It’s August in New Orleans. The heat can at times feel unbearable, but there’s also a quiet shift, an invitation to take a breath and enjoy what’s left of summer before everything kicks back into high gear. Many of us have done our best to embrace the summer slowdown throughout, but the beginning of August is the last chance to really recharge and spend quality time with friends and loved ones. Summer is also a time when we’re on the go, fitting in exciting trips to destinations both near and far, fulfilling camp duties, and general day-to-day responsibilities.
This month we’re leaning into that end of summer pace. Why add more stress to your schedule sitting in an airport or traffic on the interstate when we live in one of the top travel destinations in the world? Our staycations feature is full of ways to treat yourself without hopping on a plane, from luxe hotel deals to experiences you might’ve been meaning to try (but haven’t gotten around to). Consider it your reminder that sometimes the best escapes are right in your backyard.
We’re also looking ahead to the upcoming cultural season with a curated guide to new shows, exhibits, and performances you won’t want to miss. There’s a lot to be excited about, and we’ll help you plan what to see and when to book those tickets.
And we also include a piece by Molly Kimball that really speaks to me: the Quiet Mind Pickup Challenge. It’s a gentle nudge to put the phone down a little more often and pick something else up be it a book or magazine, a board game, a glass of wine with a friend, a visit to a favorite local spot, or a long overdue conversation. Real moments, real presence, creating real memories. Less scrolling, more living.
This issue is all about finding joy in the in-between, between the trips, the seasons, the big events. It’s about remembering that this city has so much to offer, if we just slow down enough to take it all in.
Here’s to savoring what’s left of summer!
On the Cover
Refreshing drinks from the bar at The Chloe, ready for guests to enjoy on the patio or poolside. For more staycation inspiration turn to page 26.
Photograph by Ashley Estave @estavecreative
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ANDY MYER, EDITOR
ARTS CALENDAR
August
1
William Shatner with screening of “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan,” The Fillmore, 6 Canal St., (504) 881-1555, thefillmorenola.com
1
Summer Dance Concert
New Orleans Ballet Association, NOCCA’s Freda Lupin Memorial Hall, 2800 Chartres St., (504) 522-0996, nobadance.com
1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Tipitina’s Free Fridays
Tipitina’s, 501 Napoleon Ave., (504) 895-8477, tipitinas.com
2
CAC staff show, curated by DiQuan Forcell
Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St., 504-528-3800, cacno.org
3
Carousel
Summer Lyric at Tulane University, Dixon Hall, 504-8655269, liberalarts.edu/summerlyric-theatre
3
Mumford & Sons and Friends: Railroad Revival Tour (ft. Trombone Shorty, Celisse, Chris Thile & More) Woldenberg Riverfront Park, 1 Canal St., ticketmaster.com
9
Dirty Linen Night
300-1100 Royal St., dirtylinen.org
14
Lost 80s Live Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., (504) 525-1052, saengernola.com
16
Jeezy
TM:101 Live Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., 504-525-1052, saengernola.com
16
The Eagles vs. Fleetwood Mac Tribute Concert Jefferson Performing Arts Center, 6400 Airline Highway, jeffersonpac.com
17
Fishbone
House of Blues, 225 Decatur St., houseofblues.com/ neworleans
24
Hiatus Kaiyote
The Fillmore, 6 Canal St., (504) 881-1555, thefillmorenola.com
August 2
Fidelity Bank White Linen Night
Warehouse Arts District, 300-600 Julia St., surrounding streets, artsdistrictneworleans.com
26
Cleyvis Natera, author talk and book signing Baldwin & Co., 1030 Elysian Fields Ave., baldwinandcobooks.com
Aug. 28-31, Sept. 4-7, 12-14
Ms. Holmes & Ms. WatsonApt. 2B, presented by Crescent City Stage Marquette Theater at Loyola University, 6363 St. Charles Ave., 504-354-8636, centercitystage.com
29-31
Our City of Saints Jefferson Performing Arts Center, 6400 Airline Hwy., 504731-4700, jeffersodpac.com
30
The Fixx House of Blues, 225 Decatur St., houseofblues.com/neworleans
31
The Dead South
The Fillmore, 6 Canal St., 504881-1555, thefillmorenola.com
Through Aug. 3
Refreshing America
Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St., 504-528-3800, cacno.org
Through Aug. 10
New African Masquerades: Artistic Innovations and Collaborations
New Orleans Museum of Art, One Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, 504-658-4100, noma.org
Through Sept. 7
The Unending Stream: Chapter 1
Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St, 504-5399650, ogdenmuseum.org
Through Sept. 21
Hoa Tay (Flower Hands); Southern Artists of the Vietnamese Diaspora Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St, 504-5399650, ogdenmuseum.org
Through Oct. 5
From The Storms Of Our Souls: The Art of Ron Bechet Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St., 504-528-3800, cacno.org
Through Oct. 19
Edge of Tomorrow: Aerial Views of Louisiana’s Changing Coastline by Ben Depp
Historic New Orleans Collection, 520 Royal St., 504523-4662, hnoc.org
Through Oct. 25
12th Annual HBCU Art Showcase presented by the New Orleans Chapter of The Links, Inc.
Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St, 504-5399650, ogdenmuseum.org
Through Dec. 28
Carlo Saraceni’s Our Lady of Loreto and Peruvian Viceregal Statue Paintings
New Orleans Museum of Art, One Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, 504-658-4100, noma.org
Southern Air
By Penn Iarocci
Whenever a storm hits, I know I can count on two things; a loss of power, followed by the symphonic hum of our neighbors’ generators cranking to life. While it’s comforting to know in a true emergency our neighbors could lend a helping hand, it doesn’t entirely assuage my fears. I’ve thought often about owning a generator, but the idea has always felt a bit intimidating, like it’s something meant for super-sized houses or large families, neither of which we have. With that in mind and hurricane season well upon us, I reached out to David Ibsen, Generator and Electrical Trade Manager for Southern Air, to learn more.
How much does the average whole home generator cost?
There is a wide range. We will come for a free assessment to determine which generator will work best for your specific power needs and budget. For a mid-size home, we can typically provide three or four options ranging from 12 to 16 thousand dollars each.
Does a generator have to be an eye sore?
No! Depending on the required clearance (typically 18-30” from the sides) we can place them behind an existing shed or even tuck inside a custom-painted gate. Another fun option is the Kohler Exclusive Color generator, which comes in a variety of colors that easily blend in with most landscapes.
What is the advantage of buying from Southern Air versus directly from the manufacturer?
We offer everything you need in one place. Not only do we sell multiple brands, but our master electricians can fix any brand, regardless of whether you bought it from us or not. If you do buy from us, our maintenance plans ensure your generator will last 10 years or more, or we’ll replace it. We can also assist with permits.
What else should we know about Southern Air?
We are a Louisiana based company, employing primarily Louisiana technicians. In addition to generators, we offer HVAC cleaning, maintenance and repair as well as a vast menu of electrical and plumbing services.
For more information, please call 225-267-9637.
Play Time
Discover Southern history through its card games, circuses, horse racing, summer camps and other amusements at “Delight & Distraction, Material Culture of Southern Amusement,” the focus of this year’s New Orleans Antiques Forum, Aug. 8-10. Panels include “Off to the Races: Antebellum Horse Racing and Equine Art” and “Pontchartrain Beach: A Family Affair.” Historic New Orleans Collection, Williams Research Center, 410 Chartres St., hnoc.org, @visit_hnoc
For those who lived through Hurricane Katrina, which hit New Orleans on Aug. 29, 2005, and struggled through its aftermath, it’s hard to believe it has already been 20 years. During August and beyond, there are a number of events to mark the anniversary. The City of New Orleans launched a website, Katrina K20, katrina20.nola.gov, that lists these events, including the Mayor’s K20 Summit (Aug. 23-30), which includes a citywide Day of Service; and the 20th Anniversary Katrina March and Second Line on Aug. 29. New Orleans & Company plans to have a listing of events on its site, neworleans. com, @cityofnola, @neworleansandco
Jazzed Up
Turning up the musical heat is Satchmo SummerFest, Aug. 2-3. Honoring New Orleans' legendary musician, Louis Armstrong, the free festival is a must-see for jazz enthusiasts and features brass bands, traditional jazz and more. John Boutté, Charmaine Neville and Kermit Ruffins Tribute to Louis Armstrong are a few of the highlights. There are also educational panels, food and more at the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint (400 Esplanade Ave.) frenchquarterfest.org/satchmo, @fqfest – By Sue Strachan
Cut From The Same Cloth Ah, crisp white linen on a summer’s evening? Why not … heat be damned! And with that carefree attitude — and much organization — Fidelity Bank White Linen Night returns Aug. 2 to the Warehouse Arts District (300-600 Julia St., surrounding streets) to celebrate with food, music and gallery openings, 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Don’t forget after-party at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art (925 Camp St.). artsdistrictneworleans. com, @artsdistrictneworleans. What to do with those less-so-fresh linen ensembles? Wear them a week later on Aug. 9 when Dirty Linen Night, hosted by the Royal Street Arts District (300-1100 Royal St. and surrounding streets), has galleries and shops open for the heat-defiant, 6 p.m.-10 p.m. dirtylinen.org, @royalstreet_ artsdistrict_nola. Both events are free (and there may be some air-conditioning, too!)
Beam Me Up
The wit and wisdom of Capt. James T. Kirk, aka William Shatner, will be on full display in person and on screen when he hosts a screening of “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan,” at the Fillmore New Orleans (6 Canal St.) on Aug. 1. Shatner will share stories and answer questions after the movie; VIP tickets allow for premium seating and a photo opportunity. Though will he sing, “Rocket Man”? thefillmorenola.com, @thefillmorenola
Katrina 20 Remembrance
Enamored With Glamour
An exquisite addition to any wrist, the Tiffany HardWear small wrap bracelet in yellow gold is inspired by a quintessential bracelet circa 1962, as found in the iconic House’s archives. Tiffany & Co., 333 Canal St., 504-4346002, tiffany.com.
Sublimely step up your style in a pair of Kat cocktail slides. Handmade in Turkey, each slide is hand-loomed and made of dyed silk velvet, then adorned with crystal embellishments. shopbaldiz.com
By Amy Gabriel
A Margot cocktail ring in vintage 23k yellow gold over brass is the perfect complement to a trendy Chrysanthemum cocktail. The combination of light mauve illusion and pink coral iridescent abalone make for a stunning statement. Kendra Scott, 5757 Magazine St., 504613-4227, kendrascott.com
Turn heads your way when draped in an unabashedly feminine kaftan in bubble pink with luxurious gold silk threadwork. Details like embroidered trumpet sleeves and flowing side slits make this a sophisticated standout. Sue Sartor, 3806 Magazine St., 504-354-1167, suesartor.com. Photo credit: Isabella Lanaro.
Your essentials will be chicly secure in a crystal diamond box bag from Le Nine. The biscotti colorway pairs with any ensemble and the silky white removable crossbody strap makes for a versatile wear. Pilot & Powell, 3901 Magazine St., 504-827-1727, pilotandpowell.com
Indian Summers to New Orleans Style
New Orleans designer Trishala Bhansali of Lekha balances global inspiration and an ethical fashion ethos with local love.
Trishala Bhansali, the creative force behind the clothing and lifestyle boutique Lekha on Magazine Street, wanted to do more than merely design clothes when she launched the brand in 2018. After over a decade in New York attending Parsons School of Design, getting an MBA and working in fashion retail, Bhansali felt the pull of home. “I really wanted to move back to New Orleans,” she admits, “I saw that there was this great entrepreneurial rise in the city.” The time was right for Bhansali to put her own stamp on something homegrown.
A New Orleans native and daughter of Indian immigrants (her father a cardiologist and mother a politician in India), the designer spent summers traversing India visiting family and soaking in the vibrant cultures of Mumbai and Delhi. Bhansali’s move from New York back to New Orleans was followed by months of researching and meeting people in India and conceiving clothing that blends the vibrant aesthetics of India, ethical practices and female empowerment Bhansali experienced during summer visits, with the laid-back elegance of New Orleans. Lekha fast became a sartorial love letter to her maternal grandmother, the namesake of her brand, Bhansali describes as a “political force” who helped found the largest political party in India, and embodied strength and charisma.
“You have the strength and ability to lead and be this powerhouse,” says Bhansali about her grandmother, who was born Lekha Divyeshwari Devi but later, when she married the last maharaja of Gwalior, changed her name to
Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia. “But then you also have this other side of the feminine that is tender and gentle and warm.”
From the beginning, Bhansali has collaborated with women’s artisan groups and nonprofits in India, including the Nabha Foundation, the Kala Swaraj Foundation and the Saheli Women’s Group. As Lekha grows and evolves to now include the Lower Garden District retail shop and studio which opened in the summer of 2023, Bhansali continues to work with the latter two groups, helping to empower women in rural villages, “creating financial independence” and “breaking the societal norms.” This commitment to fair labor practices and sustainable production is woven into the fabric of Lekha. Her design style has also evolved, as Bhansali explores the vibrant color palette of New Orleans and finds inspiration in travel, art and nature.
“I used to design two collections and they were both riffs off the same thing,” says Bhansali, whose designs celebrate hand loomed linen, muslin and silk and reflect her own personal style, while at the same time remaining accessible to women of all ages. “But now as I’ve tried to make it a more holistic brand, I’ve incorporated more things you could wear to black tie or a Christmas party.”
With exciting partnerships on the horizon, including collaborations with Dear Valentine (design forward vacation rental properties), and Hotel St. Vincent, Bhansali is not only designing clothes, but is also weaving the story of her own heritage into the culturally rich fabric of New Orleans. – By Melanie Warner Spencer
Fashion Report Card
By Amy Gabriel
Catch a podcast on a walk in Audubon Park via a pair of Apple AirPods Max. The au courant orange color makes for a hip color pop while the pro-level active noise cancellation removes up to 2x more background sounds. bkstr.com.
You have daily necessities aplenty. Tote them in a chic Romy Hobo bag. Crafted in soft pebbled leather in a luxe Tiramisu color, the lightweight carry-all is versatile for on the go errands and off-duty weekend activities. Tory Burch, 333 Canal St., 504-581-6623, toryburch.com
Jot down the things you need to keep top of mind with Scriptura’s custom Retro 51 Tornado pen. This charming exclusive edition features a whimsical New Orleans streetcar, black pinstripes, satin gold trim and a worded reminder to “let the good times roll”. Scriptura, 5423 Magazine St., 504-897-1555, scriptura.com.
Even your car keys can look fashionable when fastened to a bracelet key ring from Oventure (oventure.com). Featuring a mix of browns, creams and whites in an antelope-inspired pattern, this handy accessory can slip right onto your wrist. Little Miss Muffin, 766 Harrison Ave., 504-482-8200, shoplittlemissmuffin.com
For the morning carpool commute where caffeine is essential, and the after pick up timeframe when you’re ready to relax with a crisp rosé, the Parkside Flask from High Camp will be your go-to. The flask comes with two stemless magnetic tumblers making sharing pours a cinch. Lucy Rose, 3312 Magazine St., 504-895-0444; 600 Metairie Rd., 504-218-7368, shoplucyrose.com.
Christina Lehew
Executive Director, Common Ground Relief
Founded in September 2005 to address immediate community needs following Hurricane Katrina, Common Ground Relief now serves New Orleans citizens and protects native landscapes. Executive Director Christina Lehew, who joined the organization two years ago, spoke with Avenue about Common Ground Relief’s current work.
Common Ground features two major programs. One is the weekly food distribution program called Free Pantry. Every Saturday, they distribute fresh whole produce, such as tomatoes, potatoes, and carrots, as well as dry goods including rice, beans, and cornbread mix. They also provide donated items such as bakery bread and storm preparation supplies. The local businesses that donate help make a huge difference.
Since its start in 2020, the Free Pantry has served on average, around 330 household members every week. A low-barrier pantry, they do not require any form of ID, registration, or private information from shoppers. As a self-select pantry, shoppers choose what they prefer to take or leave behind, which helps reduce waste. A welcoming space, it also encourages neighbors to gather and socialize every week.
For many New Orleans households, the Free Pantry provides a vital resource. During times of extended power outages, such as Hurricane Ida in 2021, the pantry remained open for two and a half weeks, accepting and distributing aid items on a daily basis.
During 2024 alone, the Free Pantry served 16,511 household members. In addition, 40 percent of Free Pantry recipients are children under 18. This is double the proportion of children under 18 in the Greater New Orleans area. Many local families with children need assistance for food access, particularly the fresh foods that the Free Pantry provides.
Common Ground Relief’s second major program focuses on coastal restoration and education. Every year they plant an average of 5,000 native trees, 30,000 plugs of marsh grasses, and 5,000 native irises, in addition to extras such as black mangroves and shrubs.
The majority of these plants are raised on a half-acre site established in 2009 in the Lower 9th Ward. It acts as a shady green space for the public, complete with a new water fountain. Every year the Common Ground Relief team hosts hundreds of volunteers, including local and out of state
students, and educates them on the causes and consequences of coastal land loss in Louisiana. Solutions are covered as well.
“It is important to communicate that the solutions are out there, and they are often in our native landscapes,” said Lehew. “Understanding our environment and its past is key to understanding solutions for the future as well.” She enjoys connecting with people of all ages on this topic, which is interconnected to hurricane season, home ownership, and food access. Preserving – and even growing – the land is key.
The help of about 1,000 volunteers per year is critical to the planting process. “We take a lot of folks out into the swamps for the first time, and it can be a huge moment,” said Lehew. Because of the stigma surrounding swamps as dirty and dangerous spaces, some people are uneasy at first. But after spending a day outside, playing in the water and planting trees, the volunteers often gain appreciation for these beautiful spaces. As Lehew explained, at the end of the day volunteers can look at the hundreds of trees they helped plant and see a long-term investment in Louisiana’s future.
Connecting more visitors with Common Ground Relief is a big goal
for the organization. To increase mobility accessibility, they are renovating the plant nursery to create ADA-compliant pathways for wheelchair access. In addition, they will purchase mobility tools to assist with bending and grasping. To improve communication access, they plan to translate all signage into English, Spanish, French, Vietnamese, and Braille. The team is also looking to invest in two-way translators, increasing their ability to share information with visitors.
Lastly, the Common Ground Relief team is working with several partners to better equip their space to serve as a disaster response hub, which is how the organization got started. For instance, they are acquiring solar battery systems to keep refrigerators running during power outages to produce and distribute ice.
Looking back on the organization’s twenty years of change and development, Lehew wants to honor Common Ground Relief’s history. “We have volunteers that have been with us every single year since 2006,” said Lehew. “It is a big year for everybody. I think there is going to be a lot of emotion and pride in what we have been able to do in this time.” – By Lindsay Mack
CHANGE MAKERS
GET INVOLVED
Get in touch with the Common Ground Relief team by reaching out on their website and follow the team on social media. Visit their nursery to purchase native plants for your home. In addition, the team welcomes all donations, as well as all volunteers of any skill level and age.
Guide to the Cultural Season 2025-2026
New Orleans' cultural scene is an ongoing, vibrant part of the city. While theater, dance, music and other cultural offerings fill calendars throughout the year, it is in the fall when organizations kick off their official seasons and major exhibitions.
Whether it’s the Saenger Theatre’s Broadway series’ “The Phantom of the Opera”; New Orleans Ballet Association presenting the Dance Theatre of Harlem; New Orleans native Terence Blanchard’s “Fire Shut Up in My Bones (Chamber Suite),” staged by the New Orleans Opera Association, or Ogden Museum of Southern Art's “Louisiana Contemporary presented by the Helis Foundation,” there is an option to satisfy any culture lover’s cravings.
The listing below is just a portion of the arts organizations in the city and we encourage you to discover them!
Compiled by Sue Strachan
* For all organizations, we recommend checking the website for the most up-to-date information, as schedules can change.
New Orleans Ballet Association presenting the Dance Theatre of Harlem Company
Artists Derek Brockington and Delaney Washington. Photo by Nir Arieli
CONTEMPORARY ARTS CENTER
900 CAMP ST.
504-528-3800
CACNO.ORG
The Contemporary Arts Center, New Orleans is committed to artists, the presentation of multidisciplinary work, and advancing the value and power of the art of our time.
The CAC is a touchstone for contemporary art in New Orleans and the Gulf South, enhancing connections between artists and communities and providing a forum for ideas and the exploration of a just society through artistic creation, public engagement and institutional practice.
“Refreshing America” (On view through Aug. 2.)
“Untitled” (Aug. 2 – Oct. 4.)
“From the Storms of Our Souls: The Art of Ron Bechet” (On view through Oct. 4.)
“Beyond Our Walls: The Helis Foundation John Scott Center Collection” (On view through Oct. 4)
“K20: Immersion” (Aug. 29 – Oct. 31)
“Festival of New Works” (March 7, 2026 – June 8, 2026)
CRESCENT CITY STAGE
6063 MAGAZINE ST.
MAINSTAGE PRODUCTIONS AT MARQUETTE THEATER
LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CAMPUS
504-354-8636
CRESCENTCITYSTAGE.COM
Crescent City Stage is a nonprofit arts organization dedicated to producing professional theatre of the highest caliber, ensuring equitable compensation for its creative teams and fostering an inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives and experiences. CCS Studio and the Creative Commons Space operate year-round with programming for all ages and skill levels. Join the group for ongoing professional classes or for one of its community outreach workshops and events. The Studio will begin hosting after school theatre classes in the fall 2025.
“Ms. Holmes & Ms. Watson - APT 2B” (Aug. 28 –Sept. 14) A darkly comic, feminist twist on the world’s greatest detective duo by Kate Hamill. Pandemic fatigue and quirky codependence collide as these oddball roommates solve mysteries and kick butt. This hilarious and irreverent adventure will leave you wanting more.
“A Christmas Carol” (Dec. 4 – Dec. 21) Now in its third year, the annual holiday tradition is brought to life by only five actors with endless imagination. Unwrap a new holiday tradition with Charles Dickens’s classic tale is brought to life with wit, warmth, and theatrical magic in a new adaptation by Patrick Barlow. Experience Scrooge’s transformation in a way you’ve never seen before.
JEFFERSON PERFORMING ARTS SOCIETY
JEFFERSON PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 6400 AIRLINE DR.
WESTWEGO PERFORMING ARTS THEATRE
177 SALA AVE.
504-885-2000
JPAS.ORG
The Jefferson Performing Arts Society presents its 48th season at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center and Westwego Performing Arts Theatre (WPAT).
“The Eagles vs. Fleetwood Mac” (Aug. 16)
“Our City of Saints” (Aug. 29 –31)
“Waitress” (Sept. 12 – 21)
“Billy vs. Elton: A Concert Tribute to Billy Joel and Elton John” (Sept. 26)
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (Dec. 5 –14)
“The Nutcracker” (Dec. 19 – 21)
“Frozen” (March 6 – 15, 2026)
“Alanis Morisette’s Jagged Little Pill, The Musical” (April 17 – 26, 2026)
NEWCOMB ART MUSEUM OF TULANE UNIVERSITY
WOLDENBERG ART CENTER, TULANE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS
504-865-5328
NEWCOMBARTMUSEUM.TULANE.EDU
The Newcomb Art Museum of Tulane University builds on the Newcomb College legacy of education, social enterprise and artistic experience. Presenting inspiring exhibitions and programs that engage communities both on and off campus, the Museum fosters the creative exchange of ideas and cross-disciplinary collaborations around innovative art and design. The Museum preserves and advances scholarship on the Newcomb and Tulane art collections.
“Poetic Gaps: Opacity in the Photographic Imprint”
“it takes a long time to stay here: Paintings by Jordan Ann Craig” (Aug. 15, 2025 – Jan. 16, 2026)
“The Moss Mystique: Southern Women and Newcomb Pottery” (February – May 2026)
THE JOY THEATER
1200 CANAL ST.
504-766-8051
THEJOYTHEATER.COM
Since its birth in 1947 as one of the city’s first “modern” movie theaters, the Joy has brought entertainment to generations of New Orleanians within its grand Art Deco walls on Canal Street. A significant renovation in recent years has restored the venue to its glory, allowing the Joy to host concerts, shows and other events.
“Project Pat” (Aug. 2) Memphis rap icon and Three 6 Mafia co-founder brings his signature Southern hip-hop bangers live to New Orleans.
“Bingo Loco” (Aug. 23) A raucous, party-style bingo rave — confetti, lip-sync battles, high-energy DJs and prizes galore across two showtimes.
“Bearracuda” (Aug. 29) The world’s wildest all-gender dance party returns with nonstop beats, cruising atmosphere and unforgettable vibes.
Here Come the Mummies (Sept. 4) Costumed funk-rock band delivers a high-energy, masked spectacle packed with groovy rhythms and theatrical flair.
Steven Ho: “Is It an Emergency?” (Sept. 5) ER-trained comedian Steven Ho brings comedic medical tales and sharp satire in a must-see live set.
Franz Ferdinand (Sept. 20) Scottish indie-rock legends hit Joy Theater with their signature danceable riffs and tight, infectious grooves.
Mojo Brookz: “I KNOW YOU F*CKING LYING TOUR” (Oct. 4) Viral comedy and social media star Mojo Brookz brings sharp, hilarious commentary to NOLA with his new live tour.
“Japanese Breakfast: The Melancholy Tour” (Oct. 10) Shoegaze dream-pop artist Michelle Zauner curates a lush, emotionally rich live set from her acclaimed catalog.
Autechre (Oct. 15) Pioneering IDM duo Sean Booth and Rob Brown return for a mind-bending night of immersive electronic soundscapes.
Becky Robinson: “Members Only Tour” (Oct. 17) Comedy viral star Becky Robinson blends song and sketch in a relatable, laughpacked evening.
Hippie Sabotage: “Echoes of Time Tour” (Oct. 22) Electronic duo Hippie Sabotage creates intoxicating vibes with atmospheric melodies and bass-heavy drops.
moe. + The Infamous Stringdusters (Oct. 31 & Nov. 1) A spooky twonight NOLAween duo: jam-rock heroes moe. and bluegrass virtuosos The Infamous Stringdusters unite for a massive celebration of strings and riffs.
Atreyu w/ He Is Legend & Zero 9:36 (Nov. 11) Metalcore veterans Atreyu headline with support from hard-rock acts He Is Legend and Zero 9:36.
Whitney Cummings: “Big Baby” (Dec. 6) Comedic powerhouse Whitney Cummings delivers sharp humor and observational wit in her new “Big Baby” stand-up tour.
SAENGER THEATRE
1111 CANAL ST. 504-525-1052
SAENGERNOLA.COM
The Saenger brings Broadway favorites to Canal Street all season long through its popular “Broadway in New Orleans” series.
“Kimberly Akimbo” (Oct. 7 – 12) The 2023 Tony-winning “Kimberly Akimbo” follows a teenage girl with a rare aging condition in a darkly whimsical, life-affirming tale. A fresh, funny, and moving story about growing up, growing old and finding joy in the in-between.
“A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical” (Nov. 11 – 16) “A Beautiful Noise” tells the untold true story of how Neil Diamond rose from Brooklyn kid to legendary American icon. Featuring his biggest hits, this high-energy musical memoir is as inspiring and unforgettable as the man himself.
“Back To The Future: The Musical” (Dec. 9 – 14) “Back to the Future: The Musical” turns the beloved blockbuster into a thrilling Broadway spectacle filled with nostalgia, adventure, and dazzling effects. When Marty McFly is catapulted to 1955, he must fix the past to save the future — all to a high-energy score and lightning-fast laughs.
“Hell’s Kitchen” (Dec. 30, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026) “Hell’s Kitchen” is a powerful new musical from Alicia Keys, telling the story of 17-year-old Ali as she searches for freedom, purpose and her voice in 1990s New York. Fueled by Keys’ greatest hits and new songs, it’s a moving mother-daughter journey of self-discovery, music, and the magic of finding your place.
“Hadestown” (Jan. 23 – 25, 2026) “Hadestown” is a spellbinding, Tony and Grammy-winning musical that reimagines the ancient tales of Orpheus, Eurydice, Hades and Persephone. With a soul-stirring score by Anaïs Mitchell, it’s a timeless story of love, fate and defying the darkness through song.
“Water for Elephants” (February 3 – 8, 2026) “Water for Elephants” is a breathtaking new musical where a lost young man finds love, purpose and a home in a traveling circus. With stunning visuals, a sweeping score, and heart to spare, it’s a powerful story of second chances and the magic of choosing the ride.
“The Phantom of the Opera” (March 4 – 15, 2026) “The Phantom of the Opera” tells the haunting story of a disfigured musical genius who falls obsessively in love with a young soprano he mentors. Featuring Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic score, this timeless musical blends romance, passion, and tragedy in a breathtaking spectacle.
“The Great Gatsby” (March 24 – 29, 2026) “The Great Gatsby” is a Broadway extravaganza that bursts with life, energy, and the glamour of the Roaring Twenties. This Tony Award-winning musical weaves a powerful story of love, wealth, and tragedy set to an original jazz- and pop-influenced score.
“SIX” (April 14 – 19, 2026) “SIX” reimagines the six wives of Henry VIII as pop icons, turning centuries of history into a vibrant celebration of girl power. This award-winning musical combines catchy original songs, high-energy performances, and a bold modern twist that has captivated audiences worldwide.
“The Book of Mormon” (May 12 – 17, 2026) “The Book of Mormon” is a hilarious and irreverent musical comedy about two mismatched missionaries sent to spread their faith in a remote part of the world. Winner of nine Tony Awards, this bold and outrageous show has become a global sensation with its sharp humor and unforgettable songs.
“Monty Python’s Spamalot” (June 2 – 7, 2026) “Monty Python’s Spamalot” is a hilarious musical comedy inspired by the cult classic “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” filled with irreverent humor and unforgettable songs. This Tony Award-winning show features beloved numbers like “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life” and has become a staple of musical theater comedy.
OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART
925 CAMP ST.
504-539-9650
OGDENMUSEUM.ORG
Located in the vibrant Warehouse Arts District of downtown New Orleans, Louisiana, Ogden Museum of Southern Art invites visitors to experience and learn about the artists and culture of the American South. Ogden Museum is home to a collection of more than 5,000 works, making it the largest and most comprehensive repository dedicated to Southern art in the nation, with strength in the genres of Self-Taught art, Regionalism, photography and contemporary art.
Permanent Collection Exhibition
Will Henry Stevens Gallery
Benny Andrews Gallery (Ongoing exhibitions)
“Keith Duncan: Battle of the Bands, HBCU Marching Band Series” (On view through Aug. 10)
“The Unending Stream, Chapter I” (On view through Sept. 7)
“Hoa Tay (Flower Hands)” Southern Artists of the Vietnamese Diaspora (On view through Sept. 21)
HBCU Showcase (On view through Oct. 19)
Louisiana Contemporary presented by the Helis Foundation (Aug. 2, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026)
“The Unending Stream, Chapter II” (Sept. 27, 2025 – March 15, 2026)
Each One Teach One (Oct. 4, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026)
NEW ORLEANS BALLET ASSOCIATION
935 GRAVIER ST.
504-522-0996
NOBADANCE.COM
The New Orleans Ballet Association (NOBA) is Louisiana’s premier dance presenting and service organization, inspiring generations through world-class performances and transformative community programs.
NOBA’s Main Stage Series showcases leading dance companies at the Mahalia Jackson Theater, while its nationally recognized tuition-free programs provide exceptional training, health and wellness classes and performance opportunities at up to 20 neighborhood sites across three parishes for ages 4 to 80+. Services include a renowned youth program, Senior Dance Fitness and Dance for Parkinson’s Program.
Dance Theatre of Harlem (Oct. 11) Dance Theatre of Harlem blends classical brilliance with contemporary vision, celebrating over 55 years as one of the most trailblazing and beloved companies in ballet.
BODYTRAFFIC (Nov. 15) BODYTRAFFIC joins forces with internationally celebrated choreographer Trey McIntyre for a compelling evening featuring “Mayday” and a special restaging — in partnership with Preservation Hall Jazz Band — of NOBA’s 2008-commissioned “Ma Maison” with excerpts of “The Sweeter End” in commemoration of the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.
Argentina’s Tango After Dark (Jan. 24, 2026) Argentine tango at its very best, this award-winning cast of 10 dancers, two sensational singers, and seven on-stage musicians will ignite the stage with Astor Piazzolla’s passionate compositions.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago (March 21, 2026) Hubbard Street Dance Chicago (HSDC) returns with a landmark program featuring two works by the legendary Bob Fosse, as the only authorized dance company in the world to house Fosse repertoire as well as works by Alvin Ailey’s Matthew Rushing and HSDC resident choreographer Aszure Barton.
NEW ORLEANS OPERA ASSOCIATION
2504 PRYTANIA ST. (OPERA GUILD HOME) 504-529-3000 NEWORLEANSOPERA.ORG
General and Artistic Director Lila Palmer leads New Orleans Opera in its 83rd season featuring New Orleans‘s first OPERA FESTIVAL, March 26-April 2, 2026, in the French Quarter - where American opera began in New Orleans 230 years ago. Look for concerts and other events throughout the season as well.
“Handel’s Messiah”* (Dec. 5) A prophecy foretold; a voice that echoes through eternity. This Christmas classic weaves the greatest story ever told into a vivid musical tapestry of triumph, despair and awe. At the Orpheum Theater.
*Performed in partnership with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra
“Fire Shut Up in My Bones (Chamber Suite)” (Feb. 22, 2026) In the chamber of his soul, Charles M. Blow confronts the shadows of his past, embarking on a transformative journey of healing and hope. This suite from Terence Blanchard’s critically acclaimed opera features principal artists from the opera and the composer performing his own score. At the Civic Theatre.
“Dialogues des Carmélites” (March 24, 26, 28, 31) Paris, 1789: Fear reigns. Faith is tested. The guillotine looms. In a world turned upside down, the destiny of 16 sisters of the Carmelite Order hangs in the balance. This powerful true story lives on stage in a site-specific production at the oldest building in Louisiana, the Ursuline Convent in the French Quarter.
“Der Rosenkavalier” (March 27, 29) A sophisticated older woman, a romantic chevalier and a blooming young girl converge in an impossible love triangle around a single silver rose, set to the dreamiest melodies in opera. Will the Marschallin relinquish her lover and sacrifice herself to the toll of passing time, or protect her own heart and doom a young woman to a dowry marriage? At Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts.
“Pilgrimage” (April 2) A journey through the dark night of the soul. In this immersive pairing, Carlisle Floyd’s “Pilgrimage” and Kaija Saariaho’s “L’amour de loin intertwine,” guides listeners through an odyssey of longing and spiritual rebirth.
NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART
1 COLLINS DIBOLL CIRCLE, CITY PARK
504-658-4100
NOMA.ORG
With a permanent collection of nearly 50,000 works spanning 5,000 years of world history, the New Orleans Museum of Art is a cornerstone cultural institution for Louisiana and the Gulf South. Rotating exhibitions and permanent installations explore global art from the unique vantage point of New Orleans. NOMA’s 12-acre Besthoff Sculpture Garden continues the experience outside — with 100 works showcasing highlights of outdoor sculpture from the 19th century to the present day.
“New African Masquerades: Artistic Innovations and Collaborations” (On view through Aug. 10)
“Dapper Bruce Lafitte: A Time Before Katrina” (On view through Sept. 21)
“Nicolas Floc’h: Fleuves-Océan, Mississippi Watershed” (On view through Feb. 22, 2026)
This beloved spot in Kenner’s Rivertown neighborhood brings a broad array of spectacular musical, familyoriented, and other programming to the stage.
“Dear Evan Hansen” (Sept 12 – 18) Winner of six Tony Awards (including Best Musical) and a Grammy, this social-media-age phenomenon couples a pulse-pounding pop score with a heart-gripping search for belonging — absolutely unmissable.
“Gypsy” (Oct. 24 – Nov. 9) Dubbed “the greatest American musical” and crowned with multiple Tony triumphs, this legendary backstage classic blazes with Mama Rose’s unstoppable drive and show-stopping standards you have to witness live.
“It’s A Wonderful Life Y’all” (Dec. 8 – 21) After a sold-out run last holiday season, this classic story adapted by Ricky Graham is now told with the humor and warmth of true New Orleans characters. It is a homegrown holiday show for the whole family!
“Christmas Time in New Orleans” (December 2025) The Big Easy Boys are back with their sweet harmonies, tight choreography and stage charm to put audiences in the holiday spirit!
“Disaster, the Musical (Jan. 9 – 25, 2026) A New York Times Critics’ Pick that stuffs every 1970s disaster-film cliché into one riotous night of earthquakes, tidal waves, killer bees — and wall-to-wall disco hits — guaranteeing laugh-tillyou-drop fun.
“All Shook Up” (March 6 – 22, 2026) Fresh off high-energy national tours, this Broadway jukebox romp shakes the house with 24 chart-topping Elvis anthems, rebellious romance and rock-’n’-roll swagger you’ll feel in your seat.
“Cinderella” (May 15 – 31, 2026) Rodgers & Hammerstein’s sparkling fairy-tale dazzler — winner of the Tony for Best Costume Design and nominated for nine others — serves pumpkin-to-palace magic and glass-slipper dreams for the whole family.
“Legally Blonde” (July 9 – 9, 2026) The Tony-nominated, Olivier Award–winning smash struts into Harvard Law on a flood of pink-powered pop anthems, proving brains, bravery and a bend-and-snap can conquer all.
LE PETIT THÉÂTRE
616 ST. PETER ST. 504-522-2081
LEPETITTHEATRE.COM
This French Quarter gem sits at the city’s cultural epicenter. The historic theater dates to 1922 and provides a captivating stage for productions that showcase the area’s best professional talent across a range of dramatic, musical and comedic productions.
“The Lehman Trilogy” (Oct. 2 – 19) This epic theatrical event charts the humble beginnings, outrageous successes, and devastating failure of the Lehman brothers. Winner of five 2022 Tony Awards, including Best Play. By Stefano Massini, adapted by Ben Power.
“Blithe Spirit” (Jan. 8 – 25, 2026) “Blithe Spirit” is Noël Coward’s beloved comedy showing how life – and the afterlife – get complicated.
“Guys and Dolls: A Musical Fable of Broadway” (March 5 – 29, 2026) One of the greatest musical comedies of all time, this award-winning classic gambles with luck and love under the bright lights of Broadway. Book by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows; music and lyrics by Frank Loesser. Based on “The Idyll of Sarah Brown” and characters by Damon Runyon.
“God of Carnage” (April 30 – May 17, 2026) Kids will be kids, but the adults are usually worse – much worse. “God of Carnage” won the Olivier Award for Best Comedy and the Tony Award for Best Play. By Yasmina Reza, translated by Christopher Hampton.
“Once” (June 4 – 21, 2026) From the very first note, “Once” draws you in and never lets go. This emotionally captivating musical is the only show to have music that won an Oscar, Grammy, Olivier and Tony awards. Book by Enda Walsh, music and lyrics by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová. Based on the motion picture written and directed by John Carney.
LOUISIANA PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
504-523-6530
LPOMUSIC.COM
Steeped in history yet focused on innovation, the Grammy Award-winning Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO) is the only full-time collaboratively governed and operated orchestra in the U.S. Under the leadership of Music Director Matthew Kraemer, the LPO is rooted in a culturally diverse community with a 200-year-old orchestral music tradition and sets the standard for orchestral programming and performance in Louisiana. Concerts are at Orpheum Theater, unless indicated.
2025 Benefit Concert: A Tribute to Ellis Marsalis Jr. (Sept. 6)
Market Nights: The Mighty Nine (Jan. 17, 2026) New Orleans Jazz Market
Brahms Symphony No. 1 (Jan. 29, 2026)
Enigma Variations (Feb. 26, 2026)
French Fables & Fantasies (March 6, 7) New Marigny Theatre; Fuhrmann Auditorium
Beethoven Symphony No.9 (March 12, 2026)
Pilgrimage: An Immersive Opera Experience, collaboration with the New Orleans Opera (April 2, 2026)
Market Nights: George Porter Jr. (April 8, 2026) New Orleans Jazz Market
Dvořák Symphony No. 7 (April 16, 2026)
Swing in the Oaks (April 21, 2026) City Park
The Firebird (May 7, 2026)
Summer Staycations
PHOTO BY PAUL COSTELLO
ByJylBenson
Staycations
Why sugar coat it? New Orleans is a place few—save for the Tales of the Cocktail crowd that decamped back to cooler pastures a few weeks ago— actually seek out in the summertime. Those who can leave do, while those who, for whatever reason, cannot decamp for cooler pastures themselves develop intimate relationships with their air conditioners that border on obsession. But life at home, no matter how glorious the setting, can start to wear thin. If a bit of change—perhaps with a side of pampering— or just a good time is in order, with or without the children, take heed. As is the case most times of the year, area hotels, both large and small, are offering an abundance of special getaway packages and enticements this month.
LOWER GARDEN DISTRICT
Italian modernist design details adorn
The Hotel Saint Vincent (1507 Magazine St, 504-350-2450, saintvincentnola.com), which opened in 2021 in a 160-year-old former orphanage. “Grand and a little debaucherous” is how Austin-based interior designer Liz Lambert describes the vibe of the hotel’s public and private areas, which are infused with eclectic touches reminiscent of the 1960s and ’70s. Each of the hotel’s 75 guest rooms is unique and showcases custom details, including Carrara marble and Voutsa wallpaper. The lush public spaces include a Saltillo-tiled courtyard and pool, signature bars, and two full-service restaurants: Creole-Italian-inspired San Lorenzo and the French Vietnamese-style Elizabeth Street Café. Luxe touches include vintage Murano glass, custom furniture, and local art.
The Summer Getaway Package is available through September 4th and offers up to 35% off a stay.
The Garden District Hotel (1525 Prytania St., 504-814-9387, gdhnola. com), is a newly opened boutique hotel on Prytania Street featuring a fun and sexy 2,000-square-foot swim-up pool bar, the first of its kind in New Orleans. The heat-busting pool is open to daytime visitors for $30 Monday through Thursday and $45 Friday through Saturday.
The hotel is offering an introductory rate on rooms: 15% off a stay through August 31. There is also an Advanced Purchase booking option, which offers 20% off when booked in advance. This is non-refundable.
Located on the avenue in the Garden District, the 14-story Pontchartrain Hotel (2031 St. Charles Ave, 504-323-1400, theponchartrainhotel.com), built circa 1927, is a one-stop shop for dining, offering both opulent and casual options, nightlife, and luxury accommodations.
Suites and rooms are classically appointed, featuring contemporary creature comforts. Lacquered in black and mint-green hues, the design mimics the majestic Spanish moss-laden oaks and balmy palms of the neighborhood, complemented by luxuriously layered Moroccan rugs.
The signature restaurant, Jack Rose, is an eye-popping affair that encourages spontaneous celebration, whether enjoying dinner in the Jack Rose dining rooms, hosting an escapade in the Mile High Pie Club, snacking on small plates under the Lil Wayne portrait by Ashley Longshore in the Living Room lounge, or sipping sparkling rosé from Champagne bongs in the Rose Garden Patio.
The Heatwave Hideaway Package features up to 20% off rooms, two round-trip streetcar tickets, two cooling towels, and a $50 credit to use at any Pontchartrain food and beverage outlets.
The Jazz at Bayou Bar Package focuses on live jazz in the Bayou Bar on the first floor, Tuesday through Thursday nights. Guests can enjoy a 1 p.m. late check-out and two complimentary Sazeracs.
The Suite Offer covers 20% off suites with a minimum two-night stay.
Opened last year, The Blackbird (1612 Prytania St., 504-3837500, theblackbirdnola.com) is a sexy little affair under the oaks on Prytania Street. Amenities in the 13 rooms (many with balconies) include king beds with 100% Egyptian cotton bed linens by Revival New York, high-speed internet, a Samsung Frame TV that blends art and function, and elegant touches such as filtered water and ornate ice buckets. No two rooms are the same. The hotel consistently offers curated events including live jazz concerts and pilates pop-ups beside its courtyard saltwater pool that is heated in the winter and chilled in the summer. The adjacent bar offers cocktails and snacks from midday through happy hour. Despite its small size, this hotspot punches above its weight with an onsite bar and café featuring southern takes on small bites.
The Advanced Purchase Package offers a 10% savings for bookings made in advance. This is non-refundable.
The Extended Stay Package offers 15% savings on the best flexible rate available.
WAREHOUSE DISTRICT
A 202-room, glamorous, and showy spot, the Kimpton Hotel Fontenot (501 Tchoupitoulas St, 504-571-1818, hotelfontenot.com) is a design-led, boutique property by a major hotel chain. The underpinning is a celebration of the city’s musical history, and the calendar is packed with live bands, poetry slams, stand-up comedy and art events in its social spaces.
The over-the-top Peacock Room is the jewel in the crown with high-end libations and a daring, contemporary menu. The hotel has special packages galore! Throughout October 2, the Beat the Heat Sale offers up to 20% off the current best flexible rate, and a $20 credit toward a local pool pass via ResortPass. The hotel customarily offers three nights for the price of two. The Pet Package features a welcome beverage for adults, treats, and a take-home gift for pets, and in-room pet bed and food/water bowls.
The Last-Minute Deal features discounted rates for fully prepaid, nonrefundable stays within seven days of booking. The Stay and Dine package comes with a $50 dining credit at King Brasserie and two daily BOGO drink coupons at King Brasserie. The Breakfast for Less package comes with breakfast for $5/day, a $45 daily breakfast credit at King Brasserie, and two welcome beers upon arrival. Stay Longer and Save offers up to 35% off Best Flexible Rate with a stay of five nights or more (must book at least two days in advance with one-night nonrefundable deposit.)
Residents of Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi and Alabama receive up to 25% off, with 50% off valet parking and complimentary morning coffee and an evening wine hour.
Taking its name from its original address and purpose, The Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery, (535 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-527-5271, old77hotel.com) a boutique hotel, is celebrating 10 years. The hotel has 167 rooms including three Artist Loft suites, a revolving art gallery in the lobby highlighting local artists, a 24-hour fitness center, complimentary bicycle rentals, and other welcoming amenities
James Beard Award-winning Chef Nina Compton’s Compère Lapin is also located on the ground floor.
To celebrate this milestone anniversary, the hotel and restaurant have announced several incentives. The Diamond Anniversary Offer, available to book at a threenight minimum stay through August 31, offers rates starting at just $157 per night, includes a bottle of bubby to toast your getaway and a copy of Chef Nina Compton’s recently released cookbook, "Kwéyòl / Creole." A $200 dining credit is also on offer as part of the package for guests who wish to sample Compton’s incredible cuisine.
The Virgin Hotel ’s (550 Baronne St, 504-603-8000, virginhotels.com/new-orleans) The Pool Club, located on the hotel’s rooftop, offers blessed respite from the blazing heat as well as refreshing cocktails, sumptuous bites, and skyline views. The rooftop pool is open daily for hotel guests and day pass holders from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with the rooftop bar open late for a nightcap cocktail.
Through September, the Summer Longer special offers half off parking and a $75 dine-and-drink credit.
The Love for the Locals staycation special is offering up to 30% off a stay through the summer. On Mondays, the hotel’s Common Club bar is also offering a 25% off a bottle of wine as well as a special service industry $10 pool entrance fee between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. Chef Chris Borges’ Commons Club, the hotel’s signature restaurant, bar and lounge, recently unveiled Mmm… Happy Hour, available Monday through Friday from 4 – 6 p.m. Expect $3 Miller High Life ponies, a rotating selection of handcrafted specialty cocktails such as the Mai-Tai, Martini Bijou, Mule and wines for just $7, and crave-worthy dishes like the Meatball Sampler of a chicken, lamb, beef and pork meatballs for $12; Mom’s Crab Dip, Mesquite BBQ French Fries and a muffuletta — all ranging from $6 to $12.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT
Like its name, The Windsor Court (300 Gravier St, 800-262-2662, thewindsorcourt.com) thrums with an air of royalty. The communal spaces are adorned with plush Chesterfield sofas, carriage clocks, genuine 17th-century Old Master portraits and landscapes, and French classical interiors. Genteel attractions include afternoon tea, white-gloved waiters, chintzy floral fabrics, and rooms so large that each one is the size of a suite elsewhere in the city.
A saltwater pool awaits with glorious views of the city and the Mississippi.
Evergreen specials include complimentary third- or fourthnight stays. The Relax and Restore Package offers a $200 spa credit, daily breakfast either in-room or at the celebrated Grill Room, and two complimentary glasses of sparkling wine in the Polo Lounge.
Located at the foot of Canal Street with breathtaking views across the curve of the Mississippi River, The Four Seasons (2 Canal St, 504-434-5100, fourseasons.com/neworleans) is in the city’s former 34-storey World Trade Center. With 341 modern, luxurious guest rooms, this modernist riverfront masterpiece was designed by Edward Durell Stone, the man behind the Museum of Modern Art in New York. There is a most welcome rooftop pool with landscaping on the fifth floor and some of the best views in the city from its rooms and observation deck.
For dining and drinking, Chemin a la Mer, Miss River and The Chandelier Bar are reasons enough to check right in.
This summer’s special offers 25% off your stay, third nights free, or a $250 credit to be applied toward food and beverage or the spa.
While there is not a special staycation room package on offer at The Ritz-Carlton (921 Canal St., 504-670-2929, ritzcarlton.com/hotels/spa), there is one for the sensational spa at this luxe spot. Through Labor Day, anyone with a valid Louisiana ID will receive 20% off all spa and salon services seven days a week. Typically, this is only offered Monday through Thursday.
PHOTO BY KIRSTEN HOLLIDAY
FRENCH QUARTER
The Celestine (727 Toulouse Street, 504-332-2200, thecelestinenola.com) is housed in the highly atmospheric petite 1791 mansion that was once the home of Antoine Peychaud, creator of the Sazerac cocktail, his wife, Celestine, and their children. What is now The Celestine was once a favored haunt of Tennessee Williams, who is said to have written "A Streetcar Named Desire" in the hotel courtyard.
Restored and reopened in 2024 after a one-year closure, the hotel, a collaboration between LeBlanc+Smith and New Orleans designer Sara Costello, merges the charms of the past through art and antiques with modern amenities in light-filled spaces. Each of the 14 guestrooms is adorned with antique furnishings, a four-poster bed, and a private balcony, either overlooking Toulouse Street or the lush rear courtyard.
Neal Bodenheimer, founder of CureCo., runs the cocktail program at Peychaud’s Bar, located on the ground floor, where the Ramos Gin Fizz is a house specialty.
The Stay Awhile Package offers a true escape with 20% off for 4 days; and 30% off for 5 days or more.
The Southern Hospitality Package offers a 20% discount off standard rates to residents of Louisiana, Florida, Texas, Mississippi, Alabama and Arkansas. Use the code STAYLOCAL at checkout.
The Ultimate Nightcap offers guests at Peychaud’s, as well as nearby sister properties The Will and The Way and Sylvain, impromptu overnight exclusive stays at a 40% discount on available rooms. Just walk up to the front desk and ask if you are ready to continue the party after an evening out.
PHOTO BY PAUL COSTELLO
A playground, the resort-style Royal Sonesta (300 Bourbon St, 504-586-0300, neworleansroyal.sonesta.com) has traditional courtyards, balconies over Bourbon Street, and a pool. Entertainment and dining venues include Restaurant R’evolution, The Jazz Playhouse, Desire Oyster Bar, and Le Booze. The hotel’s Local Residents Save Package offers a 20% discount to guests from Louisiana and neighboring states, including Arkansas, Texas and Mississippi. Guests must present a valid state ID at check-in.
The French Quarter Fling Package offers rates as low as $169 per night, plus two complimentary specialty cocktails at the Oasis Pool Bar.
Not to be missed, Chef John Folse recently unveiled a new menu at Restaurant R’evolution. In celebration of National Oyster Day on August 5th , the restaurant will be serving a specialty oyster menu the entire month of August featuring raw; fire roasted with jumbo lump crab, dill and tomato bearnaise; and fried oysters with a brown butter poached tomato and horseradish sauce. All oysters are sourced from the Gulf.
Located at 4125 St Charles Ave., The Chloe (504-541-5500, thechloenola.com) is a hotel, restaurant, and bar situated in a Victorian-era mansion originally constructed by local architect Thomas Sully. Hospitality mastermind Robert LeBlanc of LeBlanc+Smith partnered with celebrated designer Sara Costello to overhaul the property in 2020. Each of the 14 guest rooms has its own design. A front porch outfitted for lounging overlooks St. Charles Avenue. Outdoors, a saltwater pool is located adjacent to a bar area, surrounded by palmettos, hidden nooks, and a sunken garden, offering spots to cool off.
In addition to its ongoing pool pass program, which provides access to the hotel pool and backyard, The Chloe has recently launched a cabana program on the covered pool deck. This allows groups to lounge comfortably with a dedicated server, perfect for poolside brunch, sunset cocktails, or a sweltering day in the sun. Pool Access Day Passes are $45 per person, Mon-Thurs, and $55 on weekends and holidays. Cabanas for eight are $250, Monday-Thursday and $450 Friday–Sunday. All pool guests have access to complimentary towels, changing rooms and showers.
At Chloe’s restaurant, executive chef Ben Triola prepares seasonal dishes with local ingredients, complemented by a seasonal beverage program. The hotel also offers cultural programming, including live musical performances, DJ sets and discussions featuring local artists.
Residents of Louisiana, Florida, Texas, Mississippi, Alabama and Arkansas receive a 20% discount off the hotel’s standard rate. Use the code STAYLOCAL at checkout.
The Summer Oasis package is available through September 30th and offers a 10% discount on rooms, two complimentary pool passes for your guests and a curated Pool Essentials gift.
Teachers and hospitality professionals score rooms for $199 a night as a “thank you” for doing some of the most challenging jobs in our community. To take advantage of this special, call the hotel. Do not book online.
Designed by Thomas Sully and built in 1883 as a private residence, what is now The Columns (3811 St Charles Ave, 504-899-9308, thecolumns.com) was converted into a boarding house during World War I. In 1953, it became a hotel celebrated for its porch overlooking St. Charles Avenue. After purchasing the historic building in 2019, hotelier Jayson Seidman breathed new life into the stately mansion. The garden and patio invite lingering with the celebrated porch as the centerpiece (it simply shouts for a Sazerac from the chic bar).
The interior and amenities offer refurbished grandeur with modern flair. Rooms feature Parachute linens, Le Labo toiletries, and private label coffee blended by Riverboat.
The Sleep Over and Stay Out Package is available exclusively to locals (proof of address required) and offers 20% off rooms, along with a welcome cocktail upon check-in. Use the code SLEEPOVER when booking.
The hotel’s sister property, Hotel Henrietta (3500 St. Charles Ave., 504-655-7538, hotelhenrietta.com), also offers the special.
PHOTO BY PAUL COSTELLO
Written by Sue Strachan
Home for the Holidays The Daniel Price Memorial Fund for Aspiring Artists
Alegendary New Orleans lineup brought the house down at the 20th annual “Home for the Holidays” concert to benefit The Daniel Price Memorial Fund for Aspiring Artists.
Held at the House of Blues on Dec. 21, the event attracted the city’s top musical talents: Irma Thomas and John Boutte performed at the patron party, while Kermit Ruffins, Rebirth Brass Band, Flagboy Giz and DJ Raj Smoove were on stage for the main event, creating a joyful tribute to the city’s artistic heart and a beloved NOCCA alumnus.
Gralen Bryant Banks emceed the evening as performers lit up the stage for a sold-out crowd. The event also featured a silent auction which included a private dinner for 10, complete with wine pairings, prepared in-home by NOCCA’s Culinary Arts faculty and students. Another auction highlight was a striking drawing by artist Sean Friloux, capturing the magic of the Frenchmen Art Market.
Hosted by the NOCCA Foundation, this year’s concert celebrated two decades of transforming tragedy into triumph. Daniel Price, a gifted artist and graduate of NOCCA and Benjamin Franklin High School, was killed in 2003.
“‘Home for the Holidays’ was dreamed up by the Price family 20 years ago as a way to turn a profound tragedy into a celebration of Daniel’s life and a legacy of support for NOCCA’s young artists,” said NOCCA Foundation Executive Director Adonis Rose. “We’re excited to continue honoring Daniel’s legacy and further support our mission of investing in young artists and developing programs that encourage educational excellence and artistic innovation.”
FUN FACT:
1. Steve Price, Kathy Price, Annie Breaux
2. Jonathan Bloom, Adonis Rose, Gralen Bryant Banks 3. Denise Germer, Bruce Germer
4. Tom Reynolds, Robin Cancienne, Margarita Bergen, Rick Tringali 5. Shanekah Johnson, Sharonda Williams 6. Joe Johnson, Lucy Burnett, Elizabeth McMillan, Gregory Holt
NOWFE Ella Brennan Lifetime Achievement in Hospitality Award
It was a family affair at the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience (NOWFE) 2025 Ella Brennan Lifetime Achievement in Hospitality Award when the organization honored Dickie Brennan.
Held at the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans on Jan. 9, the gala was a celebration of Brennan’s generosity and legacy as a third-generation restaurateur and nephew of the legendary Ella Brennan. NOWFE President David Colomb summed it up best: “Dickie was a clear choice.”
Brennan trained under culinary icon Chef Paul Prudhomme before forming the Dickie Brennan Restaurant Group, which now runs a number of beloved local restaurants, including Bourbon House, Tableau and Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse, along with ventures such as Acorn Café, The Commissary Kitchen + Market, Pascal’s Manale and the newly revived Audubon Clubhouse. He has also contributed much to the community in the way of supporting local organizations at benefits.
Food, of course, was a focus, and included dishes from some of Brennan’s favorite restaurants including Pascal’s Manale, Brennan’s, Commander’s Palace, Napoleon House, Rosedale, the Four Seasons and Parkway Bakery & Tavern, which made Dickie’s Favorite Po-boy, consisting of hot sausage, American cheese, mayonnaise, yellow mustard, pickle and red onion, and Palace Café, which served a dish created by Brennan, crabmeat cheesecake with pecan crust served with meunière sauce and roasted mushrooms.
The Ella Brennan Award, named for the late doyenne of dining, honors those who’ve made a lifetime of impact in the industry. Previous honorees have included Donald Link, Susan Spicer, Frank Brigtsen, Paul Prudhomme and Emeril Lagasse, among others.
1. Richard Brennan, Beth Arroyo Utterback, Dickie Brennan, Ian McNulty 2. Al Copeland Jr., Liz Copeland, Justin Kennedy, Becca Kennedy
3. Braithe Gill, Ryan Hacker 4. Christopher Jordan, Geordie Brower, Sally Brower, Gerald Duhon 5. Jorge Lauriano, Aimee Brown 6. Mark Romig, Donald Link, Cameron Link, David Briggs
FUN FACT: Leo Nocentelli performed at the event.
National Council of Jewish Women Hannah G. Solomon Award Luncheon
Early childhood education advocate Melanie Bronfin was recognized with the prestigious 2024/2025 Hannah G. Solomon Award at a luncheon hosted by the National Council of Jewish Women, Greater New Orleans Section, on Jan. 27 at the Audubon Tea Room.
The award, named for NCJW’s trailblazing founder, honors volunteer leaders who spark social change. Bronfin, an attorney and founder of the Louisiana Policy Institute for Children (LAPIC), was celebrated for her tireless efforts to expand access to quality early care and education. Through the LAPIC, state funding for early childhood care has grown from $3 million to over $30 million. A local ballot initiative, spurred by Bronfin’s advocacy, now provides $21 million annually for early education in New Orleans. She served on the board of directors at Agenda for Children, president of Clover and is a founding member of Ellevate Louisiana.
Wendy Goldberg, co-chair of the event committee, praised Bronfin’s “unwavering commitment to ensuring every child has an opportunity to thrive.” Co-chair Leslie Fischman presented the award, which includes Solomon’s powerful call to action: “In a democracy all are responsible.”
Bronfin credited NCJW as a formative force in her life, saying the organization helped shape her journey — from mentorship to mobilizing support. She shared three guiding principles of advocacy: “Be very clear on your what. Identify your who. Figure out the why behind your who.”
“Rarely has a societal issue been so identified with a single individual than the welfare of children in Louisiana and Melanie Bronfin,” said Gail Chalew, the organization’s president.
The NCJW is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates, inspired by Jewish values, that strives for social justice by improving the quality of life of women, children and families.
1. Michael Bronfin, Angela Yang, Daniel Bronfin, Melanie Bronfin, Neil Bronfin, Eve Herman 2. Barbara Greenberg, Barbara Kaplinsky 3. Leslie Fischman, Susan Greenberg, Wendy Goldberg, Gail Chalew 4. Dana Shepard, Kathy Shepard 5. Judy Barrasso, Ruth Kullman, Hugo Kahn, Barbara Herman 6. Julie Harris, Anne Levy, Susan Hess
FUN FACT: The event also featured blessings by Rabbi Daniel Sherman and music by Cantor Rebecca Garfein.
Rotary Club of New Orleans Sippin’ For Scholarships
The Rotary Club of New Orleans turned back the clock and turned up the generosity at its annual “Sippin’ for Scholarships” fundraiser, held Jan. 30 at Rosy’s Jazz Hall.
Decked out in flapper fringe and fedoras, celebrated in 1920s speakeasy style. The night featured jazz from the talented Roots of Music Studio Academy, a prohibition-era photo lounge by Anthony LaMothe Photography, and a whiskey tasting hosted by Seven Three Distilling. Rotarian Anthony DiNatalie added flair with a cigar bar and informal lessons in tobacco appreciation.
The evening raised $20,000. Honoree and former recipient Brandon Almendares returned to inspire the crowd, representing what the program makes possible. Scholarships primarily benefit students from Warren Easton Charter High School and Son of a Saint mentees.
“The Rotary Club of New Orleans’ 2025 Sippin’ for Scholarships was like stepping into the roaring 1920s. The music, food, and band were amazing. The theme was executed perfectly,” said 2024/2025 President Dr. Kelleigh Payne. “What a wonderful way to raise money for the education of our next generation. The event’s chair, Sarah Dickerson, did an outstanding job! I’m already looking forward to next year’s event.”
FUN FACT: The party’s theme was courtesy of event chair Sarah Dickerson, who wanted a focus on her favorite spirit, whiskey, as well as celebrate New Orleans' ties to jazz and speakeasys.
1. Sarah Dickerson, Anthony DiNatale, Tara Knowles, Angel Chung Cutno 2. Denny Ebersole, Emilie Rhys, Tom McAlister, Nora McAlister 3. Janel Waring, Peter Waring, Sun Kim, Keelee Kim 4. Kay Oplinger, Jeffrey Clark, Lori Clark 5. Cindy Osmer, Courtney Jehoich, Brittany Edwards, Alexandra Benoit 6. Andre Rubenstein, Gayle Dellinger, John Olinde
Manning Family Children’s Louisiana Legacy
It was a night of heart and heritage as Children’s Hospital New Orleans launched its inaugural “Louisiana Legacy presented by Raising Cane’s” — now set to become an annual celebration of those who champion the health and well-being of Louisiana’s children and families.
Held Feb. 5 in the Louisiana NOW Pavilion during the Super Bowl festivities, the evening celebrated Children’s Hospital's 70 years of treating the city’s youngest citizens and honored Archie and Olivia Manning and the Manning family with the inaugural Louisiana Legacy Award for their decades of service and community impact.
Hosted by co-chairs Louellen and Darryl Berger and Danielle and Deuce McAllister, a highlight of the evening was a fireside chat emceed by Cooper Manning with help from Raising Cane’s founder Todd Graves. Eli Manning attended and though Peyton Manning couldn’t attend in person, he delivered a video message.
Another high point of the night happened when Graves made an $1 million donation.
Music included Amanda Shaw, Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. and Marc Broussard; food was by Pigeon Catering.
“The Mannings’ enduring legacy of service and compassion has left a profound impact on our community. My family has been touched by Manning Family Children’s and has witnessed the amazing generosity and community involvement of the Manning family over many decades,” said Darryl Berger.
“To have an evening that pulls both of these pillars of our community together for a great cause will be a remarkable moment.”
FUN FACT: Children’s Hospital announced at the event its official name change to Manning Family Children’s, cementing a partnership that blends medical excellence with an all-star legacy.
3. Louellen Berger, Darryl Berger 4. Tod Smith, Martha Solomon, Gary Solomon 5. Nancy Hales, Dr. Stephen Hales 6. Helen Butcher, Geordie Huguley, Marilee Hovet
1. Archie Manning, Olivia Manning, Sarah Feirn, Greg Feirn 2. John Nickens, Lou Fragoso
New Orleans Ballet Association BRAVO Triple Crown
New Orleans Ballet Association’s BRAVO has done it again! Throwing three successful fundraisers in the space of three months: the Exclusive Dance Party with the Artists of Ballet Hispánico, Jan. 31; the Benefactors’ Dinner, Feb. 18 and An Afternoon with Ailey, March 22.
The Exclusive Dance Party with the Artists of Ballet Hispánico was at the Cabildo, where got a sneak peek of a portion of “CARMEN.maquia” performed before the official production the following night. Ballet Hispánico CEO and Artistic Director Eduardo Vilaro and dancers were on hand to mingle, and two of the artists led a Latin dance movement lesson for patrons.
The Benefactors’ Dinner, co-chaired by Gregory Curtis and Charlotte Bollinger, was themed “A Triumvirate of Women Who Have Colored the NOBA World,” honoring longtime NOBA supporters, former/current NOBA board members and BRAVO Presidents Deborah Alciatore, Jacquee Carvin and Teresa Guzzetta. Held at The Windsor Court, the event also featured a live auction with five deluxe items; Matt Rinard was the auctioneer.
“An Afternoon with Ailey” featured a jazz brunch and exclusive performances of “Revelations” and “Grace” by the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at the Mahalia Jackson Theater of the Performing Arts. The jazz music was provided by the Roots of Music, and a second line helped patrons get into the spirit of the day. Performances by the Ailey, which was in residency with NOBA, were March 21 and the evening of March 22. The event was chaired by Stephanie Burks.
FUN FACT: At the Ailey event, purple and white paper umbrellas hand-painted by Stephanie Burks and Martine Chaisson Linares acted as decor and were used by patrons when they did a second line into the theater.
1. Eduardo Vilaro, Marilyn Smith, Glen Smith, Vanessa Berg, Chad Berg 2. Phyllis Taylor, Henrietta Hall, Charlotte Bollinger, Pam Williams
3. Deborah Alciatore, Stephen Sonnier, Teresa Guzzetta, Jacquee Carvin 4. Matthew Rushing, Stephanie Burks, Marian Gibbs, Gregory Curtis
5. Bennett Rink, Lisa Alexis, Tiffany Taffaro, Steven Friedman 6. Monique Doucette, Breanna Bringier, Ronni Favors, Martine Chaisson Linares
1½ cups grapeseed or vegetable oil
Set a coffee filter in a sieve set over a heatproof measuring cup or bowl.
Purée chives and oil in a blender until emulsified. Transfer to a small saucepan and cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture is sizzling, about three minutes.
Remove the chive oil from the heat and strain through the prepared sieve. Let cool. Store in a squeeze-top bottle with a small nozzle in the refrigerator.
What to Drink with Chilled Soup
A chilled Grüner Veltliner. This light Austrian white wine has undertones of white pepper and zippy acidity that will pair well with the sweet and savory notes in the soup, without bringing any heat.
Chilled Summer Bisque with Shrimp Salad & Chive Oil
This silky, decadent bisque is just the thing for special summer entertaining. It is best made a day in advance so the flavors can marry. The colors and flavors are vibrant, and nothing is lost to serving the soup at a cool—not icy—temperature. The quick shrimp salad on top dresses things up and the Chive Oil is a real bonus. It adds a bright finish to anything—grilled or poached seafood, chicken, or vegetables—and it lasts forever in the refrigerator. – By Jyl Benson
Chilled Summer Vegetable Bisque with Shrimp Salad and Chive Oil
Serves 4
5 cups fresh corn kernels or any fresh, chopped summer vegetable
4 Tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon unsalted butter or vegan butter
¹/³ cup thinly sliced shallot, plus 1 teaspoon finely chopped
2 cups whole milk or milk alternative
Kosher salt and ground white pepper
8 ounces boiled shrimp, chopped if large
2 Tablespoons thinly sliced fresh chives
2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice plus more to taste
1 Tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Chive Oil (recipe left)
Melt the 4 tablespoons butter in a 4-quart saucepan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced shallot and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender but not browned, about 5 minutes. Set aside 1/2 cup of the corn kernels (cover and refrigerate) and add the rest to the pan. Add the milk, 1-1/2 cups water, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoon white pepper.
Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the corn kernels are tender, about 15 minutes.
Purée the soup in batches using a blender or food processor. Pass through a finemesh strainer or chinois, pressing hard on the solids with a ladle to extract as much liquid as possible. Refrigerate the soup until cold, preferably overnight or up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, remove the soup from the refrigerator to take off some of the chill, about 20 minutes.
Heat the remaining 1 teaspoon butter in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add the chopped shallot, and cook, stirring, until tender, about 3 minutes. Add the reserved 1/2 cup corn, and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, 1 to 2 minutes. Let cool completely.
In a medium bowl, combine the corn, shrimp, chives, 1 tablespoon of the lemon juice, the olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and a few sprinkles of white pepper. Toss gently to combine. Season with more salt, white pepper, and lemon juice as desired.
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon lemon juice to the soup and season with salt and white pepper. Divide among bowls, add a swirl of chive oil over the soup, then garnish with a spoonful of the shrimp and corn mixture.
417 Royal St.
The building’s unique history, from Degas to Paul Morphy to Brennan’s
The building at 417 Royal St., built c. 1795, has a long and storied past, with ties to Edgar Degas, Andrew Jackson, and Louisiana Supreme Court Justice Alonzo Morphy and his son, Paul, America’s first chess master. After Paul retired at age 22, he became a recluse and died in the Morphy House in 1884. The building has carried the name in some way since then.
In 1920, after the Morphy House fell into disrepair, William Irby bought, restored it and then donated it to Tulane University. Tulane rented it to socialite and preservationist Jeanne Castellanos, and in October of 1921, she opened the Patio Royal, which quickly became an elegant hub of New Orleans social life.
ferred area to be seen. Flowering plants, magnolia trees, and lively awnings created an elegant, shaded space. Wooden benches from Ursulines Convent were set against the vine-covered red brick walls.
The Patio Royal in March of 1955, shortly before it closed and Brennan’s moved over from their original location on Bourbon Street. They bought the building from Tulane in 1984. With a nod to the building’s past, Brennan’s Restaurant rents out the private Morphy Room on the 2nd floor for small parties. It features a portrait of Paul Morphy over the fireplace and a chessboard set up and ready to play.
The opening day tea saw lines of limousines down Royal Street. Patio Royal was the site of constant social events, including debutante and sorority parties, club luncheons, alumni meetings, dinner dances, and Carnival breakfasts and afterparties. While the inside rooms were luxuriously decorated with Spanish and Moroccan items from Castellanos’ travels, the courtyard was the pre -
In 1952, after Mrs. Castellanos retired, the Patio Royal was leased to Ad Given Davis, a larger-than-life restauranteur who owned the Bar-None Ranch in St. Rose. Davis made extensive renovations to the building, including adding air-conditioning... but not just inside. In what was assumed a first in the world, Davis installed air-conditioning in the outdoor patio. The theory was that the warm air above the building would act as a blanket to hold the cool air down, but he also installed a giant awning to facilitate this, as well as provide cover from rain and sun.
Davis spent a couple years hosting Latin dance nights and serving steak, lobster, and Creole dinners alongside his signature over-sized Old Fashioneds. Two heart attacks and a suspicious arson led to Davis giving up his lease in 1955, at which point Brennan’s Restaurant moved into the building. They remain there today. – By Seale Paterson
The Quiet Mind Pickup Challenge
By Molly Kimball, RD, CSSD
We meal-prep, check labels for added sugar, wear rings that track our sleep and try to fit in movement daily – but there’s one wellness metric most of us ignore: how often we unlock our phones. Stats vary, but the national average appears to hover near 100 smartphone ‘pickups’ per day. In my informal polling, many of us can easily double that. And the cost isn’t just our time: Habitual pickups overstimulate our brain’s reward center, spike our anxiety, fragment our memory and attention span, and erode the very connections that fuel joy and resilience.
David Houghton, MD, System Vice Chair of Neurology at Ochsner Health, joined me for a podcast on the topic. “Every time we unconsciously or habitually unlock our phones,” he said, we’re tapping into the same dopaminereward circuit we see in gambling or other addictions. In this case though, the vice just happens to fit in your pocket.”
He also points out that every pickup pulls our attention away from something else. “One of the greatest risks of hours of screen time is that we’re not focusing on the people and projects that really matter most. We’re not spending quality time with people we love, going for walks or trying new things – we’re simply not having those other experiences when our focus is on our phones.”
Parents often see the fallout first. The new nonprofit Mothers Against Media Addiction (MAMA) recently held a standing-room-only forum in New Orleans, urging tougher safeguards for kids.
It’s important to recognize that this isn’t just a kids’ issue, though. We’re all at risk. The brain chemistry that allows a seventh grader to get hooked is the same circuitry that keeps adults scrolling into the wee hours of the night.
Enter The 10-Day Pickup Challenge
I invite you to join me for a bit of a self-experiment: For 10 days (ideally spanning two weekends), track a single metric – your personal number of pickups – and aim to drop it by at least 20 percent. Think of it as interval training for the part of our brain that drives our focus, decision-making and emotional regulation.
Here’s how the challenge works:
sTep 1: Get your baseline
iPhone: Settings → Screen Time → See All App & Website Activity. Android: Settings → Digital Wellbeing → Show your data.
Note the daily pickups figure for the past week; that’s the number of times you unlock your phone. There are no ‘good’ or ‘bad’ numbers. These are just baseline starting points, a snapshot of your current pickup status.
step 2: sTep 3:
Aim for a 20 percent reduction.
It’s about progress, not perfection. If your average is 100 pickups, try to get it below 80. Encourage your spouse, kids, friends and coworkers to track theirs, then compare percentage improvement instead of raw scores.
Set yourself up for success
• Turn off non-essential notifications. Keep emergency contacts on ‘always allow’ but remove alerts for everything else non-urgent. Over time we start to realize that most things can wait.
• Schedule focus time. Apple’s Focus or Android’s Focus Mode blocks interruptions during deep-work blocks, dinner, workouts or family time.
• Add barriers. Turn off Face ID or Touch ID so that you’re prompted to enter a passcode. That extra two-second pause is often enough to ask, ‘Do I really need to open my phone right now?’
• Swap one reflex with a reset. Each time you almost reach for the phone, try a single 4-7-8 breath (inhale 4 seconds, hold 7, exhale 8). It’s an effective tool to help us reset and re-center, dropping our heart rate and cortisol levels.
What to expect
Every time we unconsciously unlock our phone, we’re training our brain to self-interrupt. Dialing back our pickups helps to strengthen our ability to focus more deeply. Mindless scrolling can also trigger anxiety and depression, due in part to the near-constant stimulation that keeps our nervous system in overdrive. Scrolling less gives us the opportunity to tune to other human beings – in real life, which in turn helps to raise levels of oxytocin, our body’s ‘bonding hormone.’
Keep the momentum
The key is to establish new and lasting habits that extend beyond the 10-day Pickup Challenge. And when you do pick up your phone, do it with purpose: answer the text, post the photo, then put the device back down – face-down. Wellbeing isn’t only about what we eat or drink, or how much we move. It’s also about what we choose to notice, and how we decide to spend our time. Fewer pickups creates more space to focus our time and energy on what really matters. Simply put, it’s wellness in its purest form.
Ready to take the challenge? Screenshot your baseline, tag @mollykimballrd and @stcharlesavenuemag with your 10-day percentage drop, and share the strategies that worked for you.
In early 2019, Ingrid Maria Osmundson stopped by to visit her neighbor, Jake. Jake’s fraternity brother, Nicholas Joseph Doucet, happened to be at the apartment as well. Nick and Ingrid soon struck up a friendship. When he needed a date to his fraternity’s formal, she agreed to go, but neither saw it as a romantic thing. However, sparks flew. Their first date was dinner at Tsunami in Baton Rouge. A couple months later, they became a couple.
Five and a half years later, Nick’s mother invited Ingrid to a “fundraiser” she was hosting at Long Vue Gardens; the attire was white linen. Little did Ingrid know that the entire thing was a ruse. As she arrived wearing her white linen, a staff member walked her down the gravel path to the “event.” When she turned the corner, there was Nick in a suit, holding a ring!
After Ingrid joyfully said yes, they began planning a winter wedding. On January 4, 2025, the two were married at St. Louis Cathedral, where Father Jeff Merritt pronounced them husband and wife. The cathedral was still beautifully decorated for the Christmas season, which beautifully complemented the eucalyptus green and champagne shades in the wedding party’s attire.
These colors, along with an abundance of flowers, created a warm, inviting feel at the Audubon
Osmundson-Doucet
Tea Room, where the reception took place. Prominently featured at the reception, a memory table displayed photos of Ingrid and Nick’s loved ones who had passed away. The reception also featured an unforgettable menu created by Dickie Brennan’s Catering, and the wedding cake from Gambino’s Bakery was the perfect sweet treat.
The sweetest moment of the
evening came when the newlyweds took to the dance floor for their first dance to “Let It Ride” by Brantley Gilbert. The two have always loved the song, and the lyrics resonate poignantly with their relationship. After this dance, the Crescent City Soul Band helped create memorable moments on the dance floor, captured by Brittany Bell Photography. As a memento
of the occasion, guests received amber drinking glasses.
Because Ingrid was entering her last semester of law school as they were married, she and Nick decided to delay their honeymoon until after she completed the bar exam in July. The two are looking forward to some much-needed relaxation in August, when they will spend ten days in Italy. In the meantime, they are enjoying newly married life in New Orleans, where Ingrid works as an attorney and Nick works as a nurse. – By Megan Holt
Elevate your skincare experience at The Skin Bar New Orleans. The premier skin care clinic and the exclusive EMFACE provider in Metairie. Your destination for curated, science-backed skin care products and procedures. Let our experts guide you to your best skin ever. The Skin Bar New Orleans offers bridal packages that incorporate skin rejuvenation, body contouring, nail services, and even IV hydration so you can transform into the glowing bride you were always meant to be.
E. Boston St, Covington | southernhotel.com | 844.866.1907
The Southern Hotel proudly reopens the Greenwood, a breathtaking event space. Nestled among centuries-old live oaks and lush flora outside Covington, it’s ideal for weddings, corporate events, and unforgettable celebrations. Let us make your vision a reality.
Camellia is the most highly reviewed wedding planning firm in New Orleans. Authentic, immersive, well-orchestrated weddings are our signature. Get to know our one-of-a-kind methods and tools that assure an exceptional experience for every client. We have a process for everything and can make wedding planning enjoyable and effortless for you. Locally and nationally acclaimed by top industry publications. Photo credit: Cheryl Cole, Designer: Maria Gomila, with Uncommon Camellia
Perlis Clothing
6070 Magazine Street, New Orleans | 1281 N Causeway Blvd, Mandeville | 8366 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge | perlis.com | 800 725-6070
Offering 8 formalwear rental options, Perlis takes pride in its reputation for dressing the groom and groomsmen to look their best. Tuxedos and full dress tails are also available for sale. Sales at all locations. Rentals at Magazine Street only.
New Orleans Photo Booth Company
neworleansphotoboothcompany.com | 504-638-0849
For the bride who dreams of perfection and the planner who curates unforgettable moments, New Orleans Photo Booth Company blends timeless style with cinematic innovation. Glambot red carpet videos to elegant black-and-white prints, create wedding memories worthy of the Avenue.
Audubon Clubhouse by Dickie Brennan & Co.
6975 Magazine St, New Orleans | audubonclubhouse.com | 504.558.1200
The newly renovated Audubon Clubhouse, nestled among Louisiana oaks by Audubon Golf Course, offers a picturesque venue for weddings, receptions, and dinners. With elegant hardwood floors, a southern wrap-around porch, and versatile spaces, it’s perfect for any celebration.
Lab & Lounge
4209 Magazine Street | 631.938.6245 | Labandlounge.com
Vows & Wows. Trust New Orleans’ premier beauty salon to perfect your wedding day look. From skincare to nails, spray tans to stunning hair and makeup, we’ve got you covered for all events—receptions, ceremonies, and parties. Let us handle your beauty needs, ensuring a worry-free, radiant celebration. Book now!
Nola Bus
Nolabus.com | 504-522-3500
New Orleans Tours offers premium wedding transportation, featuring private luxury cars and spacious minibuses to ensure seamless, stylish, and comfortable travel for couples, bridal parties, and guests. As a local, certified minority-owned family business, New Orleans Tours takes pride in offering stress-free transportation solutions for special events of all sizes.
PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Ace and the Louisiana Open Housing Act, which make it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. For more information, call the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office at 1-800-273-5718.
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Stop into the coffee and billiards rooms at The Columns for impossibly chic hats, accessories or a full ensemble from Saint Claude Social Club. Unique, one-of-a-kind looks are available to rent or buy. Visit @saintclaudesocialclub or @theclosetbyscsc for more.
