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The 2023 Essence Festival of Culture is once again happening in New Orleans this summer. The annual event is typically held around the Fourth of July weekend, so you can expect a lot of fireworks, if you know what I mean.
Read our review of the 2023 Essence Fest.
Attendees can find festival information, sign up for updates, and purchase weekend packages or single-day tickets at Essencefestival.com. You can also experience the festival virtually on Essence.com.
Essence Fest: What To Know This Year
The 2023 Essence Festival of Culture presented by Coca-Cola will present three days of parties, panels, concerts and more all based around and at the New Orleans’ Caesar’s Superdome.
The event will wrap its evening concert series with a night-by-night line-up of musicians, performers, and Hip-Hop and R&B legends.
This year’s festival marks our first-ever, all-Black women in Hip-Hop headliner line-up of Ms. Lauryn Hill, Missy Elliott and Megan Thee Stallion, which has been previously announced. Here’s what to expect each day of Essence Fest in New Orleans:
Friday, June 30
Ms. Lauryn Hill will headline and take music-lovers back 25 years, when the iconic 5x Grammy-winning The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill album dropped, with a very special performance to celebrate its milestone anniversary.
Attendees can also expect to see highly anticipated performances from some of the pioneers of Hip-Hop curated by Doug E. Fresh including Big Daddy Kane, EPMD, KRS-One and Slick Rick. In addition, hitting the stage that night will be performances from Tems, Tobe Nwigwe, Jagged Edge and Ari Lennox, hosted by Deon Cole and musical sounds by DJ Clark Kent.
Saturday, July 1
On Saturday, will be sure to show attendees how to ‘work it’ as the first female in Hip-Hop to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Missy Elliott, graces the center stage for a can’t-miss performance! From Philadelphia to the French Quarter, an injection of Philly Soul will pierce through this year’s festival, when the one and only Jill Scott rocks the mic, to bring some Brotherly…and Sisterly Love.
West Coast All-Stars Ice Cube, DJ Quik, Ice T, Yo-Yo, Lady of Rage, J.J. Fad and E-40, will remind, and show, the city of New Orleans that California knows how to party. Jermaine Dupri will curate a special “The South Got Something to Say” performance highlighting some of the biggest Hip-Hop artists from the ATL with Ludacris, T.I., Gucci Mane, Lil Jon and Big Boi.
The second night in the concert series will also include R&B hits from Monica and Coco Jones, hosted by Affion Crockett & Spice Adams, with DJ Kid Capri on the Wheels of Steel.
Sunday, July 2
To close out the festival’s evening concert series on Sunday, July 2nd, 3x Grammy Award-winning artist Megan Thee Stallion, will hit the stage and get attendees in the right mood for a ‘hot girl summer’!
Radio icon Angie Martinez is bringing a golden celebration of the women who changed the face of Hip-Hop and influenced culture with a curation of performances by Eve, Salt-N-Pepa, Remy Ma, Trina and New Orleans’ own Mia X. Afrobeats hitmaker and Grammy-award winning artist Wizkid will join the closing night along with R&B songstress Muni Long and Nigerian singer-songwriter Kizz Daniel, hosted by Abbott Elementary breakout star Janelle James with throwback jams and remixes, to keep the party going from DJ Spinderella.
Also on the schedule of events, is celebrity stylist Johnny Wright with an announcement.
Where To Stay For Essence Fest
New Orleans hotels are quickly filling up for Essence Fest. If you’re looking to book in New Orleans, here are some rates we’re seeing two weeks from the event:
- Bourbon Orleans Hotel — $484 a night
- Holiday Inn Downtown — $585 a night
- Hotel Mazarin — $385 a night
- La Pavillon — $302 a night
- The Roosevelt New Orleans — $502 a night
Final Word
As one of the top festivals in the city, Essence Fest always draws thousand of people to New Orleans, which helps the local economy.
The city draws more than 130 events a year, according to its Chamber of Commerce. Many of these events are conventions, but a good number are festivals as well.
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If you’re thinking about traveling from New Orleans to an international city, there’s never been a better time. We’re not saying fares are cheap, but the reality is you can save on airfare right now.
In this article, we’re going to show you some excellent destinations you can fly to from New Orleans’ Louis Armstrong Airport.
Best international Cities To Travel To Right Now
We will list the vaccination requirements of each locale and whether they require quarantine periods for U.S. visitors who are not vaccinated.
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The 2022 Bayou Classic is once again set to be a great game between the Southern Jaguars and Grambling State Tigers. If you want to watch the game on TV, here are your options.
The game takes place on Saturday, November 26, 2022.
Bayou Classic: Date, Time, Streaming Info
- Date: Saturday, November 27, 2022
- Kickoff Time: 1:00 P.m. ET
- Location: Caesar’s Super Dome, New Orleans, Louisiana
- Records: Southern Jaguars (6-4) vs. Grambling Tigers 3-7)
- TV Channel: Local NBC 33
- Live Stream: fuboTV (Watch it free)
Final Word
New Orleans is one of those cities that you can get lost in once you take the time to explore it. As the former capital of Louisiana, New Orleans is one of the most eclectic and eccentric cities in the world.
One of the things that makes the place special is the people, which are eager to show you a good time via parties and authentic New Orleans cuisine.
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New Orleans is a city with some of the most beautiful greenspaces in the Southeast. If you’re looking for the perfect picnic spot, you’ve got a number of great options.
Where Can I Go For A Picnic In New Orleans?
Remember to watch the forecast so that rain doesn’t spoil your outing in any way. Also, don’t stay too long. Around sunset, it’s time to wrap it up.
Confetti Park
451 Pelican Ave, New Orleans, LA 70114 | (504) 658-3201

“Confetti park had a neighborhood vibe,” says one visitor, “with a welcoming atmosphere. an amazing brass band of youth, lead the music of the parade, while the dancing boy energetically lead us down the neighborhood’s streets. homemade floats, bikes, scooters and roller skates followed the music. wonderful time, and we are grateful for the experience.”
City Park
1 Palm Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124 | (504) 482-488

Here’s what one park lover says about City Park. “In our three-day visit we came here three times. Insanely gorgeous trees, so many activites to choose from . The Sculpture garden is a must-see. Would have loved to do the light up swan boat in the evening. We ended up visiting the art museum because it looked all enticing from the park. There isn’t enough time in one visit to enjoy it all. Bring bug spray and lots of water!”
Crescent Park
Crescent Park Trail, 2300 N Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70117 | (504) 636-6400

Here’s what one visitor says about Crescent Park: “A beautifully landscaped park. The spacious recreation destination is a great place to roller skate, meditate, jog, people watch, nap, bike, and tables to have a picnic.There are attended public restrooms and park security. There is a fenced in K-9 play area for both small and large dog’s at the bywater entrance of the park. Both mean’s of egress are ADA accessible.”
Woldenberg Park
1 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 861-2537

Here’s what one visitor says about Woldenberg Park. “Best view. I love water. And it’s very peaceful. People running pass. Kids running having fun. Watching the sunrise and sunset right here amazing.”
Marsalis Harmony Park
8211 S Claiborne Ave, New Orleans, LA 70118 | (504) 658-3200

Here’s what one park lover says about Marsalis Harmony Park. “Wonderful atmosphere with occasional festivals and art markets! Hands down one of the best shaded playgrounds in the city.”
Mississippi River Heritage Park
ohn Churchill Chase St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 658-3200

Here’s what one visitor says about Mississippi River Heritage Park. “The park has the cool artwork thru its entrance path and is a nice simple green space with benches to enjoy your stroll. Plus, its next to several of the hotels and across from the convention center.”
Clouet Gardens
710 Clouet St, New Orleans, LA 70117

Here’s what one visitor says about Clouet Park. “I love Bywater, anytime you take a walk, you are greeted with something new to see. It is so peaceful . This garden is a great place to sit and just reflect. Don’t leave without speaking on the wind phone;) There is a little free library where you can even grab a book while you sit.”
Final Word
New Orleans is full of some top-rated tours and activities for singles and families. If you’re looking for something to do, remember to check out the city’s restaurants.
If you’re an outdoors person, don’t fret. Here are some other great parks in New Orleans.
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Hurricane Daniel has developed in the Atlantic Ocean, the first one in two months. Danielle took shape on Sept.1 and continues to intensify. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Earl is churning nearby.
Danielle is the first hurricane in the Atlantic Basin since early July 2022.
Hurricane Danielle: What To Know
Danielle is not expected to threaten New Orleans or the Gulf of Mexico but experts say the storm could peak as a Category 2 hurricane with 100 mph winds. It is expected to weaken significantly after that as it churns over land.
How Many Storms Will Form In The Atlantic This Year?
Initially, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA( projected 14 to 20 named storms in the Atlantic basin. That figure has been recast to a handful now.
While it’s still impossible to tell which storm systems will develop and by how much, it’s important to remember that hurricane season doesn’t end until November 30.
What To Do During A Big Storm
Big storms can wreak havoc on your property and even be deadly. You’ll want to make sure to take shelter if a big storm comes your way. Here are some safety steps to follow:
- Stay inside your home and away from windows and glass doors.
- Close all interior doors and brace all external doors.
- Take shelter in a small interior room like a closet or hallway in the basement or lower level of your home.
- If flooding occurs, get out of the basement or lowest level of your home and take refuge on higher ground.
For the latest, stay with Nolafi.com for New Orleans-area news.
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If you love to fish, a special fee-free day is happening in Louisiana that you need to know about.
As you know, it’s against the law to fish without a license in most states. The reason is because fishing is a regulated activity due to species endangerment as well as lake supplies.
For a limited time though, you can fish without a license on select days in Louisiana.
When Are Louisiana’s Free Fishing Days?
This year, Louisiana’s free fishing days are June 11 and 12, 2022. Those two days are when you can bring the kids, buddies or family out on the water and catch all the fish your heart desires!
Where Are Some Great Places To Go Fishing In Louisiana?
The Pelican State has many famous fishing holes that people have caught nice catches at. Here are a few of our favorites.
- False River
- Henderson Lake
- Grand Isle
- Caddo Lake
- Atchafalaya River
- Calcasieu Lake
- Lake D’Arbonne
- Toledo Bend Reservoir
- Lake Pontchartrain
Final Word
If you love being outside, there are many outdoors activities you can enjoy in our great state. Here are some of the best things to do in and around New Orleans.
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If you’re looking for a COVID-19 testing site in New Orleans, you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve been updating this article to reflect the latest news on COVID testing sites for the Greater New Orleans area as of late December 2021.
New Orleans Area COVID Testing Sites
Here are some COVID testing sites in the New Orleans area:
New Orleans Testing Sites Address Ashe' Cultural Arts Center 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd
New Orleans, LA 70113New Orleans East Hospital 5620 Read Blvd
New Orleans, LA 70127Armstrong Park (Mahalia Jackson Parking Lot) 1419 Basin St.
New Orleans, LA 70116UNO Lakefront Arena 6801 Franklin Ave.
New Orleans, LAAlario Center 2000 Segnette Blvd
Westwego, LAPriscilla R. Edwards Head Start Center 1962 Jackson Ave
New Orleans, LA 70113Orleans Parish has also made the following locations available:
- Johnny Bright Playground (3401 Cleary Ave. Metairie 70002)
- Bonnabel Boat Launch (1599 Bonnabel Blvd., Metairie 70005)
To pre-register or view results for testing at Bonnabel Boat Launch and Johnny Bright Playground, visit accuref.us.
Who Is Eligible For The COVID Vaccine In Louisiana?
In Louisiana, everyone age 5 and older is eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Pfizer is the only COVID-19 vaccine approved for people ages 5-17.
You do not have to pay for the COVID-19 vaccine, nor do you have to provide identification or health insurance information to get vaccinated.
Final Word
Just so you’re aware, Accu Reference sites require health insurance information or an ID so the federal government can be billed for those who don’t have health insurance.
Individuals should understand their health insurance company’s policy regarding co-payments for COVID tests; this may vary depending on symptoms or exposure.
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mobile phones / Uncategorized3 Min Read
Few things are worse than getting one nuisance call after another on your cell phone. Spam calls are made worse by the fact that you often don’t know who’s calling you.
The key is to do a reverse phone lookup. New Orleans is one of the top cities for spam, according to Hiya. So, finding out who’s calling you is a priority.
What Are The Legit Reverse Phone Lookup Sites?
In this article, I’ll show you how to do a reverse phone lookup to see who’s calling you. I happen to do this all the time to see who’s dialing my number.
Thankfully, there are several sites that can give you some of the information you need.
When you typically go to a reverse phone lookup website, there’s a portal where you enter information on a person. Then it will take you to a page that shows you grayed out information.
To show you the full results, usually there’s a fee attached. But I’m going to show you some free websites to choose from.
What Is A Reverse Phone Lookup?
A reverse phone lookup is an electronic database that allows users to find out personal information on a caller based on their phone number.
The reason the “reverse” is included in a “reverse phone lookup” is because typically you search for a person’s phone number based on already having their name. But the process is reversed in a reverse phone lookup.
How Phone Lookups Began
In the beginning, the “Yellow Pages” were the defacto way people found phone numbers for companies and individuals.
Soon operators went out of style and the phone companies introduced call waiting, voicemail and caller ID, which was the first electronic phone lookup.
Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies and some government agencies were using reverse phone lookups in print for decades before they became available to the public.
With the tremendous adoption of the internet, sites began to pop up that promised reverse phone lookup for a fee.
But there are also some free reverse phone lookup databases.
What Is The Most Accurate Reverse Cell Phone Lookup Site?
When it comes to free options, TruePeopleSearch.com is the one that will give you a phone number without cost. Many other sites will charge you a small fee.
When you go to the site, you’ll see three tabs in the middle of the page: Name, Reverse Phone and Reverse Address. Tap on the middle one: Reverse phone (see screenshot below).

What Is The Best Reverse Phone Lookup Site?
When I get an unfamiliar phone number, I never answer it. I wait until the call is over to find out who has called me. Here are the best websites I’ve used.
Final Thoughts
If you go to many of the sites listed above, they will show all the recent cell phone lookups so you can see which numbers.
Are you paying too much for your cell phone bill? Here’s where to buy a used mobile phone.
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If you live in Louisiana or anywhere around the Gulf Coast, you well know the dangers of a flood vehicle. It may look OK on the outside, but under the engine and inside the car you may have a lemon.
Many dealers may have flood vehicles on their lots and not even know it, but there’s a way you can tell.
How Do You Tell That A Used Car Is A Flood Car?
This article will point out several ways you’ll be able to tell a flood vehicle. You don’t necessarily need to have an eagle eye, but you do have to be able to spot the visible signs of flood, namely rust. But there’s more to it than that.
Look For These 5 Signs On A flood Vehicle
Hurricanes are a yearly occurrence in Louisiana and Florida, so those two states especially have to be on guard against a vehicle market that contains flood-damaged vehicles.
You need to especially be on guard against vehicles written off as “salvage” or “totaled.” Their titles might not disclose that they’ve been in a flood. But here’s how you can tell:
1. Check the VIN
You can use a free VIN checker to find to find out the history of the vehicle you’re interested in. A VIN (vehicle identification number) will list the historical data about the car, including the status of its title.
VehicleHistory.com offers a free VIN check so you can find out about a vehicle really quick.
2. Check Under The Hood
Open the hood of the vehicle and look for signs of rusted metal around the engine. The wirings will also show a corrosion or faded color that could indicate flooding.
A glimpse at the gauges under the hood like the water meter and oil filter will also show water signs.
3. Inspect The Car’s Interior
Look inside the car to see if the fabric on the seats is faded or discolored in any way. Also, you’ll want to pay attention to the dashboard and look for cracks (this could also be caused by heat).
The seatbelts may have crud inside the fasteners, so that’s another sign to look out for.
4. Get The Car Examined
See if you can get a mechanic to look at the vehicle for flood damage. The mechanic shouldn’t give the car a simple once over, he or she should thoroughly examine under the car’s hood, the interior and trunk.
If the mechanic says the car does not have any flood damage, there’s still one way you can find out…
5. Ask The Car’s Owner
If you ask the car’s owner if it’s been in a flood, more than likely they will tell you the truth. If they’re not honest, then they will be committing fraud, which is a felony.
Because they have a major incentive to be honest, a quick question about whether the car has been in a flood should suffice in most cases.
Final Word
Flood-damaged vehicles are the biggest problem facing people who are shopping for cars. But you can protect yourself.
Remember to check out the car’s service history. You can do this by either calling the dealership where the car has been serviced or by asking if the previous owner kept the records.
And don’t forget about the free VIN check, which will save you a lot of time.
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New Orleans has the only international airport in the state of Louisiana: Louis Armstrong International Airport. If you’re flying out of there soon, there are some things you need to know.
The airport has one terminal and three concourses that serve 16 airlines across 35 gates with domestic, regional and international flights. There’s a lot more to know about the largest airport in the state.
5 Things To Know About Louis Armstrong Airport In New Orleans
In this article, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about Louis Armstrong Airport.
I recently flew out of Louis Armstrong Airport on my way to California (shoutout to Delta Air Lines). I was able to get an affordable Economy class flight without a lot of hassle.
Navigating through Louis Armstrong during COVID was easier than I expected, but maybe because I flew early in the morning.
Let’s get into some things you might not know about the airport.
1. Where Does Louis Armstrong Airport Get Its Name?
Obviously, the airport gets its name from hometown jazz great and elder statesman Louis Armstrong. The renaming ceremony happened in August 2001 on the famous jazz trumpeter’s 100th birthday.
Before that, the airport was named for aviator John Moisant and the nearby Moisant Stock Yards.
2. Why Is Louis Armstrong Airport Called MSY?
If you’ve ever flown, you know that airports have three-letter codes that identify them in the aviation industry. So, why does New Orleans’ Louis Armstrong Airport have an airport code of MSY? It’s because those three letters are the initials for Moisant Stock Yards, which are nearby.
3. Who Owns New Orleans’ Airport?
Many international airports are owned by an airport authority, but that’s not the case in Nola.
Louis Armstrong Airport is owned by the City of New Orleans.
4. Where Is Louis Armstrong Airport Located?
Although it’s known for serving New Orleans, Louis Armstrong Airport is actually located in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana. That is considered the metro New Orleans area.
The address of Louis Armstrong Airport is 1 Terminal Dr, Kenner, LA 70062.
5. How Do You Pick Someone Up From Louis Armstrong Airport?
Because of the large terminal, you may be wondering where to pick up someone if they arrive at the airport.
The best place to pick up someone after their flight has landed is in the Cell Phone Lot just off Airline Drive. You get one hour of free parking there.
Final Word
If you’re flying out of Louis Armstrong Airport make sure you get there early enough to get through the security area with no problem.For good measure, it’s a good idea to arrive two hours before your departure time for domestic flights.If you’re flying internationally, you should get there three hours before your flight.More Articles:




