugar Bowl To Host SEC’s Georgia
It’s a dream (or nightmare) scenario for local fans: one of our own Green Wave could crash the party against the SEC juggernaut, or we’ll see a classic Southern showdown between the Bulldogs and Rebels.
The bracket was unveiled today during ESPN’s selection show, confirming Georgia’s spot as the No. 3 overall seed after their dominant 28-7 dismantling of No. 9 Alabama in yesterday’s SEC Championship Game.
The Bulldogs, coached by Kirby Smart, earned a first-round bye with an 11-1 regular-season record, their lone loss a heartbreaker to Alabama earlier this fall.
Now, they’re hungry for redemption after last year’s bitter 23-10 Sugar Bowl defeat to Notre Dame right here in the Dome — a game that still stings for Athens faithful.
The Road to the Dome: How We Got Here
Georgia’s path to New Orleans has been a grind of grit and glory. The Bulldogs started hot with blowout wins over Marshall (45-7) and Austin Peay (28-6), then survived a wild overtime thriller at Tennessee (44-41).
A midseason stumble against Alabama (24-21) tested their mettle, but they roared back with convincing victories over Kentucky (35-14), Auburn (20-10), and a high-octane 43-35 shootout against Ole Miss on October 18.
November brought more dominance: road wins at Florida (24-20) and Mississippi State (41-21), a statement 35-10 thumping of Texas, and a gritty 16-9 rivalry triumph over Georgia Tech.
Quarterback Gunner Stockton has been the steady hand, slinging for over 1,800 yards and 18 touchdowns while keeping turnovers low.
Running back Nate Frazier and wideout Dominic Lovett have been explosive, but it’s the Bulldogs’ suffocating defense — led by All-SEC linebacker CJ Allen — that has opponents averaging just 18 points per game.
Georgia’s +22 turnover margin is the best in the nation, a stat that could prove decisive in the thin New Orleans air (okay, humidity).
On the other side of the bracket, the Ole Miss-Tulane first-rounder on December 20 in Oxford promises fireworks. The Rebels (10-2), coached by Lane Kiffin, boast a high-flying offense with quarterback Jaxson Dart and a stable of playmakers, but their defense has leaked points late in the season.
Tulane (9-3), our local heroes under Jon Sumrall, rides a wave of momentum after an undefeated American Athletic Conference slate, powered by running back Makhi Hughes’ ground-and-pound attack.
A Green Wave upset? The Bayou would erupt louder than Mardi Gras. “c66c87”What to Watch For in the Sugar Bowl
- Bulldogs’ Ground Game vs. Pass Rush: Georgia’s rushing attack (over 200 yards per game) will test Ole Miss’s shaky front seven or Tulane’s undersized but scrappy line. If Stockton stays clean in the pocket, expect big plays down the field.
- Superdome Magic: The Dome’s roof means no weather excuses, but the noise from 70,000+ fans — many waving red-and-black pom-poms — could rattle the visitors. Local tie: Tulane’s upset bid would make this the ultimate underdog story.
- Path to Glory: A Georgia win sends them to the Peach Bowl semifinal on January 9 against the Fiesta Bowl victor. The national title game awaits January 19 in Miami.
Tickets are already flying off the shelves at Caesars Superdome box offices and online — grab yours now before the scalpers descend like a second-line parade. Tailgate spots along Poydras Street are prime real estate, and expect Bourbon Street to be a sea of red, navy, and olive green on New Year’s Day.
This Sugar Bowl isn’t just a game; it’s a celebration of Southern football soul, right in the heart of New Orleans.
Whether it’s Georgia’s dynasty quest or a Tulane miracle, one thing’s certain: the Who Dat Nation will show up loud. Stay tuned to Crescent City Sports for pre-game analysis, player profiles, and live coverage. Geaux Tigers? Nah, this year it’s Geaux Dawgs… or Geaux Waves!
Follow us on X @nolafi for real-time updates.
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New Orleans has long been a city where history, culture, and commerce intertwine like the branches of a live oak.
From the bustling streets of the French Quarter to the shaded avenues of the Garden District, shopping here isn’t just about acquiring goods—it’s about immersing yourself in the soul of the Crescent City.
Where To Shop in New Orleans
Whether you’re hunting for Mardi Gras beads, one-of-a-kind antiques, or high-end designer threads, our city’s retail scene offers treasures that capture its vibrant spirit.
As we head into the holiday season, we’ve curated a guide to the best places to shop in New Orleans, drawing on local favorites and timeless hotspots. Grab your reusable tote and let’s explore.
1. Magazine Street: The Ultimate Local Treasure Hunt
Stretching six miles through Uptown and the Garden District, Magazine Street is the beating heart of New Orleans shopping.
This eclectic corridor boasts over 300 independently owned boutiques, galleries, and antique shops, where you can browse everything from vintage clothing at Funky Monkey to handmade jewelry at local artisan stalls.
It’s perfect for leisurely strolls past historic mansions, with stops for beignets or pralines to fuel your spree. Recent additions like Home Malone offer curated home decor with a Crescent City twist, making it ideal for gifting unique NOLA-inspired pieces.
Pro tip: Start at the Uptown end near Audubon Park for fewer crowds and more hidden gems.
2. French Quarter: Antiques, Art, and Authentic Souvenirs
No visit to New Orleans is complete without wandering the French Quarter’s cobblestone streets, where shopping feels like stepping into a living museum.
Royal Street reigns supreme for antiques, with galleries like M.S. Rau offering rare 18th-century furnishings and fine art that whisper tales of the city’s Creole past.
For something more whimsical, pop into Voodoo Authentica on Dumaine Street, a hotspot for spiritual curios, handmade gris-gris bags, and books on local mysticism—prices start as low as $5 for a charm.
And don’t miss the French Market, the oldest open-air market in the U.S., spanning six blocks with over 140 vendors selling fresh pralines, street art, and Mardi Gras masks.
Evenings bring the Frenchmen Art Bazaar to life, where local artists hawk vibrant paintings under string lights—pure magic after dark.
3. Canal Place: Luxury with a Side of Jazz
For those craving upscale indulgence, Canal Place in the Central Business District delivers without the pretension.
This three-story mall at the foot of Canal Street houses heavy hitters like Saks Fifth Avenue, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co., alongside local jewels such as Mignon Faget’s jewelry atelier, known for her iconic fleur-de-lis designs in gold and silver.
It’s air-conditioned bliss on humid days, with a food court featuring po’boy spots for a quick recharge. Designers rave about it as a one-stop for sophisticated souvenirs, like custom-engraved silverware or silk scarves evoking the Mississippi’s flow.
Holiday shoppers, note the festive window displays that rival any Big Apple spectacle.
4. Riverwalk Marketplace: Outlet Deals Meets River Views
Overlooking the mighty Mississippi, the Riverwalk Marketplace combines outlet bargains with postcard-perfect scenery.
Spanning a quarter-mile along the waterfront, it’s packed with 75+ stores including Nike Factory Store, H&M, and a massive Under Armour outlet—perfect for stocking up on activewear or holiday gifts at up to 70% off.
The vibe is casual and family-friendly, with live jazz performances and riverboat sightings adding to the charm.
Grab a sno-ball from a nearby vendor while eyeing deals at the Levi’s outlet. It’s especially buzzing during weekend street festivals, blending shopping with NOLA’s free-spirited energy.
5. Crescent City Farmers Market: Fresh Finds and Farm-to-Table Treasures
For a shopping experience that’s as fresh as it is flavorful, head to the Crescent City Farmers Market, one of the oldest in the city since 1995.
Held Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at various spots like the French Market or Lafayette Square, it features over 100 vendors slinging seasonal produce, hot sauces, and artisanal cheeses from Louisiana farms. Beyond groceries, snag beeswax candles, hot honey, or hand-painted tote bags—proceeds often support local nonprofits. It’s more than a market; it’s a community pulse where you can chat with growers over a cup of chicory coffee.
neworleans.comWhy Shop Local in NOLA?In a city rebounding stronger than ever post-pandemic, supporting independent shops keeps our creative economy thriving. From the sustainable fashion at Buffalo Exchange on Magazine to the cultural artifacts at the Historic New Orleans Collection’s gift shop, every purchase tells a story.
As one local designer notes, “New Orleans shopping is about collecting moments, not just merchandise.”
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, these spots promise more than bags full of goodies—they deliver a taste of what makes New Orleans eternally enchanting. What’s your go-to shopping haunt? Share in the comments below, and happy hunting!
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As the Crescent City shakes off its Thanksgiving turkey coma, Black Friday fever is already gripping shoppers from the French Quarter to the suburbs of Metairie.
With holiday lights twinkling along Magazine Street and traffic buzzing on I-10, locals are plotting their routes to snag doorbusters on everything from tech gadgets to festive decor.
Black Friday Store Hours: New Orleans
This year, major retailers are kicking off the sales frenzy earlier than ever, with many doors swinging open at the crack of dawn – or even before.
Gone are the midnight madness marathons of yesteryear; instead, chains like Kohl’s and JCPenney are starting as early as 5 a.m. to accommodate bleary-eyed bargain hunters.
While most stores shuttered tight on Thanksgiving Day to give employees a much-needed breather, Black Friday promises extended hours to maximize your deal-snatching potential.
Expect crowds at popular spots like the Lakeside Shopping Center in Metairie or the Outlet Collection at Riverwalk downtown, where national brands mingle with local flair.
Whether you’re hunting for a flat-screen TV at Best Buy or stocking stuffers at Target, planning your attack is key.
Pro tip: Download store apps for real-time inventory checks and consider carpooling to dodge the post-feast gridlock on Veterans Memorial Boulevard. And don’t forget – online deals are live now, so you can shop in pajamas if braving the bayou humidity isn’t your vibe.
To help you map out your itinerary, here’s a handy table of Black Friday hours for top area retailers. Note that some closing times may vary by specific location, so double-check with your local store. All times are local.
Retailer Opening Time Closing Time Walmart 6 a.m. 11 p.m. Target 6 a.m. Varies by location Best Buy 6 a.m. 10 p.m. Macy’s 6 a.m. 11 p.m. Kohl’s 5 a.m. Midnight JCPenney 5 a.m. Varies by location Home Depot 6 a.m. Normal closing time Lowe’s 6 a.m. Normal closing time Costco 9 a.m. (Executive Members) / 10 a.m. (others) Normal closing time Dick’s Sporting Goods 6 a.m. 10 p.m. Old Navy 5 a.m. (select stores) Varies by location Stay safe out there, NOLA – hydrate, wear comfy shoes, and may the deals be ever in your favor. Happy hunting! For more local holiday coverage, including fleur-de-lis light displays and second-line shopping events, keep it tuned to NOLA News.
Want more tips? Read our guide on where to shop in New Orleans.
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In a seismic shift for the American workforce, internal Amazon documents leaked to The New York Times reveal the e-commerce giant’s ambitious strategy to automate vast swaths of its operations, potentially sparing the company from hiring more than 600,000 U.S. workers over the next decade by deploying advanced robotics.
The plan, detailed in a 2025 robotics strategy presentation to the company’s board, signals a profound transformation in how goods are moved and packaged, raising alarms among labor advocates even as Amazon insists the changes will spawn new opportunities.
Report: Amazon’s Internal Documents Reveal Mass Automation Plans
The documents, which outline a goal to automate 75% of Amazon’s fulfillment operations by 2033, project that the company could avoid adding to its U.S. payroll despite an anticipated doubling of sales volume.
By 2027 alone, Amazon’s automation team forecasts dodging the need to onboard over 160,000 employees, a move that could save the retailer approximately 30 cents per item processed—translating to $12.6 billion in efficiencies between 2025 and 2027. This comes at a time when Amazon, the nation’s second-largest private employer with nearly 1.2 million U.S. workers, has already invested billions in robotic infrastructure, including over 1 million robots deployed globally.
Shreveport Automation Plans
At the forefront of this revolution is a cutting-edge facility in Shreveport, Louisiana, where a symphony of robotic systems—ranging from puck-shaped movers acquired through Amazon’s 2012 purchase of Kiva Systems to more sophisticated “cobots” that collaborate with humans—has slashed staffing needs.
Last year, the warehouse operated with a quarter fewer employees than similar sites; projections for next year call for halving that number further, with packages rarely touched by human hands after initial sorting. Amazon plans to replicate this model across about 40 facilities by the end of 2027, starting with a warehouse in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
The strategy also targets retrofits of older warehouses, such as one in Stone Mountain, Georgia, currently employing around 4,000 workers. Internal estimates suggest the site could process 10% more items with up to 1,200 fewer staff once robotic overhauls are complete, relying more heavily on temporary hires rather than full-time positions.
Amazon’s Post-Pandemic Plan for Robots
Workers at the facility have reportedly been kept in the dark about the scale of these changes, with one local job seeker venting frustration on Reddit about elusive openings amid a five-month job hunt.
Amazon’s push, accelerated under CEO Andy Jassy since 2021, reflects a post-pandemic recalibration toward ruthless efficiency amid softening consumer spending and rising labor costs. Yet the documents caution against overt language like “automation” or “A.I.” in public discussions, opting instead for euphemisms such as “advanced technology” to manage perceptions.
Employees involved in the Stone Mountain transition have been coached to “control the narrative,” emphasizing community benefits and innovation to win over local officials.Labor experts warn of ripple effects far beyond Amazon’s walls.
Daron Acemoglu, an MIT economist, described the retailer as having “the strongest incentive to automate profitably,” predicting it could pioneer a wave of job displacement across competitors like Walmart and UPS. “Amazon is on the verge of becoming a net job destroyer rather than a creator,” Acemoglu told The Times, noting that while new roles in robotics maintenance—such as technicians earning $24.45 an hour—will emerge, they demand specialized skills that may elude many current warehouse staff starting at $19.50 an hour.
Since 2019, Amazon has trained nearly 5,000 workers through mechatronics apprenticeships, a program it touts as a bridge to these higher-wage positions.
The potential human toll is stark: Amazon’s warehouse workforce is disproportionately Black, with employees of color three times more likely to hold these roles than in the broader U.S. labor market. Unions, including the Teamsters, which have eyed organizing Amazon’s facilities, decried the plans as “corporate greed on steroids,” vowing intensified recruitment drives. “This isn’t progress—it’s a blueprint for inequality,” said Sara Nelson, Teamsters president, in a statement Tuesday.Amazon, for its part, pushed back on the leaks’ implications. “These documents are incomplete and do not reflect our overall hiring strategy,” a spokesperson said in an email.
The company highlighted plans to hire 250,000 seasonal workers for the upcoming holidays and pointed to automation’s historical upside: efficiencies in one area, said Udit Madan, head of worldwide operations, have funded expansions like rural delivery depots that create jobs elsewhere.
“Training for new roles is a priority, and we’re committed to supporting our communities,” the spokesperson added.As robots redefine the warehouse floor—from Lego-like modular systems that whisk products to workers, to AI-orchestrated packing lines—the question looms: Will America’s logistics backbone bend or break under the weight of progress?
With sales projected to surge, Amazon’s bet on silicon over sinew could reshape not just its empire, but the very fabric of blue-collar employment. For now, the humming of robotic arms echoes louder than the voices of those they may soon silence.
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With the U.S. job market showing signs of weakness, The Home Depot has stepped up in a big way. The home improvement giant is making it easier than ever for locals to break into those fields, launching free certifications through its Path to Pro Skills Program that could turn weekend DIYers into full-fledged pros.
The initiative, which kicked off earlier this year and has already trained thousands nationwide, offers no-cost online and in-person courses covering essentials like general construction, electrical work, HVAC systems, plumbing, painting, and more.
Home Depot Is Offering Free Certifications in the Trades
Participants wrap up with official completion certificates, arming them with the basics of jobsite safety, tool handling, material management, and even soft skills like team communication – all tailored for real-world home improvement gigs.
Available in English and Spanish, the program is designed for beginners eyeing a career pivot or seasoned hands looking to upskill, with flexible modules that fit around a 9-to-5.
For Atlantans, this hits close to home. Georgia’s construction sector is booming, with over 200,000 jobs statewide and Atlanta leading the charge amid projects like the $5 billion expansion at Hartsfield-Jackson and the ongoing BeltLine developments.
“We’re not just selling hammers; we’re building futures,” says a Home Depot spokesperson, highlighting how the program connects graduates to Pro Xtra members – local contractors hungry for talent. In metro Atlanta alone, dozens of stores from Buckhead to Decatur host in-person sessions, making it a hop, skip, and a MARTA ride away.T
ake Marcus Johnson, a 28-year-old from East Point who’s already enrolled: “I was flipping burgers, dreaming of electrical work. Now, with this free cert, I’m wiring my first job site next month – all from Home Depot’s backyard.”
How To Enroll in the Path To Pro Program
Step 1: Head to the Official Site
Visit pathtopro.com and navigate to the “Free Training” section. Click the prominent “Start Training” button to kick things off. This lands you on the registration page where the magic begins.
Step 2: Check Your Status and Register
If you’ve already got an account, hit “Already Registered” to log in and resume any progress. New to the program? Fill out the basic required fields – like your name, email, and password – then hit “Register.” You’ll be whisked to a quick secondary page for a few more details to complete your profile.
Step 3: Answer Profile Questions
Seal the deal with a short set of demographic and background queries. Expect to share:
- How you heard about the program.
- Basic info like your age group, gender, ethnicity (e.g., Hispanic or Latino), racial background, education level, and military service status.
These help Home Depot tailor resources and track impact, but they’re straightforward and take under two minutes. Once submitted, congrats – you’re officially enrolled! No fees, no tests, and no prior experience required; it’s free and accessible to all aspiring trades folks, from high school grads to career changers.
What Happens Next: Jump into Training and Beyond
Right away, you’ll unlock “Skills Basics” – a foundational course on jobsite safety, tools, materials, and soft skills like communication. Progress through interactive modules at your own pace (they’re mobile-friendly and remember your spot if you log out).
Then, explore “Trades Essentials” tracks tailored to hot Atlanta jobs, such as HVAC or electrical work – complete one for a shiny certificate of completion.Finish up? Get an invite to the Path to Pro Network, Home Depot’s free job board connecting you to local Pro Xtra contractors hiring in real-time. Build your profile there to showcase certs and portfolios, and watch opportunities roll in – all from the comfort of your Atlanta-area home. Got questions? Email Path_to_Pro@homedepot.com for support.
Final Word
Whether you’re a high school grad eyeing trades over college debt or a parent seeking stable hours, Home Depot’s bet is on you. Want an orange apron yourself? Read this guide on how to get hired at Home Depot.
As Atlanta’s housing crunch deepens, this could be the spark that fills those hard-hat voids – one free lesson at a time.
If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
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