Staff Writers | JAK E CLA PP, KAYL EE P OCH E , SA R AH R AVITS
Contributing Writer | IAN MCNULTY E ditorial Assistant | MADDI E S P INN ER
CREATIVE
Creative Director | DO R A SISON
ADVERTISING
Advertising Inquiries (504) 483-3150
Advertising Director | SANDY ST E IN B R ONDUM [sstein@gambitweekly.com]
Sales and Marketing Manager
ABIGAIL BO R D E LON ( 504 ) 636 -7427
[abigail.bordelon@gambitweekly.com]
Sales R epresentatives
K E LLY SONNI ER R OD R IGU E Z ( 504 ) 483-3143
[ksonnier@gambitweekly.com]
CHA R LI E THOMAS ( 504 ) 636 -7438 [cthomas@gambitweekly.com]
Traffic Manager | JASON WHITTAK ER P roject Manager | MA R IA VIDACOVICH BOUÉ
Associate Art Director | E MMA DA VIA
Graphic Designer | GAVIN DONALDSON
Contributing Graphic Designers | TIANA WATTS, SCOTT FO R SYTH E , JASMYN E WHIT E , J E FF M E ND E L
BUSINESS & OPERATIONS
Billing Inquiries 1 (225) 388-0185
B E NN E TT G E STON ( 504 ) 483 -3116 [bennett.geston@gambitweekly.com]
ALYSSA HAU P TMAN N ( 504 ) 483 -1123 [alyssa.hauptmann@gambitweekly.com]
LAU RE N CUNNINGHAM ( 504 ) 636 -7426 [lauren.cunningham@theadvocate.com]
[lionel.nosacka@gambitweekly.com]
ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT
Shearer delight
Harry Shearer on flming ‘Spinal Tap II’ in New Orleans
THE 1984 COMEDY ROCKUMENTARY
“THIS IS SPINAL TAP” follows a heavy metal band in decline, going from playing arenas to getting double-billed with a puppet show at an amusement park. The band loses a manager to infighting and countless drummers to deadly accidents, and its record company balks at releasing an album with sexually vulgar cover art. Only a sudden flicker of unexplained success on the charts in Japan keeps the band together.
The film became a cult classic, beloved by comedy fans and musicians who’d paid their dues touring and climbing the ladder to success. It spawned a host of quotable lines, most notably, “These go to 11.” But there have been few updates in the four decades since. Did Spinal Tap leave rock and roll?
“Rock and roll left them,” says comedian Harry Shearer, aka Spinal Tap bassist Derek Smalls.
As it turns out, the band does get back together — in New Orleans. That’s the subject of the sequel rockumentary, “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues,” which officially opens nationally this week. Shearer, who splits time between homes in Los Angeles and New Orleans, will attend a screening and do a Q&A afterward at The Broad Theater on Saturday, Sept. 13. There’s also a performance by a Spinal Tap cover band at the Broadside on Friday, Sept. 12.
The band Spinal Tap was conceived by a group of comedians creating a sketch for a TV show in New York. The team included the movie’s principal stars, Shearer, Rob Reiner, Christopher Guest and Michael McKean, plus Billy Crystal and Martin Mull.
Soon, they decided to make a feature film, in part inspired by “The Last Waltz,” Martin Scorsese’s documentary about The Band’s final concert. Reiner directed “Spinal Tap” and played documentarian Marty DiBergi. The band features Christopher Guest as guitarist Nigel Tufnel and Michael McKean as guitarist David St. Hubbins. The documentary traces the band’s evolution through eras of British pop, including British beat and psychedelia and finally heavy metal.
The film didn’t do well at the box office.
“I’d say it’s a Hollywood story, but it’s better than that,” Shearer says. “When the film opened, it was not a success in theaters. The way it got adopted was it was the first film in home video that made money that wasn’t porn. That’s when we realized we had something.
by Will Coviello |
In the sequel, Spinal Tap has disbanded. Tufnel runs a cheese shop. Smalls opened a glue museum because he had always been told the bassist is the glue that holds a band together. But the band’s legend has lived on. The film includes McCartney talking about its music. Drummer Questlove is queried about joining the ensemble. There also are appearances by Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood. Sir Elton John is enlisted to play “Stonehenge,” a song that infamously derailed the band in the original film.
Christone Ingram
With his blazing guitar work, Clarksdale, Mississippi, native Christone “Kingfish” Ingram is leading a generation of young blues musicians. He released his debut album, “Kingfish,” in 2019, and then won the Best Contemporary Blues Grammy with his follow-up “662” in 2022. His fourth album, “Hard Road,” is due out later in September. A single off the album, “Nothin’ But Your Love,” previews the soul and R&B influences on the album. Buffalo Nichols opens for him at 8 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14, at House of Blues. Tickets $24 and up via ticketmaster.com.
And we didn’t have to take off our clothes to do it.”
The band also went on TV, playing “Saturday Night Live,” and on tour. In 1992, a 26-city tour ended at London’s Royal Albert Hall. There also was a follow-up concert movie released that year.
In 2001, a smaller tour included performances at Carnegie Hall and the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. Shearer later released a Derek Smalls album and did a short tour.
But the roots of the sequel film stretch back to at least 2009.
“When we were doing a concert in 2009 at Glastonbury, we were rehearsing for it in the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles. There’s a big rehearsal center there,” Shearer says. “We were told that on one side would be Michael Jackson rehearsing for his comeback at the O2 arena in London. The other side was Paul McCartney rehearsing for Coachella. We got in the studio, and we hadn’t even picked up our instruments yet and the door opened, and the guy whose face appeared was Paul McCartney. We were speechless. After a pause, he said, ‘Give us a song, fellas.’ ”
The trio dipped into another music film universe, the folk-rock mockumentary “A Mighty Wind.” In it, the three form the band The Folksmen, and for McCartney they played a bluegrass version of the Rolling Stones’ “Start Me Up.”
Spinal Tap then comes to New Orleans to do its comeback concert.
Shearer says he’d love to take credit for the film being shot in New Orleans, but he can’t. As director, Reiner made that choice, and much of the filming took place in a studio in Chalmette, as well as other locations around town.
Recurring characters include Fran Drescher as record label representative Bobbi Flekman and June Chadwick as St. Hubbins’ girlfriend Jeanine Pettibone.
The film includes some of Spinal Tap’s memorable songs, and there’s also new music. One new song is in the film, and there are several new tunes that will be released on a companion album.
The band stayed in its heavy metal niche, but it’s not been untouched all these years. The song “Sex Farm” now has a rap interlude.
“That’s our only concession to modernity,” Shearer says.
On Sept. 12, local fans also can hear cover band Hello Cleveland. The name comes from a line Smalls shouts in the first film, but he’s not affiliated with the group. The band features Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes’ members Marc Paradis on guitar, Dave Pomerleau on bass, and Josh Paxton on keyboards. Beth Patterson plays bouzouki, and Mike Barras has dared to be a Spinal Tap drummer.
For movie tickets, visit thebroadtheater.com. For concert tickets, visit broadsidenola.com.
Mark Winters
Texas-based musician (and literal rocket scientist) Mark Winters writes pop-oriented rock and blues that’s often optimistic and uplifting. He released his latest album, “Acoustic Me,” in May and is now on his “Good Vibes Highway” tour. Winters plays The Den at Howlin’ Wolf at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10. South Louisiana chamber-folk band Minos the Saint also performs. Tickets are $13.29 via thehowlinwolf.com.
‘Dear Evan Hansen’
In the musical, Evan Hansen is an awkward teenager who struggles with social anxiety. He gets caught in a difficult misunderstanding when he inadvertently suggests he was close friends with a classmate who committed suicide. Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts presents the show at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12, and Saturday, Sept. 13, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14, and the show runs through Sept. 28. Tickets $43-$57 via rivertowntheaters.com.
Cristina Mariani
Austin comedian Cristina Mariani has a quiet delivery, sharp insights and a provocative dark streak that has garnered her plenty of views online
PHOTO BY SCOTT THRELKELD / THE TIMES- PICAYUNE
Harry Shearer (left) stars as Derek Smalls in the New Orleans-shot rockumentary sequel ‘This is Spinal Tap II: The End Continues.’
PHOTO PROVIDED BY BLEECKER STREET
Meet JaredBatiste
Iwas born andraisedinNew Orleans, and like so many in this city,the first question I of tenhearis, “Where didyou go to school?” Forme, that answer begins at St.Augustine High School,followedbyDelgado Comm unit y Collegeand LSUHealthNew Orleans.
My journeywithManning Family Children’s beganwhenIwas just 17 yearsold through thehospital’sSummerWorkerProgram.My first jobwas workinginthe Ambulatory Care Clinic form ultiplespecialties whereI helped admitpatientstothe hospital andthe ER .I went on to work as an urse tech in theERand eventually became aregisteredn urse working in dialysis.Now IhavemyDoctorate in Nursing whereIamapracticingn urse practitioner in nephrology andIamthe Senior Director of RenalSer vices.
Healthcare hasbeenpar tofmylifefrom an earlyage—thanksinnosmall part to my mother,who hasworkedatthe hospital for 43 years. Herdedicationinspiredme, and theexposuretomedicinethrough hercareer andmyown summer experiencesshapedthe path I’ve taken. ThemomentIknewIwanted to become an urse wasduringthatsummer worker program, andIamgratefulevery day that Ichose this calling.
Tell us aboutManning Family Children’s PediatricDialysis& Kidney Care Program
As thelargest andmostexperienced groupof pediatrickidneyand genitourinar yspecialists in theregion, ournephrology department sees patients from alloverthe Gulf Coast, nationally andinternationally.Weare home to theonlyJoint Commission-accreditedand CMS-approved pediatricdialysisprogram in thestate of Louisianaand providethe most advanced,mostefectiveand leastinvasive treatments availabletoday.Wecarefor children from prenatal diagnosisand infancy to earlychildhood,adolescence andfinally transitional care into earlyadulthood.We strive notonlytoprovide thebestcare, butto also buildtrustingrelationships with patients andtheir families
Meet Ou rKrewe ManningFamilyChildren’s
JaredA .Batiste,DNP
NU RS EP RACTITIO NE R, SE NI OR DI RE CTOR OF RE NA LS ERVI CE S
Questions&Answers
What ’s thefirstthing youdowhen youwakeup?
Th an kG od fo ra noth er da ya nd kiss my wife an dd au ghte r.
What ’s onefun fact aboutyou?
I’ve co mp lete d5h alf-ma rath on s.
What wasitlikeworking at the hospital during HurricaneKatrina?
As urre al mo me nt fil le dwithfee li ng sof un ea si ness .N ot fu ll yu nd erstan di ng wh at wa s ha pp en in ga ro un dthe city.Wewou ld he ar storiesb ut co ul dn ot de ci ph er fa ct from fic ti on
Th ed ay we evac uate dthe enti re hosp ital wa ited in th em ai nl ob by unti lthe first gl im pse of su nl ig ht.S ee in gthe deva statio no ncewe evac uate dwas mi nd-b og gl in gb ecau se th e storiesd id notd oa ny justicewhe nsee in gthe ac tu al tu rm oi l.
As ad ia lysisn urse Ib ecam ed rawn to th e co ntin uity of ca re an drap po rt th at is fo rm ed with th ep atie ntsa nd th ei rfam il iesthrou gh out th ecou rse of th ei rren al jo urney.
What ’s onething youwishthe communityknewabout thehospital’s dialysis program?
Th eresil ie nceofo ur am azin gp atie nts, th efam il iesa nd ou r ne ph ro lo gy te am .O ur ne ph ro lo gy prog ra m is growin g, an dwea re ma ki ng positi ve im pa cts in th el ives of ou rp atie nts, with in th ecom mu nity, th ro ugh outLou isia na an d ne ig hb orin gs tates. Th e
p ro gram brin gs fu lfi ll me nt.B ei ng ap ar tofthe jo urneyf ro mkid neyd isea se to re ce iv in ga ki dn ey tran sp la nt is rewa rd in g. Th es mi lesofo ur pati ents brig hten yo ur da y.
What ’s onememoryofyourtimeat ManningFamilyChildren’sthathas stoodout?
On ecorem em or yiswal ki ng th eseexa ct ha ll s as akid .Irecentl yran ac ross atea mm em be r wh owas su pp osed to be at on ea re aofthe hosp ital buti ns te ad wa sturne da ro un d.
My ve ry first we ek wo rkin gh ereIwas at th e frontofthe hosp ital buti ns te ad of retu rn in gI en de du patthe ba ck wh erethe cl in ic swere lo cate d. As Irefl ec t, th osesam eh al ls ha ve nowl ed me ba ck to th ec li ni ca re awhe re Ifi rs t star te d25yea rs ag o.
OPENING GAMBIT
NEW ORLEANS NEWS + VIEWS
There’s no such thing as a “deal with fascists.” That’s just fascism you can live with.
THUMBS UP/ THUMBS DOWN
WWOZ supporters stepped up in a big way to help the cherished New Orleans radio station after Congress in July rescinded federal funding for public broadcasting, leaving a $400,000 hole in WWOZ’s budget. Around 1,800 people have since donated to WWOZ, and the station has raised more than $412,000, which will be used for things like equipment upkeep and maintenance and to cover broadcast and internet music licensing fees.
Trump regime may launch military occupation of New Orleans
PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP SEPT. 3
SAID HE IS CONSIDERING deploying the military in New Orleans as part of his nation-wide push targeting cities with large immigrant and Black populations.
Toups’ Family Meal, chef Isaac and Amanda Toups’ initiative to feed local kids, hit its goal of delivering 70,000 meals this summer. Each week this summer, the couple, the staff at Toups’ Meatery and volunteers prepared and delivered meals to food-insecure families, helping to feed kids that could have gone without enough food during the school break. Although they have wrapped for the summer, Family Meal is still in need of donations to help pay for food and supplies.
According to the Associated Press, Trump, a convicted felon with a long history of racism, said Wednesday “we’re making a determination now, do we go to Chicago, or we go to a place like New Orleans, where we have a great governor, Jeff Landry, who wants us to come in and straighten out a very nice section of this country that’s become quite, you know, quite tough, quite bad.”
None of what Trump said is true, of course. Crime rates are low in New Orleans, and have been for quite some time. Additionally, the spike in crime the city did see during COVID was part of a broader national increase in crime.
deserve safety and stability, not to be used as pawns in partisan theater.”
Trump has already sent troops into two cities: Los Angeles and the District of Columbia. Both cities have Black women mayors. Although a federal judge recently ruled Trump’s temporary occupation of Los Angeles illegal, his siege on the nation’s capital continues.
That’s in part because anti-Black politicians have for decades refused to grant the majority-Black District of Columbia statehood and thus granting the federal government much greater control over the city than it otherwise would have.
For several weeks Trump has been threatening to invade Chicago, though his statement Tuesday could mean he’s reconsidering that plan.
THE NUMBER OF TIMES NEW ORLEANS MAYOR LATOYA CANTRELL DENOUNCED PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP OVER HIS THREAT TO SEND NATIONAL TROOPS INTO TO THE CITY, AS OF PRESS TIME.
Cantrell instead issued a public “thank you” note, praising the federal government for its longstanding partnerships in local policing but did not address Trump’s latest power grab. Other local leaders and public officials, however, swiftly condemned the idea of a federal takeover as politically motivated and unnecessary, as crime is at a 50-year low.
fall event are you most looking forward to?
The Trump administration’s cuts to federal funding for solar energy initiatives has pushed Louisiana solar company PosiGen to lay off more than 150 local workers and cease most of its operations. The move also has left homeowners with long-term agreements with PosiGen in the lurch.
City Council Vice President Helena Moreno, who is running for mayor, slammed Trump, arguing it “is about scare tactics and politicizing public safety ... We cannot allow this and I will fight to prevent any federal takeover of New Orleans.”
State Sen. Royce Duplessis, who is also running for mayor wrote in an Instagram post “President Trump’s suggestion that he may deploy federal troops to New Orleans is reckless, politically motivated, an abuse of presidential power, and a betrayal of our Constitution. Our residents
Illinois’ Gov. JB Pritzker on Tuesday denounced the likely illegal invasion plan and called on Chicago residents to stand vigilant against any effort to occupy the city.
It’s unlikely Trump will see much resistance from Landry. Landry is one of Trump’s most vocal cheerleaders and has worked hard to cultivate relationships with his leader’s sons. Like Trump, Landry favors a more authoritarian style of government and has sought unsuccessfully to change the state’s constitution to grant him sweep powers.
John Stanton
23.5%
Louisiana National Guard Airmen Callihan, center, and Moss, left, watch traffic drive through their checkpoint in the French Quarter on February 5.
PHOTO BY JAVIER GALLEGOS / THE TIMES- PICAYUNE
@GambitBlake | askblake@gambitweekly.com
Hey Blake, I came across a poster in an antiques store for something called the Great New Orleans Marathon, held in January 1984. What do you know about it? What was the route?
Dear reader,
THERE WERE HIGH HOPES FOR THE GREAT NEW ORLEANS MARATHON when it was announced in August 1982. The city was abuzz with plans for the 1984 Louisiana World Exposition, known as the World’s Fair, and the marathon, planned for January 1983, was designed to lead up to the six-month fair.
“It will be tied into the overall international prestige of the city,” Mayor Ernest “Dutch” Morial said in a TimesPicayune/States-Item article.
The marathon was just one piece of a four-day event that included a runner’s expo, food festival and clinics on health and fitness. Members of Pete Fountain’s Half-Fast Walking Club would entertain at the race’s start and finish, where the Neville Brothers were also scheduled to perform.
“We are including the highlights of our city in terms of its food and its charm,” said fitness expert Mackie Shilstone, who at the time was chairman of the Mayor’s Council on Fitness and Health.
The marathon began at Canal Street and the Mississippi River, running 26.2 miles before ending at what was then called Place de France, site of the Joan of Arc statue, which was at the time located near the Rivergate, now
the site of Caesars casino. The course encompassed parts of the French Quarter, Lakefront, Mid-City and Uptown, passing by City Park, the New Orleans Museum of Art, Audubon Park and the Superdome.
The Times-Picayune reported some 2,000 runners from throughout the U.S. and several foreign countries competed. A total of $20,000 in proceeds from entry fees and t-shirt sales was donated to the New Orleans Recreation Department.
A second marathon took place in January 1984. The following year, the marathon was renamed the Great Marathon 4 New Orleans, with a sponsorship from WWL-TV Channel 4.
Later that year, there were plans announced to merge the marathon with the Mardi Gras Marathon, staged by the New Orleans Track Club since the 1960s. That deal fell apart, and the Great Marathon concept was dropped by 1986.
XAVIER’S ROOTS DATE TO 1915, when the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament opened a high school on Magazine Street known as Xavier Prep, now St. Katharine Drexel Preparatory School. Mother Drexel was the founder of the religious order whose mission was to serve Black people and Native Americans. Xavier remains America’s only both historically Black and Catholic university.
In September 1925, the college was established. In 1929, Xavier purchased a tract of undeveloped land near Palmetto and Pine streets to expand its campus.
A 1952 Xavier graduate, Norman C. Francis, was named its president in 1968. His legendary 47 years in the position were marked by tremendous growth for the institution, which became a leader in the STEM, pharmacy and health sciences fields. Xavier was hit hard by Hurricane Katrina’s federal levee failures and underwent $130 million in renovations.
Currently led by C. Reynold Verret, last year the university announced the Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine, with plans to establish a medical school with Ochsner Health. It will be the only HBCU medical school in the Gulf South when it opens.
BLAKE VIEW
Billy Ray Hobley of the Harlem Globetrotters bounces his way through the VIP Obstacle course at the 1984 World’s Fair.
PHOTO BY BRYAN S. BERTEAUX / THE TIMES- PICAYUNE
Th e gh os ts o f th e pa st c om ma nd on e mo re p er fo rm an ce .. .
S e p t e m b e r 1 0 - 2 1 www.t wt he at re no la .c om Se as on S po
rf or ma nc es at t he low er dep th s th eatr e
NEW ORLEANS FESTIVALS, CONCERTS, and more 2025 Fal l
Listings include everything from Aqua Mob’s latest water ballet horror show to the Human
Chicken Festival, Crescent City Blues & BBQ
performances, touring Broadway shows, food
The concert preview includes bands coming
the Smoothie King Center, and the first local edition of Skankfest features more than 100 comedians in a festival environment at Mardi
Louisiana Renaissance Festival in Hammond to Many festivals and events will release more information about lineups and attractions. Check Gambit’s weekly listings and bestofneworleans.com for weekly previews and highlights.
organizations, performing arts companies, museums, radio stations and arts groups and more share information about upcoming events, seasons, activities, membership and volunteer opportunities at the free event. At the New Orleans Museum of Art. Visit culturenola.org for details.
SEPT. 10-21
‘Out Cry: The TwoCharacter Play’
In this late and more abstract work from Tennessee Williams, two actors, Felice and Clare, are abandoned by their company and create a play within the play. The Tennessee Williams Theatre Company of New Orleans presents the drama at the Lower Depths Theatre at Loyola University New Orleans. Find tickets and information at twtheatrenola.com.
tries to hold on to her dream. Jefferson Performing Arts Society presents the show at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center. Find tickets and information at jpas.org.
SEPT. 12-28
‘Dear Evan Hansen’
In the award-winning drama, a bullied and depressed teen finds himself in a complicated situation after inadvertently suggesting he was close friends with a student who has committed suicide. Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts presents the drama. Find tickets and information at rivertowntheaters.com.
SEPT. 13
L.O.C.A.L.S. Fest
The event features local music, food and craft vendors in Armstrong Park. Visit localsfestnola.com for details.
Cirque du Soleil’s ‘OVO’ is at Smoothie King Center Sept. 18-21.
PROVIDED P HOTO BY MARIE - ANDRÉE LEMIRE
SEPT. 13
Krewe du Vieux Kick-off Party
The satirical Carnival krewe holds a concert and fundraiser with music by CosmosKnots and Gitkin. There’s also a silent auction. At the Broadside. Find information at broadsidenola.com.
SEPT. 14
25-Hour Play Festival
The festival randomly assembles writing teams to each create a 10-minute play from scratch in 24 hours. The works are presented at the conclusion. The show is at 8 p.m. Sunday at Marigny Opera House. Find tickets and information via intramuraltheater.org.
SEPT. 16
Moth GrandSLAM
The Moth hosts monthly open-mic storytelling contests with different themes throughout the year. The winners face-off in the GrandSLAM at Le Petit Theatre. Find tickets and information at themoth.org.
SEPT. 18-20
Batture Contemporary
The new music festival highlights work by composers and performers based in Louisiana. There are performances by the Versipel Collective and the Quartetto Obrigado saxophone quartet, as well as workshops and
open rehearsals. At New Marigny Theatre. Find information at batturecontemporary.com or versipel.org.
SEPT. 18-21
‘OVO’
The popular Cirque du Soleil show dives into the colorful and busy world of insects, as a fly and a ladybug fall in love. The acrobats animate butterflies, spiders and more in a spectacle full of acrobatics and aerial work and a Brazilian-inspired score. At Smoothie King Center. Find tickets via smoothiekingcenter.com.
SEPT. 19-21
Carden International Circus
The circus features aerialists, acrobats, elephants and other animals and more, and there’s face-painting and inflatables. The traveling circus hits Gonzales and Thibodaux before these dates at the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner, and it continues to Bay St. Louis. Find tickets and information at spectacularcircus.com.
SEPT. 19-29
‘Critical Mass’ Deb Margolin’s drama explores the impact of criticism, as a critic shares their opinion on drama and much more. Intramural Theater presents the show at Marigny Opera House. Find tickets via intramuraltheater.org.
SEPT. 20
Tailgate Fest
Urban South Brewery hosts an all-day tailgating event with big screens to watch LSU, Tulane, Southeastern, the UL Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns and more. There’s also beer releases, an LSU alumni band, a kids’ area with a bounce house and games and more. Visit urbansouth.com for information.
SEPT. 20
Crescent City Connection
Bridge Run
The 6K run takes participants from near Oakwood Center on the West Bank to the Warehouse District. There’s a post-race party with live music, food and drinks on Fulton Street. Visit ccc10k.com to register and for information.
SEPT. 20
NOLA East Festival
Friends of Joe W. Brown Park present a daytime neighborhood festival in the park with music and food and craft vendors. Visit friendsofjoewbrownpark.org for details.
SEPT. 20-21
Westbank Heritage Food & Music Festival
The music lineup includes Mia X and the Original Pinettes Brass Band, Shamarr Allen, HaSizzle, Choppa,
Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. & The Zydeco Twisters. At the Alario Center. Visit westbankfest.com for details.
SEPT. 23-25
‘It’s Just Magic’ Magician and clown Calvin Kai Ku presents a solo magic with illusions, silly antics and more. At Big Couch. Find tickets at bigcouchnola.com.
SEPT. 24
Not Dead Yet: John Cleese and the Holy Grail
John Cleese helped immortalize the Monty Python version of King Arthur’s quest to find the Holy Grail by taunting knights in a French accent, playing the Black Knight and giving suspect testimony in a witch trial. Cleese hosts a screening of “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” and answers audience questions. At the Mahalia Jackson Theater. Find tickets at mahaliajacksontheater.com.
SEPT. 25-28
International Arts Festival
The festival features live music, panel discussions and events. There’s a jazz concert featuring Donald Harrison Jr. and Gerald Albright on Sept. 26 at The Fillmore and an event with Irvin Mayfield and Estelle on Sept. 27 at the Orpheum Theater. There’s more of a festival atmosphere in Congo Square on
11
‘Back to the Future: The Musical” is at Saenger Theatre Dec. 9-14.
PROVIDED PHOTO BY EVAN ZIMMERMAN
Multimillion Dollar Proposed Plan to Pay Sexual Abuse Claims inthe Archdiocese of NewOrleans Bankruptcy
Your rights could be impacted if you have sexualabuseclaims against Catholic parishes, schools, or ministries. File yourclaim by December 2, 2025.
Th eR oman Catholic Church of th eA rc hd ioces eo fN ew Orlean s( “ Archdioces e ”) an d1 57 affiliate dC at hol ic organizations (“ Catholic Entities ”) ha ve agreed to compensate peopl ew ho clai mt he yw er es exually abused by clergy or church personnel.
Th eC at hol ic Entitie si nclude Catholic parishes ,s chools ,a cademies, Catholic Charitie so rg anizations ,a nd ot he rm inistries. They plan to file fo rb ankruptcy if at leas tt wo-t hi rd so fs exua la bus ec laimants wh ov ot es uppor tt he Join tP lan. Ac omplet el is ti sa vailable at ww w. NOLAc hur chclaims.com or by callin g1 -877-476-4389.
What is th eJ oint Plan ?
AS ettlement Tr us tw ill be created to pa ys exua la bus ec laimants .M or em one ym ay be adde df ro mt he sale of Church propert yo r additiona li nsurance settlement sf ro ma non-settling insure r. Th eA rc hd ioces eh as also aske dt he Cour tt oa pprove separate settlement agreements with certain insurers that woul da dd millions of dollars to th eTrust .T hes ea greements will onl yt ak ee ff ect if th eC our t confirms th eJ oint Plan an da pprove st he settlement motion .T he Join tP la na ls oi nclude sr ules fo rh ow mone yw ill be distributed an d protections fo rc hi ldren. If th eJ oint Plan is approved, you cannot su et he Archdiocese, Catholic Entities, or al lb ut one of thei ri nsurer s in th ef uture. If th eJ oint Plan is approved, it will bloc ka ny future claims agains ta ny insuranc ec ompany excep tt he non-settlin g insurer—even under Louisiana’s“ direct action” la wt ha tn ormally allows lawsuits agains tt he m.
Wh oi se ligible to re ceive money?
If you experienced sexua la bus ei nvolving th eA rc hdi oces eo ra ny of th eC at hol ic Entities, you ma yb ee ligible to receive mone yf ro m th eS ettlement Tr ust. If you alread yf ile da nA bus eP roof of Clai mi nt hi sb ankruptcy cas eo rf ile da nd serve da lawsui ta gainst th e Archdioces eo ra ny of th eC at hol ic Entitie sb yA ugus t1 4, 2025, your clai ma lread yi nclude st he Catholic Entities—you do not need to file again.
If you ha ve not ye tf ile da clai mo rl awsuit agains tt he Catholic Entities, yo um us td os ob y Decembe r2 ,2 025 at 11 :59 p. m. Centra l Ti me to preserve your ri ght to compensation. Missing th ed eadlin em ay result in th ep ermanent loss of your ri ght to receive mone y fro mt he Settlement Tr ust.
“Sexua la buse” include su nwante ds exua lb ehavio r, contact ,c omments, or an yb ehavior—whet he ro rn ot you realized it wa sa bus ea t th et ime .
Ho wt of ile ac laim ,v ot eo nt he Plan ,o ro bject ?
File ac laim onlin ea tw ww.NOLAc hur chclaims.com ,d ownloa da clai mf or mf ro mt he website ,o rc al l1 -877-476-4389 to request one by mail. If you file ac laim by Octobe r1 5, 2025, you ma yv ot et oa ccep to rr eject th eJ oint Plan .I fy ou file ac laim afte rO ctober 15 bu tb efor eD ecembe r2 ,2 025 at 11 :5 9p .m .C entral Ti me ,y ou will not be able to vote, but you ma yb ee ntitle dt oc ompensatio ni ft he Join tP la ni sa pproved. Yo um ay also object to th eP la nt ot el lt he Cour tw ha ty ou don’tl ik ea bout it. Th eC our th as se ta he arin gt o consider whet he rt oc onfir mo ft he Join tP lan.
Ke yD eadlines : Vo te by Octobe r2 9, 2025 .F ile objections by Octobe r3 0, 2025 .C onfirmatio nh earin gb egins: November 12, 2025 , at 9:00 a.m .C entral Ti me
Th ec as ei sc alle d In re :T he Roma nC atholic Church of th eA rc hdioces eo fN ew Orleans (Bankr.E .D .L a.). More details ar ea vailable a tw ww.NOLAc hur chclaims.com or by callin gt oll-fre e1 -877-476-4389.
Your informatio nw il lb ek ep tp rivate .
Sept. 28, with music by Steel Pulse, Luciano, Alexey Marti, Corey Henry and more. Visit iafnola.com for details.
SEPT. 25- OCT. 11
‘Wendy, Darling: An Aquatic Retelling of The Shining’ There’s “redrum” in the pool as Aqua Mob adapts Steven King’s “The Shining” into a water ballet horror. The Torrence family checks into a hotel on Tulane Avenue, where they encounter supernatural events. There’s an original score by Bomb Pulse and puppets from the Mudlark Puppeteers. At the Midtown Hotel. Find information at aquamobnola.com.
SEPT. 26
Hoda Kotb
The former WWL-TV anchor and longtime host of NBC’s “Today” show is on tour with her latest book “Hoda Kotb: Jump and Find Joy.” Tickets include a copy of the book. At The Joy Theater. Find information at thejoytheater.com.
SEPT. 26-27
BlackAmericana Fest
The celebration of Black roots music
returns for its second year. There are three stages, and headliners include Carolina Chocolate Drops member Dom Flemons, The Suffers, Sunny War, Leyla McCalla, Bruce “Sunpie” Barnes and the Louisiana Sunspots, Dusky Waters and more. At The Broadside. Find tickets and information at blackamericanafest.com.
SEPT. 27-28
‘Prodigal Son’
New Orleans Ballet Theatre presents the premiere of choreographer Oliver Halkowich’s take on the biblical tale. The program also includes “Cluedo,” based on the board game Clue, choreographed by Julia Adam. At the Civic Theater. Find tickets via neworleansballettheatre.com.
SEPT. 29-30
Musaica: Past Reverberations
The Musaica Chamber Ensemble performs works by Brahms, Darius Milhaud and Corrado Saglietti. At Metairie Ridge Presbyterian Church on Sept. 29 and St. Charles Avenue Baptist Church on Sept. 30. Find tickets and information at musaica.org.
Kai Ku’s solo magic show is at Big Couch on Sept. 23-25.
Fal l EVENTS PREVIEW
Aqua Mob presents ‘Wendy, Darling: An Aquatic Retelling of The Shining’ at the Midtown Hotel on Sept. 25Oct. 11.
October
OCT. 1
Bachtoberfest
Andre Bohren and the Electric Yat Quartet celebrate the music of Johann Sebastian Bach. There’s food and a cash bar. Presented by the Musical Arts Society of New Orleans at the Margaret Place Hotel. Find tickets via masno.org.
OCT. 2-19
‘The Lehman Trilogy’
Adapted from Stefano Massini’s epic work, the drama follows three brothers from Bavaria who immigrate to the U.S. and go into business, eventually building the financial giant Lehman Brothers, which imploded in the 2008 financial crisis. The drama explores what it takes to build a fortune. At Le Petit Theatre. Find tickets at lepetittheatre.com.
OCT. 2-17
‘Frankenstein’
Former NOLA Project member Pete McElligott created stage adaptations of “Dracula” and “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” for the company. Now they premiere his version of “Frankenstein.” The production is outdoors at Greenway Station. Find tickets via nolaproject.com.
OCT. 3-5
Gretna Heritage Festival
The festival’s music lineup includes Sam Hunt, Collective Soul, Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue, Brothers Osborne, Natasha Bedingfield, JJ Grey & Mofro and many more. The festival features several stages, as well as Italian, Asian and Latin Villages and a German beer garden. There also are amusement rides and
more along the downtown blocks of Gretna. Visit gretnafest.com for tickets and information.
OCT. 3-4
NOLA Coffee Festival
The annual coffee industry trade show has a consumers’ day on Oct. 4 with free samples, info on brewing and roasting and equipment from vendors. At the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner. Find information at nolacoffeefestival.com.
OCT. 4
Swampus Returns
The Krewe of Krampus launches a Halloween walking parade that’s open to individual marchers, krewes, dance groups and more. The route has yet to be announced. Visit swampusreturns. com to register and for information.
OCT. 4
Bluesberry Festival
The festival brings art vendors and live music to Bogue Falaya Park in Covington. Performers include Casey James, Kevin & The Blues Groovers, Julian Primeaux, JJ Muggler, Jared Daws and more. Find tickets at thebluesberryfest.com.
OCT. 4-5
Fried Chicken Festival
The festival’s music lineup includes Lloyd, Blanco Brown, G. Love & Special Sauce, Sugarhill Gang and more. The festival has two music stages, more than 40 food vendors and a car show. At the lakefront near UNO. Find tickets and information at friedchickenfestival.com.
OCT. 4-5
Fall Garden Festival
The New Orleans Botanical Garden hosts its fall festival with plant P. 17
PROVIDED PHOTO BY JAVIER HERNANDEZ
sales, arts and crafts, cooking demonstrations, educational programs and more. Master gardeners are on hand to answer questions. Visit neworleanscitypark.org/event/fall-gardenfestival for details.
OCT. 5
C5 Carnival
All Gas No Brakes and Channel 5 founder Andrew Callaghan presents a show with documentary clips about controversial or overlooked subjects, plus music and more. At Civic Theater. Find tickets via civicnola.com.
OCT. 7
Beilman, Finckle and Han
Violinist Benjamin Beilman, cellist
David Finckel and pianist Wu Han perform the complete Schubert piano trios. Presented by Friends of Music at Tulane University’s Dixon Hall. Find tickets and information at friendsofmusic.org.
OCT. 7-12
‘Kimberly Akimbo’
In the musical, a lonely teenage girl has a condition that makes her look like an old woman, but she still wants to live a full, adventurous life. The touring Broadway production comes to Saenger Theatre. Find tickets at saengernola.com.
OCT. 10-11
Abita Fall Fest
The music lineup includes Anders Osborne, Johnny Sketch & the Dirty
Polka Band and more. On Friday nights and Saturdays at Deutsches Haus on Bayou St. John. Visit oktoberfestnola.com for details.
OCT. 10-19
Crescent City Chamber Music Festival
The festival marks its 10th anniversary with performances by the Manhattan Chamber Players, Escher Quartet, Caity Gyorgy, Mark Limacher and members of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. The schedule includes many free concerts, from Tulane’s Dixon Hall to Trinity Episcopal Church and Urban South Brewery. Find tickets and information at the crescentcitychambermusicfestival.com.
OCT. 11
Japan Fest
Notes, Amanda Shaw and the Cute Guys, The Iguanas, Dash Rip Rock, Logan Michael, Creole String Beans and more. The festival also has a wine garden, food vendors, a kids’ area with inflatables, an art market and more at Abita Springs Trailhead Park. Find tickets and information on abitafallfest.com.
OCT. 10-12
Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival
The music lineup features Bobby Rush, Leo Nocentelli, Tab Benoit, Devon Allman’s Blues Summit with Larry McCray, Jimmy Hall and Sierra Green, and more. There also are food vendors offering different styles of barbecue, plus an art market. The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation presents the free festival in Lafayette Square. Find information at jazzandheritage.org.
OCT. 10-12
Gentilly Fest
The free festival features music, a kids’ village, vendors and more in Pontchartrain Park. Visit gentillyfestival.com for information.
OCT. 10-11, 17-18, 24-25
Oktoberfest
Deutsches Haus hosts its annual celebration of German culture, with German beers, food, oompah music, chicken dancing, a market and more. The music lineup features The Brats, Prost, Wurst Case Scenario, The Klaberheads, Rocky’s Holy Schnitzel
There’s everything from traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and martial arts to anime and cosplay at the annual festival. There also is plenty of Japanese food. Presented by the New Orleans Museum of Art and Japan Society of New Orleans inside and outside the museum. Find information at noma.org.
OCT. 11
Dance Theater of Harlem
The company presents work by George Balanchine, William Forsythe, Jodie Gates and Robert Garland. The New Orleans Ballet Association presents the show at the Mahalia Jackson Theater. Find tickets via nobadance.com.
OCT. 11-12
Que Pasa Fest
The festival celebrates Latin Culture during Hispanic Heritage Month. The event is in Lafreniere Park in Metairie. The music lineup and vendors are TBA. Find information at quepasafest.org.
OCT. 14
‘Twilight’ in Concert
The first film in the vampire romance saga of Bella and Edward screens with a live band. The 12-piece ensemble plays rock to orchestral compositions. At Mahalia Jackson Theater. Find tickets via mahaliajacksontheater.com.
OCT. 16
MasterChef All-Stars Live!
The live event features Michael Leonard, winner of Season 14 of the Fox network cooking show, and Gerron Hurt, winner of Season 9, competing in cooking challenges, sharing tips and taking questions. There also will be appearances from competitors on Season 15. At Mahalia
Jackson Theater. Find tickets via mahaliajacksontheater.com.
OCT. 16-19
Ghosts in the Oaks
City Park’s Halloween event includes trick-or-treating, rides in the amusement park, kids’ activities and more. Visit neworleanscitypark.org for tickets and information.
OCT. 17-18
HUMP! Film Fest
Author and advice columnist Dan Savage’s amateur porn film fest presents a new slate of short films exploring a diverse array of sex, sexualities, kinks, fetishes, body types and more. At The Broad Theater. Find tickets and information at humpfilmfest.com.
OCT. 17-19
NOLA Funk Fest
The music lineup features Dumpstaphunk, George Porter Jr. and Runnin’ Pardners, Master P with the Soul Rebels, The Rumble, Galactic with Irma Thomas and Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph, Jon Cleary and the Absolute Monster Gentlemen and more, as well as some all-star jams. At Spanish Plaza. Find tickets via nolafunkfest.com.
OCT. 17-19
Boo at the Zoo
The annual Halloween celebration at the Audubon Zoo features trick-ortreating, and there’s a haunted house and spooky photo opportunities. Find tickets at audubonnatureinstitute.org.
OCT. 17-19
‘As Long as the Earth Lasts’ Nicholls State University professor John Doucet’s drama tells the story of the Great October Storm of 1893. The hurricane left 2,000 dead and destroyed the community of Cheniere Caminada, Louisiana. Jefferson Performing Arts Society presents the show at Westwego Performing Arts Theatre. Find info at jpas.org.
OCT. 18
Bingo Loco
Part bingo game, part rave, the interactive event has games, danceoffs, prizes, DJs and more. At The Joy Theater. Find tickets via thejoytheater.com.
OCT. 18
Louisiana SPCA Carnival
The Louisiana SPCA holds its carnival-themed fundraiser with music by The Lost Bayou Ramblers, games, a kids zone, food and drink vendors,
P. 15
The Rolling Elvi rolled in the 2024 Krewe of Boo parade.
PHOTO BY SCOTT THRELKELD / THE TIMES - PICAYUNE
Fal l EVENTS PREVIEW
adoptable animals, a silent auction and more. At its campus at 1700 Mardi Gras Blvd. Visit louisianaspca. org for tickets and information.
OCT. 19
Nocturne XXII
Pianist Vadym Kholodenko performs works by Liszt and Rachmaninoff at the concert fundraiser for the Musical Arts Society of New Orleans. The gala includes a reception and seated dinner at the RitzCarlton. Visit masno.org for tickets and information.
OCT. 20
Artivist Awards
Americana songwriter Dusky Waters performs at the Artivist Awards, which recognize locals who are working for change. Proceeds help pay artists and educators to develop a learning curriculum. The event is at Beanlandia. Find tickets and information at trinitycitycomics.org.
OCT. 23-27
New Orleans Film Festival
The festival’s slate of more than 130 films includes features, short films, documentaries and more. The opening night film is Sean O’Malley’s “Michalopoulos: The Art of Celebration.” Screenings are at venues including The Broad Theater, Prytania Theatre, Mahalia Jackson Theater and more, and the festival’s virtual component will make many films available online through Nov. 2. Visit neworleansfilmsociety.org for details.
OCT. 24
‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ On the 20th anniversary of the release of “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” this show features clips from the animated series and a score performed by an orchestra. At Mahalia Jackson Theater. Find tickets and information at mahaliajacksontheater.com.
OCT. 24-25
Brews and Boos
City Park’s Carousel Gardens Amusement Park goes adults only for this party with a variety of beers and unlimited rides. Costumes encouraged. Find information at neworleanscitypark.org.
OCT. 24-25
Krewe of Boo
The Carnival-style Halloween parade features floats, costumed marching groups, bands, throws and more. The parade is Saturday, Oct. 25,
and there also are numerous krewe events, including a French Quarter second line, the Zombie Run, a costume party and more. Find membership and event ticket information at kreweofboo.com.
OCT. 24, 25, 30
‘Dracula’
New Orleans Ballet Theatre presents choreographer Oliver Halkowich’s take on Bram Stoker’s novel, in which Jonathan Harker travels to Count Dracula’s castle. At Orpheum Theater. Find tickets via neworleansballettheatre.com.
OCT. 24-NOV. 9
‘Gypsy’
The musical about burlesque dancer Gypsy Rose Lee tells her story from growing up with a pushy stage mom to becoming famous. It features the songs “Everything is Coming Up Roses” and “Let Me Entertain You.” At Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts. Visit rivertowntheaters.com for tickets and information.
OCT. 25
Treme Fall Festival
The 10th anniversary event features a second line honoring Big Chief Victor Harris, as well as live music, an art market, food vendors and more. The music lineup includes the Herlin Riley Quartet with Kermit Ruffins, Shamarr Allen’s Ratchet Jazz, Original Pinettes Brass Band, Leroy Jones, Shannon Powell and more. On the grounds of St. Augustine Catholic Church. Find information at tremefest.org.
OCT. 25
Tour Da Parish
Cyclists can tour scenic areas of St. Bernard Parish on routes ranging from 10 to 51 miles, all ending at the Los Islenos Heritage Site. the St. Bernard Chamber of Commerce sponsors the event. Find information at stbernardchamber.org.
OCT. 26
‘Cinderella’
World Ballet presents its version of the classic tale with Broadwaystyle ballet choreographed by Marina Kesler, with lavish sets and costumes and more. At Orpheum Theater. Find tickets and information via orpheumnola.net.
OCT. 26
‘The Fall of the House of Usher’ The 1928 silent film version of the Edgar Allan Poe story screens with a live score by Jeff Pagano,
by the Delachaise Ensemble. At Marigny Opera House. Find tickets via marignyoperahouse.org.
OCT. 29
‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’
In the cult classic film, a stranded couple seeks refuge in the home of the bizarre Dr. Frank-N-Furter, and he introduces them to a host of strange friends and avocations. This screening will be attended by Nell Campbell, who plays Columbia in the film. Costumes and audience participation are encouraged. At the Mahalia Jackson Theater. Find tickets at mahaliajacksontheater.com.
OCT. 29
‘Nosferatu’
The 1922 classic silent film version of the Dracula story screens with a live score by Brian Haas, James Singleton, Chris Combs and Otto Schrang. At the Broadside. Find tickets via broadsidenola.com.
OCT. 29
Wheel of Fortune: LIVE!
Randomly selected members of the audience can compete for prizes by spinning the wheel and solving word puzzles. And attendees can also audition to be on the TV show. At Orpheum Theater. Find tickets and information at orpheumnola.net.
November
NOV. 1
Anne Rice All Saints’ Day
This celebration of Anne Rice’s novels and life features live music, speakers and the premiere of a documentary about her. It’s organized by her son Christopher Rice and novelist Eric Shaw Quinn. At Orpheum Theater. Find tickets and information at orpheumnola.net.
NOV. 1
NOLA Zydeco Fest
Performers include Lil Nathan & The Zydeco Big Timers, Chubby Carrier & The Bayou Swamp Band, Dwayne Dopsie & The Zydeco Hellraisers and more. There’s also line-dancing, a gumbo cook-off, a kids’ area, food vendors and more. The festival moves this year to Heritage Park in Slidell. Visit nolazydecofest.com for tickets and information.
NOV. 7
‘Stardew Valley’
A 35-piece orchestra performs the score from the popular video game while scenes are screened onstage
Fal l EVENTS PREVIEW
along with original material created for the show. At Saenger Theatre. Find tickets via saengernola.com.
NOV. 7-16
‘Love Letters of WWII’ Melange Dance Company reprises its show about a young French couple separated by the German occupation. The dance theater piece features music by Sarah Quintana. At New Marigny Theatre. Find tickets and information via melangedanceofnola.com.
NOV. 10
Jon Nakamatsu
Pianist Jon Nakamatsu performs works by Beethoven, Liszt, Chopin and more. Presented by Friends of Music at Tulane University’s Dixon Hall. Find tickets and information at friendsofmusic.org.
NOV. 11
‘Evil Dead’ in Concert
Sam Raimi’s bloody slasher flick screens to a live performance of Joe LoDuca’s score. At Orpheum Theater. Find tickets via evildeadinconcert.com.
NOV. 11-16
‘A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical’
The musical biopic tells the story of Neil Diamond and features hits like “Sweet Caroline,” “America,” “Cracklin’ Rosie,” “I’m a Believer” and more. At Saenger Theatre. Find tickets via saengernola.com.
NOV. 14-15
NOLA Nite Market
The event features live entertainment and food vendors offering an
array of mostly Asian cuisines. At Westwego Farmer’s Market. Find information at nolanitemarket.com.
NOV. 14-16
LUNA Fete
The annual festival brings art and light installations to Lafayette Square and Girod Street stretching to the Piazza d’Italia. There are projection mapping projects, lasers, video and interactive pieces as well as a market. Arts New Orleans presents the free festival. Find information at lunafete.org.
NOV. 14-16
Skankfest New Orleans
The comedy festival features more than 100 comics, including Shane Gillis, Mark Normand, Rosebud Baker, Doug Stanhope, Tim Dillon and more. The event is set up like a festival at Mardi Gras World, with music, vendors, a tattoo studio and more. Find tickets and information at skankfest.com.
NOV. 15
Beignet Fest
The food lineup includes sweet and savory beignets, Creole favorites and more, and there’s entertainment by Marc Broussard, Rebirth Brass Band, Kindred, Imagination Movers and The Prism Project. At the festival grounds at New Orleans City Park. Find tickets and information at beignetfest.com.
NOV. 15
BODYTRAFFIC with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band
The program is highlighted by a re-staging of “Ma Maison,” a Trey
Grilledlambchops over creamy goat cheese polenta with veggies
Softshellcraboverseafood penne Lobsterravioliswithfried eggplant over redsauce tossed in seafoodcream
The Crescent City Blues and BBQ Fest is in Lafayette Square Oct. 10-12.
Fal l EVENTS PREVIEW
McIntyre piece commissioned by the New Orleans Ballet Association, performed with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band on stage. The program also includes McIntyre’s “Mayday,” set to music by Buddy Holly. Presented by NOBA at Mahalia Jackson Theater. Find tickets and information at nobadance.com.
NOV. 15-16
Three Rivers Arts Festival
The festival brings more than 200 vendors to the downtown blocks of Covington, and there are craft demonstrations and a kids’ area. Venders offer paintings, sculpture, photography, ceramics, jewelry, leather goods, woodwork and more. Visit covingtonthreeriversartfestival.com for details.
NOV. 16
Oak Street Po-Boy Festival
The festival features traditional and creative po-boys from vendor booths and restaurants on Oak Street from S. Carrollton Avenue to Eagle Street. There also are several music stages. Visit poboyfest.com for details.
NOV. 27
Human Horse Races
Attendees can sign up to race as either horses or jockeys in the Thanksgiving Day event in Easton Park. There’s also music, carnival games and more. Find information at humanhorseraces.com.
NOV. 28-JAN. 1
Celebration in the Oaks
The holiday celebration features one million lights in displays with Santa Claus, Cajun Christmas, a menorah, dinosaurs, flamingos, a pirate ship and more in New Orleans City Park. There are both driving and walking tours, and events in the Botanical Garden. Visit celebrationintheoaks. com for tickets and information.
December
DEC. 2
Balourdet Quartet
The string quatet performs works by Sohn, Ravel and Brahms. Presented by Friends of Music at Tulane University’s Dixon Hall. Find tickets and information at friendsofmusic.org.
DEC. 6
Improvisations Gala
The benefit for the New Orleans Jazz Museum’s educational programs has a Storyville theme, and there are immersive exhibits, entertainment, food, drinks and more at the museum. Visit nolajazzmuseum.org for information.
DEC. 9-14
‘Back to the Future: The Musical’
In the musical adaptation of the popular movie, Marty McFly travels back in time with the help of scientist Doc Brown and his converted DeLorean. McFly meets his parents and changes history. The touring Broadway production comes to Saenger Theatre. Find tickets via saengernola.com.
DEC. 10-14
PhotoNOLA
The New Orleans Photo Alliance’s festival features exhibitions at galleries and museums across the city, keynote addresses, portfolio reviews, workshops, a book fair and more. Visit photonola.org for details.
DEC. 30-JAN. 4
‘Hell’s Kitchen’
The jukebox musical is based on the life of singer Alicia Keys and her growing up in New York. The touring Broadway production comes to Saenger Theatre. Find tickets at saengernola.com.
FIRST
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1 11AM-6PM
P. 19
Big Queen Ausettua Amenkum, of the Washitaw Black masking Indians tribe, sings and dances in a light up suit at LUNA Fete in 2024.
PHOTO BY SOPHIA GERMER / THE TIMES - PICAYUNE
CONCERTS CONCERTS
HERE’S A PREVIEW OF SOME OF THE TOURING ACTS and LOCAL SHOWS IN NEW ORLEANS THIS FALL.
September
SEPT. 11
Public Circ uit, Siberia
SEPT. 14
Christone
“Kingfish” Ingram, House of Blues
SEPT. 18
Father John Misty, Saenger Theatre
SEPT. 18
Stereolab, Civic Theater
SEPT. 19
Liam St. John, Chickie Wah Wah
SEPT. 19
G Herbo, The Fillmore
SEPT. 19
Santigold, House of Blues
SEPT. 19
Tribe Nunzio, The Broadside
SEPT. 20
Franz Ferdinand, The Joy Theater
SEPT. 20
BunnaB, House of Blues
SEPT. 21
Destin Conrad, House of Blues
SEPT. 22
Mdou Moctar, Tipitina’s
SEPT. 23
Alabama Shakes, Saenger Theatre
SEPT. 23
Hozier, Smoothie King Center
SEPT. 23
Warmduscher, Gasa Gasa
SEPT. 24
Lake Street Dive, Trousdale, Orpheum Theater
SEPT. 24
Vampire Weekend, Saenger Theatre
SEPT. 24
MIRADOR, Tipitina’s
SEPT. 25
Raphael Saadiq, Mahalia Jackson Theater
SEPT. 25
Malcolm Todd, The Fillmore
SEPT. 26
Marco Antonio Solis, Smoothie King Center
SEPT. 26
Eric Johnson, House of Blues
SEPT. 26
Zigaboo Modeliste Funk Revue, Tipitina’s
SEPT. 26
Shinyribs, Chickie Wah Wah
SEPT. 26-27
Dom Flemons, The Suffers, Leyla McCalla, The Broadside
SEPT. 27
Chance the Rapper, The Fillmore
McCartney will perform at the Smoothie King Center Oct. 29.
SEPT. 27
MercyMe, Tobymac, Smoothie King Center
SEPT. 27
Peach Pit, House of Blues
SEPT. 27
James McMurtry, BettySoo, Chickie Wah Wah
SEPT. 27
Pell, Ani DiFranco, A.J. Haynes, Toulouse Theatre
SEPT. 28
Castle Rat, Gasa Gasa
SEPT. 29
Dead Tooth, No Dice
SEPT. 30
Pile, No Dice
SEPT. 30
Omni, Siberia
October
OCT. 1
Between the Buried and Me, Hail the Sun, The Joy Theater
OCT. 1
The Rock Orchestra, Saenger Theatre
OCT. 2
Deerhoof, Music Box Village
OCT. 2
Shaboozey, The Fillmore
OCT. 2
Petey USA, House of Blues
OCT. 2
Andy James and the Jon Cowherd All Stars, Snug Harbor
OCT. 3
Charlie Wilson, El Debarge, K-Ci Hailey, Smoothie King Center
OCT. 3
Daisy the Great, Gasa Gasa
OCT. 3
Lucius, Tipitina’s
OCT. 4
Juan Wauters, Gasa Gasa
OCT. 4
Frogs Gone Fishin’, Toulouse Theatre
OCT. 4
Tee Grizzley, House of Blues
OCT. 5
Fox Lake, Southport Hall
OCT. 6
NxWorries: Anderson .Paak and Knxwledge, The Fillmore
OCT. 6
Empire of the Sun, Mahalia Jackson Theater
Paul
PHOTO BY CHRIS GRANGER / THE TIMES - PICAYUNE
Mdou Moctar performs at Tipitina’s on Sept. 22.
OCT. 6
Ocean Alley, House of Blues
OCT. 8
OCT. 14
Rainbow Kitten Surprise, The Fillmore
OCT. 14
OCT. 19-20
NBA Youngboy, Smoothie King Center
OCT. 20
Taraneh, Comet, Slowhole, Gasa Gasa
Silent Planet, Invent Animate, House of Blues
Lyle Lovett and his Acoustic Group, Jefferson Performing Arts Center
OCT. 8
OCT. 15
OCT. 20
LA LOM, Toulouse Theatre
OCT. 9
Anika, Gasa Gasa
OCT. 10
Japanese Breakfast, The Joy Theater
OCT. 10
Magdalena Bay, The Fillmore
OCT. 15
Autechre, The Joy Theater
OCT. 15
Adam Hood, Chickie Wah Wah
OCT. 16
Fea, Swinging Astrid, Gasa Gasa
OCT. 21
Cameron Whitcomb, Jonah Kagen, Tipitina’s
OCT. 21
Pink Stones, Teddy & The Rough Riders, Gasa Gasa
OCT. 22
Guerilla Toss, No Dice
Chris Brown, Caesars Superdome
Hippie Sabotage, The Joy Theater
OCT. 10
Stevie B, Southport Hall
OCT. 17
Peter Frampton, Saenger Theatre
OCT. 23
John Legend, Saenger Theatre
OCT. 11
$uicideboy$, Smoothie King Center
OCT. 17
Carolyn Broussard, No Dice
OCT. 23
Gary Numan, House of Blues
OCT. 11
Pynk Beard, Siberia
OCT. 12
The Legendary Pink Dots, Gasa Gasa
OCT. 12
Yoke Lore, House of Blues
OCT. 18
Lenny Pearce, The Fillmore
OCT. 19
Minus the Bear, Bayonne, Civic Theatre
OCT. 19
Savannah Dexter & Brabo Gator, Southport Hall
OCT. 23
Jer, Courtyard Brewery
OCT. 24
Boney James, The Fillmore
OCT. 27
Ritchie Kotzen & John 5, House of Blues
OCT. 27
Glenn Miller Orchestra, Jefferson Performing Arts Center
OCT. 28
Alexandra Kay, House of Blues
OCT. 29
Paul McCartney, Smoothie King Center
OCT. 30
Entheos, Southport Hall
OCT. 30
Amanda Shires, Gasa Gasa
OCT. 31
Big Thief, Saenger Theatre
OCT. 31
Cameron Whitcomb, Jonah Kagen, Tipitina’s
OCT. 31
Colors Worldwide, The Fillmore
OCT. 31
Acid Mothers Temple, Gasa Gasa
OCT. 31-NOV.1
moe., The Infamous Stringdusters, The Joy Theater
NOV. 4
Mating Ritual, Gasa Gasa
NOV. 4
Black Stone Cherry, Southport Hall
NOV. 4
Ulcerate, Siberia
NOV. 5
Leon Thomas, The Fillmore
NOV. 5 UMI, The Joy Theater
NOV. 5
Abysmal Dawn, Southport Hall
NOV. 5
Trash Panda, Dirty Turkeys, Gasa Gasa
NOV. 6
Bowling for Soup, Tipitina’s
NOV. 7
Hayes Carll, Tipitina’s
NOV. 7-8
Billie Eilish, Smoothie King Center
NOV. 8
Stokely, Xavier University
NOV. 8
Planet Perreo, House of Blues
NOV. 1
Ben Kenney, Ashley Mendel, Mark Whitfield Jr., Gasa Gasa
NOV. 2
French Cassettes, Burnt Sugar, Gasa Gasa
NOV. 2
Matt Maltese, House of Blues
NOV. 4
SUSTO Stringband, Tipitina’s
NOV. 4
Lil Darkie, House of Blues
NOV. 13
Andy Bell, Orpheum Theater
NOV. 13
Congress, Gasa Gasa
NOV. 13
Futurebirds, Tipitina’s
NOV. 14
Durand Jones &
The Indications, Tipitina’s
NOV. 15
Pearl, Gasa Gasa
NOV. 15
Acid Bath, Mastodon, Power Trip, Amigo the Devil, UNO Lakefront Arena
NOV. 15-16
Jeff Tweedy, Chickie Wah Wah
NOV. 16
Militarie Gun, Liquid Mike, Public Opinion, Gasa Gasa
NOV. 17
Goblin, Southport Hall
NOV. 18
Ethan Regan, Palmyra, Chickie Wah Wah
NOV. 18
Vortxz, Gasa Gasa
NOV. 8
New Constellations, Jane Leo, Gasa Gasa
NOV. 9
Dondria, Dew Drop Inn
NOV. 9
Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Tipitina’s
NOV. 10
Ne Obliviscaris, Southport Hall
NOV. 11
Atreyu, He is Legend, The Joy Theater
Fal l EVENTS PREVIEW
Brittany Howard and The Alabama Shakes perform at Saenger Theatre on Sept. 23.
($5.0 0ENTRANCE FEE FOR ADULTS, $3 FOR CHILDRENUNDER 12 9:0 0AM- 10:0 0PM)
8:00am Dair yCat tle Show 9:00am -9:00pm Mini Farm Open 9:00am Beef Cat tleShow•Old Barn 9:00am -9:00pm ExhibitsOpenFor Viewing 10:00am- 11:00pm MidwayRides $32Pay OnePrice 10:00am- 2:00pm Jojo TheMagician•Main Stage 12:00pm Swine, Sheep &Goat Show•Swine Barn
2:00pm-3:00pm Southern Patriot Band•Main Stage
4:00pm-7:00pm Gracie Marie Band•Main Stage 7:30pm-10:00pm Twisted HRodeo•Rodeo Arena $20 ADULTS $15CHILDREN 12 YEARSAND UNDER
SEPT. 26-27 Steven Gillespie: The Dose, Sports Drink
SEPT. 27 Punkie Johnson, The Howlin’ Wolf
OCT. 2 Rene Vaca, The Joy Theater
OCT. 3 Shelly Belly, Southport Hall
OCT. 3-4 Niles Abston, Sports Drink
OCT. 4 Afroman and Chris Turner, The Howlin’ Wolf
OCT. 4-5 Mojo Brookz, The Joy Theater
OCT. 9 Matthew Broussard, Sports Drink
OCT. 10-11 Ian Lara, Sports Drink
OCT. 16 Kam Patterson, The Howlin’ Wolf
OCT. 17 Becky Robinson, The Joy Theater
OCT. 17-18 Rich Aronovitch, Sports Drink
OCT. 23 Pretty Vee, The Joy Theater
OCT. 23 Steve Byrne, Southport Hall
OCT. 24-25 Josh Gondelman, Sports Drink
OCT. 16 Fortune Feimster, Orpheum Theater
NOV. 1 Jamel Johnson, Sports Drink
NOV. 7-8 Hari Kondabolu, Sports Drink
NOV. 12 Sam Tallent, Sports Drink
NOV. 14-15 Rory Scovel, Sports Drink
NOV. 14-16 Skankfest New Orleans, Mardi Gras World
NOV. 15 Desi Banks, Orpheum Theater
NOV 15 85 South, Smoothie King Center
NOV. 16 Nate Jackson, Orpheum Theater
NOV. 21-22 Shane Torres, Sports Drink
NOV. 22 Whose Live Anyway? with Greg Proops, Jeff Davis, Ryan Stiles and Joel Murray, Jefferson Performing Arts Center
DEC. 3 Nurse Blake, Orpheum Theater
DEC. 5-6 Laura Peek, Sports Drink
DEC. 6 Sammy Obeid, The Howlin’ Wolf
DEC. 6 Whitney Cummings, The Joy Theater
DEC. 26-27 Sean Patton, Sports Drink
Hari Kondabolu performs Nov. 7-8 at Sports Drink.
Whitney Cummings performs Dec. 6 at Joy Theater.
SPORTS FALL
SPORTS
HOME GAMES for LOCAL TEAMS
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
All games at Caesars Superdome Visit neworleanssaints.com for tickets and information.
SUNDAY, SEPT. 7 vs. Arizona Cardinals, noon
SUNDAY, SEPT. 14 vs. San Francisco 49ers, noon
SUNDAY, OCT. 5 vs. New York Giants, noon
SUNDAY, OCT. 12 vs. New England Patriots, 3:25 p.m.
SUNDAY, OCT. 26 vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 3:05 p.m.
SUNDAY, NOV. 23 vs. Atlanta Falcons, 3:25 p.m.
SUNDAY, DEC. 14 vs. Carolina Panthers, 3:25 p.m.
SUNDAY, DEC. 21 vs. New York Jets, noon
NEW ORLEANS PELICANS
All games at Smoothie King Center Visit nba.com/pelicans for tickets and information.
FRIDAY, OCT. 24 vs. San Antonio Spurs, 7 p.m.
MONDAY, OCT. 27 vs. Boston Celtics, 7 p.m.
TUESDAY, NOV. 4 vs. Charlotte Hornets, 7 p.m.
MONDAY, NOV. 10 vs. Phoenix Suns, 8 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 12 vs. Portland Trailblazers, 7 p.m.
FRIDAY, NOV. 14 vs. Los Angeles Lakers, 7 p.m.
SUNDAY, NOV. 16 vs. Golden State Warriors, 6 p.m.
MONDAY, NOV. 17 vs. Oklahoma City Thunder, 7 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 19 vs. Denver Nuggets, 7 p.m.
SATURDAY, NOV. 22 vs. Atlanta Hawks, 6 p.m.
MONDAY, NOV. 24 vs. Chicago Bulls, 7 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 26 vs. Memphis Grizzlies, 7 p.m.
TUESDAY, DEC. 2 vs. Minnesota Timberwolves, 7 p.m.
THURSDAY, DEC. 4 vs. Minnesota Timberwolves, 7 p.m.
MONDAY, DEC. 8 vs. San Antonio Spurs, 8:30 p.m.
THURSDAY, DEC. 18 vs. Houston Rockets, 7 p.m.
SATURDAY, DEC. 20 vs. Indiana Pacers, 6 p.m.
MONDAY, DEC. 22 vs. Dallas Mavericks, 7 p.m.
FRIDAY, DEC. 26 vs. Phoenix Suns, 7 p.m.
SATURDAY, DEC. 27 vs. Phoenix Suns, 6 p.m.
MONDAY, DEC. 29 vs. New York Knicks, 7 p.m.
LSU TIGERS
All games at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge Visit lsusports.net for tickets and information.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 13 vs. Florida Gators, 6:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 20 vs. Southeastern Louisiana Lions, 6:45 p.m.
SATURDAY, OCT. 11 vs. South Carolina Gamecocks, time TBA
SATURDAY, OCT. 25 vs. Texas A&M Aggies, time TBA
SATURDAY, NOV. 15 vs. Arkansas Razorbacks, time TBA
SATURDAY, NOV. 22 vs. Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, time TBA
SATURDAY, NOV. 29 vs. Oklahoma Sooners, time TBA
TULANE GREEN WAVE
All games at Yulman Stadium Visit tulanegreenwave.com for tickets and information.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 13 vs. Duke University Blue Devils, 7 p.m.
THURSDAY, OCT. 9 vs. East Carolina Pirates, time TBA
MONDAY, OCT. 18 vs. Army Black Knights, time TBA
SATURDAY, NOV. 15 vs. Florida Atlantic University Owls, time TBA
SATURDAY, NOV. 29 vs. UNC-Charlotte 49ers, time TBA
BOWL GAMES
Bayou Clas sic
Find information at mybayouclassic.com.
Southern Jaguars vs. Grambling State Tigers
SATURDAY, NOV. 29, 1 p.m. Caesars Superdome
New Orleans Bowl
Find information at neworleansbowl.org.
TUESDAY, DEC. 23, 4:30 p.m. Caesars Superdome
Sugar Bowl
Find information at allstatesugarbowl.org.
THURSDAY, JAN. 1, 2026
Caesars Superdome
PHOTO BY DAVID GRUNFELD / THE TIMES - PICAYUNE
PLAY PLAY FAIR FAIR
HIT THE ROAD FOR THESE FALL FESTIVALS
BY JOHN STANTON | Gambit editor
THE FALL FESTIVAL SEASON is always busy in the New Orleans area, so much so that you can fest pretty much every weekend without going farther than a reasonably priced Uber ride away from home. But there’s so much more going on across the state than just our homegrown events, and the cooler temperatures of autumn make it the perfect time to do some exploring of other parts of Louisiana. One of the biggest events is the annual state fair. Held in Shreveport, the state fair runs from Oct. 30 to Nov. 16. There’s a carnival with rides, a classic state fair midway, music, food and a multi-evening rodeo. For tickets and more information, check statefairoflouisiana.com. If the drive to Shreveport is too daunting, you can always head up to scenic Amite for the Tangipahoa Parish Fair, one of the oldest fairs in the state. The event, which runs Oct. 1-5, will have lots of classic attractions, including 4-H demonstrations and competitions, a pageant, rodeos and carnival rides. There’s also a frontier village as well as musical performances,
including Mark Chesnutt and a Journey tribute band. Speaking of music, Festivals Acadiens et Creoles, in Lafayette on Oct. 10-12, is one of the highlights of the fall season. Spread across multiple stages in Girard Park, this three-day free festival celebrates all parts of Cajun and Creole culture from music and food to language, dance and crafts. The fest opens with a ceremonial boudin cutting, and then Saturday and Sunday are jam packed with music from some of the best Cajun and zydeco players in the region. The lineup includes Zachary Richard, Balfa Toujours, Chris Ardoin and Nu-Step Zydeco, Pine Leaf Boys, Leon Chavis and the Zydeco Flames and more. Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. and Dwayne Dopsie join a celebration with musicians from four generations of the family. Each evening there’s plenty of live music happening at bars and venues around town. For more information, check festivalsacadiens.com.
A little closer to home, the folks in Houma will host the annual Rougarou Festival on Oct. 17-19. Centered around the South Louisiana werewolf tale, it combines folklore and Halloween season frights. The festival features live music, food, a “Cajun Critter Pardoning,” a pumpkin lighting ceremony, a costume contest, kids’ activities and more. For more information on the free festival, check rougaroufest.org.
The Louisiana Renaissance Festival takes place on weekends from Nov. 1 to Dec. 7. It’s a haven for anything from 14th to 17th century Europe, and there’s an English
village with entertainers and artisans. Theme weekends highlight pirates, Vikings, and Celtic lore, to name a few. Entertainment and demonstrations include music, medieval combat, jousting, magic and more. Find information at larf2023.org.
There also are dozens of events going on around South Louisiana this fall that are perfect for a day trip, starting with the annual Alligator Festival in Luling Sept. 25-28 which features rides, music, food and of course alligators (alligatorfestival.org). The same weekend is the 82nd annual Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival with parades, music, food and more Sept. 26-28 in New Iberia (hisugar.org). Also in New Iberia is the 35th annual Gumbo Champion cookoff Oct. 11-12 (iberiachamber. org/gumbo-cookoff). Then there’s Madisonville’s annual Wooden Boat Festival Oct. 18-19, which includes music, food, crafts and, shockingly, lots of wooden boats, all on the banks of the Tchefuncte River (maritimemuseumlouisiana.org/woodenboatfestival).
STAFF PHOTO BY BRAD KEMP
CLove Croffeeawl For the of
From August 11 to September 12, join us for a citywide celebration of cofee! The Cofee Crawl is your chance to explore local shops, step outside your usual order, and discover something new—for your chance to win!
HOW TO PARTICIPATE:
1. Visit participating cofee shops featured in our guide. We encourage you to explore new cofee options and try something new at each stop!
2. Take a photo while you’re there—whether it’s a selfe with your cup or a creative shot of your drink with the shop in the background.
3. Submit your photo by emailing it to vip@gambitweekly.com, or sharing it on Instagram and tagging @gambitneworleans by Friday, September 12, 2025.
Participants who visit all or most stops on the crawl will be entered to win our Grand Prize:
• Free Cofee Beans for a Year from Orleans Cofee
• VIP passes for two to the NOLA Cofee Festival, October 3–4, 2025
Participants are also eligible for awesome giveaways like:
• GA tickets to NOLA Cofee Festival, October 3–4, 2025
• Gift cards from participating shops And more surprise prizes!
THE VINTAGE
3121 MAGAZINE ST., NEW ORLEANS THEVINTAGENOLA.COM
Come try our Espresso Cherry Pop, made with vanilla, cherry, espresso, soda water and cream.
OLD ROAD COFFEE
2024 BAYOU RD., NEW ORLEANS OLDROADCOFFEE.COM
Cool of with Old Road Cofee’s Coconut Cold Brew! It’s smooth, bold, and just the right amount of tropical. Make it your own specialty drink by customizing the cold foam with a variety of favors. Don’t miss this charming neighborhood spot during your Cofee Crawl! Open daily from 6:30am - 5:00pm.
ICED EVOLUTION
EVOLVE COFFEE + MATCHA
400 HARRISON AVE., GROUND FLOOR, NEW ORLEANS
3304 W. ESPLANADE AVE. N., SUITE B7, METAIRIE EVOLVECOFFEENOLA.COM
Start your Cofee Crawl strong! Stop by Evolve and try their signature Iced Evolution – ceremonial-grade matcha, bold espresso, and milk layered over ice for a perfectly balanced pick-me-up.
ORLEANS COFFEE ESPRESSO BAR
3445 PRYTANIA ST., NEW ORLEANS ORLEANSCOFFEEESPRESSOBAR.COM
The Dirty Ginger is a dirty chai latte made with ginger candy–infused espresso and steamed milk.
COCONUT COLD BREW
DIRTY GINGER
ESPRESSO CHERRY POP
MATCHA MAGIC
2000 TULANE AVE., SUITE A, NEW ORLEANS ITSMATCHAMAGIC.COM
Matcha Magic recently opened with a variety of authentic, hand-whisked matcha creations and health-forward bites. Try their Purple Rain, a top-seller that combines lavender, ube, and matcha sweet cream. Customize with your choice of plant milk or a variety of boosters.
LE PONCE
3133 PONCE DE LEON ST., NEW ORLEANS LEPONCENOLA.COM
Our afogato is made with homemade vanilla ice cream, espresso, and Chantilly cream. A sweet European Cafe, no passport needed!
FOR THE LOVE OF COFFEE CRAWL
CONGREGATION COFFEE
900 JEFFERSON AVE., NEW ORLEANS 240 PELICAN AVE., NEW ORLEANS CONGREGATIONCOFFEE.COM
House-made horchata, perfectly balanced with a double shot of espresso, over ice. The perfect cinnamon-y sweet treat to get you through the summer!
GOSPEL COFFEE AND BOOZY TREATS AT HOTEL FONTENOT
501 TCHOUPITOULAS ST., NEW ORLEANS GOSPELCOFFEENOLA.COM
From expertly crafted espresso drinks and house-made cold brews, your cup can always be flled with the spirit by spiking any of our hot or frozen drinks. Just let us know if you want to add a shot to your item of choice.
PJ’S COFFEE
CITYWIDE PJSCOFFEE.COM
Granita is our signature frozen beverage at PJ’s Cofee. Ofered in Mocha and Caramel. Rich chocolate added to our famous granita with a spiral of whipped cream and drizzles of more chocolate.
BEARCAT
845 CARONDELET ST., NEW ORLEANS 2521 JENA ST., NEW ORLEANS 726 JULIA ST., NEW ORLEANS BEARCATCAFE.COM
Here for all your caf eine needs. Join us at one of our 3 locations for breakfast, lunch, cofee or cocktails!
601 BARONNE ST., NEW ORLEANS EATBATTER.COM
Our limited-time specialty lattes, Cookies & Cream and Cookie Butter, are here to make your summer latte dreams come true. These fun favors are only around for the month, so don’t miss out! Follow our socials to keep up with us @BATTERbakery!
Equal parts espresso and ice water, stirred over ice and strained. This espresso drink delivers full-strength favor without dilution.
LAUREL STREET BAKERY
2701 S. BROAD ST., NEW ORLEANS LAURELSTREETBAKERY.COM
For two decades, Laurel Street Bakery has proudly served NOLA with a full line of cofee and espresso classics, freshly baked goods, bagels made in-house, breakfast, and lunch. Try their iced caramel cappuccino, a crowd favorite, or their newly added iced lavender latte!
CC’S COFFEE HOUSE CITY WIDE
CCSCOFFEE.COM
Get your morning started with the warm, sweet flavors of brown sugar cinnamon, maple, and white chocolate, blended with rich espresso and creamy Mochasippi® Mix, then topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon powder. The best fall days start at CC’s Cofee House®!
Let music and laughter wrap around you, and savor the vibes while sipping on a latte with a touch of magic. This 16oz matcha creation blends earthy, vibrant green tea, any milk of your choice, and smooth vanilla syrup, and a stunning layer of butter fy pea fower for a natural sapphire hue.
STELLA
CAPPUCCINO
MAGIÉ BLEUE
PURPLE RAIN
HORCHATA ICED LATTE
GRANITA
ICED CARAMEL CAPPUCCINO
AFFOGATO
MOCHA FREEZE
CAPPUCCINO
FRENCH TOAST MOCHASIPPI®
EAT + DRINK
Tiger land
Chef ‘Tiger’ Leon opens The 337 in Marigny by Beth D’Addono |
CHEF WILLIAM “TIGER” LEON, WEARING CHEF’S WHITES and holding a knife, looks down from a giant billboard at 2633 St. Claude, near Franklin Avenue. He spent more than $6,000 on the sign to announce the opening of his restaurant, The 337 by Chef Tiger.
It’s a splashy statement, and it sets the mood before diners walk through The 337’s door. Inside, they’re greeted by a soundtrack of zydeco music from his cousins, Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. and Dwayne Dopsie. The 60-seat restaurant also has a huge mural from artist Scott Guion of a bayou setting, complete with live oaks dripping with Spanish moss, a pot for crawfish boiling and Leon himself, paddling a pirogue.
“What I’m trying to accomplish is bringing a different flavor profile to the city, food that honors the ancestors,” Leon says.
He’s spent the past few years cooking Louisiana Creole and Cajun cuisine while popping up at places like the Friendly Bar and Big Daddy’s.
His restaurant’s name, The 337, comes from the area code for St. Martin, the South Louisiana parish with the tagline “Where Cajun Began.” It’s where he grew up and learned to appreciate dishes like gumbo, white beans, blackened catfish, homemade boudin and his mom’s potato salad.
“My family has more than 200 years of history here in Louisiana,” the chef says. “Every dish we make is connected to that history.”
At 55, Leon is starting a new chapter. The NOCHI graduate moved to Marigny six years ago. His background includes 15 years in law enforcement, handling dozens of stores as district manager for Albertson’s and helping to set up the Covid field hospital that opened at the convention center during the pandemic.
Experience in crisis management came in handy as he’s struggled to open his restaurant due to obstacles like issues with the Sewerage & Water Board and parish government red tape, he says.
“It’s been frustrating for sure,” Leon says.
But he’s stayed focused on his goal of opening a restaurant with a menu built on the flavors of his childhood, including his mother’s recipes. One dish is even named for her: Marie’s Creole smothered chicken.
“That’s what she made every Sunday after church when we were growing up,” he says. “Everything was homemade and cooked low and slow.”
The flavors of Acadiana draw from a multitude of influences, from the original Indigenous people and enslaved Africans to Cajuns and Creoles.
“We are good at making something out of nothing to feed the family,” Leon says. “People didn’t used to eat chicken thighs and legs, but we’ve always cooked with them. Our sauce piquant works with any protein. If we had rabbit or deer meat, that went into the pot.”
Appetizers include links of his peppery house-made boudin, made traditionally with chicken livers and gizzards. Boudin also gets deep fried in an egg roll and made into a ball with
pepper jack cheese. There is fried alligator meat served with a spicy dipping sauce, and crawfish etouffee stuffed in a pistolette. Local wild-caught catfish is served fried or blackened, as are Gulf shrimp.
Pork chops are marinated, fried and served with white beans. The chef makes a blend of a dozen spices to dry rub a 12-ounce rib-eye, served with a scoop of etouffee.
Entrees come with two sides, such as his mother’s potato salad, corn maque choux and flavorful red or white beans. On weekends, he fires up a barbecue pit out front, selling grilled and smoked meats, cooking skills he learned from his grandfather and uncle.
The restaurant has a full bar including six beers on tap. Bar manager Scotty Allan created a cocktail list with drinks like the Fleur de Lis, an elderflower upgrade to a French 75, and the Creole old fashioned made with blood orange juice and mint.
Leon is proud to serve his homestyle cuisine, elevated in presentation but traditional in flavor.
“My guests eat on white plates, without the white plate prices,” he says. “It’s a way to show respect for the cooks who came before me.”
Brisket and babka
A STEAKHOUSE WITH A PRIME RIB OBSESSION, A MODERN PORTUGUESE RESTAURANT, a bakery braiding different traditions and a River Parishes smokehouse that’s conquered the New Orleans food fest scene — they’re all part of a new event based on community food traditions and good times.
For the new Brisket, Babka and Beats, chef Alon Shaya has gathered a roster of culinary talent from around the city to prepare main acts of brisket, babka and their interpretations of other classic Jewish food.
The event is a collaboration between the chef’s Shaya Barnett Foundation and the Jewish Community Day School in Metairie, which will share proceeds. It’s happening Sept. 14 at NOLA Brewing & Pizza Co., as an all-aged, family-friendly community gathering with live music, kids activities, Kosher food and vegetarian options, along with cocktails and beer.
The lineup for chefs and bakers includes Shaya, Samantha Weiss and Kelly Jacques of Ayu Bakehouse, Chris dos Reis of 34 Restaurant & Bar, Jason Gonzales of Gonzo’s Smokehouse & BBQ, Jared Gassenberger of Bon Ton Prime Rib and Linda Waknin of D’Vash Catering.
Local bands Where Y’acht and The Shanks will perform, and Shaya will lead a cooking demonstration.
Chef William ‘ Tiger’ Leon opened The 337.
PHOTO BY MADDIE SPINNER / GAMBIT
Chef Alon Shaya organized Brisket, Babka and Beats.
PROVIDED BY WYNN LAS VEGAS
Fall SchedulefromThe MusicalArtsSociety of NewOrleans
Visit masno.orgfor tickets and additional information.
Bachtoberfest 2025
October 1, 2025 -6 :00 pm
Marg a ret Place Hotel
Held in the beautiful courtyardof Margaret Place Hotel, the6th annual fan-favoriteBACHTOBERFEST will will feature New Orleans’sown Electric Yat Quartet, pianist AndréBohren, and trumpeter VanceWoolf. Tickets include the concert andcharcuterie, compliments of Margaret Place. Cash bar available.
NOCTURNE XXIIGala featuring Vadym Kholodenko
October 19, 2025 -5 :00 pm
Ritz-Carlton Ne wO rleans
Acclaimedpianist Vadym Kholodenko to play at NocturneXXII,MASNO’s annual gala, on Sunday, October 19, 2025 This year’s Nocturne fundraiserisa chance to celebratethe magic of hearing piano, gathering withother music lovers and musicians,and supporting programs that help educate and nurture young pianists.In addition to the performance,Nocturneincludes a festive champagne reception and amulti-course seated dinner.
Le PetitSalon ConcertSeries presents Mezzo Soprano Daveda Karanas
November 13, 2025 -6 :00 pm 4436 Perrier St.
Greek-American mezzo-sopranoDaveda Karanas performs Dreams Beneath aSouthern Sky, aprogram celebratingunderrepresented voices in classical music. Featuring works by Florence Price, Margaret Bonds, Camille Nickerson, Robert Owens, Chiquinha Gonzaga, and Rosephanye Powell, theevening highlights arichtapestry of African American,and women composers. Ticketsinclude theconcert and reception afterwards.
Tickets start at $100 and are available on eventbrite.com. — Ian McNulty / The Times-Picayune
PeeWee’s damaged by fre THE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT PEEWEE’S CRABCAKES GOT ITS START by founder Charles “PeeWee” Armstrong cooking in his apartment kitchen and selling lunch plates to his neighbors.
It evolved from a pop-up to a takeout shop in Central City, and its following grew. When he was able to open a much larger, dine-in restaurant in Gentilly in 2020, Armstrong developed it as a tribute to New Orleans culture.
That’s one reason why contending now with the fire that damaged the restaurant feels like such a nightmare.
“It hurts, it’s real pain to see this,” Armstrong said.
The fire at PeeWee’s Crabcakes, at 4500 Old Gentilly Road, occurred Aug. 24 after the restaurant had closed for the evening. The New Orleans Fire Department reports responding to a one-alarm fire at 10:14 p.m. and had it under control by 10:48 p.m. The fire originated in a commercial refrigerator and was classified as an accidental fire, the NOFD reports. No one was injured.
But it has left the restaurant badly damaged and its future uncertain. Armstrong said he was just beginning to sort out the next steps and was concerned for his staff. The restaurant employed about two dozen people.
The fire follows an incident earlier in August when an unidentified man
wielding a hammer damaged the Gentilly restaurant’s windows after hours, smashing several panes but failing to gain entry.
PeeWee’s is still in business at its second location in Harvey at 2245 Manhattan Blvd., and with its food truck, which is deploying around town.
The Gentilly location has been the flagship. The dining room decor was inspired by the city’s second line culture (Armstrong has been part of parades since age three). Emblems from his parade club adorned the wall, tables had centerpieces festooned with feathers, and brass band music played on the sound system.
In addition to its namesake crabcakes, the restaurant is known for seafood stuffed baked potatoes, seafood pasta and immense combo platters served in catering pans. — Ian McNulty / The Times-Picayune
Alma location closes AFTER FIVE YEARS IN ITS FLAGSHIP BYWATER LOCATION, Alma Cafe closed on Aug. 31.
The Honduran restaurant, known for its brunch offerings, shared on social media that it would close after failing to reach an agreement with its landlord on the lease.
“We are so grateful to the community for supporting us over the years, but this isn’t goodbye!” an Instagram post read.
Araujo, a two-time James Beard Award semifinalist, stated that the closure of the Bywater location was not related to the ongoing Medicaid fraud investigation that resulted in her arrest in Baton Rouge in May.
Araujo said at the time she was trusting the legal process and believed she would eventually “be cleared of these charges.” — Chelsea Shannon / The Times-Picayune
Zee’s slice
NEW ORLEANS HAS SEEN A RESURGENCE IN PIZZA over the past couple of years, and a local favorite that has hit the food scene is Zee’s Pizzeria in Uptown.
WI NE OF THE WEEK
Alma’s Mid-City location remains open. Owner and chef Melissa Araujo opened the second location in February, offering a menu essentially the same as the one at the Bywater spot, but with the addition of oysters.
Food website Chowhound dubbed Zee’s popular Bye Felicia the best slice in Louisiana in a roundup of the best slices in each state.
“It starts with a base of red sauce, then gets mozzarella, pepperoni, dollops of ricotta cheese, and hot honey. Get it with a side of garlic knots and you’re good to go,” Chowhound wrote in their blurb about the slice.
The Bye Felicia is also a reality star’s favorite New Orleans slice. Kelsey Anderson, winner of “The Bachelor” and engaged to lead Joey Graziadei, said last year that Zee’s has her favorite pie.
Founded as a pop-up during the pandemic, Zee’s opened its Uptown location at 3914 Baronne St. in 2022. — Marco Cartolano / The Times-Picayune
Mu rphy Goode Sauv ig nonBla nc
This Sauvignon Blanc is lush and zesty with notesoftangerine, peach, pear,melon, and pineapple all broughttogether in a focused manner with afantastic crispfinish.
Zander White opened Zee’s Pizza.
PHOTO BY IAN MCNULTY / THE TIMES- PICAYUNE
Charles ‘PeeWee’ Armstrong opened PeeWee’s Crabcakes.
PHOTO BY SOPHIA GERMER / THE TIMES- PICAYUNE
Melissa Araujo closed her Bywater restaurant Alma Cafe.
PHOTO BY IAN MCNULTY / THE TIMES- PICAYUNE
Sept 12
Out to Eat is an index of Gambit contract advertisers. Unless noted, addresses are for New Orleans and all accept credit cards. Updates: Email willc@gambitweekly.com or call (504) 483-3106.
Angelo Brocato’s — 214 N. Carrollton Ave., (504) 486-1465; angelobrocatoicecream.
com — This Mid-City sweet shop serves its own gelato in flavors like praline, salted caramel and tiramisu, as well as Italian ices in flavors like lemon, strawberry and mango. There also are cannolis, biscotti, fig cookies, tiramisu, macaroons and coffee drinks. No reservations. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. $
com — Gulf Drum Yvonne is served with brown butter sauce with mushrooms and artichoke hearts. There also are oysters, seafood pasta dishes, steaks, lamb chops and more. Reservations recommended. Dinner Thu.-Mon. $$$
Bamboula’s — 514 Frenchmen St.; bamboulasmusic.com — The live music venue’s kitchen offers a menu of traditional and creative Creole dishes, such as Creole crawfish crepes with goat cheese and chardonnay sauce. Reservations accepted. Lunch, dinner and late-night daily. $$
The Blue Crab Restaurant and Oyster Bar — 118 Harbor View Court, Slidell, (985) 315-7001; 7900 Lakeshore Drive, (504) 284-2898; thebluecrabnola.com
Basin barbecue shrimp are served with rosemary garlic butter sauce over cheese grits with a cheese biscuit. The menu includes po-poys, fried seafood platters, raw and char-grilled oysters, boiled seafood in season, and more. Outdoor seating available. No reservations. Lakeview: Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. Slidell: Lunch Wed.-Fri., dinner Wed.-Sun., brunch Sat.-Sun. $$
Broussard’s — 819 Conti St., (504) 581-3866; broussards.com — The menu of contemporary Creole dishes includes bronzed redfish with jumbo lump crabmeat, lemon beurre blanc and vegetables. Brunch includes Benedicts, avocado toast, chicken and waffles, turtle soup and more. Reservations recommended. Outdoor seating available in the courtyard. Dinner Wed.-Sat., brunch Sun. $$$
Cafe Normandie — Higgins Hotel, 480 Andrew Higgins Blvd., (504) 528-1941; higginshotelnola.com/dining — The menu combines classic French dishes and Louisiana items like crab beignets with herb aioli. Sandwiches include po-boys, a muffuletta on flatbread and a burger. No reservations. Breakfast and lunch Mon.Sat., dinner Fri.-Mon. $$
The Commissary — 634 Orange St., (504) 274-1850; thecommissarynola.com — Dickie Brennan’s Commissary supplies his other restaurant kitchens and also has a dine-in menu and prepared foods to go. A smoked turkey sandwich is served with bacon, tomato jam, herbed cream cheese, arugula and herb vinaigrette on honey oat bread. The menu includes dips, salads, sandwiches, boudin balls, fried oysters and more. No reservations. Outdoor seating available. Lunch Tue.-Sat. $$ Curio — 301 Royal St., (504) 717-4198; curionola.com — The creative Creole menu includes blackened Gulf shrimp served with chicken and andouille jambalaya. There also are crab cakes, shrimp and grits, crawfish etouffee, po-boys and
$ — average dinner entrée under $10
$$ $11-$20
$$$ — $20-up
more. Outdoor seating available on balcony. Reservations accepted. Lunch and dinner daily. $$
Dahla — 611 O’Keefe Ave., (504) 7666602; dahlarestaurant.com — The menu includes popular Thai dishes like pad thai, drunken noodles, curries and fried rice. Crispy skinned duck basil is prepared with vegetables and Thai basil. Delivery available. Reservations accepted. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. $$
Desire Oyster Bar — Royal Sonesta New Orleans, 300 Bourbon St., (504) 5860300; sonesta.com/desireoysterbar — A menu full of Gulf seafood includes oysters served raw on the half-shell or charbroiled with with Parmesan, garlic and herbs. The menu also includes po-boys, po-boys, gumbo, blackened fish, fried seafood platters and more. Reservations recommended. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. $$
Dickie Brennan’s Bourbon House — 144 Bourbon St., (504) 522-0111; bourbonhouse.com — There’s a seafood raw bar with raw and char-broiled oysters, fish dip, crab fingers, shrimp and more. Redfish on the Half-shell is cooked skinon and served with crab-boiled potatoes, frisee and lemon buerre blanc. The bar offers a wide selection of bourbon and whiskies. Reservations accepted. Lunch and dinner daily. $$$
Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse — 716 Iberville St., (504) 522-2467; dickiebrennanssteakhouse.com — The menu includes a variety of steaks, plus seared Gulf fish, lobster pasta, barbecue shrimp and more. A 6-ounce filet mignon is served with fried oysters, creamed spinach, potatoes and bearnaise. Reservations recommended. Dinner Mon.-Sat. $$$
El Pavo Real — 4401 S. Broad Ave., (504) 266-2022; elpavorealnola.com — The menu includes tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, ceviche. tamales and more. Pescado Vera Cruz features sauteed Gulf fish topped with tomatoes, olives, onion and capers, served with rice and string beans. Outdoor seating available. No reservations. Lunch and early dinner Tue.-Sat. $$
Juan’s Flying Burrito — 515 Baronne St., (504) 529-5825; 2018 Magazine St., (504) 569-0000; 4724 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 486-9950; 8140 Oak St., (504) 897-4800; juansflyingburrito.com — The Flying Burrito includes steak, shrimp, chicken, cheddar jack cheese, black beans, rice, guacamole and salsa. The menu also includes tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, fajitas, nachos, salads, rice and bean bowls with various toppings and more. Outdoor seating available. No reservations. Lunch and dinner Thu.-Tue. $$
The Cajun Cuban with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard. The eclectic menu also includes chargrilled oysters, sandwiches, burgers, pizza, fried seafood platters, pasta, salads and more. Delivery available. Reservations accepted for large parties. Lunch and dinner daily. $$
46th Annual
Louisiana WiLdfoWL festivaL
September, October 25, 2025 • Sunday, October 26, 2025 Castine Center, 63350 Pelican Drive, Mandeville, LA
• $45,000 in Prize Money
• Decoy Auction on Sunday
• Prize Money for Amateur & Novice Divisions
• Vendors’ Tables - $50
• Antique Decoy Dealers
• Fine Art Categories
• Jewelry Vendors
• Demonstrations
Conoco Phillips
$14,000 Purchase Award
LWCCG 2024 Division III
Gulf South Champion 1st Best of Show by Al Jordan Doors open to
Saturday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm • Sunday: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Div. A 1st Best of Show: Red Merganser Hen by Richard Reeves
Div. A 2nd Best of Show: Blue Goose by Gene Hebert
Div. B 1st Best of Show: Green Wing Teal Drake by Ronnie Zint
Div. B 2nd Best of Show: Red Belly Woodpecker by Al Jordan
Div. B (Amateur) 1st Best of Show Blue Jay by Lloyd J. Strain
Kilroy’s Bar — Higgins Hotel, 480 Andrew Higgins Blvd., (504) 528-1941; higginshotelnola.com/dining — The all-day bar menu includes sandwiches, soups, salads, flatbreads and a couple entrees. A muffuletta flatbread is topped with salami, mortadella, capicola, mozzarella and olive salad. No reservations. Lunch Fri.-Mon., dinner daily. $$
Legacy Kitchen’s Craft Tavern — 700 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 613-2350; legacykitchen.com — The menu includes oysters, flatbreads, burgers, sandwiches, salads and sharable plates like NOLA Tot Debris. A slow-cooked pulled pork barbecue sandwich is served with coleslaw on a brioche bun. Reservations accepted. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. $$
Legacy Kitchen Steak & Chop — 91 Westbank Expressway, Gretna, (504) 513-2606; legacykitchen.com — The selection of steak and chops includes filet mignon, bone-in rib-eye, top sirloin and double pork chops and a la carte toppings include bernaise, blue cheese and sauteed crabmeat. There also are burgers, salads, pasta, seafood entrees, char-broiled oysters and more. Reservations accepted. Outdoor seating available. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. $$
Mikimoto — 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-1881; mikimotosushi.com — The menu of Japanese cuisine includes sushi, signature rolls, tempura items, udon noodle dishes, teriyaki, salads and more. The South Carrollton roll includes tuna tataki, avocado, snow crab, green onion and wasabi roe. Reservations accepted. Delivery available. Lunch Sun.-Fri., dinner daily. $$
Mosca’s — 4137 Highway 90 West, Westwego, (504) 436-8950; moscasrestaurant.com — This family-style eatery serves Italian dishes and specialties including shrimp Mosca, baked oysters Mosca and spaghetti Bordelaise and chicken cacciatore. Chicken a la grands is sauteed with garlic, rosemary, Italian herbs and white wine. Reservations accepted. Dinner Wed.-Sat. Cash only. $$$
net — This counter-service spot serves po-boys dressed with sliced cabbage like the Famous Ferdi filled with ham, roast beef and debris. Creole favorites include jambalaya, crawfish etouffee, red beans and rice and more. Breakfast is available all day. Delivery available. No reservations. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. $$
Neyow’s Creole Cafe — 3332 Bienville St., (504) 827-5474; neyows.com — The menu includes red beans and rice with fried chicken or pork chops, as well as shrimp Creole, seafood platters, po-boys, chargrilled and raw oysters, salads and more. Side items include carrot souffle, mac and cheese, cornbread dressing, sweet potato tots and more. No reservations. Lunch daily, dinner Mon.-Sat., brunch Sun. $$
Nice Guys Bar & Grill — 7910 Earhart Blvd., (504) 302-2404; niceguysbarandgrillnola. com — Char-grilled oysters are topped with cheese and garlic butter, and other options include oysters Rockefeller and loaded oysters. The creative menu also includes seafood bread, a Cajun-lobster potato, wings, quesadillas, burgers, salads, sandwiches, seafood pasta, loaded fries and more. No reservations. Lunch daily, dinner Mon.-Sat. $$$
Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro — 720 Orleans Ave., (504) 523-1930; orleansgrapevine.com — The wine bar offers cheese boards and appetizers to nosh with wines. The menu includes Creole pasta with shrimp and andouille in tomato cream sauce. Reservations accepted for large parties. Outdoor seating available. Dinner Thu.-Sun. $$
Parish Grill — 4650 W. Esplanade Ave., Suite 100, Metairie, (504) 345-2878; parishgrill.com — The menu includes a variety of burgers, sandwiches, wraps, pizza and salads. For an appetizer, sauteed andouille is served with fig preserves, blue cheese and toast points. Reservations accepted. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. $$
Peacock Room — Kimpton Hotel Fontenot, 501 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 324-3073; peacockroomnola.com — At brunch, braised short rib grillades are served over grits with mushrooms, a poached egg and shaved truffle. The dinner menu has oysters, salads, pasta, shrimp and grits, a burger, cheese plates and more. Reservations accepted. Dinner Wed.-Mon., brunch Sun. $$
Rosie’s on the Roof — Higgins Hotel, 480 Andrew Higgins Blvd., (504) 528-1941; higginshotelnola.com/dining — The rooftop bar has a menu of sandwiches, burgers and small plates. Crab beignets are made with Gulf crabmeat and mascarpone and served with herb aioli. No reservations. Dinner Mon.-Sat. $$
Tableau — 616 St. Peter St., (504) 9343463; tableaufrenchquarter.com — The menu features traditional and creative Creole dishes. Pasta bouillabaisse features squid ink mafaldine, littleneck clams, Gulf shrimp, squid, seafood broth, rouille and herbed breadcrumbs. Outdoor seating available on the balcony. Reservations recommended. Dinner Wed.-Sun., brunch Thu.-Sun. $$$
Tacklebox — 817 Common St., (504) 827-1651; legacykitchen.com — The menu includes raw and char-broiled oysters, seafood platters, po-boys, fried chicken, crab and corn bisque and more. Redfish St. Charles is served with garlic-herb butter, asparagus, mushrooms and crawfish cornbread. Reservations accepted. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. $$
Theo’s Neighborhood Pizza — 1212 S. Clearview Parkway, Elmwood, (504) 733-3803; 2125 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, (504) 510-4282; 4024 Canal St., (504) 302-1133; 4218 Magazine St., (504) 894-8554; 70488 Highway 21, Covington, (985) 234-9420; theospizza. com — A Marilynn Pota Supreme pie is topped with mozzarella, pepperoni, sausage, hamburger, mushrooms, bell peppers and onions. There also are salads, sandwiches, wings, breadsticks and more. Delivery available. Lunch and dinner daily. $
The Vintage — 3121 Magazine St., (504) 324-7144; thevintagenola.com — There’s a full coffee drinks menu and baked goods and beignets, as well as a full bar. The menu has flatbreads, cheese boards, small plates and a pressed veggie sandwich with avocado, onions, arugula, red pepper and pepper jack cheese. No reservations. Delivery and outdoor seating available. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. $$
St . Agnes Church is a beau tif ul, sacred space to celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony. Our f ai th communi t y would be honored to share in your special day and help you prepare a meaning ful, prayer ful celebration.
St. Agnes Church - Old Jefferson 3310 Jefferson Highway, Jefferson, LA 70121
Founde rofB rowngirl Gree n &the Gree nJ obsB oard
Graduate ,202 5N ex t- Ge n Summ er Program
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
and spots on a host of podcasts. She performs stand-up at 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, at Gasa Gasa. Tickets $30.62 via gasagasanola.com.
Hanoun Brass Band
Formed during the 2024 Carnival season, the Hanoun Brass Band is the community band extension of New Orleans Musicians for Palestine, the local collective advocating for Palestinians and the end to Israel’s war on Gaza. Hanoun recently released its first single, “Ana Dammi Falastini,” a brass- and percussion-fueled interpretation of a song by “Arab Idol” winner Mohammed Assaf. Hanoun will play a release show at 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12, at Mudlark Theatre. Find more information on Instagram: @nolamusicians4palestine.
Clown Yoga
Normally one wouldn’t think to put on a red plastic nose while prepping for sun salutations, but professional clown and yoga instructor Bambi Maloney invites amateurs and experienced yoga practitioners alike to tap into their playful sides on Sunday, Sept. 14, at the Music Box Village. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. with an hour-long vinyasa class beginning at 11. Clown attire is encouraged but not required, and participants are asked to bring their own yoga mats. Afterward the class is over, there will be face-painting and games — and lots of rubber chickens and whoopee cushions. For tickets, visit tixr.com/groups/musicboxvillage.
‘Waitress’
In the 2007 musical, Jenna is a waitress in an abusive relationship. She’s also a skilled baker with dreams of opening her own pie shop, but she learns she’s pregnant, which threatens to derail her plans to build a better life. Entering a baking contest offers her a little bit of hope. Broadway veteran Leslie Castay directs the show for Jefferson Performing Arts Society. At 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12, and Saturday, Sept. 13, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14, and Sept. 19-21 at Jefferson Performing Arts Center. Tickets $30-$88.75 on ticketmaster.com.
New Orleans Fashion Week
The annual, week-long fashion industry event returns for its 15th season Sept. 12-20 with runway events, designer presentations, competitions and parties. There is a kickoff party hosted by Emline on Sept. 13, a kids’ runway day on Sept. 14, a conversation with fashion photographer Nigel
Barker on Sept. 15, two nights of runway showcases and more. Find the full schedule and more information at neworleansfashionweek.com.
David Bode
New Orleans saxophonist and composer David Bode has played with the New Orleans High Society, the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra and other projects, but he steps into his own as a leader on the new big band album, “Good Hang,” featuring 19 locally based musicians. “Good Hang” is out now and Bode will play a release show at 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14, at the Broadside. Tickets are $11.66 via broadsidenola.com.
‘Out Cry: The Two Character Play’
In Tennessee Williams’ “Out Cry: The Two Character Play,” two actors, Felice and Clare, arrive at a rundown theater, and abandoned by their company, they set out to improvise a play. A later work for Williams, it is more abstract than some of his more heated dramas, and in some ways a response to the abstract work of writers like Samuel Beckett. The Tennessee Williams Theatre Company of New Orleans stages the drama at the Lower Depths Theatre at Loyola University New Orleans. At 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10, through Saturday, Sept. 13, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14, and continuing Sept. 17-21. Tickets $25$50 ($10 for Loyola students) at twtheatrenola.com.
Krewe du Vieux Kick-O
f
The bawdy, satirical Carnival krewe throws a fundraising party at 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, at the Broadside with music by Gitkin and CosmoKnots. There also will be live and silent auctions. Tickets are $22.20 via broadsidenola.com.
Culture
Collision
New Orleans area cultural organizations, performing arts companies, museums, radio stations and arts groups and more share information about upcoming events, seasons, activities, membership and volunteer opportunities at the free event. There are short performances, giveaways and more. Participating groups include the WYES, LPO, OperaCreole, the New Orleans Film Society, the Japan Society of New Orleans and more. Visit culturenola.org for details. At 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10, at the New Orleans Museum of Art.
To learn more about adding your event to the music calendar, please email listingsedit@gambitweekly.com
MONDAY 8
30/90 Margie Perez, 6 pm; Piano Man G, 9 pm; ALLWAYS LOUNGE — Smoke Show
Cabaret: Betsy Propane & The Accessories, 7 pm
APPLE BARREL Mark Appleford, 6 pm; Decaturadio, 10:30
BACCHANAL Byron Asher, 7 pm
BAMBOULA’S — The New Orleans Rug Cutters, 12 pm; Jon Roniger & The Good for Nothin’ Band, 4:30 pm; Ted Hefko & The Thousandaires, 9 pm
BJ’S LOUNGE Red Beans & Blues with Anna Laura Quinn & Brian Seeger, 9 pm
BUFFA’S David Doucet, 7 pm
CAFÉ NEGRIL Lit Band, 7 pm
CARROLLTON STATION — Biscuits n’ Jam with Meryl Zimmerman & Friends, 10 pm
DOS JEFES — John Fohl, 8:30 pm
FRITZEL’S EUROPEAN JAZZ CLUB
Matinee All Stars Band and Open Jazz Jam Session, 1 pm; Tin Men, 5 pm; Richard Scott and Friends, 8 pm
THE MAISON — Silver Lining Serenaders, 5 pm; Gene’s Music Machine, 8:30 pm
MAPLE LEAF BAR — George Porter Jr., 8 & 10 pm
MRB — Ben Buchbinder, 7 pm
NO DICE Mint Field + Laura Fisher, 9 pm
NOLA BREWING Bluegrass Pickin’ Party , 7 pm
PRYTANIA BAR — Harmonica Slim, 7 pm
ROYAL FRENCHMEN HOTEL — Jazz Vipers, 9 pm
SATURN BAR — BC Coogan, 8:30 pm
SANTOS BAR Karaoke with Sundshine Edae, 10 pm
SPOTTED CAT Jenavieve Cooke + The Winding Boys, 2 pm; Dominick Grillo & The Frenchmen Street Allstars, 6 pm; Amber Rachelle & The Sweet Potatoes, 9 pm
ST. ROCH TAVERN — Rose Vaughn + Christopher Seymour, 9 pm
TUESDAY 9
30/90 — Kota Dosa, 6 pm; Higher Heights, 9 pm
BACCHANAL — Christien Bold, 6 pm
BAMBOULAS FK-rrera Music Group, 12 pm; Giselle Anguizola, 4:30 pm; Caitie B & The Hand Me Downs, 9 pm
BANKS STREET BAR — VetJams, 7 pm
BJ’S LOUNGE BYWATER Bruisey’s Bottoms Up Open Mic, 9 pm
BUFFA’S — Alex McMurray, 7 pm
DOS JEFES Tom Hook, 8:30 pm
FRITZEL’S EUROPEAN JAZZ CLUB
Richard “Piano” Scott, 1 pm; Colin Myers Orchestra, 5 pm; Fritzel’s All Star Band with Jamil Sharif, 8 pm
HOLY DIVER — Henrietta Lee, 8 pm
LE BON TEMPS ROULÉ — Allie Willis & Will Smith, 11 pm
THE MAISON — Jacky Blaire & The Hot Biscuits, 5 pm; Paradise Jazz Band, 8 pm
MAPLE LEAF BAR — Alex Wasily’s Very Good Band, 9 pm
MRB — DJ Mr. Bubble, 7 pm
PRYTANIA BAR — Dead on Acoustic, 7 pm
ROCK ‘N’ BOWL Javier Olondo & Asheson, 8 pm
ROYAL FRENCHMEN HOTEL Trumpet
Mafa, 6 pm; 9 pm
SALON SALON — Jeremie Henan, 7 pm
SATURN BAR Baile Ritmo Presents: ¡CUMBIA! with Los Güiros + DJ C’est Funk, 9 pm
SPOTTED CAT — Chris Christy Band, 2 pm; Sweetie Pies of New Orleans, 6 pm; Smoking Time Jazz Club, 9:30 pm
WEDNESDAY 10
30/90 Dapper Dandies, 6 pm; Kim in the Wind, 9 pm
ALLWAYS LOUNGE — Savage Jenny’s Salon de Meow!, 10 pm
APPLE BARREL — Hobo Gadget, 6 pm; Steve Mignano, 10:30 pm
BAMBOULAS — Jacky Blair and The Hot Biscuits, 12 pm; Swingin’ with John Saavedra, 4:30 pm; Jesse Morrow, 6 pm; The Queen & Friendz, 9 pm
BANKS ST. BAR — Mia Borders, 6 pm
BUFFA’S Mark Carroll, 7 pm
CAFÉ DEGAS Gizinti Trio, 6 pm
CAFÉ NEGRIL — Jam-ilton, 7:30 pm
DEW DROP INN — The Drop Inn Jam Session, 9 pm
FRITZEL’S EUROPEAN JAZZ CLUB — Richard “Piano” Scott, 1 pm; Bourbon Street Stars, 5 pm; Fritzel’s All Star Band with Kevin Ray Clark, 8 pm
HOWLIN’ WOLF DEN Mark Winters + Minos The Saint, 8 pm
JAZZ PLAYHOUSE — Funkin’ It Up with Big Sam, 7:30 pm
LONGUE VUE HOUSE & GARDENS — Electric Yat Quartet with André Bohren, 5:30 pm
MARIGNY BRASSERIE Legacy Jazz Band, 7 pm
MRB Lynn Drury, 7 pm
ROYAL FRENCHMEN HOTEL — Miles Berry, 6 pm; Kermit Rufns, 8 pm; BAM JAM w/ Gene Black, 9 pm
SANTOS BAR DJSON & Friends, 10 pm
•
•
SATURN BAR — Autumn Dominguez, Zahria Sims, and Jewel Quartet, 9 pm
SNUG HARBOR Barbara Shorts & Blue Jazz, 5 pm; Delfeayo Marsalis & Uptown Jazz Orchestra, 7:30 & 9:30 pm
VAUGHAN’S LOUNGE — Robin Rapuzzi’s Glo Worm Trio, 8:30 pm
THURSDAY 11
30/90 — Organami, 6 pm; The Budz, 9 pm
ALLWAYS LOUNGE — Cabarave, 10 pm
APPLE BARREL Bubbles Brown, 6 pm; Johnny Mastro, 10:30 pm
BACCHANAL Raphael Bas, 6 pm
BAMBOULAS — J.J. and the A-Ok’s, 12 pm; Cristina Kaminis and The Mix, 5:30 pm; Wolfe Johns Blues, 9 pm
BANKS STREET BAR The Hummingbirds, 8 pm
BJ’S LOUNGE — Coleman Akin’s Swing Septet, 9 pm
BLUE NILE — Irvin Mayfeld’s Music Church, 9 pm; 11 pm
BLUE NILE BALCONY ROOM — Reggae Night with DJ T-Roy, 11 pm
TICK ETS &S PONSORSHIP INFO R MA TION GLEASONGRAS. OR G
2025 SCHOOL GUIDE
MUSIC
Steady growth
by Jake Clapp
RYAN BATISTE HAS A FEW DREAMS FOR LOCALS’ FEST whenever he takes a look around Louis Armstrong Park.
“I go to the park pretty frequently, and I see four stages, which would be the most stages they’ve put into the park,” says Batiste, who organizes LOCALS’ Fest and performs as Shaggadelic. “The park is beautiful. There’s a lot of space you can do stuff.”
Four stages of music is an ambitious goal, and Batiste is making progress. When LOCALS’ Fest returns to Armstrong Park for its sixth edition on Saturday, Sept. 13, there will be two stages of music for the first time as well as expanded VIP offerings.
This year’s LOCALS’ Fest will feature performances by the brass bands Kings of Brass, Sporty’s Brass Band and Bettis & 3rd Degree; rapper Kr3wcial and his live band More Love, fresh off the release of the album “God Is With Us”; the Ambush Reggae Band; singer-songwriter Janai McGee; and Mike “Dizzle” Jones of the Next Level Band. Batiste also will perform with his band Raw Revolution, and there will be sets by DJs 504 Millz and Spin Griffey.
give emerging and veteran local musicians and bands another festival-style platform, especially during New Orleans’ busy fall season. Hot 8 Brass Band, Casme and Assata Renay were among the performers that year.
The mission of LOCALS’ Fest — which is short for “Loving Our Community As Louisiana” — is to highlight homegrown New Orleans talent and businesses. Along with music, there will be food and drink vendors, artists and crafts people and other small businesses with tables.
General admission is free, and there will be free parking at the Mahalia Jackson Theater parking lot, Batiste says. There also are ticketed VIP passes with an air-conditioned bathroom, private bar with two drink tickets and an elevated viewing area.
Batiste grew up in the large Batiste family of musicians and first learned to play music by watching his father, funk mainstay David Batiste Sr., and his older brothers, Jamal, Damon and the late Russell Batiste.
Ryan Batiste organized the first LOCALS’ Fest in 2019 with the goal to
When the pandemic hit in 2020, LOCALS’ Fest went online with two nights of virtual performances by Dawn Richard, Alfred Banks and others streaming on Facebook and Instagram. Hurricane Ida and another Covid surge postponed the 2021 festival, but LOCALS’ Fest made its in-person return in 2022 and has been a consistent presence on the fall calendar since.
Batiste is glad to be able to add a second stage to the grassroots festival, but, he says, he pictures a day when the event has a singer-songwriter stage or a block party area.
“The mission is still the same. The values are still the same, and we’re just opening up the platform for more people to do things,” Batiste says. “Just us being able to open it up to more people is one of the biggest blessings we’ve had.”
Find more at localsfestnola.com.
Raw Revolution performed at LOCALS’ Fest 2024. PROVIDED PHOTO BY JACQUES DALE
