Laissez les bon temps rouler, y’all! Mardi Gras is back up and running this year, so after you’ve decorated the house, dusted off the costumes, and sampled plenty of king cake… don’t forget to register for Mardi Gras camp. Below is a list of some old standards and new options on both shores. Be sure to check with each facility for Covid guidelines, information on before and after care, and if they’re already filled to capacity, ask about their waitlists. We’ve also included dates from many spring break camps that are being offered. Audubon Zoo (Uptown) March 2-4; 9am-3pm. Campers ages 4-10 y ..read more

NEW ORLEANS Adventure Quest Laser Tag (Elmwood) This family fun center is jam-packed full of cool activities, like mini-golf, an arcade, bumper cars, a 6,000-square-foot laser-tag arena, plus their 5,000-square-foot, two-level Adventure Maze, and Pharaoh’s Revenge Escape Room. They also have party rooms for birthday parties and special events, and a snack bar that includes pizza, salads, tons of other snacks, and even adult beverages. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas (French Quarter) Perched on the Mississippi River adjacent to the French Quarter, the aquarium is an excellent escape to anothe ..read more

It’s been a challenging couple of years, so if you’ve made it through with your sanity, it’s definitely time to celebrate! Many special holiday events that were cancelled last year due to the pandemic have returned. We’ve searched high and low for as many festivities to celebrate Christmas, Chanukah, and New/Noon Year’s Eve as we could find on both shores and beyond, and have sorted our results into categories — Santa visits, ongoing events, and single-day events — then, put them in chronological order. Some events are back to normal, while some have health and safety measures in place, so b ..read more

It’s that time of year again — time to count your blessings and consider sharing either your time or treasure with those less fortunate, if you’re able! Between the stubborn pandemic and Hurricane Ida’s disastrous impact on Louisiana, many of our neighbors are in need of assistance this holiday season. So, whether you want to lend a helping hand, or are in need of one, please check out the list of charitable organizations and events below.  BOTH SHORES Hurricane Ida Relief Many people in our region and state are still suffering in the wake of Hurricane Ida. This page (linked above) list ..read more

After a challenging couple of years, we could all use some family-friendly festivities to celebrate fall and Halloween, right? For that reason, we’ve put together two handy lists — one contains Halloween events and activities, the other is all about pumpkin patches and fall festivals, both in New Orleans and on the Northshore.  From parades to trick-or-treating to fancy teas to — there’s so much to choose from. (And we’ll continue to add events as organizers solidify and release their plans.) Get ready to fill those calendars with tons of fun! Note: Be sure to check each event’s link fo ..read more

A new school year is always challenging, but add the stress and uncertainty caused by this darn continuing pandemic, and establishing a good routine and study strategies could prove even more difficult. If your child is struggling academically, or could simply use a little extra outside support or standardized test preparation, we’ve got you covered! Many schools offer in-house tutoring, so be sure to check there, too — but here is a treasure trove of in-person and online resources ready to lend a hand on both shores. TUTORING & HOMEWORK HELP Homework Louisiana (Online) This online resou ..read more

With the new school year already upon us, and the darn pandemic suring again, now is a great time to get all your pediatric medical needs organized and met! Whether you need updated vaccines, annual health or dental checkups, or specific issues that need to be addressed, we’ve got incredible providers to choose from on both shores. Our list includes standard pediatricians, pediatric dentists, various specialists, and pediatric emergency rooms. GENERAL PEDIATRICS  Access Health Louisiana (Both Shores) Community Healthcare Network – Locations in multiple parishes, including Orleans, Jeffe ..read more

It’s so nice to be able to get out and about this summer after a crazy covid year! If you and the kiddos are getting stir crazy, we’ve got super fun options to suit any mood, energy level, or weather conditions. Whether you want want outdoor water fun, indoor leisurely fun, or indoor high-octane fun — here is a fab list of family-friendly summer activities and attractions on both shores, and beyond!  NOTE: Be sure to check each website for special pandemic rules, like masking and advanced timed ticketing. WET & WILD: OUTDOOR WATER FUN Audubon Cool Zoo & Gator Run (Uptown) Audubo ..read more

Public libraries are some of our greatest, most underappreciated treasures. Free access to books, movies, music, and computers… free assistance with research and homework… and one of the best features — summer reading programs with prizes, raffles, and fun activities! We’ve pulled together a list of programs being offered by public libraries in Jefferson Parish, New Orleans, and St. Tammany Parish. While things are slowly returning to normal after a crazy covid year, some events and activities are in-person, and some are happening remotely. See links and details below…  Jefferson Parish ..read more

Whew, this crazy covid school year is finally winding down. Got plans for the summer? It’s the perfect time for the kids to explore new interests, hone some of their existing skills, or bone up on academics. We’ve pulled together a list of some establishments on both shores that offer classes and lessons to challenge their bodies and brains.  Our list includes swimming, academics, performing arts, gymnastics, martial arts, and more. Be sure to check individual websites for registration periods and deadlines. And ask about camps! ACADEMICS/LANGUAGES/STEM Alliance Française de La Nouvelle ..read more