Issuu

Halloween 2026

WhereYat.com

DINING • MUSIC • ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE

Halloween // October 2026

Wicked Witches HALLOWEEN AT RICK’S

October 31

CABARET 315 Bourbon Street 2

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

New Orleans

IT’S ALWAYS THE HARD CIDER YOU KNOW...

SO GOOD YOU’LL ©2026 ANGRY ORCHARD CIDER COMPANY, LLC. ANGRYORCHARD.COM | HARD CIDER WITH OTHER NATURAL FLAVORS | AOCH2636 | PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY | 21+ Halloween // October 2026 TM & ©2026 PARAMOUNT PICTURES. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. GHOST FACE ® FUN WORLD DIV., EASTER UNLIMITED INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

Halloween // October 2026

INSIDE

HALLOWEEN 2026

FEATURES 10 PSYCHOLOGY OF HORROR 12 PARA-NOLA POP CULTURE 14 ENCORE: RECYCLED COSTUMES 16 THE MAKERS OF HALLOWEEN 18 VAMP DAT 20 BERCEUSE PARISH GHOSTS 22 FACADE FORWARD: THE MORTUARY 24 KID FRIENDLY HALLOWEEN 44 HORROR BOOK CLUBS

ENTERTAINMENT 26 CONCERT CALENDAR 30 LAKESIDE2RIVERSIDE 32 FALL FESTIVALS GUIDE 46 NOLA HORROR MOVIES 47 MOVIE REVIEWS

BEVYS + BITES 38 RESTAURANT GUIDE 42 BAR GUIDE

LAGNIAPPE

48 PO-BOY VIEWS 49 TALES FROM THE QUARTER 50 WHERE Y'BEEN

32 46

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

Photos from top: courtesy of Ghost Manor, The Mortuary, Nathan J. Hilton, Bruno Guerroro, Gene Tagaban

36 EMBROIDERY PLACES IN NOLA

Halloween // October 2026

Live in october at the French French Market Market

Live in october at the

sunrise yoga Wednesday 6:45am @ Oscar Dunn Park

INSIDE

cooking demo thursday & Friday @ 12pm

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Josh Danzig Creative Director: Christopher Grim Executive Editor: Burke Bischoff Assistant Editor: Donald Rickert Movie Editors: David Vicari, Fritz Esker

from the PUBLISHER

culture & cuisine

live music Friday Oct 2 & 8 Saturday Oct 3 & 9 @ 1:30pm

saturday @ 12pm

boo Carre Saturday October 24, 2026@ 11am - 4pm

Live music Live music

cost e parade costume e

free kid’s free kid’s activities activities contests contests

french arket str ct frenchMarketdistrict

frenchmarketnola frenchmarketnola

french market french market new new orleans orleans

learn more @ frenchmarket.org 8

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

appy Halloween. The most frightening time of the year has arrived in the world’s most haunted city. This issue is filled with ghostly Halloween happenings, a rundown of the best parties and festivals, and highlights of bloodcurdling bites. Do you like scary movies and books? The fun starts with Greg Roques’ look at how horror fiction reflects our fears, then Jeff Boudreaux profiles fright flicks based in New Orleans, including one filmed at Loyola University. New Orleans is a spooky city, and, of course, has some of the world’s best haunted houses. Kim Ranjbar explores the Victorian landmark that houses The Mortuary, as the former funeral home has been transformed into one of the city’s scariest locations. But Halloween doesn’t have to be scary. Kimmie Tubré profiles kid-friendly Halloween fun. This includes pumpkin patches, Boo at the Zoo, and the French Market’s Boo Carré. If you’re in need of a costume and don’t want to break the bank, don’t miss Rebecca Fox’s spotlight on where to find recycled costumes. Designers and artists share their secrets on how to reuse props, clothing, and more. –- Josh Danzig, Publisher

Cover: Christopher Grim Director of Sales: Jim Sylve Photographers and Designers: Burke Bischoff, Gustavo Escanelle, Emily Hingle, Kim Ranjbar, Christopher Grim, Randy Schmidt, Henry Foster Interns: Henry Foster, Charli Lewis, Makenna Mincey, Rachel Passer, Alyvia Pierson, Catherine Streeter, Daisy Stuart

Subscribe: Receive 1 year (14 issues) for $40. Subscribe today at WhereYat.com. Logo ©2026 All rights reserved Bruce Betzer, Legal Counsel: (504) 304-9952 Where Y’at Magazine 5500 Prytania St., #133 New Orleans, LA 70115 (504) 891-0144 info@whereyat.com WhereYat.com

Photo: courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

LETTER

Contributing Writers: Jeff Boudreaux, Rebecca Fox, Emily Hingle, Phil LaMancusa, Debbie Lindsey, Joel Mandina, Michelle Nicholson, Kim Ranjbar, Greg Roques, Carrie Sagen-Severino, Kimmie Tubré, Celeste Turner

Halloween // October 2026

// GREG ROQUES

Every work of fiction contains an element of truth, insights bestowed by its author either subconsciously or by design. Likewise, the stories we are drawn to as an audience reveals something about ourselves—how we see the world and our place within it.

he ability to create and share stories is perhaps humans’ most unique ability, igniting social change and forging bonds. But what about fans of horror stories? It is often with hesitancy that an aficionado of the macabre may share the last great gore-fest they binged on Netflix at a dinner party, lest casual acquaintances eye them with apprehension. What is it about horror films, true crime, and other explorations of humanity’s dark side that draws so many of us in? “A general

audience is drawn to horror typically out of morbid curiosity,” said Lisa Nohner, a senior English instructor at Louisiana State University teaching multiple undergraduate courses on horror fiction. In his 2025 book Morbidly Curious: A Scientist Explains Why We Can’t Look Away, behavioral scientist Dr. Coltan Scrivener argues that “morbid curiosity” is a biological survival strategy. By exploring danger from the safety of a screen or novel, we are not only engaging in a form of danger exposure therapy, we are also

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

gathering threat intelligence. This allows us to better identify real-world dangers and manage our psychological response to actual threats. Nohner’s courses examine how horror fiction uses monsters, victims, setting, and narrative to express cultural anxieties. What viewers flock to as a form of high octane entertainment belies important social and political critiques on our unease. As a political response, Nohner highlights AMC’s Immortal Universe, based on Anne Rice’s The Vampire Chronicles and Lives of the Mayfair Witches series. “There’s so much romance in vampires; the fantasy takes us out of the stark realities of modern life and puts us in an escapist world where difference is powerful and sexy.” Dr. Robin Werner, a professor of English at LSU New Orleans also specializing in horror fiction, sees the appeal for power as a prominent narrative device in Rice’s Vampire

Chronicles. “When you read Interview with the Vampire, you are not identifying with the vicim—you’re identifying with the monster,” Werner said. “For Lestat, who is hundreds of years old, what does it mean to have all of that power? Getting lost in these stories, you forget that you are the prey.” Werner’s primary passion in the horror realm is vampirism. A big part of the allure of moving to New Orleans for graduate school in the ‘90s was Anne Rice’s The Vampire Chronicles novels. In 2024, she and a colleague published Vampire Literature: An Anthology, an academic introduction to the history, theory, and cultural impact of vampires. As far as vampire lore goes, the late 20th century motif of the vampire as a relatable protagonist represents a conventional narrative shift. Traditionally, vampirism is presented as a virus—a mutation corrupting its victim, forcing

All photos: courtesy of Nathan J. Hilton

How Horror Fiction Reflects our Fears and Makes us Resilient in the Process

them to question their humanity until it is no longer there. Audiences sympathized with the victims. This narrative angle has many contemporary parallels. In the Morbidly Curious chapter “Terrifying Therapy,” Scrivener cites research showing horror film audiences experienced less psychological distress at the onsite of the COVID-19 lockdown. Specifically, fans of zombie, vampire, and other postapocalyptic accounts brought on by viruses showed more resilience having spent years vicariously immersing themselves in suddenly familiar simulated situations. Werner believes horror fiction offers audiences a showcase to confront their fears from a place of comfort and safety. For her students, the genre is a way to kindle critical thinking through works that they are interested in. “My students really dig into subtexts of social justice and identity politics in these narratives. Recently, nearly all of my students made the focus of their film presentation Sinners,” Werner recalled. “It’s an interesting choice because it’s set in the past but it still relates to issues they very much see today. It’s a great exploration of

using the motif of vampires’ immortality to explore social issues.” Nohner highlights Obsession (2026) as a current mainstream favorite focusing on uncomfortable realities. “Obsession touches on a lot of relevant contemporary themes such as consent, domestic violence—especially post COVID—and para-social relationships, which its core audience has a huge beef with. In many ways, it is a reflection of our fear of objectification in a capitalist reality bent on reducing us to our image and digital footprint.” Focussing on New Orleans, both Werner and Nohner’s favorite work of locally-based horror—outside of Anne Rice—is native Poppy Z. Brite’s Lost Souls (1992). “Brite’s story is grotesque and gorgeous, angst riddled and deeply magical,” Nohner recalled. “The exploration of 1990s alt-teen identity is masterful and leaves an impression like no other, especially for those who lived it.” For Werner, there is no more haunting setting for a vampire novel than New Orleans. “Vampires stories are in a way like time travel—you see the past and future through the immortals’ eyes. New Orleans mirrors this juxtaposition of past and future. You have the historic French Quarter next to the Central Business District. The city has a tragic history, destroyed countless times by fire, floods, and hurricanes. Plus, you can’t drive more than a block without seeing a cemetery.”

OVERLOOKED HORROR FILMS HORROR READING RECOMMENDATIONS ROBIN WERNER, INSTRUCTOR OF ENGLISH, LSU NEW ORLEANS Dracula, Bram Stocker A Beautiful Vampire, Arabella Kenealy The Blood of the Vampire, Florence Marryat The Gilda Stories, Jewelle Gomez Immunity, Toni Brown Lost Souls, Poppy Z. Brite (Billy Martin) Dark Things, Silvia Moreno-Garcia The Cure, Malinda Lo Greedy Choke Puppy, Nalo Hopkinson A Child Ghost, Akwaeke Emezi

LISA NOHNER, SENIOR INSTRUCTOR, ENGLISH, LSU Candyman (2021) — “It’s so much smarter than the average franchise revival—bold and original. The original was authored by white men during the Rodney King era, and the way racial issues are depicted in that film certainly reflect that point of view. Nik Da Costa’s new film is, in its way, its own response to the depiction of race in the first film.” Lords of Salem (2013) — “I would like to confess to the general public that I genuinely, whole heartedly, think Rob Zombie is a talented writer and director. He was an entire decade ahead of the curve when he released Lords of Salem. What was highly stylized and polarizing 16 years ago would be lauded today as an A24 caliber masterpiece.”

Photos from left: courtesy of Nathan J. Hilton, Bruno Guerrero, Robin Werner, Lisa Nohner

Home of the Crabmeat Beignet

Ghouls, Goblins & Free Cookies!

2101 N. Rampart St. 504-944-7068 lorettaspralines.com @lorettaspralines

1100 N. Peters, Farmers Market Stall #9 lap@lorettaspralines.com

The egacy Continues!

Visit in Costume on Halloween, get a free cookie! Available in Chocolate Chip and Cinnadoodle Offer valid in-store only on 10/31/26. No purchase necessary.

4921 Freret St, New Orleans, LA 70115 Halloween // October 2026

PARA-NOLA:

NOLA’s Paranormal Pop Culture W // JOEL MANDINA

RED BEANS & (ANNE) RICE From Lestat de Lioncourt of Anne Rice’s epic The Vampire Chronicles, which began on screen with Interview with the Vampire (1992) and is anchored by Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, Kirsten Dunst, Christian Slater, and Antonio Banderas, to Lives of the Mayfair Witches, Rice has made New Orleans its own character in literary and broadcast canon. While Brad Pitt’s affiliation with New Orleans might have begun with his role as Louis in Interview with the Vampire, more recent roles— both business and personal—have cemented

his role as one of the city’s most high-profile advocates, especially within New Orleans’ muchdamaged Ninth Ward. His work with the postKatrina initiatives in the Ninth Ward, combined with his Gov. Nichols, French Quarter, on-block residence with then-wife Angelina Jolie reposted in a viral “Brad Pitt for Mayor” campaign, solidified his connection to New Orleans. In addition to the film, Interview with the Vampire has been developed into a series on AMC and AMC+ with season three, Anne Rice’s The Vampire Lestat, having premiered on June 7, 2026. The UK’s The Guardian, in its review, calls it “a mega-fun, glam-rock musical—with bloodsucking.” The book was originally published in 1976 and is part of required reading in some of New Orleans’ parochial high schools. Similarly, the Mayfair Witches franchise, headquartered in a thinly-veiled version of Rice’s own mansion on First Street in Uptown, tracks the multigenerational manipulation of a clan of psychics manipulated by a nefarious spirit bent on utilizing their psychic powers for its own purposes— without care of their own well being. Also airing on AMC, Mayfair Witches’ season three is being prepared for a 2027 premiere.

LOUISIANA HORROR STORY Producer and director Ryan Murphy (American Horror Story, Nip/Tuck, Glee, Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette, Eat, Pray, Love starring Julia Roberts) took AHS’ seasonallyserialized format to New Orleans for its third

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

season, Coven, focusing on a group of young female witches dealing with power, womanhood, friendship, and aging. Featuring a powerhouse cast including Jessica Lange, Angela Basset, Emma Roberts, and Stevie Nicks, the season uses New Orleans as a backdrop of supernatural power with a bent toward their personal motives while simultaneously supporting their own sisterhood. Basset’s Marie Laveau, New Orleans’ “Queen of Voodoo,” shall reprise her role as the immortal sorceress in Season 13, as will Kathy Bates in a cameo as Laveau’s nemesis Madame LaLaurie.

AWW, SOOKIE SOOKIE Charlene Harris’ True Blood, airing on HBO from 2008 to 2014, was the first to bring the vampire genre from the page to the small screen with modern sensibility combined with a Southern charm seeped in spells, sex, and blood. Anna Paquin’s telepathic Sookie Stackhouse wore Daisy Dukes yet usurped her own wiles over much physically stronger characters with a bayou backdrop that told its own story. While critics report that, in the end, the series became plot and character heavy and lost its way, it was a 13-part series, with Psychology Today commenting: “The world is not always what it seems to be. Nowhere is that more true than Bon Temps, Louisiana where humans may be shapeshifters or werepanthers or fairies or witches and where vampires are sometimes full of heart and kindness. We are constantly reminded that perceptions are full of illusions and we wake up all the time to seeing something we hadn’t seen before. The vast magnitude of the unknown is revealed again and again. ”Other players, especially Alexander Skarsgård, played vampires, witches, psychics,

faeries, and bartenders—basically, a motley crew that could be found within any French Quarter enclave, or A Confederacy of Dunces with a witchier edge.

DEAR DIARIES Continuing on the trend of sexy eternals with New Orleans ties, CW’s The Vampire Diaries was helmed by Louisiana native and environmentalist Ian Somerhalder from Covington, LA. The CW’s cult classic also had a successful spinoff, The Originals, based in the French Quarter proper that, though filmed in Georgia, used a good amount of external shots locally. This is most notable with Gallier Hall, which also is a focus of AMC’s stockpile of locations. The trend, referred to as “set-jetting,” is, according to Expedia, 81 percent impactful in Gen Z’s travel choices.

WHERE ARE THE WARDS? Merriam-Webster’s definition of a “skeleton key” states it is “a key with a large part of the bit filed away to enable it to open low quality locks as a master key.” Ironically, per New Orleans, which was also featured in the 2005 horror film The Skeleton Key, the whittled-away parts are referred to as “wards.” Youth, beauty, feminism, friendship, religiosity, racism, history are touched upon in each and every work of art and their artisans (directors, actors, etc.). In this day and age, these meta-concepts can easily be globally translated via technology, social media, economics, but there is something unique when it comes from New Orleans and its “otherworldly” charm.

Photos from top: courtesy of AMC Global Media, Wikimedia Commons, AMC Global Media

hile New Orleans, Salem (MA), and Savannah (GA) are established as “America’s top three haunted cities,” the Big Easy’s unique role as a progressive, accepting, and creative center means that it is a true beacon for the atypical. As languages, food, art, music combine into one of the most delicious “gumbo ya-ya’s” in the world, certain commonalities stride forward and can best be communicated by one of the city’s other phenomena—the paranormal.

TAKE SOME HOME TODAY

SHOP AT YOUR LOCAL GROCERY Halloween // October 2026

Encore: // REBECCA FOX

The Secret Lives of Crescent City Costumes

ward-winning actor, writer, civic activist, and costume lover Bryan Batt has transformed himself numerous times for stage, film, and television, but he is best known for playing Salvatore Romano on AMC’s Mad Men. Despite being a prominent figure on a show known for incredible 1960s fashion, one of his most memorable costumes recently managed a comeback without ever leaving Magazine Street. Batt had several family members who died at the age of 55, so when he reached 56, an everlasting celebration was in order. He planned a gods-and-goddesses party and chose to arrive as one of his favorite immortals, Apollo. Costume designer Julie Winn helped assemble an ethereal look that included a heavily embellished gold breastplate.

Like many resourceful New Orleanians faced with packed party calendars, Batt reimagined the costume for Jennifer Coolidge’s Halloween celebration. Apollo became King Midas, and Batt added more bling, gilded makeup, and even a golden baby. After several outings, the hot glue surrendered, and Batt placed the battle-worn breastplate on top of the garbage can beside his house. Within a week, he spotted it displayed in the window of Buffalo Exchange on Magazine Street and posted about it on social media. “I found it quite hysterical,” Batt said. “I’m a firm believer in repurposing and recycling. It was fun to see. I’m glad someone else had some fun with it.” The breastplate sold, although Batt never learned who bought it or what it became next.

38 8

SHOP HERE FOR ALL YOUR COSTUME NEEDS

OPEN TUES–SAT, NOON – 6 PM + EXTENDED HOURS

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

Photo: courtesy of Bryan Batt

YEARS IN BUSINESS!

Photo: courtesy of Bryan Batt

AWARD BLOOD WINNING Y MARY S

“We’ll keep this adoption silent, I guess.” He joked that there was “no communication with the birth parents.” However, Batt did keep the gold pants. “You never know when you might need them for a Saints game or something”—or an average Tuesday in New Orleans, he agreed. Batt’s surprise reunion raises a question particularly suited to a city where closets often contain nearly as many costumes as everyday clothes: What happens when we decide we are finished with them? Fortunately, New Orleans has plenty of creative minds keeping costume waste from ending up like so many abandoned beads on St. Charles Avenue. Every third Tuesday of the month, Drunk Picasso transforms the back of Saturn Bar into a glorious clothing swap. The community collective, co-founded by Carrie DeMay and Meredith Michele, promotes art, sustainability, and the idea that clothing can keep circulating long after its first discard. Organizers hold regular monthly swaps and larger costume-oriented swaps around Halloween and Carnival. Visitors can bring or take clothing. No one is required to make an even trade, and those who don’t have anything to share are still encouraged to participate. “We welcome everybody,” DeMay said. Clothing is displayed so it feels more like a store and less like a trash pile. Costumes and unfinished craft projects are especially appreciated. Feathers can migrate from one headdress to another, jackets can surrender their trim, and abandoned projects may contain the missing pieces of someone else’s masterpiece. Someone donated a suit from a wedding that someone else took and painted. That transformation captures what makes clothing reuse different in New Orleans—a garment does not have to remain what its first owner intended. The swap also helps people with changing bodies, budgets, or circumstances. Someone may need clothing after losing weight, starting a job, surviving a disaster, or realizing nothing in the closet works anymore. Organizers want the experience to feel social and dignified, not like people are rummaging through leftovers. In person, the swap felt surprisingly like an upscale boutique.

Drunk Picasso also works with the Fred Hampton Free Store and hopes to develop more partnerships with organizations that can select items their communities specifically need. The larger goal is circulation—moving clothes out of overfilled closets and into the hands of people who can wear, alter, or reimagine them. You can learn more about @drunkpicasso504 on Instagram. ricRACK is another inclusive space that has the goal of transforming textile waste into opportunity, offering sewing classes and resources for a sustainable New Orleans (ricracknola.com). It’s admirable that they don’t just want to help find new homes for fabrics—they are teaching you what to do with them. If you need additional help with sourcing, there are also loads of independent thrift stores and curators around town that always have super fun surprises. Two of which are GinaWare (ginaware. com) and Miss Claudia’s Vintage Clothing (@ missclaudiasvintage). The Occasional Wife and Hound and Found also offer a variety of repurposed treasures. Costume designer Julianne Lagniappe (ladyparadise.studio) advises investing in wellmade, versatile base garments, leaving you free to use recycled crowns, collars, and props to express a specific theme. Lagniappe says many of her clients commission custom bodysuits and then they’re able to source their own accessories with her consultation, if needed. Batt has long followed a similar philosophy with his own costumes. He buys basic pieces online and then embellishes them until they become something personal. “When in doubt, drape it and bedazzle it,” he said. Batt’s discarded breastplate had already portrayed two gods before an unknown shopper carried it away. Its next identity could be anything: a Carnival monarch, a Saints superfan, a disco warrior, or another deity waiting for the proper invitation. In a city that believes more is more, a curtain call does not always mean the show is over. Sometimes it just means the costume is ready for its next cast.

Serving •Breakfast •Lunch •Dinner!

Come visit any of our 6 locations: Daisy Dukes 121 Chartres St. French Quarter

Daisy Duke’s Creole Kitchen 123 Carondelet St. CBD

Daisy Mae’s 902 Poydras St. Warehouse District

Daisy Dukes 2244 Veterans Blvd. Kenner

Daisy Dukes Cafe* 308 St. Charles Ave. CBD

Daisy Dukes 5209 W. Napoleon Ave. Metairie

* Catering and Event Space Available!

d a i syd u ke s re st a u ra nt .c o m Halloween // October 2026

The Makers of

HALLOWEEN:

The Artists Behind New Orleans' Most Creative Season

// CARRIE SAGEN-SEVERINO

Your future awaits. Meet our Resident Mystic, Carie Ewers, for tarot, astrology, palmistry and mediumship. Every Thursday & Friday at Lobby Bar | 6:30 to 9:30 PM

ARRIVE EARLY FOR HAPPY HOUR Monday - Friday | 4 to 7 PM

theblackbirdnola.com

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

nside workshops, design studios, makeup chairs, warehouses, and historic buildings, artists and creators are quietly building the city’s biggest illusion. Every float, frightening set, cinematic makeup transformation, and immersive experience begins as an idea months before October ever arrives. Some sketch it. Some build it. Some perform it. Some wear it. Together, they create it. Most people experience Halloween. Very few ever see who creates it. While visitors celebrate for only a few weeks, the people behind the magic spend months, and often nearly a year, bringing New Orleans’ signature Halloween season to life. For sculptor and designer Jonathan Bertuccelli of Studio 3, every towering skull, oversized ghost, and theatrical Halloween installation begins with a blank page. “We usually begin about four months before Halloween,” Bertuccelli said. “First comes the concept drawing, then engineering the structure, welding the framework, sculpting, carving, molding, sanding, and finally painting.” Before Halloween has a soundtrack, a costume, or a scream, it has a sketch. Inside Studio 3, drawings slowly become towering sculptures and immersive environments that eventually find their way into ballrooms, parades, and celebrations across the city. Every unforgettable display begins with an artist staring at a blank page. It’s a painstaking process that transforms imagination into something larger than life.

Bertuccelli says the biggest surprise is how much work happens before anyone sees the finished piece. “They don’t realize how many hours go into creating it,” he said. That unseen work is a common thread throughout New Orleans’ Halloween community. At The Mortuary Haunted Mansion, founder Jeff Borne says planning for Halloween begins almost as soon as the previous season ends. After spending decades creating haunted attractions, Borne knows that unforgettable scares aren’t built overnight. “It starts with the story,” Borne said. “Then sound, lighting, construction, art, special effects, wardrobe, makeup, marketing, performers, operations. The list goes on.” Creating fear isn’t about one room or one startling effect. It’s the result of dozens of creative minds working together to build an immersive world. “The goal is suspension of disbelief,” Borne said. “We want people to escape everyday life and believe, even for a few moments, that what they’re experiencing is real.” That same philosophy drives Creative Director Christian Stokes, who approaches every season as immersive theater rather than a collection of jump scares. “We are storytellers,” Stokes said. “The goal is never simply to startle someone and send them into the next room. We want to create something that affects them, excites their imagination, and becomes a memory they’ll continue talking about long after Halloween is over.”

Photos: courtesy of Laura Kuhn

Resident Mystic

Long before costumes fill the streets, haunted attractions welcome their first guests, and Halloween parades roll through New Orleans, another season is already well underway.

LEBANON’S CAFE

MIDDLE EAST CUISINE √ A HEALTHY ALTERNATIVE Great Selection Of Vegetarian Dishes

Lunch & Dinner Daily

APPETIZERS Humus √ Falafel √ Bathenjan Dip (Roasted Eggplant w/ Garlic) √ Vegetarian Grape Leaves

DINNERS Shish Kabob (Chicken, Lamb or Beef ) √ Lula Kabob (Lamb) √ Humus w/ Lamb Meat √ Rosemary Lamb Chops

Photos from top: courtesy of Laura Kuhnh, Glynn Renee Bryant, Wikimedia Commons

1500 S. CARROLLTON √ UPTOWN TELEPHONE: 862-6200/862-0768

Ideas come from films, artwork, New Orleans folklore, and even the building itself, a former funeral home whose history has become part of the attraction. Behind every haunted hallway are scenic artists, builders, lighting designers, technicians, costumers, makeup artists, performers, and operations staff. “It truly takes a village to create a monster,” Stokes said. The transformation doesn’t stop with the attractions. Across the city, makeup artist Glynn Bryant helps clients become the characters they’ve imagined for months. “Creating a Halloween character is about so much more than applying makeup,” Bryant said. “It’s about creating another version of the client.” Each look is carefully planned, from prosthetics and color palettes to special effects and intricate details that bring every character to life. Bryant often reminds herself of a motto that has guided her career: “Technique creates beauty. Intention creates art.” Her favorite moment doesn’t happen when she finishes applying the makeup. “It’s when my client looks in the mirror for the first time and truly starts to believe they are the character,” Bryant said. “That’s what makes all the preparation worth it.” That transformation speaks to something uniquely New Orleans. “Halloween is not one night here,” Bryant said. “It’s all month long.” That may be what separates New Orleans from almost anywhere else. Halloween doesn’t simply arrive on October 31. It grows naturally out of a city built on storytelling, craftsmanship, performance, and celebration. The same creative spirit that fuels Mardi Gras floats, second lines, music, costumes, architecture, and public art finds another stage each fall.

That spirit is perhaps best represented by Krewe of BOO!, where months of planning come together in one unforgettable celebration. Creative Director Laura Kuhn, who has helped shape the parade’s visual identity since 2011, says every season begins with conversations about how to make the experience even more memorable. From branding and artwork to event graphics, merchandise, digital media, and promotional campaigns, every visual detail helps tell Halloween’s story before the first float ever rolls. According to Sarah Whicker, that collaboration stretches far beyond the parade itself. Photographers, videographers, writers, artists, float builders, face painters, entertainers, marching krewes, sponsors, volunteers, and countless other creatives all contribute to the celebration. Throughout October, neighborhood displays, costume parties, themed balls, haunted attractions, and community events transform Halloween into something far bigger than a single weekend. In New Orleans, Halloween isn’t simply an event people attend. It’s something the community creates together. Visitors may only experience Halloween for a few weeks, but behind every scream, every costume, every haunted hallway, every parade float, and every unforgettable October memory is nearly a year of imagination, craftsmanship, and collaboration. Most people experience Halloween. The makers of New Orleans create the magic.

Halloween // October 2026

Vampires in New Orleans // JOEL MANDINA

In 1902, a man calling himself Jacques St. Germain arrived in New Orleans from France and quickly ensconced himself as a French Quarterbased bon vivant at a residence located at 1039 Royal St., which is between St. Philip and Ursuline. Due to his hosting of lavish soirées, which included luxurious spreads of food and wine, he successfully penetrated the French Quarter’s upper echelon as, simultaneously, women surrounding him and his guests began to go missing. According to an article on ghostcitytours.com entitled “The Legends, Lore History,” St. Germain, dubbed “The Immortal of Royal Street,” reportedly never ate at his events but only sipped a red-hued liquid that guests initially assumed was red wine. After approximately one to two years of these lavish habits, one evening, neighbors heard screaming from the St. Germain residence, and a woman hurled herself off the balcony. While injured, she was coherent enough to report that St. Germaine had bitten her neck, which also had puncture wounds. Though hospitalized, she would later die due to her injuries. When New Orleans police arrived at the St. Germain residence the next day, they found it deserted as St. Germain had apparently “fed and fled.” Reports state that no food was found on-site, while analysis of the red liquid found in bottles was determined to be a mixture of wine and human blood. St. Germain was never found, though it is believed he continues to haunt Congo Square. It is also thought that he is the primary inspiration for Anne Rice’s infamous vampire Lestat in her The Vampire Chronicles series.

CASKET GIRLS A May 2025 article in Fodor’s Travel entitled “Did Vampires Once Walk Freely in the French Quarter?” asks, “Were NOLA’s ‘casket girls’ mere brides-to-be or actually vampires?” These were young women, sometimes “undesirables” and sometimes prostitutes, sent to New France to marry colonial men and potentially stimulate population growth. They traveled with small trunks that contained their belongings but also resembled coffins. According to Kyleigh Celeste Nowen, the French Quarter “vampirist” of French Quarter Phantoms (frenchquarterphantoms.com) based on Royal and who is an expert on all things that might not always be seen as traditional, there were three tiers of women shipped from the Old World to the New World: criminals, undesirables, and those looking for better lives, or whose families simply wanted them gone without paying dowries. Upon arrival to the colonies, the girls were placed under the supervision of the Ursuline Order, which ensured protection and morality before they were wed. Due to the intense nature of the transatlantic trip, which included a

stopover in Haiti, where mosquito bites caused yellow fever, as well as their being unaccustomed to the hot and humid weather, these young women developed blistered skin and stayed indoors to maintain their pale pallor. Being housed in the Ursuline manor also gave the young women a cloistered, supernatural aura that was key to the vampire rumors that remain to the present day. The Ursuline Convent, the oldest structure in the French Quarter, is one of the primary locations on the beloved, supernaturalthemed vampire tours and did survive the infamous fires of 1788 and 1794. The prevalent theory is that these sickly and mysterious young women were either vampires themselves or transported the essence of vampires within their caskets. Upon marriage, the Ursuline nuns would place the caskets inside the attic of the Ursuline Convent, which remained sealed via 200 silver nails blessed by the then-pope and remained sealed for approximately 200 years. In 2025, the Friends of the Catholic Cultural Center of New Orleans opened the attic for public tours.

THE BROTHERS CARTER Per Yesterday’s America, in 1932, police intercepted a panicked female fleeing a residence on Royal and St. Ann who claimed that brothers John and Wayne Carter held multiple people captive and left during the day to return at night and consume the blood from people bound in their residence. Upon apprehension, they confessed and pleaded to be executed as they claimed their hunger would never be satiated. The still-alive victims, whose wrists were bound with bloodsoaked bandages, were fed upon each night, wounds redressed in a repeated act of daily feeding. Both brothers were tried as serial killers, found guilty, and executed.

SUPERNOVA While New Orleans is a city steeped in lore and legend, it is still a fully-operational, modern metropole and, like other cities, has incorporated its historical context into present-day practices. The “French Quarter vampire situation” is no different. Basically, these historical characters have been incorporated into the modern troupes of civics, tourism, restaurants, entertainment. From the New Orleans Vampire Cafe (nolavampirecafe.com), located at 801 Royal, which serves, obviously, redcolored shots out of IV bags to the various tours, the French Quarter vampire is entrenched with certain subculture organizations, even planning food or, obviously, blood drives. The most well-known group of “other-kin” is the New Orleans Vampire Association (neworleansvampireassociation.org), where, with proper consent and medical clearance, participants can consume small amounts of human blood. While there is no “Vampire Act” making vampirism illegal, Louisiana Revised Statutes § 14:107.1 criminalizes “ritualistic acts” including the consumption of “human or animal blood.” Violators can face up to five years in prison, a $5,000.00 fine, or both. French Quarter Phantoms offers a combination Ghost + Vampire walking tour nightly throughout the French Quarter. Tickets booked online retail for $22, and there are two tours beginning at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. CST.

All photos: courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

VAMP DAT:

THE ORIGINAL NOLA VAMP

at The Library The Craft of Fear: Generating Scares in Fiction, A Fiction Writing Workshop with Adrian Van Young

cities of the dead: The History of New Orleans’ Cemeteries, With Heather Veneziano of Tulane University

Latter Library

Wednesday, October 14, 5pm–6:30pm

Thursday, October 15, 5:30pm–6:30pm

House of Schlock: Killer Klowns From Outer Space (1988)

Fright Night: An Evening of Terrifying Tales

Saturday, October 17, 2pm–4pm

Nora Navra Library

Thursday, October 22, 5:30pm–6:30pm

Rosa F. Keller Library & Community Center

Locations subject to change. Please check nolalibrary.co/halloween for updates.

Find more Halloween celebrations at nolalibrary.co/halloween.

Berceuse Parish:

// MICHELLE NICHOLSON

In New Orleans and South Louisiana, the dead are rarely kept at a polite distance. They remain close in family stories, cemeteries, saints’ days, superstitions, and shrines. precision of noticing. The dead return here not to y late October, candles, costumes, What Comes Back provide closure but to teach. prayers, and ghost tales simply make

that relationship more visible. Local poet and high school teacher Burnside Soleil’s debut book Berceuse Parish feels perfectly at home in that company.

A Parish Already Haunted Berceuse (pronounced bear-suess) Parish does not appear on any map, but its bayous, fields, churches, family homes, and cultural inheritances are recognizable to anyone from South Louisiana. It is a place where the living and dead, ghosts and those they haunt, share the same cast list. Literally, the book opens with a cast of characters. Auguste “Gus” Babineaux serves as its “curatorial narrator.” Burnside is “poet (a bit orphic).” Micah is “cousin (dead).” Uless is a “no-good father (lost),” while Frances and Marcel arrive as successive “surprises.” Gus supplies histories and conjectures in a series of conversational prose-poems titled “A Few Particulars.” Between them appear Burnside’s poems and elegies, along with broken-sonnet letters exchanged by his parents, Uless and Penny. They come together as a dramatic chorus, as one voice telling one tale, mixing folklore, memory, grief, gossip, and deadpan humor.

Halloween stories often center on return: a person who will not stay buried, an unfinished message, a name spoken as opposed to forgotten. Berceuse Parish is less interested in frightening returns than in what the living call back through memory, research, language, and imagination. Soleil was adopted and knew little about his birth family. Through ancestry.com, he found photographs, records, and family trees. “I found a way for a past I knew not much about to belong to me and for me to belong to it,” Soleil explained. Thus, he calls the collection both “a myth” and “an artifact of my inner life.” The book never pretends that records or stories can recover a complete life. In “Howard,” a poem that wrangles the poet’s lost ancestry—his birth great-grandfather was Filipino-American— the narrator Gus serves as a vehicle for Soleil’s admission. Perhaps none of the imagined history happened—or perhaps it happened exactly that way. The spectral or imagined presence of the lost past and its inhabitants, nevertheless, haunt the pages of Berceuse. Other returns are more personal. “Imani” addresses a former student who died years before the collection took shape. In conversation, Soleil described the poem as reversing the expected relationship between teacher and student: “If you had lived, all the things I could have learned from you.” The poem allows the poet to enter into a continued conversation with the deceased—about plants, fungi, porches, gardens, and the strange

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

Louisiana French also returns to the page. Soleil’s grandparents spoke the language once commonly called Cajun French, but schools punished children for retaining it: “There was corporal punishment to ensure that they would not speak the language that they spoke at home.” Uless has, in the most literal modern sense, ghosted Penny, leaving her haunted by his absence. At first, their letters are written mostly in English, with Louisiana French woven in. As the estranged couple edges closer to reconciliation, however, the letters shift entirely into French— what Soleil calls “the deepest expression of who they are.” The language pushed out of one generation’s classrooms becomes the language that carries these two back toward each other. The letters are also among the book’s funniest moments. Uless promises to return, asks Penny not to refrigerate a pie, and swears he is not seeing another woman. Penny replies that she left the crawfish in his bedroom and hopes a diesel truck smashes him—then signs, “Love, / Penny.” Even unfinished business can be funny in Berceuse Parish.

Medium or Mask? While certainly one might say that the poet serves as a medium for the ghost populating Berceuse Parish, the drama may easily be interpreted as an extension of ritual costuming and performance.

Soleil writes under a deliberately invented name. Gus turns family history into local legend. Uless and Penny wear the inherited outlines of Ulysses and Penelope but refuse to behave like obedient classical figures. The collection approaches personal truth through masks, formal play, and indirection. “There’s so many different masks,” Soleil said, describing his way of reaching something real through “sleight of hand,” metaphor, and costume. That feels familiar in New Orleans and South Louisiana, where masks belong not only to Halloween but also to Mardi Gras, Carnival, drag, parade culture, and neighborhood ritual. A costume may conceal, but it can also permit participation. It lets someone enter a story, embody an ancestor, enlarge a personality, or become briefly more recognizable to themselves. The spiritual life of Berceuse Parish works the same way. One woman attempts to baptize feral cats in a canal. A grandmother buries her firstborn’s shoes beside the river and waits to hear God. Children leaping from trees into the bayou hear unknown voices calling warnings from the road. These moments are uncanny, but they are also ordinary within the parish. Spirits, omens, saints, jokes, and stories occupy the same world. “You become—you participate in it,” Soleil said of haunting. “And you join the parade, as it were.” Folk in New Orleans, South Louisiana, and Berceuse Parish do not banish their ghosts. They name them, argue with them, translate them, dress them in new forms, and invite them back into the conversation.

Photos: courtesy of Rahela Ulici, Shelby Macrae

Where Ghosts Join the Conversation

A LITTLE WITCHCRAFT IN A BOTTLE.

SEDUCTIVE. STRANGE. HYPNOTIC. DISCOVER FRAGRANCES THAT FEEL LESS LIKE PERFUME AND MORE LIKE A SPELL. M A DA M E AUCO I N’S FRE NC H QUA RTE R P E R FU M E & CO LOGN E 608 B I E N VI LLE ST | 504.603.6036 VA LI DATE D HOTE L M O N TE LEO N E PA R K I NG

Halloween // October 2026

Facade Forward: The Making of

// KIM RANJBAR

How local entrepreneur Jeff Borne transformed a 150-year-old building into one of New Orleans’ signature haunted attractions while preserving its historic integrity.

very year when a crisp, cool scent begins wafting through the humid, late summer air, The Mortuary Haunted Mansion, which lurks at the edge of a vast metropolis of the dead, arises from its lifeless slumber, ready and waiting to terrify and delight. Created by innovator Jeff Borne, the macabre attraction has lured legions of thrill-seekers for nearly 20 years to the imposing Victorian house located at the cemetery end of Canal Street, a bold investment for a seasonal attraction that paid off. “I didn’t know what I was getting into in the beginning. I had immediately fallen in love with this building and wanted to create something special with it,” Borne said. The Mortuary began its life in 1872 as a private residence for Mary Slattery, built in the American Foursquare postVictorian style popular during that era. Over the next several decades, Mary and her husband John raised six children, one of whom became a stone cutter and sexton servicing the graveyard next door. Significant changes to the building didn’t occur until P.J.

McMahon & Sons gained ownership in 1923. The undertaking company renovated with the intent of creating a luxe funeral home, replete with a huge porch and Corinthian columns, a large portecochère, private accommodations, on-site cooks for mourning families, a gentleman’s smoking lounge, multiple well-appointed parlors, and viewing rooms. The funeral home was also the first in the area to offer a motorized hearse to ferry the recently deceased to their eternal resting place. For over 60 years, the funeral home remained operational, changing hands to the Alderwoods in 1996; however, as time passed, amenities were reduced, business slowed, and the property fell into disrepair. Several years later, the Neil Corporation purchased the structure and proceeded to gut it to create an elaborate day spa for its Aveda division. After Hurricane Katrina, however, they quickly put it back on the market. For several years, the former funeral home stood vacant, playing host to wild animals and vagrants until it caught the eye of Jeff Borne, president and CEO of PSX Inc., “specializing in the design and building of complex multimedia systems for immersive environments.” “I knew I wanted to do something bigger. We were already doing a lot of work for theme parks, but I wanted to try and create something for myself, so I started looking at properties and came across the P.J. McMahon & Sons Funeral Home,” Borne explained. “By summer of 2007, I wound up owning it.” In about three months, Borne was able to make enough repairs and, with proper safety permits from the city and fire department, had The Mortuary up and running just in time for the upcoming Halloween season. “It did well for what it

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

was in the few weeks we had to throw it together, but it was very much in its infancy.” With the help of Peter Waring and Emily Flagler from the now defunct firm Waring Architects, LLC, The Mortuary underwent a three-year renovation, resurrecting the P.J. McMahon & Sons funeral home inside and out. The building was mostly a “blank slate,” though certain interior features, such as millwork and stairs, remained. An old mural was found on the back wall dating to the 1940s, depicting the funeral parlor “back in the day” with Model T cars, but it unfortunately couldn’t be saved. “We tried to preserve it but the paint just disintegrated,” Borne said. As with any preservation project applying for historic tax credits with the Historic District Landmarks Commission, the renovation was not without its challenges. Bringing everything up to code for the planned event venue while trying to meet conflicting requirements from various agencies was a juggling act. “A good architect is able to understand the problems of a project and find alternative solutions,” said Flagler, now the founder of her own Uptown architectural firm. “In order to get an appeal granted, you have to come up with something new that isn’t required but offers an additional level of safety.” In one instance, an appeal to the fire marshall benefitted from air and temperature fluctuations taken by the Paranormal Society, who were investigating reputed hauntings at the former funeral home. Other difficulties included a colony of bees that were boring holes in the plaster columns and a problematic winder stair that couldn’t be removed for historic reasons but didn’t meet today’s safety codes. Though other obstacles paled in comparison to the initial response from the neighborhood. “[The zoning ordinance] was heavily contested because it was misunderstood,” Flagler explained. “It was mainly about parking.”

Many of the neighbors believed Borne planned to open a nightclub, and several residents fought the project “tooth and nail,” even creating a website to garner support for their cause. “Jeff wanted to be a good neighbor, but sometimes people have the expectation that you’re not playing by the rules,” Flagler explained. With perseverance, and Borne’s continuous efforts to maintain a clean and safe environment around both the property and the neighborhood, the community has softened their stance against the venue. “Over the past 15 years, everybody in the neighborhood has become very supportive once they realized the rumors were nonsense,” Borne said. “In fact, the neighborhood is never safer at any other time of the year.” Every season while The Mortuary is in operation, police officers from the sheriff’s office and New Orleans Police Department are stationed at the facility and regularly cruise the neighborhood. Borne has even hired pick-up crews to keep litter around the property and neighborhood to a minimum. “We’ve been told that by countless neighbors, who really appreciate all of the efforts we’ve made to make it a great, safe event.” For the 2026 season, The Mortuary Haunted Mansion presents “Through the Looking Glass,” exploring the fact that “nursery rhymes aren’t just bedtime stories, but warnings, rooted in something much darker than what is typically seen on the surface.” Borne also recently announced the opening of the Sawmill Haunted House in Covington, where “you don’t have to go to Texas for a chainsaw massacre.” Visit themortuary.net or thesaw.net for tickets and more information.

All photos: courtesy of The Mortuary

The Mortuary

Halloween // October 2026

y l d n e i r F d Ki

n u F n e e w o Hallew Orleans In N

n fact, there are many activities for the kiddos to indulge in, and October is one of the best months for little humans to frolic in the festivities. Sure, during the month, the city is famous for a good haunt and some spooky legends, but families know Halloween in the Crescent City has a much sweeter side. There are elaborate Halloween parades and trick-ortreat trails, along with amusement park rides and decorated mansions. New Orleans certainly knows how to celebrate the spooky season with plenty of family-friendly events. Whether your little one dreams of becoming a superhero, princess, pirate, witch, or dinosaur, just for the day, there is no shortage of festive fun waiting around every corner.

Krewe of BOO! Brings Halloween to Life Halloween in New Orleans would not be complete without the city’s official Halloween parade, the spectacular Krewe of BOO! Rolling through downtown and the French Quarter each October, this colorful celebration combines the creativity of Mardi Gras with all the fun of Halloween. Families line the streets to watch enormous three-dimensional floats glide by while marching bands, dance groups, costumed riders, and larger-

than-life characters entertain the crowd. Of course, no New Orleans parade would be complete without throws. Instead of just beads, children can catch plenty of candy and festive Halloweenthemed treasures. The parade, taking place this year on October 24, is exciting without being overly scary, making it a favorite tradition for families looking to experience New Orleans at its playful best.

Boo at the Zoo: A Family Favorite For generations of local families, Boo at the Zoo has been one of the highlights of the Halloween season. Hosted each October at Audubon Zoo, this daytime event transforms the zoo into a cheerful Halloween playground designed especially for children up to age 12. Kids arrive dressed in their favorite costumes and travel through trick-or-treat areas collecting candy while stopping to visit many of the zoo’s amazing animals. Unlike traditional Halloween attractions, Boo at the Zoo, running October 16 to 18 this year, focuses on smiles instead of scares.

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

It is the perfect introduction to Halloween for toddlers and younger children while giving parents a chance to enjoy one of New Orleans’ most beloved attractions.

Ghosts in the Oaks Lights Up City Park If your family loves amusement park rides as much as candy, Ghosts in the Oaks at Carousel Gardens Amusement Park belongs at the top of your October calendar, taking place October 15 to 18 this year. Each fall, New Orleans City Park transforms into a colorful Halloween wonderland complete with unlimited amusement rides, trick-or-treat paths, crafts, live entertainment, and beautifully decorated walkways beneath the city’s famous oak trees. One of the biggest attractions is the extended candy trail, where children fill their buckets while exploring the decorated park. Families can ride the historic carousel, enjoy classic amusement rides, and soak in a magical evening.

Boo Carré Brings Family Fun to the French Market Families looking for daytime Halloween fun should make plans to visit Boo Carré Halloween Haunt at the historic French Market on October 24. This lively celebration offers safe trick-ortreating along with live music, magic shows, face painting, crafts, games, and plenty of opportunities for children to show off their costumes. The festive atmosphere captures the spirit of New Orleans while remaining welcoming for even the youngest visitors. Parents can browse local vendors while children enjoy activities designed just for them, making Boo Carré an easy addition to any October weekend itinerary.

Halloween House Hunting is a New Orleans Tradition Some of the city’s most popular Halloween attractions are not ticketed events at all. They are simply neighborhoods where residents go all out decorating their homes. One stop that locals never miss is the Skeleton House on St. Charles Avenue. Every year, the homeowners create enormous skeleton displays that are equal parts hilarious and creative. The scenes change annually, giving families something

Photos from top: courtesy of Ghost Manor, Boo Carré, Audubon Nature Institute

There are folks out there who believe that New Orleans is no place for kids, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

// KIMMIE TUBRÉ

S. CARROLLTON

PARK

N. CARROLLTON

MID-CITY

A City That Celebrates the Kids

DS N FIEL

• Assemble at Elysian Fields Ave.

LOUIS ARMSTRONG PARK

S. RAMPART

• Parade Down Elysian Fields to North Peters St. • North Peters to Decatur St.

BASIN ST.

• Decatur past Jackson Square to North Peters

CANAL + BURGUNDY

• North Peters to Canal St.

BURGUNDY

CBD

• Up Canal to Burgundy St. then U-turn • Down Canal to Tchoupitoulas St. • Tchoupitoulas to Andrew Higgins Dr. DAUPH INE

BOURBON

POYDRAS

MAG

New Orleans has always known how to throw a celebration, and Halloween is no exception. The same creativity, music, and community spirit that define Mardi Gras shine brightly throughout October in ways that are perfect for families. One weekend, you may be catching candy during Krewe of BOO! Next, you could be riding the carousel at Ghosts in the Oaks, visiting animals at Boo at the Zoo, strolling through the Garden District, or laughing at the oversized skeletons on St. Charles Avenue. There is something magical about seeing children experience Halloween in a city that embraces imagination wholeheartedly. So dust off those superhero capes, fairy wings, pirate hats, and tiny monster costumes. Grab your candy bucket, charge your camera, and get ready for an October filled with love, laughter, and plenty of New Orleans charm. After all, in a city where every season feels like a celebration, Halloween is simply another chance for even our kiddos to let the good times roll, one piece of candy at a time.

TREMÉ

UNION TERMINAL

ELYSIA

patches where families can choose the perfect pumpkin to carve and display on their front porch. Many also offer hayrides, seasonal games, photo opportunities, bounce houses, and delicious fall treats.

CANAL

new to discover each year. Just a few minutes away on Magazine Street, Ghost Manor has become another mustsee destination. Its elaborate electronic light display is synchronized with spooky music, creating the perfect familyfriendly Halloween show.

FRENCH QUARTER CANAL + ROYAL / ST. CHARLES

AZIN

ROYAL

MARIGNY ROYA

ITOU

L AS

TOULOUSE + DECATUR

DECATUR + N. PETERS CANAL + N. PETERS

TCHOUP + ANDREW HIGGINS

DECATUR + ELYSIAN FIELDS

ESPLANADE + N. PETERS

MISS RIVER STARTING POINT

STOP

New Year's Eve / Sugar Bowl | Where Y'at Magazine

Photo: courtesy of Ghost Manor

WAREHOUSE

N FIEL

OU P

Halloween celebrations do not begin and end with candy. Throughout October, area churches, farms, and community organizations host pumpkin

Krewe of BOO! 6:30 P.M., October 24

CHARTRES + ELYSIAN FIELDS DECATUR + ST. ANN

ELYSIA

TC H

Pumpkin Patches Add Plenty of Fall Fun

UPTOWN

JACKSON SQUARE N. PETERS + ST. LOUIS

Halloween // October 2026

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11 AllWays Lounge Hocus Pocus, Repo! the Genetic Opera Bacchanal Wine Noah Young BK House & Gardens Sharon Martin & First Take Blue Nile Street Legends Brass Band Domino Lounge Fire From the Gods Fillmore New Orleans Blackberry Smoke Gasa Gasa Evanora Unlimited Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band Lafayette Square Park Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival Mahogany Jazz Hall Mahogany Hall Swingsters, Roderick Paulin Maple Leaf Bar KJD New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market The Walrus Okay Bar A1 Jesus, Grace Sarre, Saucy Momma, Not Scared to Cry Pontchartrain Park Gentilly Fest Siberia Brody Price, Pope, Maddy Kirgo Snug Harbor Don Vappie & the Creole Jazz Serenaders Spotted Cat Jacky Blaire & the Hot Biscuits, Pat Casey Tipitina’s The California Honeydrops

MONDAY, OCTOBER 12 AllWays Lounge Betsy Propane’s Smoke Show Cabaret Bacchanal Wine Boma Bango Chickie Wah Wah Ward Davis Da Jump Off Lounge Sporty’s Brass Band Fritzel’s Jazz Club Matiness All Stars Band, Tin Men Holy Diver Attach Dog, Vinny’s Mirror Mahogany Jazz Hall The Original Tuxedo Jazz Band Maison Bourbon Jazz Club Danny Rubio, Jack Pritchett New Orleans Jazz Museum Trempo Masterclass NOLA Brewing NOLA Pickin’ Party Bluegrass Jam Preservation Hall Preservation Brass Saenger Theatre Tom Jones Saturn Bar BC Coogan Spotted Cat Music Club Aurora Nealand, Jenavieve Cooke True South Danny Alexander Blues Jam TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13 AllWays Lounge and Theatre Sincerely, Fantasy. Audubon Clubhouse Mikayla Braun, Stephen Bohnstengel Bacchanal Wine Tangiers Combo

Trivia Night every Thurs. 7pm

GAMES ON TV • GAMES ON THE GREEN

WEEKLY DRINK SPECIALS • OPEN TILL 2AM

♣ 203 HOMEDALE ST., LAKEVIEW ♣ (504) 483-0978 26

Banks Street Bar VetJams Batture Phil Melancon Bayou Bar Double Bird Carousel Bar & Lounge Naomie April Fillmore New Orleans Modest Mouse Fritzel’s Jazz Club Fritzels All Star Band, Jamil Sharif Mahogany Jazz Hall Leroy Jones and the Home Team Maison Bourbon Jazz Club Danny Rubio, Jeff Kreis Oak & Ale Electric Yat Quartet Okay Bar Big Easy Stompers Line Dancing Pavilion of the Two Sisters The Fleurtations Siberia The Yawpers Snug Harbor A Birthday Tribute to Lee Konitz Spotted Cat Music Club Chris Christy Band Tipitina’s Bright Eyes The Rabbit Hole Rebirth Brass Band Vaughan’s Lounge The Youngbloods WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14 Bacchanal Wine Jesse Morrow Bayou Bar Firm Roots Cafe Nola Neicy B Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Enrique Alférez Sculpture Garden Geovane Santos Fillmore New Orleans Marilyn Manson Gasa Gasa she’s green House of Blues Chad Gray Howlin Wolf Ancestral Tongue Kipp Morial School Margie Perez Quartet Lobby Lounge Raphael Bas Longue Vue Eight Dice Cloth Mahogany Jazz Hall Mahogany Hall All Stars Preservation Hall Preservation All-Stars, Branden Lewis Rock ‘n’ Bowl Rocky’s Holy Schnitzel Polka Band Siberia Joey Cash Smoothie King Center Suicideboy, Destroy Lonely & More Snug Harbor Alicia Ynez Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band Tropical Isle Bourbon Dave Ferrato, Dave James, Mike Lemmler, Mike Barras THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 Apple Barrel Johnny Mastro Bacchanal Wine Raphael Bas Bayou Bar Cryptic Blue Nile Irvin Mayfield’s Music Church Cafe Istanbul Sharon Martin & Friends Carousel Bar Lena Prima Chickie Wah Wah Lilli Lewis Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Favela Chic DJ Groovy Smooth Fillmore New Orleans Marilyn Manson Fritzel’s Jazz Club Fritzels All Star Band Gasa Gasa Road to Electric Spring Gretna Tavern The Tail-Gators Howlin Wolf Orange You Glad Le Bon Temps Roule The Soul Rebels Mahogany Jazz Hall Jamil Shariff New Orleans Extravaganza Maison Bourbon Jazz Club Danny Rubio & the Catahoula Music Company New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Flagboy Giz New Orleans Pharmacy Museum Sally Baby’s Three Silver Opera Peacock Room Da Lovebirds Rock ‘n’ Bowl Leroy Thomas & the Zydeco Roadrunners Saturn Bar Across Phoenix Siberia Eva Lovullo Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

Rock the Rafters at Tipitina’s Tipitina’s and NOLA Funk Fest are hosting a special concert that celebrates Louisiana’s Cajun and Creole roots. The Lost Bayou Ramblers, CC Adcock, Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas, and many more will perform. Thursday, October 15, 7:30 p.m. $29.33, tipitinas.com

The Broadside Felabration Tipitina’s Lost Bayou Ramblers, CC Adcock Vaughan’s Lounge Corey Henry & the Tremé Funktet FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16 AllWays Lounge Henrietta’s Baudy Brothel Sing A-Long Audubon Aquarium NOLA Funk Fest Bacchanal Wine David Sigler Banks Street Bar Domenic Fusca Bayou Bar YYRP Bayou St. John Praise Fest Blue Crawfish Free Agents Brass Band Blue Nile Kermit Ruffins and the Barbecue Swingers Cafe Negril 2nd Lyon Reggae Band Cafe Nola R&B Karaoke Cafe Carousel Bar Nayo Jones Experience Chickie Wah Wah John “Papa” Gros Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Deutsches Haus Lynn Marie Dutch Alley Johnette Downing Fillmore New Orleans K. Michelle Fritzel’s Jazz Club Sam Friend Band Gasa Gasa Episodic Memory House of Blues Kawaii Rave Le Bon Temps Roule Kat Deal Lobby Lounge Raphael Bas Mahogany Jazz Hall Leroy Jones and Paul Longstreth New Orleans Jazz Museum Arco Latino Pirogue’s Whiskey Bayou Gal Holiday & the Honky Tonk Revue Preservation Hall Preservation All-Stars Rock ‘n’ Bowl Wiseguys Seithers Seafood The Desert Nudes Siberia Mean Green, Gatsu, Hireath Snug Harbor Nolatet Southport Hall Nu Balance, Nevermind Spotted Cat New Orleans Cottonmouth Kings The Rabbit Hole DJ Logic & Friends Tipitina’s Let Me Stand Next To Your Fire WYES Morgus Madness ft. Consortium of Genius SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 Audubon Aquarium NOLA Funk Fest Bacchanal Wine Miles Berry, Pete Olynciw Bamboula’s Johnny Mastro Blues Bayou St. John Praise Fest Blue Nile Afrobeat NOLA Chickie Wah Wah J and the Causeways Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Deutsches Haus 610 Stompers, Lynn Marie Fritzel’s Jazz Club Bourbon Matinee Jazz Band

Howlin Wolf Charlene Kaye Joy Theater Bingo Loco Kermit’s Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge Kermit Ruffins & the BBQ Swingers Le Bon Temps Roule Tyler Kinchen & the Right Pieces Maison Bourbon Danny Rubio Okay Bar Evan Mc Millian Public Belt Phil Melancon Rock ‘n’ Bowl CRYRS Siberia Dent May Snug Harbor Alejandro Canales Trio Spanish Plaza George Porter Jr. The Broadside Picnic at the Broadside Tipitina’s DJ Soul Sister’s 80’s Party SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18 AllWays Lounge Bronson’s Sleazy Sunday Audubon Aquarium NOLA Funk Fest Bacchanal Wine Arnold Little, Noah Young Bayou St. John Praise Fest Blue Nile Juice, Street Legends Brass Band Cafe Istanbul Sariyah Idan Trio Dog House Craig Cortello, Canine Crooner Fillmore New Orleans Mohammed Assaf Fritzel’s Jazz Club Marty Peters Band Gasa Gasa Bayonne Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band Mahogany Jazz Hall Mahogany Hall Swingsters Marigny Opera House Honey Gold Experience New Marigny Theatre New Imperial Orchestra Okay Bar Irish Folk Jam Snug Harbor Desert Nudes Spotted Cat Jacky Blaire, Pat Casey The Broadside Louisiana Shrimp Festival Twist of Lime Scotty Austin MONDAY, OCTOBER 19 AllWays Lounge Betsy Propane’s Smoke Show Cabaret Apple Barrel Mark Appleford Audubon Aquarium NOLA Funk Fest Bacchanal Wine Byron Asher Chickie Wah Wah MagNifico Civic Theatre Machine Girl Da Jump Off Lounge Sporty’s Brass Band Fritzel’s Jazz Club Matiness All Stars Band, Tin Men Howlin Wolf Subterranean Songwriter Night Mahogany Jazz Hall Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, Victor Campbell Maison Bourbon Jazz Club Danny Rubio, Jack Pritchett NOLA Brewing NOLA Pickin’ Party

Photo: courtesy of Gustavo Escanelle

LIVE MUSICCALENDAR MUSIC CALENDAR

LIVE MUSICCALENDAR Preservation Hall Preservation Brass Saturn Bar BC Coogan Spotted Cat Aurora Nealand, Jenavieve Cooke True South Danny Alexander Blues Jam TUESDAY, OCTOBER 20 Bacchanal Wine Tangiers Combo Batture Phil Melancon Bayou Bar The OG’s, Peter Harris, Tony Dagradi Carousel Bar & Lounge Naomie April Ellis Marsalis Center for Music Michael Torregano Fritzel’s Jazz Club Fritzel’s All Star Band, Jamil Sharif Joy Theater Soccer Mommy, Snail Mail Mahogany Jazz Hall Joe Lasties, Gregg Stafford Maison Bourbon Danny Rubio, Jeff Kreis New Orleans Jazz Museum The Ella Project No Dice Felicity Okay Bar Big Easy Stompers Pavilion of the Two Sisters New Orleans Mystics Siberia Dear Maryanne, Kiss The Scientist, Excuse Me Who Are You? Snug Harbor Wendell Brunious Benefit Spotted Cat Chris Christy, Smoking Time Jazz Club The Rabbit Hole Rebirth Brass Band Urban South Brewery Crescent City Chamber Music Festival Vaughan’s Lounge Cuttin’ Up with the Youngbloods

Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band Tipitina’s Black Joe Lewis, JD Simo, Luther Dickinson Vaughan’s Lounge Corey Henry

CupcakKe at House of Blues New Orleans

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22 Bacchanal Wine Glo Worm Trio Blue Nile Irvin Mayfield, DJ T-Roy Carousel Bar Lena Prima Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Favela Chic DJ Groovy Smooth Gretna Tavern The Tail-Gators House of Blues Clutch Joy Theater Snarky Puppy Mahogany Jazz Hall Jamil Shariff Maison Bourbon Jazz Club

her brazen and comical persona. The “Deepthroat” and “CPR” singer is currently on “The BakKery” Tour in support of her latest LP of the same name. Wednesday, October 21, 8 p.m., $85.86 to $146.68, neworleans.houseofblues.com

Photo: courtesy of LiveNation

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21 Bacchanal Wine Jesse Morrow Bayou Bar Firm Roots, Peter Harris, Derek Douget Café Degas Gizinti Trio Cafe Nola R&B Bingo with Neicy B

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Danny Rubio, Jack Pritchett Enrique Alférez Sculpture Garden Papo y Son Martin’s Metairie Louis Latour Mandao New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park Gasa Gasa Cardinal Bloom Patrice Fisher, Arpa House of Blues CupcakKe Orpheum Theater Louisiana Philharmonic Howlin Wolf Robert Taylor Smith, Spoonfed Jr. Orchestra Lobby Lounge Raphael Bas Peacock Room Da Lovebirds Longue Vue Freddie Blue, Friendship Circle Rock ‘n’ Bowl Sunpie Barnes Mahogany Jazz Hall Mahogany Hall All Stars, Tom Snug Harbor Phillip Manuel Fischer Mayfield’s 208 Bourbon Irvin Mayfield, Special Guests Picnic Provisions & Whiskey Nina Hungerland Spotted Cat Music Club Chris Christy, Marty Peters, Shotgun Jazz Band Tropical Isle Bourbon Dave CupcakKe is a Chicago-born rapper Ferrato, Dave James, Mike and singer-songwriter known for Lemmler

Halloween // October 2026

LIVE MUSICCALENDAR SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24 Bacchanal Wine Miles Berry, Raphael Bas Blue Nile Afrobeat NOLA Chickie Wah Wah Jourdan Thibodeaux D.B.A. Tuba Skinny Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Fillmore New Orleans Matt Fraser French Market Manuel Arteaga, Lunch Truck Specials Fritzel’s Jazz Club Fritzel’s All Stars Gasa Gasa Sorry Ghost House of Blues We Came as Romans Howlin Wolf NOLA Spotlight Joy Theater Unholy Mountain, The Devil’s Horns Kermit’s Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge Kermit Ruffins & the BBQ Swingers Le Bon Temps Roule Pocket Chocolate Louisiana SPCA Louisiana SPCA Carnival Maison Bourbon Jazz Club Danny Rubio, Jeff Kreis New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Kirk Whalum Public Belt Phil Melancon Smoothie King Center CeCe Winans Snug Harbor Amina Figarova Sextet St. Augustine Church Tremé Fall Festival The Crypt Sweet Dreams Tipitina’s John “Papa” Gros

Porter Robinson at Freaky Deaky NOLA Porter Robinson is a DJ from Atlanta who specializes in emotive electronic music. Robinson will be one of the many headliners at the Freaky Deaky NOLA Halloween festival at Mardi Gras World. Friday, October 30, 3 p.m. to 12 a.m., $79.95 to $289.94, freakydeakynola.com

New Orleans Jazz Museum Barakat NOLA Brewing Gal Holiday & the Honky Tonk Revue Pirogue’s Whiskey Bayou Rose Cangelosi Preservation Hall Preservation All-Stars, Mark Braud Rock ‘n’ Bowl The Topcats Seithers Seafood The Desert Nudes Siberia Acid Mothers Temple & the Melting Paraiso U.F.O. Spotted Cat New Orleans Cottonmouth Kings, Paradise Jazz Band The Rabbit Hole DJ Sunnie & Friends Tipitina’s Mac Sabbath Toulouse Theatre Flow Tribe

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25 AllWays Lounge Sunday Swing Bacchanal Wine Anna Laura Quinn, Noah Young Blue Nile Sypher Sundays, Street Legends Brass Band Constantinople Stage Dana Abbott Trio Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band Mahogany Jazz Hall Mahogany Hall Swingsters, Roderick Paulin Okay Bar Irish Folk Jam, Buds Rip Pitot House The Desert Nudes Snug Harbor Brad Walker Quartet, Steve Pistorius Spotted Cat Jacky Blaire & the Hot Biscuits, Pat Casey Tipitina’s Bruce Daigrepont Cajun Band, Youth Music Labs Women’s Opera Guild Home Emerging Artists Concert

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

MONDAY, OCTOBER 26 AllWays Lounge Betsy Propane’s Smoke Show Cabaret Bacchanal Wine Byron Asher Bourbon Orleans Hotel Khris Royal Da Jump Off Lounge Sporty’s Brass Band Fritzel’s Jazz Club Matiness All Stars, Tin Men Joy Theater Prof Mahogany Jazz Hall Original Tuxedo Jazz Band Maison Bourbon Jazz Club Danny Rubio, Jack Pritchett NOLA Brewing NOLA Pickin’ Party Preservation Hall Preservation Brass Saturn Bar BC Coogan Spotted Cat Aurora Nealand, Jenavieve Cooke The Broadside Cristina Kaminis & BrasiNola True South Danny Alexander Blues Jam TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27 Bacchanal Wine Tangiers Combo Banks St. Bar The Saint Cecilia Batture Phil Melancon Bayou Bar Adonis Rose Carousel Bar & Lounge Naomie April Chickie Wah Wah Playlunch Fritzel’s Jazz Club Fritzel’s All Star Band Mahogany Jazz Hall Paul Longstreth, Leroy Jones Maison Bourbon Jazz Club Danny Rubio, Jeff Kreis New Orleans Jazz Museum The Ella Project Okay Bar Big Easy Stompers Pavilion of the Two Sisters The Boogie Men Siberia Juice Snug Harbor Roland Guerin’s PROG Spotted Cat Chris Christy, Smoking Time Jazz Club The Rabbit Hole Rebirth Brass Band Vaughan’s Lounge Cuttin’ Up with the Youngbloods WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28 Bacchanal Wine Jesse Morrow Bayou Bar Firm Roots, Peter Harris, Derek Douget Café Degas Gizinti Trio Cafe Nola R&B Bingo with Neicy B Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Enrique Alférez Sculpture Garden Imox Jazz Fritzel’s Jazz Club Fritzel’s All Star Band House of Blues Cameron Whitcomb Joy Theater Atlanta Rhythm Section Lobby Lounge Raphael Bas Longue Vue Nat & Kat Cajun String Band Mahogany Jazz Hall Mahogany Hall All Stars New Orleans Jazz Museum Louisiana Folklife Celebration Picnic Provisions & Whiskey Hypno Nun Preservation Hall Preservation All-Stars, Branden Lewis Snug Harbor James Rivers Tribute Spotted Cat Shotgun Jazz Band The Broadside WWNO Benefest Tipitina’s Rakim Tropical Isle Bourbon Dave Ferrato, Dave James, Mike Lemmler, Mike Barras THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29 Bacchanal Wine Raphael Bas Bayou Bar Double Bird Blue Nile Irvin Mayfield’s Music Church Carousel Bar Lena Prima Chickie Wah Wah Joni Mitchell’s Court and Spark Civic Theatre Osees, Brigid Dawson, Traps PS Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Favela Chic DJ Groovy Smooth Fritzel’s Jazz Club Fritzel’s All Star Band Gretna Tavern The Tail-Gators

Le Bon Temps Roule The Soul Rebels Mahogany Jazz Hall Jamil Shariff Maison Bourbon Jazz Club Danny Rubio, Jack Pritchett New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Chief Adjuah, Donald Harrison New Orleans Jazz Museum Imox Jazz Peacock Room Lovebirds Pirogue’s Whiskey Bayou VetJams Snug Harbor Jesse McBride & the Next Generation Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band The Tigermen Den Tuba Skinny Tipitina’s After Ours, Rafael Vaughan’s Lounge Corey Henry FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30 B Mac’s Lady Parts Bacchanal Wine David Sigler, Willie Green Banks Street Bar Domenic Fusca Bayou Bar Oh Yeah!, Peter Harris Blue Crawfish Free Agents Brass Band Blue Nile Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers Cafe Negril 2nd Lyon Reggae Band Cafe Nola R&B Karaoke Carousel Bar Nayo Jones Experience Chickie Wah Wah Nether Hour Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Dutch Alley Johnette Downing Fillmore New Orleans Victoria Monét Fritzel’s Jazz Club Fritzel’s All Star Band House of Blues Saosin Howlin Wolf Hypno Nun, Summer with Monika, Jadder Le Bon Temps Roule Colin Davis & Night People Lobby Lounge Raphael Bas Mahogany Jazz Hall Leroy Jones, Paul Longstreth Mardi Gras World Canabliss, Porter Robinson New Orleans Jazz Museum Noah Young Trio Preservation Hall Boyfriend Rock ‘n’ Bowl Paperchase Santos Bar Deathcharge, Come to Ruin Seithers Seafood The Desert Nudes Siberia Damag3, $leazy EZ Spotted Cat Music Club Cottonmouth Kings Tipitina’s The Soul Rebels SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31 Bacchanal Wine Miles Berry, Steve Lands Bamboula’s Johnny Mastro Blues BJ's Lounge Morning 40 Federation Blue Nile The Next Level Band Chickie Wah Wah George Porter Jr. & the Runnin Pardners Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Dew Drop Inn Legends of the Dew Drop Freret Street Freret Street Festival Fritzel’s Jazz Club Fritzel’s All Star Band Hey Coffee Co. Valerie Sassyfras Howlin Wolf Brasshearts & Dizzy Le Bon Temps Roule Billy Iuso & Friends Maison Bourbon Jazz Club Danny Rubio, Jeff Kreis Mardi Gras World bradeazy, Chris Lorenzo, DeVault, Fisher, Skilah Marigny Opera House Halloween Music Massacre Preservation Hall Boyfriend Public Belt Phil Melancon Siberia Cozy in Siberia Snug Harbor Sally Baby’s Silver Dollars Southport Hall Pollo Asado The Broadside Beyond the Veil The Crypt Polkadot Cadaver, The Tomb of Nick Cage Tipitina’s DJ RQ Away

Photo: courtesy of Fa Show Marketing

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23 Bacchanal Wine Boma Bango Banks Street Bar Domenic Fusca Bayou Bar Oh Yeah!, Peter Harris Blue Crawfish Free Agents Brass Band Blue Nile Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers Cafe Negril 2nd Lyon Reggae Band Cafe Nola R&B Karaoke Carousel Bar Nayo Jones Experience Chickie Wah Wah KELS D.B.A. Jason Neville Funky Soul All-Star Band Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Deutsches Haus Alex Meixner Dutch Alley Johnette Downing Family Music Series Fritzel’s Jazz Club Fritzel’s All Star Band Gasa Gasa Sap, Sludge Mother Historic New Orleans Collection Dr. Michael White House of Blues PeelingFlesh Joy Theater Hot In Herre: 2000s Dance Party Le Bon Temps Roule Anna Q & the Unmentionables Little House Valerie Sassyfras Lobby Lounge Raphael Bas

Great seats available. Whether you’re headed to dinner or a show, roll with the RTA.

NORTA.com/Roll

Halloween // October 2026

LAKESIDE2RIVERSIDE Sawmill Haunted House Until November 1 | thesaw.net From the creators of The Mortuary Haunted Mansion, the Sawmill Haunted House is making its debut this year. Its permanent theme is rooted in deeply-rooted in the Northshore’s history, set at a fictional, abandoned, and cursed lumbermill at the real-life Coquille National Parks and Recreation in Covington, LA. The fictional town of Widow’s Landing is terrorized by ghostly river pirates, a mysterious Confederate shipwreck, and restless spirits from a nearby swampland and cemetery. A winged, Mesoamerican deity known as “Old Leatherwing” awaits deep within the abandoned mill. Tickets are available on the Sawmill Haunted House’s website.

Zombie Paintball at NOLA Motorsports Until November 1| nolamotor.com/zombie-paintball

Boo Carré at French Market District October 24 | frenchmarket.org/event/boo-carre-halloween-haunt-4 The French Market District is hosting its annual kid-centric event, the Boo Carré Halloween Haunt, in Dutch Alley. The event is free and open to the public and will feature live music, children’s activities, a spooky second line, and trick-or-treating. Kids’ vendors will include Adorn Me Antoinette, Pixie Dust Biodegradable Glitter, and more. Pie eating contests, the National Park Service Arrowhead Jazz Band, and more entertainment and activities will be a part of the Halloween Haunt. Costumes are encouraged, and kids wearing one are eligible to receive a free Boo Carré tote bag for trick-or-treating.

The Mortuary Haunted Mansion Until November 13 | themortuary.net The Mortuary, a 150-year-plus Grand Victorian mansion at the end of Canal Street, has become a multi-million dollar haunted attraction that is beloved by all. The former funeral home teleports attendees to an actual haunted house with its surreal realism of animatronics and real-life actors. This year’s theme at The Mortuary is “Through the Looking Glass,” which takes inspiration from Alice in Wonderland and Neverland’s Vampirates by exploring the dark, anti-hero adaptations of classic folklore and fiction. Celebrating its 20th season as a haunted mansion, the attraction centers around a grand black-mercury mirror that can teleport to another dimension.

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

Photos from top: courtesy of Jeff Borne, NOLA Motorsports, The Mortuary, Where Y'at Staff

Zombie Paintball is an interactive and high-energy night out for the whole family in Avondale. Fellow hunters ride the battle bus and will be driven through an interactive “zombie apocalypse.” Each participant will be given several rounds of “ammo” to hunt and kill the zombies from the battle bus. With the completion of Throttle & Swing, guests can also enjoy go-karting, an 18-hole minigolf course, arcade, live music, drink specials, and pizza. Gates open at 6 p.m. for each night of the event. Zombie Paintball Fright Night also offers an one-night only extreme version of this event on November 8.

Halloween // October 2026

Ashé Rooftop Festival & Gala

Natchez Balloon Festival Oct. 16 & 17 | Rosalie Mansion, Natchez, MS natchezballoonfestival.com Established in 1986, the Natchez Balloon Festival is a weekend event where hot air balloons and live music take over Natchez, MS. This will be their 41st annual celebration, featuring flying balloons, arts and crafts, fireworks, and more. Live music will be provided by Tonic, Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience, the Chee-Weez, and more acts.

NOLA Funk Fest Oct. 16-18 | Audubon Aquarium Riverfront Park nolafunkfest.com NOLA Funk Fest, with live music by George Porter Jr., Galactic, Dumpstafunk, and many more, is the place to be for all things funky. This festival features symposiums where oral histories are paired with local performances that highlight Louisiana’s music scene. NOLA Funk Fest draws attention to preserving, educating, inspiring, and empowering Louisiana music history and upcoming local artists.

Praise Fest on the Bayou Oct. 16-18 | 500 N. Norman C. Francis Pkwy. praisefestnola.com Praise Festival on the Bayou brings back families and communities for a weekend of gospel music and family fun activities. This is a three-day outdoor event that is free to all, aiming to bring families, churches, community leaders, and professionals from all backgrounds together. This year’s music lineup includes Kevin Styles, T.C.O, Keedy Black, and more.

Villain Arts Tattoo Festival Oct. 16-18 | Ernest M. Morial Convention Center villainarts.com/shows/new-orleans-la Tattoo artists and enthusiasts will take over the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center for the Villain Arts Tattoo Festival in New Orleans. The threeday event brings together local, national, and international tattoo artists alongside vendors and live entertainment. Visitors can meet featured artists, watch tattooing throughout the weekend, and experience entertainment from performers including Captain & Maybelle and Better Suspension.

Tremé Fall Festival Oct. 16 & 24 | St. Augustine Catholic Church Yard tremefest.org Located in one of the country’s oldest African American neighborhoods, the 2026 Tremé Fall Festival will feature a second line parade, music performances, local New Orleans food vendors, and an arts and crafts marketplace. The second line parade will travel through the neighborhood featuring brass bands, Baby Dolls, the Zulu Tramps, Big Chief Victor Harris, and more.

Photos from top: courtesy of National Folk Festival, Phillip Colwart, Beignet Fest, National Folk Festival

2026 Fall Festival Guide

Oct. 16 & 17 | Ashé Cultural Arts Center ashenola.org/rooftop-festival-2026 Celebrate the African diaspora at the Ashé Rooftop Festival & Gala, returning home to the Ashé Cultural Arts Center. The weekend begins with an afro-chic rooftop gala on Friday before Saturday’s festival brings music, spoken word, food, art, vendors, and more. Guests can also explore dedicated rooftops focused on wellness, social justice, and cultural experiences.

Louisiana Oyster Culture Festival Oct. 17 & 18 | 8245 W. Judge Perez Dr., Chalmette louisianaoysterculturefestival.com Discover Louisiana’s love of oysters at the Louisiana Oyster Culture Festival in Chalmette. In addition to spotlighting regional seafood, this festival highlights the vibrant culture of St. Bernard Parish. There will be live music, arts and crafts, and plenty of Louisiana cuisine to enjoy. Tickets are available for general admission, the VIP experience, and even the oyster eating contest.

Acadia Music Fest Oct. 17 | Acadia Plantation Town Center, Thibodaux acadiamusicfest.net The Acadia Music Festival is one of Tibodaux’s biggest outdoor musical festivals. Attendees can immerse themselves in a world of music, culture, and unforgettable memories. This year’s festival will feature headliners such as Whiskey Myers, Kashus Culpepper, Better Than Ezra, and more. The event is put on for the Ben Myer Foundation, which gives back to charities.

New Orleans Film Festival

Rougarou Festival Oct. 23-25 | 86 Vahli Blvd., Houma rougaroufest.org The Rougarou Festival is a free family-friendly event that celebrates Southeast Louisiana’s rich folklore. This event showcases live music, cultural activities, children’s activities, Cajun food, the Krewe Ga Rou parade, and so much more. The South Louisiana Wetlands Discover Center benefits from all festival proceeds, and the nonprofit organization’s goal is to teach and inform about Louisiana’s disappearing coast.

Brews Arts Festival Oct. 24 | Downtown Hammond Pavillion hammondarts.org/brews-arts-festival At the Brews Arts festival, attendees will be able to sample craft beers, enjoy live music, and visit local food and art vendors. Since 2009, the Hammond Regional Arts Center Festival brings together brewers and diverse beers from the Southeast Louisiana region. There will be live music by Casey Saba and Be Kind Rewind throughout the night.

Jesuit Bend Haunted Trail Oct. 24 | Jesuit Bend Park, Belle Chasse facebook.com Head over to Plaquemines Parish and take part in this year’s Jesuit Bend Haunted Trail for some spooky fun. Get the kids together, put some costumes on, and head out and enjoy the fun and creative Halloween trail in Jesuit Bend Park. It is encouraged that kids bring bags in order to collect some tasty treats.

Boots on the Bayou Oct. 24 & 25 | Lamar Dixon Expo Center, Gonzales botbmusic.com Have a boot scootin’ good time over at this year’s Boots in the Bayou festival in Gonzales, LA. Trace Adkins, Brantley Gilbert, Justin Moore, Priscilla Block, and more will be providing live entertainment. Delicious food provided by Mike Anderson’s Seafood, Ruffino’s, the Galvez Seafood Company, and more vendors. General admission and VIP admission are available.

Kenner Food Truck Festival Oct. 25 | Laketown Park, Kenner kenner.la.us/384/Kenner-Food-Truck-Festival-2026 Bring your appetite to Laketown for the Kenner Food Truck Festival, featuring more than 35 food trucks serving savory dishes, sweets, and more. The

free festival will also offer family-friendly activities and an afternoon of live music. The Peyton Falgoust Band and Rock Show NOLA will perform before legendary New Orleans rock band Zebra closes out the lakefront celebration.

Spirits in the Park Oct. 30 - Nov. 1 | Great Lawn at Coquille Park, Covington spiritsinthepark.com Celebrate Halloween on the Northshore during the Spirits in the Park event in Covington. This free family fest and concert series will feature Paper Chase, the Bucktown Allstars, Kings of Neon, and many more music acts. The festival will also feature delicious food and drinks, a kids zone with inflatables and pumpkin painting, and even the Sawmill Haunted House.

Freaky Deaky NOLA Oct. 30 & 31 | Mardi Gras World freakydeakynola.com Freaky Deaky NOLA is a two-day, Halloweenthemed dance festival with a focus on electronic music. The event will feature costumes, live painters, interactive installations, and live music by Porter Robinson, FISHER, William Black, and many more acts. This event was originally founded as a massive staple in Texas before expanding to its inaugural spooky spin-off in NOLA.

Photos from left: courtesy of Avery Landry, Phillip Colwart

Oct. 22-27 | Multiple Locations neworleansfilmsociety.org The New Orleans Film Festival celebrates independent and diverse filmmaking. This festival is an Oscar-qualifying festival in the categories of Documentary Short, Narrative Short and Animated

Short, serving as a vital platform for emerging and established filmmakers to showcase their work on a global scale. A full list of films, dates, and screening locations are available on the festival’s website.

Halloween // October 2026

Oct. 31 | Downtown Baton Rouge louisianabookfestival.org Book lovers can celebrate Louisiana’s literary culture during the 22nd Louisiana Book Festival in downtown Baton Rouge. The free festival brings together authors, readers, and families for a full day of author presentations, discussions, performances, and activities. Events will take place around the State Library of Louisiana, Capitol Park Museum, and surrounding downtown area from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

NOLA Zydeco Fest

MASKS–BEADS–COSTUMES

Oct. 31 & Nov. 1 | Heritage Park, Slidell nolazydecofest.com NOLA Zydeco Fest celebrates Creole music, culture, food, and dance over in Slidell. This year’s sixth annual experience will bring together legendary performers including Geno Delafose, Robin Barnes, Jeffery Broussard, Alphonse Ardoin, and more. There will be a gumbo cook-off, a Louisiana Creole genealogy exhibit, dance lessons, interactive kids zone, local food vendors, and more.

OZONE Songwriter Festival

VEGAN–KOSHER–ORGANIC

2706 ROYAL ST. (504) 947-8787

OPEN 7AM–1AM

MARDIGRASZONE.COM

Nov. 6-8 | Historic Downtown Covington ozonemusic.org The OZONE Songwriter Festival is dedicated to original singer-songwriters and will feature roundrobin storytelling circles, educational workshops, and live performances by Deana Carter, Jaime Floyd, Greg Barnhill, and more. There will be over 120 regional and national songwriters traveling from more than 14 states and from diverse musical styles ranging from folk, country, blues, rock, pop, and Americana.

Federales Festival

• Residential

Nov. 6 | Live Oak at Cedar Lodge, Baton Rouge federalesfest.com The Federales Festival is back for their fourth annual celebration at Baton Rouge’s Live Oak at Cedar Lodge. During this one-day music and culture festival in Louisiana’s capital city, guests will hear performers Pecos & the Rooftops, Starboro, Doussan Garrett Benoit, B.B. Palmer, and more. There will also be a variety of Southern-inspired food and family activities for all.

• Commercial

Beignet Fest

Cleaning Services for:

• Airbnb’s • Schools • Churches • Post-construction

Bilingual, free estimates! Follow us!

Nov. 7 | City Park Festival Grounds beignetfest.com The Beignet Festival is one of tastiest celebrations in the Big Easy. Not only are traditional beignets served, but there’s also crabmeat, praline, fried chicken, bananas Foster, cheese and seafoodstuffed beignets, and more. There’s also local favorites such as jambalaya, gumbo, and red beans. The Beignet Festival also provides resources for children and families touched by autism.

Louisiana Renaissance Festival Nov. 7 - Dec. 13 | 46468 River Rd., Hammond renfest.net Since 2000, the Louisiana Renaissance Festival has been an annual autumn event focused on all things

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

medieval in Hammond. This festival transforms into a 17th-century English village featuring live jousting and more than 50 daily shows and entertainment across dozens stages. There will also be over 600 local and national craft vendors along with classic festival treats and medieval-inspired food.

Oak Street Po-Boy Festival Nov. 8 | 8100-8800 Oak St. poboyfest.com Presented by Tony Chachere’s, the 18th Annual Oak Street Po-Boy Festival will host many food and beverage vendors, live music on multiple stages, special game watch areas, an arts market, kids zone, history panels, sponsor-activations, an opening parade, and a po-boy competition juried by celebrity judges. The festival is one of NOLA’s most unique and exciting events every fall.

LUNA Fête Nov. 13-15 | Downtown New Orleans lunafete.org New Orleans’ popular LUNA Fête returns for its 12th edition this year with the theme “The Puppetry Parade.” This celebration by Arts New Orleans, spanning from Gallier Hall to the Piazza d’Italia, will feature beautiful projection mapping by local, national, and international artists on NOLA’s architecture. There will also be illuminated puppets, music, glowing sculptures, a silent disco, and more.

paintings, photography, fiber art, woodworking, metalwork, sculptures, jewelry, and more along Covington’s Columbia Street. There will also be local food and beverage vendors, as well as a kids hangout area.

Sober Fest Nov. 21 | The Broadside bridgehouse.org/events/soberfest Sober Fest is a family friendly event that serves a variety of food options for purchase from local vendors and food trucks, non-alcoholic beverages for sale, and live music by Ivan Neville, Flow Tribe, and more. Benefiting the Bridge House/Grace House, this event honors those who have lost their battle with addiction or have passed away while in recovery.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s New Orleans Nov. 21 | UNO’s Earl K. Long Library Lawn act.alz.org Join families, caregivers, and community supporters at the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in New Orleans, raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Walkers will gather at 9 a.m. before the Promise Garden Ceremony at 9:30 a.m. and one-mile walk at 10 a.m. Participants can register for free and are encouraged to fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Association.

National Folk Festival Nov. 13-15 | Jackson, Mississippi nationalfolkfestival.com The National Folk Festival is an outdoor celebration that honors diverse cultural and musical traditions of America. Featuring up to seven live stages with performances from over 300 traditional musicians, dancers, and storytellers, this event blends styles such as Cajun, bluegrass, East Asian, gospel, West African, and more. There will also be a marketplace, craft exhibits, and diverse food stands.

Atchafalaya Basin Festival Nov. 14 | Henry Guidry Memorial Park, Henderson basinfestival.com The Atchafalaya Basin Festival is a free admission for all event that will offer an array of fun activities such as live performances by Pine Leaf Boys, Sweet Cecilia, and more, as well as local merchandise, raffle, and live and silent auctions. This festival provides a welcoming space for travelers to immerse themselves in Louisiana’s culture and enjoy the festivities.

Covington Three Rivers Art Festival Nov. 14 & 15 | Historic Downtown Covington covingtonthreeriversartfestival.com The Covington Three Rivers Arts Festival takes over several city blocks with 200 carefully juried artists. With works from practically every medium, this festival represents booths featuring ceramics,

Celebration in the Oaks Nov. 27 - Jan. 1 | City Park celebrationintheoaks.com Since the 1980s, Celebration in the Oaks has displayed an incredible winter wonderland for visitors every holiday season. Over one million twinkling lights will shine as you travel through their driving tours or their walking tour. There will also be rides at the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, as well as access to the beautiful and elegant Botanical Garden.

Plaquemines Christmas Festival & Parade Nov. 28 | F. Edward Hebert Boulevard plaqueminesparishtourism.com Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year on the Westbank during the third annual Plaquemines Christmas Festival & Parade. The Christmas parade will kick off at 4 p.m. and will go down F. Edward Hebert Boulevard. In addition to the parade, there will be free photos with Santa, live music, a Christmas fun run, food, and much more.

Photos from top: courtesy of Beignet Fest, Marco Rasi

Louisiana Book Festival

Halloween // October 2026

g n i h T c t Sti g e th er

The art of embroidery has been found in civilizations the world over dating back thousands of years.

To : t r A

// EMILY HINGLE

Dressed specializes in customizing pieces that customers bring in and upcycling vintage clothing in interesting ways. Morrison said, “I love the fact that people have become more into vintage clothing and are more conscious of their purchasing habits. There is so much waste generated from fast fashion and over-consumption habits. People usually come to me for the more localised, Louisiana-specific designs such as my oysters, swamp scenes, alligators, and things like that. It really gives people a chance to create

All photos: courtesy of Sigourney Morrison

Embroidery in New Orleans

hese embellishments were added to clothing and other textiles to add personality or beauty to an otherwise ordinary piece. Embroidery could also signify wealth and status. New Orleanians love personalizing their pieces with logos, names, and local landmarks. Sigourney Morrison was a skilled seamstress before she sought out the art of chainstitching 15 years ago. “I found a machine and taught myself,” she said. “There wasn’t a whole lot of information out there at the time about how to use it, but I made friends with [fashion designer/chainstitcher] Jerry Atwood online, and he definitely helped answer some questions I had and got me through the first big humps.” Morrison chainstitches using a Singer 114w103 that uses a single needle and hook to create a chainstitch. A hand crank is used to rotate the needle to change direction. The designs are free-hand and require artistic skill. “These machines were invented in the late 1800s, and they are still made exactly the same way today. I started my business back in 2011, but I didn’t open a store until three years ago when I decided to take the plunge. It was my last ditch effort to make this thing work, and, luckily, it did. Most of my business has been custom stitching for locals and then instore purchases with the foot traffic I get in the French Quarter.”

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

All photos: courtesy of Sigourney Morrison

something new from a pre-loved item that they may have just sitting in their closet. The possibilities are endless.” T-shirts from the 1990s transform into ponchitos and baseball caps become babushka babe hats. “The city is full of people wanting to experience and take a little piece of New Orleans home with them.” Another way that Dressed dresses up the community is through live events, in which Morrison is contracted to chainstitch at parties to the fascination of the patrons. “The event business has really started to pick up, and it allows me to make more money in a shorter period of time so that I can do the more creative stuff I love to do. I love showing people how the chainstitch machines work and introducing them to a new way—the old way—to do embroidery.” Many companies and artisans specializing in embroidery choose to use the latest technology in order to create intricate designs that make an average piece come to life. Though less manual than chainstitching, the digital process requires skill to master. “I’ve sewn since I was a teenager, primarily making clothes. I decided to learn embroidery in early 2020,” said Teri Wright, owner of OrangePurl Designs. “Embroidery was a challenge when I started. I made the mistake of thinking embroidery was similar to sewing, and it is not. It is far more complicated and temperamental. For me, sewing is very straightforward; embroidery requires more creativity and understanding. To successfully embroider, you have to have some knowledge of embroidery software.” OrangePurl Designs specializes in creating New Orleans-themed embroidery for clothing, accessories, and more. Items that are specific to the city’s culture seem to be OrangePurl’s hottest items. Wright detailed, “By the time I learned to embroider proficiently, the clothing market was saturated. I slowly transitioned from primarily children’s clothing to cocktail/secondline napkins. I have 35 different New Orleans-themed napkins. The most popular designs are the fleur-de-lis, magnolia, streetcar, and St. Louis Cathedral.”

Wright’s design work begins with an image that will eventually be digitized to be transferred onto the cloth. Designs are sourced from embroidery design websites, existing custom graphic designs, and hand-drawn designs that require being made into graphic files. The designs are uploaded to editing software for the computerized embroidery machine. Wright offered an example of the process, saying, “I have a client, Kelsey Greenfield, the owner of Body Shoppe, a boutique fitness studio and holistic recovery space for everybody and every body. Kelsey requested her Body Shoppe logo on merchandise. The logo was presented as a graphic design. It was then digitized—turned into stitches using software—before machine embroidery.” Machine embroidery offers intricacy that can make the process intense to perform considering all of the variables involved. “In embroidery, you cannot hide the mistakes. Once it is on the blank, it is permanent. At a very basic level, you need to know how to change colors in a design. At an advanced level, [you need to] take an idea and complete the embroidery lifecycle of adding it to a blank. To execute embroidery properly, you must use the correct needle, thread, and stabilizer; the design must be digitized correctly, and all must align with the blank you are using. One size does not fit all. That is what I enjoy—the challenge. Each project is new, and all steps must be executed properly for the best possible result. It is continual learning,” Wright ended. Custom embroidery can add a splash of personality on your clothing, kitchen towels, napkins, and gifts.

(504) 831-8637 • 2347 Metairie Road

ENJOY OUR NEW PATIO

HAPPY HOUR DAILY UNTIL 7PM

(504) 831-8637 • 2347 Metairie Road

Best bar ENJOY OUR mid-City

NEW PATIO Open Daily at 3 P.M.!

HAPPY 949 N Rendon Street, NOLA • 504-488- PALS HOUR DAILY UNTIL 7PM Halloween // October 2026

DININGGUIDE Anita’s Grill has faced many challenges during its 100-year history, from shutting down after Katrina and during the pandemic, but now continues to be one of New Orleans’ go-tos. Their famous shrimp & grits and fried catfish is a must-try. 833 Howard Ave., (504) 354-8979, anitasgrillnola.com Bearcat Cafe offers fresh breakfast and lunch including two menu sections: Good Cat for lighter fare and Bad Cat for heartier meals. Vegetarian, vegan, paleo, and gluten-free options are available alongside favorites such as pancakes, brisket, and eggs. Multiple Locations, bearcatcafe.com

Legacy Kitchen’s Craft Tavern offers a great craft beer selection and delicious food. The menu has a blend of small and large plates, with American tavern fare and Southern comfort food. Their crawfish bread and chicken clemenceau are a musttry. 700 Tchoupitoulas St. #3612, (504) 613-2350, legacykitchen.com

Spudly’s Super Spuds is a casual, family-run restaurant specializing in creative baked potatoes. Choose from loaded options including the pizza spud with pepperoni or the Wisconsin spud with assorted cheeses, sour cream, bacon, and chives for a satisfying meal. 2609 Harvard Ave., Metairie, (504) 455-3250, spudlys.com

Rivershack Tavern combines hearty meals, live music, and a famously quirky atmosphere. This roadside bar features its signature “bar legs” barstools, Louisiana favorites including seafood platters, creative dishes such as buffalo mushroom po-boys, and an extensive beer selection. 3449 River Rd., Jefferson, (504) 834-4938, rivershacktavern.com

Legacy Kitchen’s Steak + Chop combines upscale dining with a casual, vibrant atmosphere. The modern steakhouse serves favorites such as prime pork chop and baked potato, along with grilled Gulf shrimp tacos featuring avocado, mango, slaw, and cilantro sour cream. 91 Westbank Expy., Gretna, (504) 608-6082, legacykitchen.com

Vacca Steakhouse is an ideal destination for a special occasion or date night, serving premium cuts including center-cut filet, New York strip, and cowboy ribeye. The menu also features Chilean sea bass, veal chop, whiskey-glazed salmon, and seasonal specials. 3524 Severn Ave., Metairie, (504) 318-3808, vaccasteakhouse.com

The Channel is a beloved Irish pub in the Irish Channel, serving specialty drinks and New Orleans favorites. Enjoy Frozen Irish Coffee, boozy snowballs, fresh po-boys, and more. Stop by for lunch or one of their famous crawfish boils. 2604 Magazine St., (504) 381-4680, thechannelneworleans.com

ASIAN Magazine Masala serves fresh, flavorful Indian cuisine with generous portions and a wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Popular options include vegetable korma and Andhra chicken curry, with fresh spices and authentic flavors making it a neighborhood favorite. 3100 Magazine St., (504) 766-7733, magazinemasala.com Mikimoto Restaurant combines authentic Japanese cuisine with a New Orleans twist. Popular choices include the Crescent City roll and fresh sashimi platter. Enjoy sushi at the open bar with ambient lighting, or take advantage of the restaurant’s convenient drive-thru. 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-1881, mikimotosushi.com

Bearcat Cafe

Crescent City Steaks is a family-owned steakhouse known for USDA Prime beef and its signature New Orleans-style steaks, sizzling in butter. Reserve ahead to enjoy the porterhouse, then finish with the Z pie, an indulgent ice cream dessert. 1001 N. Broad St, (504) 821‑3271, crescentcitysteaks.com Daisy Dukes Restaurant captures NOLA’s soul through classic Southern comfort food. Popular choices include shrimp po-boys, gumbo, and shrimp & grits. What began as a small lunch spot has grown into multiple locations, with merchandise and Bloody Mary mix available. Multiple Locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com Desi Vega’s Steakhouse has an elegant atmosphere and excellent service, offering a 100 percent USDA Prime steakhouse experience. The establishment has been awarded the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for many years. Be sure to try their cowboy steak. 628 St. Charles Ave., (504) 523-7600, desivegasteaks.com

Luke is a Creole-inspired brasserie with a lively, welcoming atmosphere, in the CBD. The menu highlights locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients, with fan favorites including their raw oysters and shrimp en cocotte served with roasted jalapeño cheese grits. 333 St. Charles Ave., 504 378-2840, lukeneworleans.com Moe’s Original BBQ brings authentic Alabama barbecue to Metairie, with everything prepared fresh in-house daily. Beyond barbecue, the menu features seafood and Southern sweets, including banana pudding and Mississippi mud pie. Groups should try the generous family platter. 1101 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, (504) 4073533, moesoriginalbbq.com Sala NOLA is located near Lake Pontchartrain and creates memorable meals centered around family and friends. The menu blends local and coastal Italian flavors, featuring dishes including chicken panné linguine, in a welcoming, inviting atmosphere. 124 Lake Marina Dr., (504) 513-2670, salanola.com

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

Thai’d Up is an Isaan Thai restaurant known for generous portions, fresh ingredients, and flavorful dishes. Its cozy dining room creates a welcoming atmosphere, while favorites such as drunken noodles and spicy basil chicken deliver a memorable taste of Thailand. Multiple Locations, thaidup.co

BARS WITH GREAT FOOD Bamboula’s brings live music to Frenchmen Street. With spacious seating and distinctive architectural details, the restaurant pairs jazz and blues with New Orleans classics. Popular dishes include jambalaya and Gulf oysters, creating a lively Creole dining experience. 516 Frenchmen St., (504) 451-7306, bamboulasmusic.com Commons Club offers stylish dinners inside Virgin Hotels New Orleans. The kitchen serves dishes that highlight Gulf seafood and seasonal ingredients, while the bar serves inventive cocktails. The roasted chicken with crispy confit potatoes is a delicious option. 550 Baronne St., (833) 791-7700, virginhotels.com JB’s Fuel Dock is a Lake Pontchartrain landmark serving pizza, rotating specials, and hearty entrées. Its dockside location offers memorable waterfront views, while the property’s history as a convenience store, fueling station, and boatyard adds local character. 128 S. Roadway St., (504) 510-2260, jbsfueldock.com

The Jimani is New Orleans’ favorite sports bar, home of the mysterious mixer. Established in 1971, The Jimani is home to over 100 Louisiana beers, from domestic to craft. The pub-style “hang ova” burger and house po-boys are fan favorites. 141 Chartres St., (504) 524-0493, thejimani.com

CAFÉS Kitchen Table Café is known for its fresh and homegrown ingredients. With limited time offers and seasonal menus, the restaurant serves fresh and fine dishes. Their tamales, creative sandwiches, and filling entree plates are all amazing. 7005 St. Claude Ave., (504) 301-2285, facebook.com/kitchentablearabi Prince Tea House blends Asian and European influences with an extensive tea collection imported from Europe. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea snacks, freshly made waffles, and elegant desserts ranging from macarons to cheesecake in a peaceful, sophisticated setting. 3012 N. Arnoult Rd. Ste. B, Metairie, (504) 330-0360, princetealhousenola.com The Vintage offers an intimate, relaxed setting for enjoying food, drinks, and good company. Their award-winning coffee pairs perfectly with housemade beignets, while the menu features options including the zoodle bowl with seared tuna and other creative dishes. 3121 Magazine St., (504) 608-1008, thevintagenola.com Willa Jean is beloved for their freshly-baked goods and comforting Southern fare. As a popular breakfast and brunch destination, enjoy pastries and favorites including the hangover bowl or WJ breakfast, featuring eggs, biscuits, cheesy grits, bacon, and sausage. 611 O’Keefe Ave., (504) 509-7334, willajean.com

CARIBBEAN Jamaican Jerk House stands out for authentic Jamaican flavors, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere. Diners praise the juicy, flavorful oxtails and beef ribs, while combo plates such as the oxtail and jerk plate offer plenty to enjoy. Multiple Locations, jamaicanjerkhouse.com

Photo: courtesy of Randy Schmidt

AMERICAN

DININGGUIDE FRENCH Restaurant August is a Creole restaurant that offers elevated French-Creole cuisine with a creative twist. Its elegant 19th-century interior features antique mirrors and mahogany paneling, while the Chef’s Tasting Menu and Four-Course Menu showcase dishes such as the flounder Pontchartrain. 301 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 299-9777, restaurantaugust.com

ITALIAN Domenica prioritizes abundant meals with local ingredients. The restaurant pairs deep-rooted Italian tradition with a New Orleans palate. Their pasta and Napolitano-style pizzas are hand-made daily and are recommended with their cocktails. Try the radiatori or the prime ribeye. 123 Baronne St., (504) 648-6020, domenicarestaurant.com

Pulcinella! is an Italian-Sicilian restaurant known for their signature dishes rooted in family heritage. Their seafood cannelloni, with Gulf seafood wrapped in a creamy sauce and bucatini all’amatriciana and with guanciale and San Marzano tomatoes, showcase the best of Italy. 1300 St. Bernard Ave., (504) 221-1560, dirtydimeproductions.com/pulcinella U Pizza is a family-friendly pizzeria in Uptown. Their full-service bar and outdoor seating are great for easy get-togethers. The streetcar pizza, loaded with seafood and vegetables, and the Felicity pizza, with spinach and artichoke, are innovative New Orleans-style pizzas. 513 St. Charles Ave., (504) 381-4232, upizzanola.com Venezia Restaurant has welcomed diners since 1957 with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere and attentive staff. Known for its variety of pizzas, six-ounce filet, and house specialty pastas, popular dishes also include their marsala and parmigiana dishes. Multiple Locations, venezianeworleans.com

LATIN El Gato Negro offers authentic Mexican cuisine inspired by Michoacan family recipes. From their sizzling skirt steak fajitas to their land-and-sea gato bowl, you can’t go wrong with El Gato Negro. A jumbo margarita is a great pairing option. Multiple Locations, elgatonegronola.com El Pavo Real serves traditional Mexican cuisine and has been a NOLA favorite for over 10 years. The menu features classics including chipotle coconut shrimp, al pastor tacos, and plátanos with mole, with lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch available. 4401 S. Broad Ave., (504) 266-2022, elpavorealnola.com Tacos & Beer serves authentic Mexican food in a lively, colorful setting with an open bar. Frozen margaritas, birria tacos, and the spicy Mexican burger are popular choices, making it a fun spot for Taco Tuesday or casual gatherings. Multiple Locations, facebook.com/tacosneworleans

El Pavo Real

Photo: courtesy of Randy Schmidt

Mosca’s Restaurant has served Creole-Italian classics family-style for decades. Far from an ordinary Italian restaurant, its menu features chicken a la grande, spaghetti bordelaise, chicken cacciatore, shrimp Mosca, and oysters Mosca with signature seasoning and breadcrumbs. 4137 US-90, Westwego, (504) 436-8950, moscasrestaurant.com

Pizza Domenica offers a lively, family-friendly atmosphere perfect for dinner with friends. Their gourmet pizzas, including mortadella with ricotta, hot honey, pistachios, basil, and red onions, are popular, alongside spaghetti carbonara, woodroasted wings, and other Italian favorites. Multiple Locations, pizzadomenica.com

Halloween // October 2026

DININGGUIDE Lebanon’s Cafe serves authentic Lebanese food in a cozy neighborhood setting with indoor seating and outdoor sidewalk tables. Known for its generous portions, the menu includes sautéed vegetables, vegetarian stuffed grape leaves, and combination kabobs featuring chicken, beef, and lula. 1500 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 862-6200, lebanonscafe.com Mona’s Cafe has served authentic Middle Eastern cuisine with fresh, quality ingredients since 1987. Originally a small bakery, it has become a local favorite known for fresh pita, homemade baklava, hummus with lamb, and its flavorful mezze. 3901 Banks St., (504) 482-7743, facebook.com/monasnola Shaya blends traditional cooking with modern Levantine cuisine, offering Mediterranean-inspired food and hospitality. Their famous pita is baked fresh in a wood-fired oven, while the contemporary menu features hummus varieties, Bakkafrost salmon, falafel sandwiches, and more. 4213 Magazine St., (504) 891-4213, shayarestaurant.com Tal’s Hummus has been a Magazine Street favorite for years, serving Israeli cuisine that blends classic and modern flavors. Fresh-made hummus anchors the menu alongside chicken schnitzel, lamb kebabs, and ribeye steak, plus plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. 4734 Magazine St., (504) 267-7357, talshummus.com

NEW ORLEANS CUISINE 3rd Block Depot offers delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine, serving Louisiana classics made with local ingredients. Favorites include Gulf shrimp ceviche, Cajun gumbo, and braised short rib, as well as seasonal specials, offering something for everyone. 310 Chartres St., (504) 552-4095, 3rdblockdepot.com Blue Bayou Restaurant and Oyster Bar offers fresh seafood and Southern classics. Start with their famous chargrilled oysters or Mardi Gras pasta after ordering a Category 5 Hurricane or Canal Street Old Fashion. Their bayou-inspired interior adds to the experience. 717 Canal St., (504) 291-3788, bluebayourestaurantnola.com Charlie’s Restaurant offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with generous portions, affordable prices, and a diverse menu made from scratch. Customer favorites include classic gumbo, crispy onion rings, and crazy crab pasta, making it a popular local dining choice. 6129 E. St. Bernard Hwy., Violet, (504) 682-9057 Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop serves award-winning gumbo and classic New Orleans dishes made with fresh ingredients. Known for their original stuffed gumbo, the restaurant also features chicken Jefferson with crawfish and shrimp cream sauce in a funky, colorful setting. 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, (504) 8352022, gumbostop.com

Crescent City Brewhouse is the French Quarter’s only microbrewery, pairing locally-crafted beers with delicious dishes and live jazz. This welcoming 17-barrel brewery blends traditional brewing with modern technology. Try the Decatur burger alongside a house beer. 527 Decatur St., (504) 522‑0571, crescentcitybrewhouse.com

Mandina’s Restaurant serves seafood and Creole-Italian favorites in a lively space that began as a grocery store in 1898. Friendly staff offer recommendations, while Thursday’s bruccialone special features rolled, stuffed veal served with shell macaroni. 3800 Canal St., (504) 482-9179, mandinasrestaurant.com

Parasol’s is a neighborhood favorite for fresh poboys, especially its popular roast beef po-boy. The menu also features crawfish bites, oysters, and Louisiana-inspired drinks. With a divey atmosphere and TVs throughout, it’s a lively spot to catch a football game. 2533 Constance St., (504) 354-9079, facebook.com/ParasolsNOLA

Desire Oyster Bar is located on the world-famous Bourbon Street and combines an elevated dinerstyle atmosphere with an open oyster bar. The menu features authentic seafood and creative favorites including fried oysters Herbsaint and the Bienville wedge salad. 300 Bourbon St., (504) 553-2281, sonesta.com

Meril is located in the Warehouse District, serving contemporary American cuisine with global influences. The spirited menu features creative dishes such as Gulf shrimp and pork dumplings and fried Parmesan chicken salad, making it a memorable choice for any meal. 424 Girod St., (504) 526-3745, bemeril.com

Parkway Bakery and Tavern has been an icon since 1911, serving beloved po-boys in a lively neighborhood setting. With more than 1,000 dinners daily, try the surf & turf po-boy with a Big Easy Old Fashioned. 538 Hagan Ave., (504) 482-3047, parkwaypoorboys.com

Galliano is home to Chef Ricky Cheramie’s homestyle Cajun dishes with contemporary twists. Sending you straight to the bayou, Galliano’s local seafood and braised short ribs are delectable. A true southern Louisiana dining experience awaits you at Galliano. 200 Julia St., (504) 218-5753, gallianorestaurant.com

Mother’s Restaurant serves authentic New Orleans-style comfort food beloved by locals and visitors alike. Famous for its po-boys, breakfast dishes, and baked ham, the menu also features Louisiana favorites such as their delicious crawfish étouffée and great-tasting cheesy grits. 401 Poydras St., (504) 523-9656, mothersrestaurant.net

Please U Restaurant serves Louisiana hot plates and all-day breakfast in a fun, quirky diner setting. Favorites include two-egg and pancake breakfasts, along with muffulettas featuring house-made olive salad. Friendly service and a casual atmosphere make it a neighborhood staple. 1751 St. Charles Ave., (504) 525-9131, pleaseunola.com

House of Blues combines dining, drinks, live music, and a lively courtyard atmosphere. Guests enjoy generous portions and favorites including baby back ribs and fried green tomatoes. On Sundays, experience the popular gospel brunch. 225 Decatur St., (504) 310-4999, neworleans. houseofblues.com

New Orleans Creole Cookery celebrates Louisiana’s culinary traditions with classic Creole dishes. First-timers can sample shrimp Creole, red beans and rice, crawfish étouffée, and jambalaya with the Taste of New Orleans platter. Enjoy their courtyard dining and pecan-crusted redfish. 510 Toulouse St., (504) 524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com

Restaurant Rebirth serves farm-to-table Cajun and Creole cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, including house-pressed sugar cane. Their nationally-complimented chef creates true soulful dishes such as blackened scallops and double-cut Cheshire pork chop, plus seasonal vegetarian options. 857 Fulton St., (504) 522-6863, restaurantrebirth.com

Lakeview Harbor is known for its original Lakeview hamburger and memorable Maine lobster. This laid-back neighborhood bar/ restaurant offers generous portions and friendly service, making it ideal for casual meals with family or friends. Try the popular Texas BBQ burger. 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., (504) 486‑4887, lakeviewharbor.us Li’l Dizzy’s Cafe serves Creole-soul cuisine made from the heart in a welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere. Popular dishes include seafood gumbo, soft-shell crab, catfish Jourdain, and crab cakes with crawfish sauce, which reviewers frequently recommend as must-try favorites. 1500 Esplanade Ave., (504) 766-8687, lildizzyscafe.net Loretta’s Authentic Pralines is known for sweet treats that capture classic Creole flavor. Local favorites include praline beignets, burger beignets, and crabmeat beignets. Their traditional pralines are especially celebrated for showcasing New Orleans’ beloved sweet traditions. Multiple Locations, lorettaspralines.com Lyons Corner offers a casual dining experience with satisfying dinners and a renowned brunch menu. The Lyons Benedict with Chisesi ham, poached egg, and Crystal hollandaise is a fan favorite. Don’t miss the Crescent City croissant with pork belly. 537 Gravier St., (504) 576-9721, lyonscornernola.com

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

New Orleans Vampire Cafe brings local folklore to life with a dark, Dracula-inspired atmosphere. Themed cocktails, vampire wines, and creative dishes make for an unforgettable experience. Fan favorites include the Dracula and vampire burgers, along with the shrimp & grits. 801 Royal St., (504) 581-0801, nolavampirecafe.com Neyow’s Creole Café serves authentic Creole favorites in an energetic setting featuring jazzthemed décor, upbeat music, and personable service. Popular choices include seasoned crab claws, seafood platters, and po-boys. For date night, try the Neyow’s extravaganza dinner for two. 3332 Bienville St., (504) 827‑5474, neyows.com Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro is housed in a more than 200-year-old building and preserves its historic character while offering an inviting dining experience. Highlights include lamb chops, swordfish, surf & turf filet, and an extensive wine selection. 720 Orleans Ave., (504) 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com

Vampire Apothecary

Short Stop Poboys has been a po-boy staple for more than 50 years, offering classic sandwiches in an old-school grocery store setting with an open kitchen. Choose from favorites including shrimp po-boys, plus traditional Louisiana sides including gumbo and jambalaya. 119 Transcontinental Dr., Metairie, (504) 8854572, shortstoppoboysno.com The Rib Room is located in the Omni Royal Hotel and offers elevated steakhouse classics in an elegant setting ideal for people watching. Enjoy prime rib or a pickled fried green tomato po-boy, and return Sundays for jazz brunch. 621 St. Louis St., (504) 529-7045, ribroomneworleans.com Vampire Apothecary combines delicious food, craft cocktails, and tarot readings in a mysterious French Quarter setting. Dim lighting and mystical touches create a memorable experience, with favorites including lobster and crab-stuffed portobello, roasted pork tenderloin, and blood-bag Frangria. 725 St. Peter St., (504) 766-8179, vampireapothecary.com

Photo: courtesy of Randy Schmidt

MIDDLE EASTERN

Special: Shrimp & Grits Friday - Sunday

Voodoo Chicken & Daiquiris Voodoo Chicken & Daiquiris combines crispy fried chicken with New Orleans favorites and refreshing frozen drinks. Enjoy fried chicken, shrimp po-boys, or red beans & rice followed by a fresh fruit daiquiri. Multiple French Quarter and Downtown locations offer convenient stops. Multiple Locations, voodoochickenanddaiquirisnola.com

Drago’s Seafood Restaurant is famous for originating NOLA’s beloved chargrilled oysters. Family-owned and welcoming, Drago’s offers more than oysters with popular dishes including crab Mediterranean salad and redfish almandine. Tommy and Klara Cvitanovich continue the restaurant’s family tradition. Multiple Locations, dragosrestaurant.com

Willie Mae’s NOLA originally opened as a bar in Tremé in 1957. It is renowned for its award-winning fried chicken and diverse American and Creole menu. Try the Taste of New Orleans featuring fried chicken, catfish, and shrimp. 898 Baronne St., (504) 354-8194, williemaesnola.com

Jack Dempsey’s Restaurant is a family-owned eatery in the Bywater. Their recipes have been passed down for generations, including their famous macaroni and cheese and potato salad. The fried seafood platters and overstuffed po-boys are a must-try. Jack Dempsey’s also caters. 738 Poland Ave., (504) 943-9914, jackdempseys.net

All photos: courtesy of Voodoo Chicken & Daiquiris

SEAFOOD Briquette is known for its open kitchen and seafood display. Their fish are cooked over red-hot briquettes, and the open bar makes it feel like a casual hangout. Try their snapper Pontchartrain and Louisiana redfish on the half shell. 701 S. Peters St., (504) 547‑6330, briquette-nola.com Deanie’s Seafood Restaurant has served Bucktown and beyond for over 60 years. Known for its scratch-made seafood and a casual neighborhood atmosphere, the menu features favorites including BBQ shrimp and seafood gumbo packed with fresh shrimp, crab, and okra. Multiple Locations, deanies.com Delacroix, by Spanish Plaza, serves refined Louisiana cuisine overlooking the Mississippi River. Wood finishes and expansive windows give the space a timeless feel. Their duck gumbo is a great option before enjoying their classic New Orleans daube of beef & cavatelli. 1 Poydras St. Spc. 1005, (504) 655-9002, delacroixrestaurant.com

OPEN DAILY 7AM-10PM

HERE’S $20 TO SHIP YOUR FIRST ORDER GOLDB3LLYIT

401 Poydras St. MothersRestaurant.net (504) 523-9656

Legacy Kitchen’s Tacklebox is similar to Craft Tavern but with an emphasis on seafood including the redfish St. Charles. Their locally-sourced seafood is excellent. The restaurant is a lively spot with a classic Gulf Coast feel. 817 Common St., (504) 827-1651, legacykitchen.com The Blue Crab Restaurant & Bar offers fresh seafood and waterfront dining overlooking Lake Pontchartrain. This locally owned oyster bar features favorites such as whole stuffed flounder and Basin BBQ shrimp & grits, complemented by nautical décor and expansive lake views. 7900 Lakeshore Dr., (504) 284-2898, thebluecrabnola.com The Galley Seafood serves an extensive selection of fresh seafood including crawfish, oysters, and crabs. The menu also features frog legs, fried green tomatoes, white beans & rice, and other Southern favorites. Try the crawfish Monica with fried catfish. 2535 Metairie Rd., Metairie, (504) 832-0955

Halloween // October 2026

BARGUIDE Drink Specials

Y A D SUN H H C N U BR $40

MOËT MIMOSAS

LIVE DJ

504 MILLZ

$25

BOTTOMLESS

11AM - 3PM EVERY SUNDAY

www.3rdblockdepot.com

Live Music

Dancing

Billards

Providing live music every day, Bamboula's is the perfect place on Frenchmen Street. Try their Oyster Shooter with one raw oyster, vodka, and spicy Bloody Mary Mix.

BOOT SCOOTIN’ RODEO 522 Bourbon St. (504) 552-2510

Boot Scootin' is a lively country bar offering line dancing, a mechanical bull, and games. Enjoy a full bar with beers and specialty drinks for a fun-filled Southern night.

BOURBON STREET HONKY TONK Bourbon Street Honky Tonk blends blues and country vibes. It offers signature cocktails including the Hand Grenade and 727 Bourbon St. Pirate’s Passion, plus some of the best live performances in (504) 523-1960 the Quarter. CRESCENT CITY BREWHOUSE For nightly live music and quality craft beer, be sure to visit 527 Decatur St. Crescent City Brewhouse. The microbrewery also offers tasty Louisiana favorites such as oysters and fried alligator. (504) 522-0571 JB'S FUEL DOCK 128 S. Roadway St. (504) 510-2260

JB's Fuel Dock overlooks Lake Pontchartrain and is a former fuel dock turned waterfront bar, offering cocktails, beers, seltzers, and wines. It’s an inviting spot to enjoy stunning lakeside views.

LE BON TEMPS ROULE 4801 Magazine St. (504) 897-3448

Le Bon Temps Roule has been a staple since 1979. This 24-hour bar features live music, signature cocktails, and more. It’s perfect for late-night drinks or a game of pool.

LOTS A LUCK TAVERN 203 Homedale St. (504) 483-0978

Lots a Luck Tavern is a hidden dive bar gem near City Park featuring a backyard courtyard and games. With affordable drinks and a lively crowd, it’s a must-visit.

MARTINE'S LOUNGE 2347 Metairie Rd., Metairie (504) 831-8637

Martine's Lounge is a true Old Metairie gem, boasting a laid-back charm that welcomes both regulars and newcomers alike with low prices, a new pool table, and friendly vibes.

MÉLANGE ON FRENCHMEN 516 Frenchmen St. (504) 451-7306

Mélange sets itself apart by being a cool bar that is completely alcohol free. The spot above Bamboula’s offers NA alternatives, THC beverages, and more.

MISFIT TOYS 410 Bourbon St.

Offering great live music and plenty to drink, Misfit Toys is a truly rockin’ place in the French Quarter. Try one of their “rocktails” including the Velvet 75.

PAL'S LOUNGE 949 N. Rendon St. (504) 488-7257

Pal's Lounge is open daily and offers a relaxed NOLAstyle atmosphere with heavy pours, classic games, and occasional food trucks—perfect for a nightcap or pregame drink.

3RD BLOCK DEPOT IS LOCATED INSIDE HOTEL DE LA POSTE

310 Chartres St. New Orleans, LA 70130

Food

BAMBOULA'S 516 Frenchmen St. (504) 451-7306

PARASOL'S BAR & RESTAURANT Parasol's is famous for its po-boys and is a beloved neighborhood dive bar offering diverse beers and cocktails. 2533 Constance St. Try their Frozen Irish Coffee and homemade onion rings. (504) 354-9079

Thank You for Voting Us One of the Best Irish Bars!

Oíche Shamhna shona daoibh! (Happy Halloween)

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

RICK'S CABARET 315 Bourbon St. (504) 524-4222

Rick's Cabaret offers a full wine and beer selection, plus VIP cocktails including Mile High Gin and Unrigged Tequila, making it the ideal place for bachelor or bachelorette celebrations.

RIVERSHACK TAVERN 3449 River Rd. (504) 834-4938

Rivershack Tavern is a mix of a neighborhood tavern, live music club, sports bar, and a restaurant. It offers great burgers and po-boys, a vast beer selection, a wine list, and more.

SADDLE BAR 715 Bienville St. (504) 313-1113

Saddle Bar is a country-themed bar in the Quarter featuring two floors of cocktails and throwback shots, perfect for riding the mechanical rooster or showing off your line-dancing skills.

SAZERAC HOUSE 101 Magazine St. (504) 910-0100

Sazerac House is a historic museum that offers insight into the traditions and culture of the Sazerac cocktail. After wandering through their distillery, make sure to grab a classic Sazerac.

THE BOONDOCK SAINT 731 St. Peter St. (504) 525-4950

The Boondock Saint is a cozy Irish-style pub that offers a wide selection of draft beers and an old-school jukebox, making it perfect for a relaxed and authentic NOLA experience.

THE CHANNEL 2604 Magazine St. (504) 381-4680

This Irish Channel gem serves perfectly poured Guinness and excellent bar food. A favorite hangout for locals, don’t miss The Channel’s lively St. Patrick’s Day block party celebration.

THE JAZZ PLAYHOUSE 300 Bourbon St. (504) 553-2299

The Jazz Playhouse is one of the city’s top jazz clubs. This hotspot in the Royal Sonesta offers jazz-inspired cocktails, flavorful entrées, and a rotating lineup of world-class artists.

THE METROPOLITAN 310 Andrew Higgins Blvd. (504) 568-1702

The Metropolitan is a two-story club with multiple full bars, VIP bottle service, and trendy DJ sets. They offer a calendar of events, so visit their website to see upcoming performances.

THE VINTAGE 3121 Magazine St. (504) 324-7144

TROPICAL ISLE Multiple Locations (504) 523-1927

The Vintage, located on Magazine Street, serves coffee, beignets, wines, and bubbles, as well as coffee cocktails, local beers, and pre-Prohibition classics—perfect for daytime treats or evening indulgences. Three Maries Jazz Club, located in the Omni Royal, is perfect for people looking for late-night tunes. The club offers snacks and decedent cocktails such as the Caviar and Champagne. Tropical Isle is famous for its iconic Hand Grenade and lively French Quarter bar atmosphere. They serve frozen and classic cocktails, making it the perfect starting point for exploring New Orleans.

WRONG IRON 3532 Toulouse St. (504) 302-1503

Wrong Iron on the Greenway is perfect for gameday viewing and friendly hangouts. They offer tons of draft beer, delicious sandwiches, and frozen cocktails including the Bushwacker.

THREE MARIES JAZZ CLUB 621 St. Louis St. (504) 529-7045

Delicious Food from Briquette, Full Bar, Amazing Wines, and Your Exclusive Dining Experience!

OPEN FOR DINE-IN AND TAKE OUT!

Our Private Room Fine Dining at Its Best!

Enjoy Gatherings with Family & Friends A Perfect Setting for Corporate Dinners & Receptions Inquiries at Briquette-Nola.com

302–7496 // 701 S. Peters St., Warehouse District //

HAPPY HOUR AT THE BAR M-F 3:30-5:30

LAKEVIEW HARBOR 504-486-4887 - LAKEVIEWHARBOR.US 8550 P O N C H A RT RA I N B LV D.

Charlie’s

Restaurant and Catering since 1992

All Your Catering Needs!

Call Us For Your Parties, Weddings, Birthdays, & More

6129 E. St. Bernard Hwy. Violet, LA · (504)682-9057 Only 20 Minutes from the French Quarter Halloween // October 2026

r u o Y P ick : n o s i Po

NOLA Book Clubs for Mystery, Thrillers, and Horror // CELESTE TURNER

raving a little literary suspense? New Orleans-area mystery, thriller, and horror book clubs offer spine-tingling reads and lively discussions all year long. Whether you’re drawn to psychological thrillers, classic mysteries, or truly chilling tales of horror, you’ll find a variety of book clubs throughout the metro area to satisfy your reading appetite. So grab your favorite haunted tale, and pick your poison. One group that has embraced the thrill of the genre is the New Orleans Spooky Book Club, founded in 2019 by Jessica Moreland of Chicago and Marlana Fireman of Central Ohio as a way to build friendships after moving to a new city. “When we started this book club, we wanted to find people in New Orleans with our same interests,” said Moreland, a librarian with the Jefferson Parish Library system. “These friendships formed a community.” Fireman, who holds a master’s degree in creative fiction writing, said she shared that same goal. Together, the pair built the club into a welcoming community for readers with a love of the spooky and supernatural. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the New Orleans Spooky Book Club has continued to grow, gathering each month at Morning Call on Canal Boulevard for spirited book discussions. “We talk about spooky books, eat beignets, and drink coffee while looking at the cemeteries,” Moreland said. Moreland and Fireman compile book recommendations from members, including topics, authors, and titles, to consider for the year ahead. Members vote on the upcoming year’s selections at the end of the calendar year. The co-founders then assign monthly themes and select three titles from which members choose their next reads. “What’s so special about our group is how long we’ve stayed together and the enthusiasm people continue to bring,” Moreland said. The co-founders use Instagram direct messaging and GroupMe to coordinate meeting locations and share updates, including voting for future book selections. According to Moreland and Fireman, the

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

New Orleans Spooky Book Club attracts a diverse group of readers drawn to stories ranging from the mysterious to the macabre. The club averages eight to 10 members per meeting, primarily women of varying ages and backgrounds. In October, the club’s theme centers on cannibalism, with the featured selection being Eat Me: A Natural and Unnatural History of Cannibalism by Bill Schutt. In addition to its monthly meetings, the club hosts special events throughout the year. Fireman said these include an annual PowerPoint party, where one member gives a presentation on a favorite book, and a “Secret Satan” gift exchange to celebrate Halloween. Another local option is Barnes & Noble’s Book Lovers Book Club in Metairie, which meets on the third Monday of each month in the store’s upstairs music department. Led for the past eight years by Holley Johnson, a bookseller and high school librarian, the club features mystery and thriller selections every other month. Fueled by online reading communities and social media, horror, gothic, supernatural, thriller, and mystery genres have surged in popularity in recent years. “I think social media platforms like #BookTok and Reddit help promote lesserknown genres and connect readers in ways they weren’t before,” said Rachel Bailey, head of adult programming at the New Orleans Public Library. “We’re also seeing more subgenres emerge within established genres.” For readers interested in mysteries, Bailey recommends the Who Dun It? Mystery Book Club, which meets on the third Wednesday of each month from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Nora Navra Library on St. Bernard Avenue. She said that the New Orleans Public Library’s adult book clubs are free and open to the public. “There are no membership requirements,” Bailey said. “Anyone interested in attending can read the book and just show up.” That same open-door approach extends to library book clubs throughout the New Orleans area. New members, library card holders or not, are encouraged to join groups exploring mystery,

Photos: courtesy of Alicia Christin Gerald

From cozy mysteries to chilling horror, New Orleans readers are finding thrills and community.

ago and continues to facilitate its monthly gatherings, held on the third Tuesday of each month. “I started this mystery book club,” said Boyd, who has been part of the library system for 12 years. “We made it through COVID and came back strong.” With an average attendance of 12 to 14 members per meeting, Boyd prepares a list of 100 books, complete with synopses, from which members choose their top 12 selections. “We have deep discussions,” Boyd said. “We also have a large population of seniors who love the mystery genre.” The meetings draw an eclectic group of avid readers, Boyd explained, with members bringing their own refreshments. If you truly have a taste for terror or a thirst for the unknown, the next chapter awaits. Pick your genre, find your group, and get ready to turn the page on an unforgettable adventure.

Photos from top: Jenna McCullin, Bruno Guerrero

thriller, and horror selections at branches such as the Jane O’Brien Chatelain West Bank Regional Library on Manhattan Boulevard and the Old Metairie Library on Metairie Road. Merrie Valliant, a librarian, leads the genrebased book club at the West Bank Regional Library, which meets on the second Wednesday of the month in the large meeting room. “We have a core group of six to seven members of all ages, mostly women, along with a couple of gentlemen,” said Valliant, who typically provides tea and refreshments at the meetings. In October, the group dives into horror novels, while the rest of the year explores the full range of mystery and suspense fiction. Unlike a traditional book club where everyone reads the same title, Valliant’s group allows members to choose different books within the featured genre. She provides a display of suggested titles, but members are free to select any book that interests them. After sharing their picks, Valiant said that members often leave with a new stack of reading recommendations. At the Old Metairie Library, Library Associate Westley Boyd founded the book club eight years

Halloween // October 2026

The Beyond

A Halloween Movie Guide of

// JEFF BOUDREAUX

NOLA HORROR Y

es, horror movies, the excitement for which no other film genre comes even remotely close. As our favorite spooky day, Halloween, is fast approaching, it may be time to look past the Candyman’s and Skeleton Key’s, all the way to the 1980s for three Italian-produced classics, as well as a 1940s anthology gem that will offer frights, delights, and even take place during our other favorite holiday— Mardi Gras. So sit back, relax, and feel free to raid the candy bowl.

Macabre (1980) When it comes to masters of Italian horror, the legendary Mario Bava’s name usually comes up within the top three. That’s an awfully good pedigree to pass on to his workhorse son, Lamberto, who helmed this shocker, which gives a whole new outlook to the term “necrophilia.” Blind landlord Robert Duval (no, not that one— Croatian actor Stanko Molnar) takes pity upon his recently divorced tenant Jane (Bernice Stegers), who just can’t seem to get over the violent death of her lover. That’s okay, though. She kept something to remember him by. Telling anyone would be a crime, although recent physical media releases have put the film’s shock and awe moment right there on the slipcover. You just gotta love them boutique labels, carrying the collective torch for us sickos everywhere. Featuring a terribly wicked young girl named Lucy, who’s Jane’s daughter, and whose actions put Patty McCormack’s The Bad Seed to shame. As for it being “naturally N’awlins,” you shouldn’t

have any trouble noticing Woldenberg Park at the film’s beginning and might even recognize the Elms Mansion on St. Charles as the exterior of the boardinghouse. As usual, Tubi is the easiest place to watch this groundbreaking Italian horror film, free of charge.

The Beyond (1981) There’s horror, and then there’s epic horror. This film falls within the latter category. From the Godfather of Gore, maestro Lucio Fulci, The Beyond is the second film in his nightmarish “Gates of Hell” trilogy (falling between City of the Living Dead and House by the Cemetery). A woman by the name of Liza (Catriona MacColl) inherits an old New Orleans hotel in need of some major renovations. The real problem, however, is that it was the site of a warlock painter’s lynch mob crucifixion and subsequently became the entrance to one of the seven—count ‘em— gates to Hell. Kindly Doctor John (not him—British actor David Warbeck) McCabe is called to tend to the property’s maimed and killed workmen—again, the renovations are a doozy—before joining Liza to investigate all of the weird occurrences. You know, such as reanimated corpses from the morgue, tarantulas eating a paralyzed man’s face, death by acid, et al. In other words, standard happenings where a doorway to Hades would be. It also features a prophetic blind woman named Emily, who for some reason hasn’t aged since the film’s opening scene in 1927.

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

Major New Orleans landmarks include an unnamed jazz club on Bourbon Street and the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway. See why Fulci is so revered among cinephiles everywhere by watching it for free on streaming sites such as Pluto TV.

Zombie 5: Killing Birds (1988) Students from the zoological department at Loyola University are sent to Thibodeaux to investigate the elusive and nearly-extinct ivorybilled woodpecker. It just so happens it was the site of a gruesome killing years before, which was partially avenged by a falcon ripping the murderer’s eyes out. When the college students arrive at the aviary, they meet blind bird expert Fred Brown (screen icon Robert Vaughn), who tells them what they want to know about the bird but doesn’t bother to warn the kids of the property’s secrets, namely its penchant for the undead roaming around at night. Can this gang of future scientists survive until morning, and just how does one of them tie back to the original murder scene? Originally titled Raptors, this horror hodgepodge was retroactively added to the ultraconvoluted Italian Zombi franchise, which was itself based upon George Romero’s classic Dawn of the Dead, whereas this film was actually produced before the preceding entry Zombie 4: After Death. Make it make sense, why don’t ya? Co-directed by Claudio Lattanzi and Italian horror legend Joe D’Amato (Antropophagus, Beyond Darkness), you can stream this—and the rest of the Zombi films— absolutely free on Tubi or the like.

Flesh and Fantasy (1943) This one will hit quite differently as classic screen heavyweights Barbara Stanwyck, Charles Boyer, and Edward G. Robinson lead an all-star cast in this anthology film featuring three tales of the occult. In the first segment, a bitter, homely woman (Betty Field) visits a curiosity shop and is given a “mask of beauty” that she must return by midnight. Since it’s Mardi Gras in New Orleans and it’s the 1940s, everyone is wearing masks, so she’ll fit right in. Good thing, too, as she meets and falls in love with law student Michael (Robert Cummings) on what becomes the greatest night of her life; however, what will happen when she has to return the mask? Oscar Wilde penned the second segment, concerning a man’s hypnotic and deadly encounter with a palm reader (Thomas Mitchell). Lastly, highwire artist Paul Gaspar (Boyer) has repeated visions of his death, as well as a woman he’s never met (Stanwyck). Spooky stuff, for sure. Directed by legendary French auteur Julien Duvivier (Tales of Manhattan, Deadlier than the Male), each segment is connected through interstitial scenes starring then-popular humorist Robert Benchley (MGM’s How To series). Stream it online or pick up Vinegar Syndrome’s gorgeous Blu-ray.

Flesh and Fantasy

Photos from top: courtesy of Grindhouse Films, Wikimedia Commons

Greetings, citizens of New Orleans and beyond. It’s October once again, and we’re going to learn about some deep cut movies to quell your homegrown thirst for horror.

FILM REVIEWS

// FRITZ ESKER + DAVID VICARI

Verity

n the opening of Verity, writer Lowen Ashleigh (Dakota Johnson) is splattered with blood when a bicyclist is fatally hit by a car right in front of her. The debonair Jeremy Crawford (Josh Hartnett) quickly grabs Lowen to help her clean up. That’s how they meet-cute, so this gives the initial impression that this movie is going to have an edge. Well, it doesn’t. In fact, Verity is one of the worst erotic thrillers since Sliver (1993) or Color of Night (1994). Jeremy is the husband of bestselling novelist Verity Crawford (Anne Hathaway), and he wants to hire Lowen as a ghostwriter to continue writing his wife’s series of popular books. You see, Verity was involved in a debilitation car accident soon after a family tragedy. Lowen reluctantly agrees, and Jeremy invites her to the isolated family house where he and Verity live. While doing research, Lowen discovers a manuscript that may shed some light on past incidents and dark secrets in Verity’s real life. To say more about the plot would give too much away. Just know that the many plot twists are improbable, not to mention laugh-out-loud ridiculous.

This is based on a book by Colleen Hoover, author of It Ends with Us, and the clumsy screenplay is by Nick Antosca. The film has several huge plot holes that can’t be ignored. For instance, there is a nurse/nanny character who would seem to know some important information, but she inexplicably disappears from the film before the final act. Directing this crapfest is Michael Showalter from MTV’s The State. He’s a good director who made The Big Sick (2017) and The Eyes of Tammy Faye (2021), but he doesn’t seem like the right filmmaker for an erotic thriller. On this project, Hathaway is a producer and Johnson serves as an executive producer. What did they see in this material? The material is trash, and it’s not so-bad-it’s-good, campy trash, either.

SEP 19TH Photos from left: courtesy of Amazon MGM Studios, Warner Bros Pictures

Digger

// DAVID VICARI

// FRITZ ESKER

lejandro Gonzales Inarritu won back-to-back Oscars for Best Director for Birdman and The Revenant, but, in the decade that followed, he was largely quiet with his only feature film in that time Bardo, False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths, which disappeared largely unnoticed into the black hole of Netflix. He returns with Digger, which is also the first non-franchise film Tom Cruise has made since 2017’s American Made. The result is decidedly mixed—often grating but with some interesting ideas. Unfortunately, Digger is also the kind of movie that is nearly impossible to discuss without spoilers. The first 40 minutes or so follows “Digger” Rockwell (Cruise), an oil tycoon whose relentless drilling has caused a piece of a glacier to fall into the ocean, which will then lead to huge tsunamis and countless deaths. The U.S. president (John Goodman), who’s dying of rectal cancer, and his advisers must scramble to deal with the situation. The first 40 minutes are nails-on-a-blackboard irritating. It’s very broad and rarely funny. Then, a twist/pivot/gear shift happens around the 40- to 45-minute mark that casts the film’s story in a

different light, and it is an interesting one. Sadly, though, the movie then spends another 40 to 45 minutes alternating between the annoying stuff and the compelling stuff. It does have the good fortune of being at its best in its final act. But, again, it’s impossible to discuss what makes the final act good without spoilers. Buzz has always been a thing, but it’s intensified in the social media era. For the last few weeks, the knives have been out for Digger online, declaring it a bomb, destined for failure, etc. While it is an undeniably flawed film, it is ambitious and thought-provoking. Its ideas are not just limited to “climate change is bad,” as the trailers make it seem. It’s unique enough and has enough going for it that it will find a cult following one day, even if the current reception seems destined to be unkind.

NOV 1ST NEW ORLEANS’ PREMIER HALLOWEEN EVENT

RETURNING THIS FALL NEWORLEANSNIGHTMARE.COM

Halloween // October 2026

SPORTS RADIO

24-7

New Orleans Sports Radio

NEW ORLEANS

The Biggest Names in Sports Talk are Here! Dan Patrick • Colin Cowherd • Ken Trahan Eric Asher • Jude Young • Deke Bellavia

New Orleans only 24/7 sports station TheTicket1067.com

Download the FREE Radio app! New Orleans Sports Look for 1067 The Ticket in the app store. New Orleans’ Favorite Record Store, Smoking Shop & Gift Shop

Open Daily 1 0 a.m.- till midnight mushroomnola.com 504-866-6065

Check Out Our Halloween Deals of Buy 3 get 1 25% Off newHundreds vinyl releases the best glass pipe & hookah selection in the city

Buy 1 Get 1 ! f Half Ofts T-shir

New and used CD & LPs

Free! Incense,posters,

playbills,papers, We buy sell and trade wraps, and filter tips

Cash Paid CD’s, LPs, and Tapes

Le Psyc gal Mush hedelic room s

1037 Broadway St, NOLA

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

PO-BOY VIEWS

// PHIL LaMANCUSA

Boo or Who

h! what a rollicking time we had as young kids. It wasn’t enough that our older siblings, parents, and even random strangers said and did things toward us just to see terror in our eyes and minds. No, the world had to imprint in us fear and insecurity, as well. In what is called “childlore,” we were sung songs like the “Rock-a-Bye Babies” that fell to earth when the tree branch broke. When we’d ring-around-the rosy, we would all fall dead. The itsy-bitsy spider would crawl up our arms, and ring worms would get all of our hair “cut off up to here.” Plus, this little piggy would “wee, wee, wee all the way home.” Not even to mention so called “fairy tales.” They expected us to be amused—we were terrified. Peek-a-boo my ass. “The Farmer in the Dell” was a lesson in humiliation, and there was even a kid’s card game called “bloody knuckles” that dealt real physical punishment to whoever lost. Does anyone know the game “mumblety-peg,” where the loser literally has to eat dirt? Does anyone else remember being the target in a dodge ball vendetta? I do. In the cinema, we had monstrous monsters and demented humans that could turn into wolfmen or blood sucking bats or even sew human parts into lumbering killers who even could get a bride made for them. Giants unfrozen from tundra, giant ants and gorillas, lizards, mummies, creatures from black lagoons, mad scientists, blobs of skindissolving goo, mutated giants, and alien invaders. All while eating popcorn like it was the only thing keeping us safe—a gateway to being overweight, if you ask me—and screaming our lungs out. We laughed as the Three Stooges physically, perpetually hurt each other. That’s not saying that there wasn’t real fun stuff, and you had to be there to really appreciate it. Marbles, jacks, scooters, skip rope, tiddlywinks, Chinese checkers, pick-up sticks, and a variety of card games led us from being young kids hiding under desks from atomic attack into insecure, acned, bicycled, hormone-crazed teen years playing spin the bottle, dancing to rock ‘n’ roll, and then into the demented adulthood that believed that the “commies” were out to get us. We believed that only the strong survived—some still do. As kids, we had kid monsters that bullied us in the playground. We had imaginary monsters under our beds. We had fathers that had fought in wars and killed people. We had older kids willing to belittle our asses, teachers ready to humiliate us in school, and, somehow, we made some sense of life by dressing up on Halloween and begging for candy from strangers—our brief respite from reality.

We dressed up outlandishly as goblins, hobos, debutantes, and spooks. No parents attended trickor-treat. We took and gave intimidations over the hauls—fun stuff. In life, we learned that we were on our own. On Halloween, it was us against the world. We grew up and had children that we didn’t understand, who grew up only to have more children that they, in turn, did not understand. We get it. Our parents didn’t understand us either. Parents do the best that they can with what they have to work with—lessons that they learned that were, in essence, lessons that didn’t work, so they try different lessons on their kids that, in essence, don’t work either. In my day, when I was a pain in the ass, I received a pain in the ass. My children got disciplined but not physically punished. Their children get a motivational speech as their lesson, and, in turn, their children will get to try lessons—with whatever their limited experience they have—on their children with what they think might work. None of it works. The fact is that kids will be kids with or without parent’s help and will, seemingly, willfully, and spitefully be as selfish and manipulating as possible to achieve their own self-centered ends. It’s not your fault or theirs. They’re kids, and that’s what kids do normally. Kids normally seek attention, love, security, and candy. The only thing common to all generations, that I’ve seen, is the way we collectively celebrate the holidays we are given or create. Birthdays, beach days, Halloween, Thanksgiving, pizza night, New Year's, and whatever floats your boat in December: Christmas, Kwanza, Bodhi Day, Hanukkah. The good, the bad, and the party pooper. On Halloween night, Debbie and I don’t stay home to give out candy. If we did, she’d want to give out fresh fruit, and I’d want to give chocolate. So instead of that, we go out to watch the trick-ortreaters, with their posse of adults, and have more fun than watching a litter of puppies in a kiddie pool. There they are, the little darlings: Spiderman, Captain America, Elphaba, and Glinda—and isn’t that Wednesday Addams? Mega Minions, a little blue dog, a pirate, a cheerleader, and a puppy dressed like a hot dog—complete with the bun. All the kids have bags for their hauls, and some have already been munching (chocolate, if I’m not mistaken). Parents are circling around. Some are also having the time of their life, and some wishing that this would soon be over and are ready for a glass of wine. Oh! also a couple of geezers—us—laughing at the whole scene and remembering what Billy Joel sang, “You know, the good old days weren’t always good, and tomorrow ain’t as bad as it seems.” Keeping the faith, boo. Also, boo!

“The worms crawl in, the worms crawl out. They taste your guts, and they spit them out. They use your bones for telephones, and call you up when you’re not at home.” — “The Hearse Song”

TALES FROM THE FRENCH QUARTER

never thought it would cause apprehension, fear, and trepidation. It never presented itself as a danger before. Was it just biding its time to attack while lulling me into a false sense of calm, even indifference, all those years—all my life? Until it finally could take me by surprise. My nemesis, the Cardboard Box, reared its top corner and ripped my lower leg as I trustingly walked past it. For years, similar size cardboard boxes assisted me as a recycle bin in my kitchen. Just a useful repurposed box from a Chewy delivery. I gently walked into it, bumping its top corner, and thus began to bleed like a stuck pig. My nemesis, the Cardboard Box, represents a plethora of all sharp, even smooth, cardboard materials that present as weapons against my “ole lady skin.” Digging into a Miller High Life beer carton or a cardboard case of canned cat food can inflict a nasty “paper cut.” Despite years working in restaurants and having a chef for a husband, I was never proficient in knife skills; therefore, I had, and still have, a healthy respect for knives, and I know my limitations. I also turned my fear of weed whackers, box-cutters (no, I was nowhere near the Reflecting Pool), pruning shears, and razor blades into caution. I was realistic with the possible mishaps that carelessness could cause, but I never saw that cardboard box coming. Okay, it didn’t sprout legs and run after me, but it was there in my path. Granted it was a tight space to maneuver, but I didn’t anticipate a blood-letting. Halloween is approaching, and I couldn’t think of any of the holiday’s famed monsters that strike fear in my heart or give me goosebumps to write about; however, it is the season to shout, “Boo!” and dress up as a vampire, ghost, or zombie. None of these scare me. The only decorations that frightens me are spiders and those creepy, sticky-looking webs folks are fond of draping across porches and yards, and even those aren’t as taxing on my arachnophobia as used to be. I have tried to stop vilifying them and think about Charlotte’s Web. Perhaps I should have read that as a kid. Maybe I would have spared myself that fear and a lot of screaming. As I sat down to think of a scary thing to write about, I looked at my latest band-aid upon my thin and wrinkled skin and knew what real fear is. Things that go bump in the night are not supernatural creatures. That would be my shins, toes, and other body parts colliding with a door frame as I walk to the bathroom—more frequently than when young. I am no clumsier now, but the lovely little bruises I see in the morning are from a slow-motion collision with a door knob or chair. I didn’t even feel it happen. No pain, just sleepy acknowledgement that I can’t see in the dark, but my cats sure can. They don’t go bump in the night. They barf in the night, using their night vision to strategically place a rejected fur-ball right where my foot can hit and glide me onto the floor. That’s the blueish mark on my ass. Nothing scares me more than a selfie. Seeing my neck and jowls sagging worse than my ass is not a confidence building endeavor. When time allows me to prep for a photo, I can duct tape the back of my neck for an instant neck lift and smile in a manner that lifts my jowls. The COVID pandemic masked, pun intended, much of my facial aging.

// DEBBIE LINDSAY

Things to Fear The N95 mask covered almost all the droops of time—add sunglasses and a neck scarf, and I was passing for decades younger. I do try to face fear when possible. I still wear sleeveless garments. Now if I wanted to inflict fear this Halloween, I could go trick-or-treating in a bikini. This could double as a public service/ cautionary tale to scare young folks into using sun protection—90% of skin aging is due to sun exposure—and maintaining a good exercise program (never let your exercising guard down). Getting up from a public toilet without a grabbar is self-humiliating, surpassing the fear of having

to grab a toilet seat to gain leverage. My first time to realize that neglecting those knee/thigh/hip strengthening exercise sessions had left me at the mercy of the suspect sanitation of a bathroom stall was humbling. I gave myself a pep talk, and then, with a “you got this girl” determination, I stood up powered by my legs. Winning the Olympics could not have felt better. The auto flush had detected my motion, but I deftly escaped the splash of bowl water. Another cautionary tale: Lower body strength training will spare you many indignities. Another thing to fear is stripping off that wet swimsuit to change into your dress for a walk home

and realizing you forgot to pack underwear. Having no bra is fine, but no drawers is a disaster waiting to happen. Try that walk of potential shame with a short flouncy dress on a windy day. Or how about termites? Homeowners await termite inspections with the same apprehension as a biopsy. Fear that your root-canal isn’t covered by your insurance? Panic and fear when a credit card goes missing—until your dog presents it, chewed beyond recognition, but at least your account is safe. And the ultimate fear: What else can happen before January 20, 2029?

Halloween // October 2026

WHERE Y’BEEN

Manning Family Children's Hospital

All photos: courtesy of Gustavo Escanelle

Krewe of Dolly Parade

// GUSTAVO ESCANELLE

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA

LITTLE Tropical Isle 435 BOURBON ST.

Tropical Isle oRIGINAL 600 BOURBON ST.

Tropical Isle BAY0U CLUB 610 BOURBON ST.

Tropical Isle BoURBoN

BoURBoN ST. HoNKY ToNK

727 BOURBON ST.

721 BOURBON ST.

Halloween // October 2026

FROM YOUR LOCAL ATTORNEY, JOHN REDMANN

WhereYat.com // @WhereYatNOLA // #WhereYatNOLA