The Genesis of Jazz Fest The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, conceptualized by George Wein in 1970 and brought to its esteemed prominence by Quint Davis, represents much more than a mere festival—it stands as a cultural pilgrimage, emblematic of New Orleans’ vibrant spirit and its deep-rooted musical and cultural heritage. This beloved event annually attracts nearly half a million attendees to the historic Fair Grounds Race Course, transforming it into a melting pot of music, food, and art, and is scheduled for April 25 – 28 and May 2 – 5, 2024, marking a time of renewal and celebrat ..read more

Forget those tired, tinsel-strewn snoozefests, y’all. This New Year’s Eve, New Orleans ain’t just ringin’ in the new year, it’s throwin’ a full-blown soul shakedown. Think gumbo pot overflowin’ with fireworks, funky beats so contagious you’ll tap your toes in your sleep, and Crescent City magic thicker than a second line strut. So grab your dancin’ shoes and listen up, ’cause I’m your insider guide to the hottest NYE throwdowns this Big Easy’s got cookin’. We might be a couple hours shy of the Big Easy’s heart, but the siren song of NOLA’s New Year’s Eve symphony is pullin’ us in like crawfish ..read more

Introduction to the Controversy Iberville Projects In the vibrant embrace of New Orleans, where jazz melodies dance on the breeze and Mardi Gras beads shimmer like confetti, looms a chilling question: where does respect for cultural heritage end and commercial exploitation begin? The ambitious “City of the Dead” museum, planned for the remnants of the demolished Iberville Public Housing Complex, stands at a haunting crossroads, raising critical questions about cultural respect, historical preservation, and the ethical complexities of urban development. Spearheaded by Mardi Gras design guru ..read more

The Iberville development, nestled on a ten-block site in the early 1940s as part of the Wagner Bill, has a history more intricate than meets the eye. It’s a history intertwined with New Orleans’ rich and enigmatic past, a past that I didn’t personally live through, but my family and friends did. For them, the Iberville wasn’t just a place to call home; it was a testament to an era that was never spoken of, an era dominated by secrecy and the passage of time. As I reflect on those days, a single sign stands out in my memory. An unassuming marker at the project’s entrance, it bore no significan ..read more

New Orleans isn’t just a city; it’s a vibe, a living tapestry of culture, history, and an unmistakable passion for life. This place, with its rhythmic streetcars and the spicy aromas from its kitchens, isn’t just alive; it breathes stories at every corner. As a local, let me take you on a journey through the heart of my city, showing you the spots that we, the people who call New Orleans home, hold dear. Start with a ride on our historic streetcars. These aren’t just transports; they’re carriages through time, showcasing the city’s soul as they rattle and ring down the oak-lined streets. On ..read more

New Orleans, a city known for its vibrant culture and strong community spirit, is once again lighting up the holiday season with a series of toy giveaways. These events embody the city’s warmth and generosity, ensuring every child experiences the joy of Christmas. Big Toy Giveaway: A Victory Church & Toys for Tots Collaboration When: Sunday, December 17, 10 am Where: Victory Church, 3320 Johnny Jackson Jr. Blvd., New Orleans Details: Over 500 toys for children, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Children must be present. Jefferson Parish’s “Get-Moving” Toy Drive When: Dece ..read more

Chapter 1: The Foundation “I’ve always been my own rock, my own hero—long before Terrence came into the picture. Growing up in the South, surrounded by a culture so rich, a history so potent, and a family so fragmented, it gave me the fortitude to aim for something better, not just for me but for those who’d come after me. But even with that strength, nothing prepared me for Mara.” “Terrence and I had just moved into our dream home in one of those leafy, Instagram-perfect suburbs. Four bedrooms, a sunlit kitchen, and enough yard space for our dog, Sasha, and any little ones that would eventual ..read more

Odd Birds celebrates one-year anniversary while offering an array of exciting industry events NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana (July 22, 2023) – This week, thousands of drinks industry professionals from bartenders to distillers will descend upon The Big Easy for Tales of the Cocktail, the industry’s annual meeting place for exchanging new ideas, products, and techniques with hundreds of events and tastings. Odd Birds NOLA at Selina is excited to announce that at the same time it celebrates its one-year anniversary, it will also be hosting nearly a dozen events as part of this year’s Tales of the Cockt ..read more

Join me and my New Orleans All Female Krewe as we eagerly gather, ready to embrace the exhilarating atmosphere of Essence Festival. With anticipation in the air, we stand united, eagerly awaiting the opening of the doors, poised to embark on a thrilling adventure to secure the most coveted Swag Bags. In the heart of the city that beats with culture and soul, our Krewe brings together women of all ages, connected by our shared love for the essence of New Orleans and the treasures that await us at the festival. Among the array of treasures, one bag reigns supreme: My Black is Beautiful. Its allu ..read more

THE 29TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL KICKED OFF HIP-HOP 50 CELEBRATIONS WITH ESSENCE VENTURES EXECUTIVES, REMARKS FROM VICE PRESIDENT KAMALA HARRIS AT THE GLOBAL BLACK ECONOMIC FORUM, AND THE FIRST-EVER AFROPUNK KREWE BALL New Orleans, Louisiana — June 29, 2023 — Day One of the 2023 ESSENCE Festival of Culture presented by Coca-Cola® kicked off in its forever home of New Orleans. Mayor LaToya Cantrell of New Orleans and ESSENCE Ventures President & CEO Caroline Wanga and the executive leadership team, kicked off this year’s festival with the annual press conference, starting the weekend celebrations w ..read more