Nola Boomers November/December 2018 by nola family magazine & nola boomers magazine

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

INSIDE THIS ISSUE We visit with

Irma Thomas The Soul Queen of New Orleans p. 6

Time for a new twist on

Thanksgiving p. 9

Get into the

Holiday Spirits

New Orleansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; festive cocktails p. 17

Our tips for combating

SPAM CALLS p. 21

Making the Magic Happen Helping empty nesters reconnect p. 19

THE BABY BOOMER BURDEN OUR AGING PARENTS COMPILED BY NOLA BOOMERS STAFF

Caring for aging parents is the “new normal” for millions of Baby Boomers. Did you know…?

1 1 2

4 6

7 5

There is a lot to consider, your parents’ health and finances being foremost, but yours, as well. We’ll cover many aspects of this sometimes-difficult dynamic. Are you a Baby Boomer caring for elderly parents? If so, we want to hear from you. Email us at info@nolaboomers.com. (1) CNN report 2017, (2) Center for Retirement Research at Boston College 6/17, (3) Harris Poll for The Mutual Fund Store and A Place for Mom, (4) AARP Public Policy Institute 2011, (5) Ameriprise Financial, (6) AARP Public Policy Institute 2011, (7) Pew Center for Research.

publisher ann herren ann@nolaboomers.com executive editor laura claverie laura@nolaboomers.com office manager jenny ziglin jenny@nolaboomers.com advertising sales catherine sewell catherine@nolaboomers.com edit interns erin cohn chapelle johnson designer cat landrum 2nd story creative copy editor emily berger ad production sara youngblood contributing photography twirl photography

info@nolaboomers.com or 504.866.0555

For reprint information, contact ann@nolaboomers.com Business office: 8131 Oak St., Ste. 100, New Orleans, La., 70118 504.866.0555 / 504.861.2229 fax A publication of

november/december 2018 volume 1, issue 2

Ann and I are blown away by the enthusiastic support we received regarding the first issue of Nola Boomers. Apparently, we hit a nerve in this community-- an underserved, overachieving one at that. Thank you for your calls, emails, notes and the comments you have made in person regarding our new magazine. This issue promises to be just as interesting. For instance, who in this community touches more hearts with her gift of music than New Orleans’ own Queen of Soul, Irma Thomas? In our cover story, we showcase the remarkable life of this 77-year-old grandmother, great grandmother and winner of a Grammy and more music awards than we can mention. Irma also supports many non-profits and recently founded a women’s center at Delgado Community College. All that while she’s rocking the music world every chance she gets. You’ll also read about ways Empty Nesters can rekindle the fires once the kids leave. As actress Angela Bassett said in a recent article in Allure magazine, “Sixty is the new 40, or 70 is the new 50. It keeps getting pushed. But you have to keep the stress down and the attitude hot.” Did you know each day 10,000 Americans have their 65th birthday, and many of these Boomers are also taking care of an elderly parent? Our magazine wants to introduce you, the reader, to ways you can be the best, most efficient caretaker when that time comes. If you have some time to spare and love to crochet or knit, read about the Magic Yarn Project, a group that makes whimsical yarn wigs for children undergoing chemotherapy. Another group featured is GoodWood Nola, an artsy design group that is training an injured veteran the art of working with wood and aiding his recovery along the way. In the future, GoodWood Nola hopes to work with stroke victims in our community. Travel writer Keith Marshall takes us to Saint Francisville and introduces us to some of the the delightful grande dames of that special historic town. Is it time for your next road trip? I often tell people who are new to our city that if you are bored in New Orleans, it’s your own darn fault. Nola Boomers features many cool festivals and events that take place right here during this holiday season—often with free admission. Take time to read about all the goings-on in New Orleans and let us know what your favorites are. We don’t want you to miss a thing! After all, there’s no better city for having fun and living (and aging) fearlessly. Nola Boomers shows you how to enjoy these years with gusto!

Fearlessly Yours,

Laura Claverie

november/december 2018 | www.nolaboomers.com

The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and/or contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the magazine or its advertisers.

FR OM L AUR A

NOV/DEC 2018 CONTRIBUTORS

Lee Cutrone Lee has been a freelance writer for 26 years. She writes profiles of people, places, businesses and trends, as well as home and garden articles, fashion features, shopping guides, health and wellness pieces and more.

Keith Marshall Keith began his writing career in 1973 as The TimesPicayune’s representative in Europe and later served as the newspaper’s classical music writer. He has written travel, art and architecture, and feature articles for major newspapers and magazines.

Katherine Diliberto Katherine has lived, worked, and raised a family in New Orleans. She is a retired school teacher and administrator who enjoys traveling and exploring all the Crescent City has to offer.

Kate Stevens Kate Stevens is a freelance writer and frequent contributor to our sister publication, Nola Family.

CONTENTS A FEW WORDS 3

Letter from Laura

Aging Parents

how boomers are shouldering the burden of parent care.

Irma Thomas

Health

the Soul Queen of New Orleans on how she approaches life.

reconnecting as empty nesters. Making sure your relationship is healthy.

Thanksgiving Fun

turkey day doesn’t need to be stressful. We get you out of the house.

Travel

three historic homes in St. Francisville.

Tech

| november/december 2018

IN EACH ISSUE

www.nolaboomers.com

FEATURES 6

Holiday Spirits

we found New Orleans’ iconic holiday drinks!

Making the Magic

Magic Yarn Project knits love and wigs for kids with cancer.

the scam of spam. How to avoid getting taken.

Freebies free and ‘almost free’ things to do!

On the Go where, when and what to do around town.

Spotlight GoodWood NOLA uses their skill set to help others.

ON THE COVER Irma Thomas welcomes us into her home. Photo by Twirl Photography.

november/december 2018 | www.nolaboomers.com

IrmaT By Laura Claverie

At age 77, Irma Thomas, indisputably the Soul Queen of New Orleans, is showing no sign of slowing down. Her singing engagements are as busy as she wants, her charity work is on-going, and the honors for her lifetime musical career continue to pour in.

“Retirement is not in my vocabulary,” she says emphatically. “I tell people: If you are 50 and don’t have a career, then do something. Find something you love to do and do it. Everyone has a talent. Switch jobs if you have to. Slow down if you want. Don’t just sit there and wait to die.” Irma follows her own advice. She has a packed schedule of appearances, and her velvety voice is as soulful, strong and vibrant as ever. She has been nominated for a Grammy four times and won the coveted award for Best Contemporary Blues album in 2007 for “After the Rain.” “So many people thought that album was written after Katrina, but we had it together before the storm hit,” she says. “It was just good fortune and timing.”

Thomas After two nominations for a Grammy, Irma didn’t expect to win on that third shot. When her name was called, she just sat there. Husband/manager Emile Jackson kept telling her to get up. Then she heard a scream. “It was me! I was the one screaming …and I’d won!” She was 66 years old and finally won American music’s highest award. Irma is tenacious in all things. Born in Ponchatoula in 1941, the only child of Percy and Vader Lee, Irma began singing in her Baptist church at age 13. By the time she was 15, she was married and pregnant with her first child. A second and third child followed before she was 18. “And then I figured out what was causing it,” she laughs. Life in the 50s was tough. “There were very few opportunities for a young, black female. I didn’t have any big ambitions. As a black female, I couldn’t buy a house or eat in many restaurants. I wasn’t even given anesthesia for any of my children’s births, except one stillborn. Only the white women got anesthetics for childbirth. This was the segregated south in the 50s.” Her first job was washing dishes at the Copper Kitchen Restaurant on Tulane and Carrollton Avenue for 50 cents an hour, but she was fired for–of all things–singing in the kitchen. Her second job was as a waitress at the Pimlico Club, where she often sang with Tommy Ridgley and the Untouchables Band when business was slow. But again, she was fired for singing.

After Hurricane Camille destroyed her work venues along the Mississippi Coast in 1969, Irma moved to California with her family and worked as a clerk at Montgomery Ward. For six years, she flew back and forth to New Orleans when she lined up good singing gigs. While in California, she got her GED and moved back to New Orleans, the home of her heart. Throughout her climb to the top, Irma admits she had no mentors, no one to teach her the ropes of the music business. “We were all learning by trial and error,” she says. She eventually received an Associate Degree in Business from Delgado Community College, something she’s rightfully proud

“I’ve seen so many artists and musicians fail because they didn’t know how to take care of business. I can negotiate my contracts, handle my hard-earned money, pay my taxes all on my own. I know the business and share that knowledge,” she adds.

To that end, Irma sponsors The Irma Thomas Center for W.I. S.E. Women’s Center at Delgado to empower young women to fulfill their personal and professional goals. The center provides young women with financial aid, school supplies, transportation, and a safe place to study, assistance she would have loved when she was in school. “We give this help very discreetly. I’m blessed to be able to help others, so I do,” she points out. Today Irma lives in her New Orleans East home, which she rebuilt after Katrina, with her third husband Emile, to whom she has been married since 1976. Together they have seven adult children, 15 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She admits that she has trouble keeping all their birthdays straight unless they call her a week or so in advance to remind her. Her performance schedule is full, and she is always a crowd favorite at the Jazz and Heritage Festival. She sings at as many charity events as she can. “I believe in passing it on. Don’t broadcast it. Just do it,” she says. The only thing she doesn’t do now, that she did for many years, is make her own gowns. It’s not that she can’t or doesn’t want to. It’s because her CPA told her to buy gowns, as that was the only way she could deduct them as a business expense. She is, simply put, the savvy businesswoman and gifted musician.

“I have always lived by the thought: Can’t nobody block your blessings but you. It’s the choices you make in life that matter,” she says. “God knew better than I knew what was right for me. He gave me a voice, and I use it.”

november/december 2018 | www.nolaboomers.com

By then, Ridgley was a big fan of Irma’s and got her a recording contract, which helped get her name out but made her no money. In time, her personal appearances grew and her popularity soared until 1964, when the Beatles took over the music industry. “Things got slow for most musicians during the ‘British Invasion’,” she sighs.

of. In September she received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Americana Music Association in Nashville. Last spring, Tulane University awarded her an honorary Doctor of Letters degree, another award she never expected to receive. Yes, you can call her “Dr. Thomas” if you would like.

www.nolaboomers.com

| november/december 2018

a new Starting New Orleans

Thanksgiving Tradition

Thanksgiving is the beginning of a long– and for many, often stressful –holiday season. The pressure to have an amazing Norman Rockwell-esque family get-together can overwhelm the best of us. Add to that the increased stress that many extended families have experienced with the ratcheting-up of political opinions, and well, you can imagine the allure of turning off the oven and bolting out the front door! Whatever your reason for forgoing the traditional home-cooked turkey, we gathered some great reasons for not turning on the oven this Thanksgiving!

FOOD

fun OUR PICK The Fair Grounds Race Course 1751 Gentilly Blvd., Mid-City

Arnaud’s offers a prix fixe dinner on Thanksgiving Day in a historic setting. Enjoy all the traditional Thanksgiving fare (and pork or fish options as well) with a Creole twist. $55. Reservations required, 504.523.5433.

Known for their special ‘Locals Only’ Thanksgiving dinner, their regular menu will be available (yum!) as well as more traditional Thanksgiving fare. Enjoy! Reservations required, 504.899.8221.

Ok- if you haven’t ‘done’ the Fair Grounds on Thanksgiving Day, you’re missing a classic New Orleans tradition. You get the best of both worlds, fabulous clubhouse dining so you don’t miss your meal, and it’s the traditional opening day at the races (though the Fair Grounds will open on Nov. 15 this year). They also offer a walk-up buffet for those that prefer casual dining with the typical fixings. Post Time on Thanksgiving Day is 11 am with the last race around 3 pm. Admission is free for the first 3 floors and $10 for the clubhouse. If you want to dine in the clubhouse, reservations are required! Call 504.943.2200.

Ralph’s on the Park 900 City Park Ave., New Orleans

New Orleans Saints vs. Atlanta Falcons Mercedes-Benz Superdome

Don’t feel like cooking this year? Spend the holiday with a view of City Park enjoying a decadent three-course Thanksgiving feast, and maybe enjoy a new Thanksgiving tradition with turtle soup or blue crab beignets! $56; There’s even a special menu for kids, $25. Reservations required, 504.488.1000.

Saints Football!!! Be there for our most intense rivalry– and let’s roast a Falcon on Thanksgiving Day! Saints are predicted to win, of course. What a great way to end the day! Kickoff at 7:20 pm.

Commander’s Palace 1403 Washington Ave., Uptown

Now, these are just four classic restaurants known for their Thanksgiving meals, but as more and more people are seeing the benefits of dining-out on Thanksgiving Day, the options have grown! Expect 30 or more restaurants to be serving this Thanksgiving- but make reservations early! (We will have a more comprehensive list online and in our Boomers newsletter)

OUR PICK Celebration in the Oaks City Park, 1 Palm Drive, New Orleans This is another no-miss New Orleans tradition that continues to get better! Our historic park’s oaks are swathed in hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights and riding the train through the park is a time-honored tradition for many. Although it opens for the holiday the day after Thanksgiving, we still have to count it! Traditions are traditions.

november/december 2018 | www.nolaboomers.com

Thanksgiving Table D’Hôte at Arnaud’s Restaurant 813 Rue Bienville St., French Quarter

Giving Back New Orleans Mission Food Bank and Shelter 1134 Baronne St., CBD. Volunteers are needed to help serve food, hand out toys and help with other aspects of the event. This volunteer opportunity is something that very well may be ‘filled up’ by the time you read this, but don’t let it discourage you. Find another time, or do your own giving on Thanksgiving. Volunteers are asked to pre-register online. Sheriff’s Thanksgiving Dinner Celebration Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, CBD. Hosted by Orleans Parish Sheriff Marlin N. Gusman. This annual Thanksgiving Day dinner for the public needs volunteers to serve food, clean tables and work other aspects of the event. Volunteers are asked to pre-register online. And finally, if you do choose to have Thanksgiving at home, let us suggest a new tradition that brings you (and your marvelous dinner) into the community. Instead of stuffing all your leftovers into the fridge–to later be stuffed into you again–make plates (or containers) of dinner to-go. Then jump in your car and find somebody who looks like they could use some yummy food and a hug and give them both. Enjoy the spirit of giving thanks.

Nuture

www.nolaboomers.com

| november/december 2018

a lifelong love of learning

Early Literacy Program for ages 4 months to 4 years 504.450.3997

readnola.com

Burning it Off New Orleans Athletic Club’s 111th Annual Turkey Day Race 5400 Stadium Dr., New Orleans The 5-mile course starts at Tad Gormley Stadium and follows a path that winds through New Orleans City Park, finishing on the stadium’s track. A kids’ half mile event also starts and finishes at the same location. Ticket prices vary depending on registration date. Race start at 8:30 am (8:35 for kids), so it’s a good way to burn off the calories you’ll enjoy later! Tammany Turkey Trot St. Tammany Municipal Justice Center, Covington. The Inaugural Tammany Turkey Trot will be held in downtown Covington, starting and ending at the Courthouse. Benefitting the Northshore Food Bank, there will be a 5K and 5-mile race at 8:30 am.

Magic Yarn Project By Kate Stevens

After a bone cancer diagnosis this summer, six-year-old Gracie LeBlanc is officially “rocking” the no-hair look after chemotherapy treatments caused most of her hair to fall out, says Brandi LeBlanc, Gracie’s mother.

Gracie LeBlanc, 6, of Prairieville, lost most of her light brown hair due to chemotherapy treatments but loves her Rapunzel wig.

Founded and based in Palmer, Alaska, The Magic Yarn Project has delivered 10,400 wigs across the world to sick children battling cancer and other diseases that cause hair loss. The organization began when Alaskan oncology nurse Holly Christensen made a crocheted beanie with Rapunzel-inspired yarn hair for a friend’s daughter battling cancer. Then Christensen made a few more and the movement spread online.

november/december 2018 | www.nolaboomers.com

When they venture from their Prairieville home, strangers’ stares don’t seem to bother the little girl at all, says Brandi LeBlanc. But, even so, Gracie was ecstatic to receive the gift of a handmade wig with soft, braided yarn hair inspired by the Disney princess Rapunzel from the Louisiana chapter of The Magic Yarn Project. This national non-profit organization is made up of volunteers called “magic makers” who create and donate princess and superhero wigs and beanies to children who have lost their hair from chemotherapy treatments and alopecia. “It’s wonderful they do this,” says Brandi LeBlanc, 39. “Just to see how they do it, the time they put into it. The wigs are extravagant. It’s not a simple wig. It’s very detailed. It’s amazing what they do.”

The donated wig, with long braided yellow hair that’s nearly as long as Gracie is tall, was hand-delivered to her by Holly Martin, the Louisiana chapter leader of The Magic Yarn Project. The Magic Yarn Project has nine chapters nationwide with Martin leading not only volunteers in Louisiana but those in Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas, as well. Just over a year ago, Martin, 56, of River Ridge, was on Facebook when information for The Magic Yarn Project popped up in her newsfeed. Martin clicked on the story and then called her husband, Chris, over to see it. “We both got tears in our eyes watching it,” Martin says. “I thought it was the sweetest thing.” Martin, who owns her own graphic design business for courtroom use, then donated several crocheted beanies to be distributed by the The Magic Yarn Project. After being asked to become a chapter leader, Martin flew to Alaska for training in the summer of 2018. Most of the whimsical wigs are inspired by Disney princesses like Ariel, Rapunzel, Belle, Jasmine and Elsa while many of the boys prefer Captain Jack Sparrow pirate wigs or superhero beanies, says Martin. Only the softest yarn is used for these wigs – “When they’re going through cancer treatments, their heads get very sensitive,” Martin says. The wigs provide not only a useful head covering but the fantastical nature of the wig gives the sick child a bit of joy. Being able to forget about needles, hospitals and doctor’s appointments help the children act like normal, healthy children again, Martin says. “It helps them step out of the world of cancer.”

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| november/december 2018

Martin usually holds workshops at the River Ridge Library where between 20-25 volunteers come to crochet, decorate, and assemble wigs, she says. Not everyone knows how to crochet, she says, so some volunteers sew superhero shields onto beanies while others assemble gift bags and decorate envelopes for wig recipients.

Diana Waguespack assists Lori Rose creating an Aurorainspired wig.

Volunteer Lori Rose, 56, of Mandeville, can’t crochet but helps move equipment needed for the workshops and networks and raises awareness about The Magic Yarn Project. “I hate asking people for money, but I’m pretty good at asking for it for a good cause,” says Rose. The joy of helping families who have experienced so much heartache is what keeps her coming back to the organization. “Let me tell you, the parents were probably even more thrilled than the kids were,” says Rose. “We know they go through so much stuff. It’s just so nice just to have something to brighten their day. It just makes their day to make their kids happy.”

Lori Cristina, a volunteer with The Magic Yarn Project, wraps yarn for wigs.

Volunteer Lori Cristina, of River Ridge, 55, can relate to some of the children fighting such an illness. “I had breast cancer a couple years back, and the thought of a child dealing with the loss of hair… it just seemed like a simple project that could make somebody happy,” Cristina says. Martin says the local chapter has also had older children and young adults volunteer as part of team and service organizations. Natalie Bou, 15, of River Ridge, began volunteering with The Magic Yarn Project as a way to gain service hours for school. But her time spent there has turned into so much more, she says. “Making these wigs for sick children, I feel a sense of purpose and fulfillment,” says Bou. “When I volunteered at school fairs or other events, I never saw an impact on the people I was helping. I made those people happy, which felt nice, but nothing along the lines of helping a sick child. I get to see pictures and videos of these children enjoying their wigs and embracing their full selves.”

(l to r) Natalie Bou and Alison James made Princess Ana.

Bou, a sophomore at Archbishop Chapelle High School, learned to crochet from her grandmother and now has taken on the goal of creating one wig each month for her school’s gifted and talented program. She has already made 10 wigs and is ahead of schedule, she says. More than 170 wigs from Martin’s chapter have already been delivered, and the organization has another 150 wigs produced and ready to ship. Many of these wigs have gone to children in Texas, but the local chapter has attended pediatric cancer survivor events at Children’s Hospital in New Orleans to raise awareness and distribute wigs. While The Magic Yarn Project can’t help every sick child in the world, it can certainly make a difference in the life of a few. “It’s really just heartwarming,” Martin says. “It’s sad that it has to be, but we can’t fix the world. We certainly can bring a little joy to children who are going through difficult times and their families.”

Pointe Coupee cottage

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The Butler Gr

Ruins ga rden at Afton Vil la

A Tale of Grand Dames by Keith Marshall

If you combined Genevieve Trimble, Anne Butler, and Lucy Parlange in a blender, the result might be a kinder, gentler Scarlett O’Hara.

www.nolaboomers.com

| november/december 2018

Their peaceful abodes, Afton Villa Gardens and Butler Greenwood Plantation in AngloAmerican St. Francisville, and Parlange Plantation in French-settled New Roads, offer glimpses of how three strong and gracious women have adapted the legacies of their antebellum homes to the occasionally harrowing events of modern small-town life.

The towns, located on opposite banks of the Mississippi just over two hours from New Orleans, are bustling communities of historic homes, neo-gothic churches, cute and sometimes quirky shops, a surprising array of traditional and ethnic cafes and restaurants, and simple to elegant overnight accommodations in houses that may boast their own ghosts. But the presence of these three ladies is real. Just mention their names to a local, and you might hear tales worthy of Faulkner or Truman Capote. Genevieve Munson Trimble, 97, and Afton Villa Gardens, 169 years old, are virtually one and the same. “I first saw the house and gardens at Afton way back when “Bud” (Morrell) and I were at LSU, and I felt like I was in Daphne du Maurier’s novel, ‘Rebecca’. This, I thought, is how I picture Mandalay.” Genevieve Munson and “Bud” Trimble married and purchased Afton Villa in 1972, nine years after the mansion had burned to the ground.

“We stood in the ruins of the house, and I was overwhelmed, but I remembered Sissinghurst (Vita Sackville-West’s iconic English garden, organized as “rooms” of various colors),” says Genevieve, “and decided to create the Ruins Garden by planting flowers in the colors of each room that had been there.” Now open annually October through April, the 20 acres of parterre and terrace gardens, a daffodil valley, and an historic family cemetery place Afton Villa among the most celebrated private gardens in the country. Ivy Jones, who the Trimbles hired in 1972 for two weeks, never left. As manager, he cares for the gardens year ‘round and gives “Mrs. T” a 7 a.m. wakeup call every morning she’s at her home in New Orleans. “I haven’t missed a day since Mr. Bud passed in ‘04,” he said, then moved quickly to lamenting the lack of rain this summer. Then, shifting gears again, “See that little marble statue of Flora over there? It’s on a pedestal of bricks they tell me came from the White House.”

Rosemary Blakes, housekeeper at Butler Greenw ood

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son Trimble of Genevieve Mun rdens Afton Villa Ga

In St. Francisville, Grandmother’s Buttons features jewelry made of vintage and antique buttons, as well as an array of humorous gifts; other shops line Ferdinand Street, which leads to the St. Francisville Inn, a traditional dining and overnight accommodation spot. Nearby Petra Cafe offers a surprise: Mediterranean cuisine, and Magnolia Cafe is a local favorite. Bed and breakfasts abound, including The Myrtles, reputedly “America’s most haunted house,” Shadetree Inn, and Barrow House. But to get the real feel of the intricacies of life in St. Francisville, book one of the cottages on the grounds of Butler Greenwood Plantation. Plan early if you want to attend the multitude of events at Christmas in the Country, December 7-9 (stfrancisvillefestivals.com). On a recent Sunday morning, Anne Butler strolled leisurely to her vintage red Thunderbird convertible after communion at St. Francisville’s 1827 Grace Episcopal Church, then sped off to Butler Greenwood, where she holds court as sixth-generation owner of the late 18th century manor. Butler took a seat on the sun porch where, on a Sunday in 1997, her then husband, former Angola warden C. Murray Henderson (deceased), fired multiple bullets into her torso, then sat calmly across from her to be sure she was dead. “I don’t think about that much now,” Butler said, while reminiscing how longtime housekeeper Rosemary Blakes had strolled through the room, nodding to Henderson and thinking that the slumped-over mistress of the house had simply changed into a blood-red blouse after church. “I always said if Rosemary found a body on the floor in one of the guest cottages, she’d just vacuum around it. This was karma getting back at me.” Rosemary, in her 70s like Butler, is still a fixture on the property. “Me? I’m just piddlin’ around here,” she told a guest. “Got to guard my health.” Several years ago, Butler realized that her children weren’t interested in the home’s 19th century furnishings. In 2015, the New Orleans Museum of Art acquired the contents of the parlor, said to be one of the most intact surviving antebellum environments, and has recreated the room in its decorative arts wing. Butler refurnished her parlor to be “serene and simple, so I can look out these windows and bring the outdoors inside, instead of being engulfed by the furniture.”

Across the river, through the tall golden monoliths that anchor the spectacular John James Audubon Bridge, octogenarian Lucy Parlange carries forward her family’s seven-generation stewardship of Parlange Plantation. Her daughter Angèle, a design guru in both New York and New Orleans, introduced Louisianians to the concept of “Brown Furniture,” dark, heavy antique pieces that can become relevant to new generations with a coat of white paint. Miss Lucy, however, keeps the faith in rooms filled with furniture her daughter might like to introduce to Benjamin Moore. A force of nature, Miss Lucy — as legend goes — refused to allow French writer Maurice Denuziere — whose 1977 novel “Bagatelle,” reputedly was set at Parlange —through the front gates, as what he wrote was just too scandalous. Just down the road, the Pointe Coupee Museum, a single-family French Colonial cottage, displays the lifestyle of a rural family of some means. Volunteer staffers are a fine source of information on the area. Overnight accommodations are available at the historic Samson House and the slightly earlier dwelling, Mon Reve. Boating and bicycling are the things to do along the False River, a long-ago path of the meandering Mississippi. Alas, the original Ralph and Kacoo’s has been gone for decades, but Hot Tails offers Cajun and Creole specialties. There’s an Entente Cordiale between French-settled New Roads and proudly-English St. Francisville. Think of it as a happy marriage of cultures that shouldn’t be missed. e Parlang

Plantati

BUSINESSES GIVING BACK

GOODWOOD NOLA, L I V I N G U P TO I TS NA M E

By Erin Cohn

How they’re using woodworking to help brain injury patients.

www.nolaboomers.com

| november/december 2018

Established in Mid-City in the fall of 2014, GoodWood NOLA’s mission has always been to create beautiful and timeless pieces inspired by our unique city. While GoodWood is well-known for their custom furniture and architectural fabrication, in 2018, they added another mission: to create a low-impact woodworking curriculum that could act as a form of therapy for brain trauma patients. As soft therapy, it combines both physical and mental aspects without any pressure–fun that slowly yields improvements.

Mike Molle, owner of GoodWood NOLA, explains that the program is geared toward people with traumatic brain injury– specifically, those who have minimal or moderate control over their hands. GoodWood, and the neurorestorative clinic with which they’ve worked closely to develop this program, is hopeful that their curriculum will help to improve patients’ overall dexterity and coordination. Their first patient, Pete, now six months into the program, is a young Air Force veteran who was injured during training. A former Air Force mechanic, Pete has not only gained dexterity through this biweekly therapy with GoodWood, but program leaders say Pete is happier and truly excited about each woodworking session. “As of now, we are still in our trial phase and have been working exclusively with one patient to gauge the outcomes and potential successes of the curriculum,” Mike explains. “So, we are not doing this for anyone and everyone yet; we are still in our “discovery” phase.” As far as Pete’s personal progress, it can be measured in his projects, as well. During his time at GoodWood NOLA, he has made coasters, a cutting board, and his latest project: a series of poems burned into wood using a special pen– a process that requires Pete to hold the wood with one hand and write with the other. Currently six months into a year-long program, GoodWood staff will meet with the neuro clinic at the one-year mark to discuss Pete’s progress and plans for the future. “Our goal is to expand the program to help more people,” says Mike.

Get into the

Holiday Spirits

The most wonderful time of the year is upon us. Forego the typical cocktails. The holidays deserve fun, festive drinks. Here are a few fabulous libations created by local mixologists to ensure that you are merry and bright as you celebrate all the joy of the season.

By Katherine Diliberto

Arnaud’s French 75 Bar Tom & Jerry Drinking eggnog is a holiday tradition, and Arnaud’s French 75 version is sure to please. The Tom & Jerry (which predates the cartoon due) is a hot drink where bartenders mix the batter of cream of tartar, eggs, sugar, half and half, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg, which is prepared in large batches beforehand. When the drink is ordered, the bartender adds hot water and whiskey or fine cognac to create the classic drink that dates back to the 19th century. The hot cocktail is great for colder weather, and it is surprisingly creamy and deliciously sweet.

Commander’s Palace Holly Berry Martini The Commander’s Holly Berry Martini is a contemporary cocktail that has gained much popularity. It is a delightful mix of Stoli Citros vodka, Chambord liqueur, Pama pomegranate liqueur and fresh lemon. The taste is both smooth and sweet. It is a glass of holiday cheer because of its drinkability and deep red color.

Hot Buttered Rum Cocktail The Hot Buttered Rum cocktail, also known as a hot toddy, has its roots in Europe and became popular in the United States in the 1600s when Jamaican molasses was imported to Colonial America. The Commander’s version of this drink begins with unsalted butter perfectly enhanced by the assertive spices of light brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt. Finally, an ice cream-sized scoop of this butter mixture is placed in a mug before spiced rum and hot water are added to create the ultimate holiday drink that will warm you from the inside.

The Sazerac Bar in the Roosevelt Hotel Santa’s Candy Cane Cocktail

The Vintage Prohibition Poinsettia The prohibition era created some of the most iconic cocktails because speakeasies had to get creative with their ingredients. To create the Prohibition Poinsettia, moonshine is infused inhouse for three days with cranberries, simple syrup and orange peel. This concoction is combined with lime juice and cranberry juice. It is then served in a sugared martini glass or coupe. Don’t be surprised if you feel the need to Charleston after enjoying this dramatic and potent prohibition-themed holiday libation that takes a playful nod to the classic champagne cocktail.

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Experiencing the Waldorf Winter Wonderland light display at the Roosevelt Hotel is a holiday tradition for both locals and tourists of New Orleans. The Santa’s Candy Cane cocktail is a staple of the Sazerac Bar’s holiday cocktail menu. Rumple Minze Peppermint Schnapps, White Crème de Cacao, and heavy cream are shaken then strained into a martini glass lined with a raspberry coulis drizzle, and it is garnished with a candy cane. This treat is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and bring back memories of Christmas past.

Recipes Infused Cranberry Moonshine:

The Prohibition Poinsettia

• 2 lbs. frozen cranberries

• 1.5 oz. house-infused cranberry moonshine

• 1 cup simple syrup

• .5 oz. lime juice • .5 oz. Grand Marnier

Simmer till cranberries are thawed.

• .75 oz. cranberry juice

Let cool. Add one bottle moonshine (any brand).

• orange peel (garnish) • sugared rim

Add 3 orange peels. Pour in glass container and seal for 3 days.

Shake and serve up in a Martini Glass or Coupe This dramatic and potent holiday cocktail takes a playful nod on the classic champagne cocktail with playing off how the holiday season MUST have played out in celebration during this historic act on alcohol in the American 1930s. Put on a double-breasted suit or glamorous Garbo-look gown and enjoy!

Hot Buttered Rum Cocktail (enough for 12 cocktails) • 1 stick unsalted butter, softened • 2 cups light brown sugar • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • ½ teaspoon grated nutmeg • Pinch of ground cloves • Pinch of salt

Tom & Jerry • 3 ounces hot water

Mix all ingredients together with mixer until whipped.

• 11⁄2 ounce whiskey or fine Cognac

Put 1 ice cream scoop of butter mixture into mug, add 1 ½ oz spiced rum, then fill with hot water to rim and mix. Garnish with cinnamon stick.

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• 2 ounces Tom and Jerry batter

In a coffee mug, add hot water and whiskey or fine Cognac. Ladle the Tom and Jerry batter on top, sprinkle grated nutmeg on top and serve.

Tom & Jerry batter: • 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar • 6 eggs • 2 1/4 cups sugar • 1/2 cup half and half • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1 shake of ground nutmeg

Separate the yolks from the egg whites and set aside. In a mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar until peaks begin to form, then add 1/2 cup sugar and beat until the peaks form again. Add the yolks and beat them in as well. Add the remaining 1 3/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla and beat. Stir in the half and half. Store in a container with a lid and hold in the refrigerator until ready to be ladled into the Tom and Jerry cups.

Denise and Mike DiGiglia

“Wait, you’re still here?” When Denise DiGiglia turned 65, she and her husband Mike had a party and asked their guests to bring photos of themselves when they were young. The pictures served as a fun icebreaker and helped guests (who also included people in their 30s) get to know one another through reminiscing. The party was a huge success. It was also a prime example of the kind of creativity that can help spouses reconnect during the empty nest phase of life. The Mayo Clinic defines empty nest syndrome as “a phenomenon in which parents experience feelings of sadness and loss when the last child leaves home.” Some couples also feel awkward or distant with one another during this period of adjustment when children are no longer the primary focus. According to relationship therapist Peggy Demarest, LMFT, many couples will be able to navigate this phase on their own. Many others, who have not given their relationship the energy or focus it requires because they’ve been distracted by raising kids, making a living and developing their careers may find it more challenging.

In relationships where issues like resentment, hurt or anger have been pushed aside and unresolved, Demarest says there may be a more serious disconnect where counseling is needed. The upside is that empty nesters have more free time to reconnect, renew and even strengthen their marriage bond. They also may have greater financial freedom than they did when they were younger. According to therapist Matt Morris, PhD, who specializes in couples counseling, pre-marital counseling and family therapy (www. drmattmorris.com), recent research from Britain shows marital satisfaction at its highest before kids and after the kids leave home. But for those having a difficult time with this developmental shift, he says it’s “a problem mostly solved with time and intentionality.” The following combination of tips from Demarest and Morris can help.

By Lee Cutrone

Dr. Matt Morris

1. Find activities you can do together. While many parents may have developed hobbies of their own, now is the time to develop interests you can share. As a guide to the best activities, Morris uses the acronym CHOP – anything Creative, Hands-on, Outdoors and Physical. Cooking, dancing, yoga, walking pets, anything goes. He also notes that the home cooking kit trend is a perfect way to make dinner for two a special departure from the kid-friendly, chicken nugget fare of the child-rearing years. 2. Make a regular date night, take advantage of the city’s many romantic attractions or set aside time for weekend getaways or trips and stick to the plan, which is really about making time for each other. Make new memories exclusive to yourself as a couple. The DiGiglias, who live on a boat, head out on the lake every weekend they can and share an attitude of adventure and spontaneity. 3. Try a self-help book. “There are many good self-help books that can help with communication,” says Demarest. Two of her favorites: Getting the Love You Want: A Guide for Couples by Harville Hendrix and The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts by Gary Chapman.

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“They are the ones who suffer most because they are lost when the kids leave,” she says.

10 GREAT WAYS FOR EMPTY NESTERS TO RECONNECT

4. Reminisce about what life was like before having kids. “Telling each other stories can help bring the energy back into the relationship,” says Morris. 5. Entertain others. Bring others – who aren’t your kids and kids’ friends’ parents into the house. Friends are a good support system and may be experiencing similar things. 6. Volunteer together. Find a meaningful organization to join and serve together advises Morris. “It’s a great way to kickstart that feeling of ‘we can be ok together’ and we have a lot to give and look forward to,” he says. 7. Shop together. Buy something together, buy something for your partner, or perhaps get a haircut. See each other in a new way. 8. Touch. Morris recommends beginning and ending the day with a touch, a hug, a kiss. “People forget to do that,” he says. 9. Make time to talk daily. Put aside the cell phone, talk face-to-face and have what Morris calls “us conversations.” Finding time to talk is “massive,” says Demarest. “Find time to appreciate each other and verbalize it and remind yourself about the things you love about that person.” One of Demarest’s client couples went a step further, making a list of everything they loved about the other.

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Denise and Mike DiGiglia

10. Seek Help. Workshops - local or elsewhere in the country can be useful tools for enhancing your marriage. Demarest says workshops can be a “real starter,” and Morris adds that “You don’t have to have a problem to go to a workshop. They are for enhancement.” When there are problems in the relationship, counseling by a professional can help identify and work toward solving them.

“DON’T HANG UP...” Call them Scams or Spams, these calls can fool the best of us. How to protect your parents– and yourself– from falling prey. Believe it or not, one in five older consumers say they have been the victim of some form of financial abuse, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. In 2017 alone, the Federal Trade Commission received 2.7 million reports of fraud. Retirees are a favorite target. In fact, the FBI says that if you are age 60 or older–and especially if you are an older woman living alone—you may be a special target of people who sell bogus products and services by telephone. Telemarketing scams often involve offers of free prizes, low-cost vitamins and health care products, and inexpensive vacations. Fortunately, there are businesses which make it their business to protect you from financial fraud–although the game is changing almost daily. The AARP Foundation ‘ElderWatch’ engages hundreds of volunteers each year to help older consumers recognize, refuse and report fraud and scams.

Here are the most common scams happening right now:

Basic rules to protect yourself:

• Businesses promising to employ you if you provide your social security number.

• Don’t click through to links that ask for that info. They can be very close to the real one, but just a letter off.

• Messages about credit repair/debt relief that ask for personal financial information.

• Always find your own way to your bank or financial institution’s website.

• When selling something online (like on Craigslist), you receive a check for an amount larger than the asking price. The ‘buyer’ then calls and says, ‘I paid too much, send me back $100’ (whatever the amount) - this is an attempt to get your banking information.

• Guard your personal information.

• Wiring money (again, they ‘owe’ you) can be another way to obtain a person’s account information. • An email saying they know all your passwords (and providing one true one as an example) and asking you to send bitcoin or they’ll wipe you out.

• Hang up on robocalls! And don’t press any numbers– that leads to more calls. • Don’t trust caller I.D. If somebody asks for money or personal information, hang up and call that business back–after finding the number yourself.

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• Asking you to make online purchases through Facebook.

• NEVER give out your bank information or social security number– no reputable business or bank will ever ask you to provide that info via email.

s e i b e e r F APPENING H S P E E K T A UFF TH AND COOL ST

Museums and Exhibits

Tuesday Museum Highlights Tour New Orleans Museum of Art. Take an engaging and informative tour every Tuesday of the museum’s permanent collection and special exhibitions. Included with museum admission. For more information, call 504.658.4100. 1-2 pm. Free Wednesdays New Orleans Botanical Garden. Free admission for Louisiana residents, courtesy of the Helis Foundation. 10 am-5 pm. Free Wednesdays New Orleans Museum of Art. Free admission for Louisiana residents, courtesy of The Helis Foundation. 10 am-6 pm. Free Thursdays Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Free admission for Louisiana residents, courtesy of The Helis Foundation. 10 am-5 pm. Ogden After Hours Ogden Museum of Southern Art. The weekly music series is held every Thursday night. For more information, call 504.539.9650. 5-8 pm.

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Free Sundays Contemporary Arts Center. Free admission to all Louisiana residents, courtesy of The Helis Foundation. 11 am-5 pm.

Museum Partner Pass New Orleans Public Library. The Library has partnered with the Southern Food & Beverage Museum, The Ogden Museum of Southern Art, and Longue Vue House & Gardens to provide free admission for library cardholders who check out a Museum Partner Pass. Every library location has a pass for each of the participating museums. For more information, visit nolalibrary.org.

Learning and Resources E-Resources Happy Hour Milton H. Latter Memorial library. Learn about the many electronic resources, including e-books and audiobooks, available through the library. Bring your laptop, smartphone, tablet, or e-reader with you, along with a valid library card. Available every Sunday, 1-2 pm.

Ranger Talk French Quarter Visitor Center. Join a ranger Tuesdays through Saturdays in the visitor center courtyard to discover New Orleans’ history and culture. No talk on federal holidays or on Mardi Gras when visitor center is closed. 9:30 am. Wetlands Walk Barataria Preserve. Every Wednesday through Sunday, join a ranger for a guided walk on a boardwalk trail through a wild Louisiana swamp and marsh. Stop by the visitor center or call 504-689-3690 ext. 10 after 9:30 am to find out which trail the day’s walk will explore. No walk on federal holidays when the visitor center is closed. 10 am. Battle of New Orleans Ranger Talk Chalmette Battlefield. Daily at 10:45 am and 2:45 pm. The visitor center is open and talks are given on Memorial Day and Veterans Day. On all other federal holidays and on Mardi Gras, the visitor center is closed and no talks are given.

Medical Drop-In Medicaid Assistance with Odyssey House Alvar Library, 913 Alvar Street. A representative from Odyssey House is available to assist with Medicaid applications and questions. 10 am-noon. Every Wednesday.

Fitness Fun Aqua Yoga Treme Rec Center Pool, 900 N Villere St. A free class that takes traditional yoga poses and incorporates them into the water. This is a beginner class focusing on foundation alignment, breathwork, and balance while embracing the element of water. 9-9:45 am. Continues every Monday through May 2019. Restorative Candlelight Yoga Esplanade at City Park, 3443 Esplanade Ave. A gentle moving class to help tune in to the mind and spirit, while providing the body support in deep restorative poses. Reserve your spot at jaibhaktiyogafoundation.org/schedule.html. $8/person. 6-7:15 pm. Continues every Monday through April 2019.

Freebies continued on p 25

o G e h T On IN NOLA NOVEMBER 1 THURS

New Orleans Cooking Classes: Taste of Louisiana

Thursdays at Twilight: The Yat Pack

City Park Botanical Garden. A New Orleans-based band modeled on the 60s Vegas Swing Era. They will perform classic big band numbers by Frank

Little Shrimper Village for children to enjoy, this is always the best weekend in Bucktown. Free and open to the public. Time varies by day. Continues on Nov. 4.

Follies of 1915

Keith Urban: GRAFFITI U World Tour

Marigny Opera Ballet, 725 St. Ferdinand St. The season opens with a scintillating comedy following identical twins lost in a shipwreck and found again on the shores of New Orleans in 1915. $32/Students & Seniors, $45/General Admission. 8-9 pm. Continues Nov 2-4.

Smoothie King Center. The tour will feature special guest Kelsea Ballerini as Urban’s supporting act. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com. 7:30 pm.

2 FRI

Annual Scandinavian Festival

1772 Prytania St., New Orleans. Peruse Scandinavian Christmas items as well as local handmade products, enter a silent auction or raffle, sample traditional foods, attend cooking demonstrations, listen to music and more. 10 am-5 pm. Continues on Nov. 3.

Bucktown Seafood Festival

St. Louis King of France School, 1600 Lake Ave., Metairie. From amazing food vendors and top-notch entertainment to spectacular carnival rides and the

Gone Pecans

Rivertown Theater for the Performing Arts, 325 Minor St., Kenner. A musical & comedic celebration of the New Orleans Tricentennial! Ya gotta be nuts to live in New Orleans, and here’s the historical proof! Celebrate 300 nutty years of New Orleans with the creators of Ditzyland, Steel Poinsettias, and Hello Dawlin’! Showtimes Friday and Saturday at 8 pm and Sunday at 2 pm. Continues Nov. 3-4, 9-11, and 15-18.

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Southern Food & Beverage Museum, 1504 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. Weekly cooking classes and lunch demonstrations in the state-of-the-art Rouses Culinary Innovation Center by Jenn-Air. Learn about the food of New Orleans and Louisiana while you eat an amazing lunch in the museum! Tickets available at natfab.org. Continues Nov. 5, 8, 12, 18, 19, 26, and 29.

Sinatra, Louis Prima, Dean Martin, and Bobby Darin as well as contemporary artists like Michael Bublé, Billy Joel, and Harry Connick, Jr. $10/person. 6-8 pm.

3 SAT

4 SUN

Louisiana Renaissance Festival New Orleans Saints vs. 46468 River Road, Hammond. A festival, Los Angeles Rams theme park, theatre, holiday shopping destination, and educational experience, all rolled into one great adventure in the English “Village of Albright.” Single day pass $20/adult, $12/child, free admission for children under 6. For more information, visit larf.net. 9:45 am- dusk. Continues Nov: 4, 10-11, 17-18, 23-25, Dec: 1-2, and 8-9.

Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Purchase your tickets at ticketmaster.com. 3:25 pm.

Sunday Swing

AllWays Lounge, 2240 St. Claude Ave. Every Sunday through December, local swing dance instructors offer a free community class. After class there is live, local music and social dancing. 8-9 pm.

5 MON

ReFresh Project Community Garden Farmers Market Jazz Brunch Saturdays

Pythian Market, 234 Loyola Ave., New Orleans. Treat yourself to a variety of brunch offerings from our 13 different vendors while sippin’ on $6 mimosas and $7 Bloody Marys from Bar 1908. 11 am-3 pm.

Freret Market

Freret Street at Napoleon Avenue. Enjoy live music as 90 vendors sell art, wearables, crafts, food, and produce. Pet adoption also available. 11 am-4 pm.

300 N. Broad St., New Orleans. This weekly Monday market offers local produce, homemade kimchi, cocoa fruit leather, pesto and salad dressing. Continues every Monday through Dec. 31. 4-7 pm.

Goat Yoga in the Garden

Paradigm Gardens, 1131 S. Rampart St. Tucked away in a lush garden oasis lies a little yogi sanctuary. As the weather cools down and the garden grows green, the goats are ready to play! $23/ticket. 6-7 pm. Continues on Nov. 12 & 19.

6 TUES

Swing’n’Bowl Dance Classes

Mid-City Lanes Rock n Bowl, 3000 S. Carrollton Ave. Swing Dance Lessons by Giselle Anguizola. Open to all levels. $20/ class/student or $60 for all four classes. Take a class and Rock n Bowl waives the $10 cover charge for that evening’s entertainment! 6:30 pm. Continues on Nov. 14, 21, and 28.

Baroque and Beyond: Les Arts Musicaux

New Orleans Museum of Art. In celebration of The Orléans Collection, NOMA welcomes acclaimed musicians Vance Woolf (trumpet), Cara McCool Woolf, and Dustin Gledhill (piano), to the Great Hall for an evening of music inspired by the visual and musical arts of the 17th and 18th centuries. $15/person, $10/members. 7-9 pm.

8 THURS

Thursdays at Twilight: Boogiemen Swing Band

City Park Botanical Garden. The “Boogiemen” will perform the music of Frank Sinatra, Michael Bublé, Harry Connick, Jr. and more. $10/Person. 6-8 pm.

Trivia Night

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Harvest Festival

Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire St. Enjoy some family fun, shopping and mingling. Get ready for the holidays. There will be over 50 vendors to shop from. Free admission. 11 am-4 pm.

The Music of Led Zeppelin

Mahalia Jackson Theater, 1419 Basin St. Relive the music of Led Zeppelin as the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, Randy Jackson, and conductor/arranger, Brent Havens, team up to perform Led Zeppelin’s greatest hits including “Stairway to Heaven,” “Kashmir,” “Black Dog,” “Good Times Bad Times,” and “All My Love.” Tickets vary by seat location. 7:30 pm.

Flamingo A-Go-Go, 869 Magazine St. They’ve got questions...let’s see if you’ve got the answers. Grab the flock & your knowledge of useless facts for a chance to win Flamingo A-Go-Go gift cards. Every Tuesday through Dec. 25, 7:30 pm.

7 WEDS

The Best of Sinatra

BB’s Stage Door Canteen, 945 Magazine St. The salute to “Ol’ Blue Eyes” features Stage Door Idol 2016 Spencer Racca backed by the Museum’s Victory Trio. $40/person. 11:45 am-2 pm.

Rameau’s Pygmallion

La Petit Theatre, 616 St. Peter St. An evening of French Baroque opera, a musical feast featuring selections of artwork from the New Orleans Museum of Art and performances by Marigny Opera Ballet Company. Ticket prices starting at $50. Thursday and Friday, 7:30 pm. Saturday and Sunday, 2:30 pm.

Freebies continued from p 22 Tuesdays Sunrise Yoga Coliseum Square Park, 1401 Camp St. A 55-minute yoga flow infused with all the sweetness and good energy and a mellow positivity. For more information, visit nolatribeyoga.com. Classes are donation based. Rental mats are available for $3. 6:30 am. Tuesday “It’s All About the Music” Bike Ride Congo Square in Armstrong Park. If music, casual cycling and cool people are your thing, then meet this group every Tuesday at 6 pm. Wednesday Sunrise Yoga Popp’s Bandstand, New Orleans City Park. A 55-minute challenging, friendly and fun, all-levels donation-based flow every Wednesday morning. For more information, visit nolatribeyoga.com. Rental mats are available for $3. 6:30 am. Thursdays Sunrise Yoga Shelter 1, Lakeshore Drive. Join the tribe for a gorgeous 55-minute all-levels, vinyasa-style flow to the sun rising over the Lakefront. For more information, visit nolatribeyoga.com. Classes are donation based. Rental mats are available for $3. 6:30 am. Thursday Happy Rides Join Nola Social Ride each week for a free, fun bike ride around town. Confirm the meeting location by visiting facebook.com/groups/nolasocialride. 7 pm. Free Fridays at New Orleans Boulder Lounge 1746 Tchoupitoulas and 2360 St. Claude. On the first Friday of every month, enjoy free indoor rock climbing. Available at both locations from noon-10 pm. Free Zumba Class The Peristyle in New Orleans City Park. Come ready to dance away stress and have some fun. Wear appropriate workout attire and gym shoes, and bring H2O as you’ll work up a sweat! Class is free and no reservations are needed. 8-8:45 am. Every Saturday through Oct.

Senior Walking Cut-Off Rec Center. A program designed to offer seniors an easy, pleasant, social walking experience to improve their quality of life by encouraging active and healthy lifestyles. Weekdays from 10 am-noon. VSNO Sunrise Run Satsuma Cafe on Maple. An early morning run where the routes are runner, walker and stroller friendly. Every Saturday, 6-7 am. Open Canoeing & Open Fishing Joe W. Brown Rec Center. Enjoy free canoeing and fishing in the lagoon. All equipment is provided and no former knowledge is necessary; just bring yourself and be ready to have fun! Fishing instruction is offered to those who are new to fishing. Every Saturday, 10 am-noon.

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Jazz Yoga New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. All levels welcome! This free yoga class features live piano. 10:00 am.

9 FRI

Bayou Road Balloon Festival

8245 W Judge Perez Dr., Chalmette. The Bayou Road Balloon Festival will again fill the Sidney D. Torres Memorial Park in Chalmette with 3 days of fun, thrills, evening hot air balloon glows & tethered rides, local seafood dishes, local & national bands, artisans, crafts, exotic kites shows, craft beers, wines, carnival midway, and more. $5/1-day ticket or $10/3-day weekend pass. Continues on Nov. 11.

Veterans Day Parade

Kawanee Avenue, 3711 Power Blvd., Metairie. The parade will roll from Power to Transcontinental. Concert to follow at the end. Food and drinks will be sold with all proceeds going to Wounded Warriors/Veterans. 9 am.

10 SAT

Tulane Green Wave vs. East Carolina University Pirates

Yulman Stadium. Come celebrate Homecoming as Tulane plays against ECU. Time TBA.

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Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Baby Cakes Field, 6000 Airline Dr., Metairie. Participants will complete a 3-mile walk and will learn about Alzheimer’s disease, advocacy opportunities, clinical studies enrollment and support programs and services from the Alzheimer’s Association. Walk participants also honor those affected by Alzheimer’s disease with the poignant Promise Garden Ceremony. Enjoy great music, food and local vendors. For more information, visit act.alz.org. Registration begins at 8 am.

New Canal Lighthouse, 8001 Lakeshore Dr., New Orleans. This special Veterans Day event combines admission to the Lighthouse Museum and access to walk the top deck of the Museum’s restored WWII patrol-torpedo boat. 10 am-4 pm.

Destrehan Plantation Fall Festival

13034 River Rd., Destrehan. There will be over 100 vendors on the Plantation Grounds so you can get all of your holiday shopping done early. Live music, food, drinks, arts, & crafts. 9 am-4 pm. Continues on Nov. 11.

Oak Street Po-Boy Festival

Oak Street, New Orleans. Come one, come y’all to the Oak Street Po-Boy Festival in Uptown New Orleans. More than 50 vendors will offer up their takes on New Orleans’ favorite sandwich. Great food, great music, great art. Another great day in New Orleans. 11 am-6 pm.

Victory Ball

National World War II Museum, 945 Magazine St. Enjoy a fun night including food, beverages, and entertainment as well as access to the Museum’s pavilions and exhibit galleries throughout the evening. For more information, visit victory-ball.org. $100/person, $50 for active-duty military. 7 pm.

History on the Lake

Three Rivers Art Festival

527 E Boston St. #102, Covington. Juried art show with over 200 artists from 25 different states, food, music and more. Don’t miss the ‘Meet the Artist’ and free concert at night in historic downtown Covington! 10 am-5 pm. Continues on Nov. 11.

Killer Queen ft. Patrick Myers

Harrah’s Casino New Orleans. Featuring the great Patrick Myers as Freddie Mercury, the tribute act will be performing all your favorite Queen songs, such as “Another One Bites the Dust,” “We Will Rock You,” “Don’t Stop Me Now,” “Bohemian Rhapsody” and plenty more. Don’t miss this premier tribute to one of the best bands of all time! Tickets available at ticketmaster. com. 8 pm.

11 SUN

Veterans Day at the National World War II Museum

945 Magazine St. Join as the museum honors all of our nation’s veterans with a commemorative morning ceremony and special presentations throughout the day. This event is free and open to the public, and all veterans, reservists, and active-duty service members receive free Museum admission.

Dog Yoga

New Orleans JCC, 4342 St. Charles Ave. Join the JCC and Zeus’ Rescues for a community-wide event. Yoga instructor Jessy Fedie-Garcia and local pet shelter, Zeus’ Rescue, are partnering to offer our community a Vinyasa Flow Yoga class while Zeus’ adoptable dogs roam freely! Meet under the Bart Family Pavilion for a wet-kissed flow followed by some meet and greets and light refreshments. Free for everyone. Registration is required. Please bring your own yoga mat and leave your furry friends at home! Register at nojcc.org. 11:30 am-1 pm.

12 MON

Healthy Cooking with Chef Monteleone

1150 Robert Blvd., Slidell. This class will teach cooking skills needed to prepare easy recipes that not only taste good, but will also help develop healthy eating habits. Brett Monteleone is a chef from South Louisiana and will serve as the instructor of this class. For pricing and enrollment information, please call 985.280.6665. 3-4:30 pm.

15 THURS

Thursday at Twilight: Benny Grunch and the Bunch

City Park Botanical Garden. You can’t say Benny, “Aint Dere No More,” because he will be right here in the garden performing his New Orleans hits as only “Benny Grunch and the Bunch” can do. Always entertaining, full of surprises and new songs. $10/Person. 6-8 pm.

16 FRI

NOMA: Opera On Tap

New Orleans Museum of Art. Each season, the New Orleans Opera presents the finest young local and regional singers in casual, 90-minute concerts of opera, Broadway and more. 6-9 pm.

Celebration in the Oaks Preview Party

City Park Botanical Garden. This dazzling soiree kicks off the annual lights display. Guests get the first glimpse of the lights and are given exclusive access to the Botanical Garden and Train Route. Enjoy food and spirits from over 30 restaurants while dancing to live music. $100/Person in Advance, $120/Day of Event. 7:30-11 pm.

Falaya Fest

Bogue Falaya Park, 213 Park Drive, Covington. The 2nd annual festival celebrates the array of diverse musical talents rooted in our community and offers new and upcoming musicians an opportunity to showcase their work along with highly esteemed veterans of our music community. $20 general admission. 11 am-9 pm.

20 TUES

Holiday Ribbon Cutting

Ritz-Carlton, 921 Canal St. Join the RitzCarlton as they unveil the hotel’s ornate holiday decorations with a ribbon cutting reception in the festive lobby. Enjoy holiday refreshments and appearances from Papa Noel and the Victory Belles. Free. 11 am.

It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere

Home of Allyson & Mike Sanderson, 18447 Three Rivers Rd., Covington. Inspired by Jimmy Buffet’s relaxed mantra, don’t miss WYES’ next big event on the Northshore at one of the largest houses in Louisiana. Tickets available at wyes.org. Patron Reception begins at 5 pm.

18 SUN

Yoga with a Vue

Longue Vue House & Gardens, 7 Bamboo Rd. Gather at Longue Vue for an all-levels yoga session led by Pilates & Yoga Loft in one of our tranquil gardens, or in the event of inclement weather, inside our vibrant Playhouse. Guests may tour our gardens afterwards. $10 or FREE for Members. Guests are encouraged to bring their own yoga mat. 10-11 am.

Canal Street Lighting Ceremony

The Downtown Development District and the Astor Crowne Plaza invite everyone to come out as they “flip the switch,” turning on more than 1 million twinkling lights on historic Canal Street and throughout Downtown NOLA. The Voices of Peter Claver and a special visit from Santa Claus will accentuate this year’s event! 5:30 pm.

22 THURS

17 SAT

HAPPY THANKSGIVING New Orleans Saints vs. Philadelphia Eagles

400 Esplanade Ave. Come for the artisan selection of 100+ cheeses and wines, stay for the music and more. 11 am-5 pm.

Treme Creole Gumbo Festival

Louis Armstrong Park, 701 N. Rampart St. Listen to New Orleans’ premier brass band showcase while enjoying some delicious gumbo in a beautiful downtown park. A smorgasbord of food vendors will be offering all kinds of gumbo as well as cooking demonstrations. 11 am-7:30 pm. Continues on Nov. 18.

Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Purchase your tickets at ticketmaster.com. Noon.

Salon Series: Film Screening w/ Dodie Smith-Simmons & Will Smith Preservation Hall, 726 St. Peter St., New Orleans. The film, narrated by the late jazz historian William Russell, is a superb study of the history and men who played New Orleans Jazz through the eyes of one of its greatest trumpet players: Punch Miller. $20-$50/Person. 4:30-7:30 pm.

5400 Stadium Dr., New Orleans. The course starts at Tad Gormley Stadium and follows a 5-mile path that winds through New Orleans City Park, finishing on the stadium’s track. A kids’ half mile event also starts and finishes at the same location. Ticket prices vary depending on registration date. 7-11 am.

Tammany Turkey Trot

The Inaugural Tammany Turkey Trot will be held in downtown Covington, starting and ending at the Courthouse. This event will benefit the Northshore Food Bank. For more information, visit tammanyturkeytrot.com/register. 8-10 am.

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Fête des Fromages: NOLA Cheese Festival

New Orleans Athletic Club’s 111th Annual Turkey Day Race

New Orleans Saints vs. Atlanta Falcons

Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Purchase your tickets at ticketmaster.com. 7:20 pm.

23 FRI

25 SUN

Jefferson SPCA Pet Fest

Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd., Metairie. Features a Pet Adopt-A-Thon with 40 Shelter/Rescue groups offering over 400 adoptable pets, a Pet Health Watch area, FREE Pet Costume Contest with amazing prizes, pet marketplace, delicious local cuisine, great music and more. 11 am-4 pm.

26 MON

Celebration in the Oaks

New Orleans City Park, 5 Victory Ave. Hung from the historic oak trees in City Park are hundreds of thousands of lights that turn 13 acres of park into a holiday wonderland. Enjoy amusement park rides, as well as hot chocolate and hot buttered rum for chilly (or even if it’s not) nights! $10/person, children 3 years and under are free. Fri.-Sat., 5-11 pm, Sun.Thurs., 6-10 pm. Continues through Jan 1.

Zoo Lights

Audubon Zoo, 6500 Magazine St. Audubon Zoo Lights will bring the holiday spirit to our community by creating an enchanting nighttime winter dreamland in the heart of Uptown New Orleans. $10/member, $15/general admission. Children under 2 years are free. Open on select nights through Dec. 30. 5:30-9:30 pm (last entry at 9 pm).

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24 SAT

Tulane Green Wave vs. Navy

Yulman Stadium. Join Tulane for their final regular season home game as they play against Navy. Time TBA.

5k Fun Run

Audubon Park. The 1st Annual 5K will benefit Zeus’ Rescues. Register now as an individual or a team at bywaterclothing.com/p/nola-dogs-tothe-rescue. $30/Individual, $25/Team. 8 am-noon.

Movies in Metairie: The Shape of Water

3747 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie. Free moving screening, drinks and snacks courtesy of the JCC. 12:30-2:30 pm.

29 THURS

Christmas Belles are Ringing!

BB’s Stage Door Canteen, 945 Magazine St. Ring in the holidays and enjoy classic holiday favorites sung in beautiful harmony. Optional dinner seating. For more information, visit nationalww2museum. org/events. 6-8:30 pm.

Movies on the Mississippi

The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk, 500 Port of New Orleans Place. The Downtown Development District and the Outlet Collection at Riverwalk are proud to present special outdoor movie showings. 6:30 pm.

The Santaland Diaries

Teatro Wego, 177 Sala Ave., Westwego. When a down-on-his luck wannabe actor arrives in New York City at the end of the year, the only employment he can find is at Macy’s department store - working in Santaland for the holiday season as a reluctant but relentlessly cheerful elf. For mature audiences. Seating is general admission. Visit jpas.org for more information. Showtimes continue on Dec. 1-2, 7-9, 14-16, and 21-23.

DECEMBER 1 SAT

Art of Giving Vino on the Bayou

1440 Moss St. Head to the historic waterfront Pitot House for a lovely evening of wine, snacks and music. 5-7 pm.

BIG: Opening Reception

Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Celebrate the opening of the latest exhibition BIG during the museum’s concert series, Ogden After Hours. Free/ Members, $13.50/Guest. 6-8 pm.

30 FRI

Christmas in Lafreniere Park

3000 Downs Blvd., Metairie. The park sparkles for the holidays with thousands of twinkling lights and displays. $5/ vehicle. Open Sun.-Thurs., dusk-11:45 pm. Continues through Dec. 25.

Ogden Museum of Southern Art. The Center for Southern Craft and Design invites you to its annual holiday shopping event featuring all your favorite local makers! Enjoy mimosas, music and crafts, while shopping for unique, handmade gifts for friends, family and yourself! Members receive 15% off their purchase and a complimentary mimosa. 10 am-2 pm.

Jazz Brunch Saturdays at Pythian Market

234 Loyola Ave., New Orleans. Treat yourself to a variety of brunch offerings from our 13 different vendors while sippin’ on $6 mimosas and $7 Bloody Marys from Bar 1908. While you eat and drink, you’ll also enjoy the eclectic sounds of a New Orleans-based live Jazz band. 11 am-3 pm.

Harlem Globetrotters

Smoothie King Center, 1501 Dave Dixon Dr. Spreading joy around the world through the game of basketball, the Harlem Globetrotters don’t often lose. For more information, visit harlemglobtrotters.com. 2 pm.

Ringing in the Arts

Gretna Farmers Market, 300 Huey P. Long Ave., Gretna. Enjoy Gretna’s third annual evening of fine art, music, and refreshments in an outdoor gallery against the dramatic backdrop of a quaint, historic city. 5-8 pm.

2 SUN

HANUKKAH STARTS On Your Feet! The Musical

Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St. A jukebox musical that played on Broadway at the Marquis Theatre, based on the lives and music of 26-time Grammy Award-winning husband-andwife team Gloria and Emilio Estefan. Tickets starting at $49. 1 pm & 6:30 pm.

Chabad-Chanukah at The Riverwalk

3 MON

New Orleans Cooking Classes: Taste of Louisiana Southern Food & Beverage Museum, 1504 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. Weekly cooking classes and lunch demonstrations in the state-of-the-art Rouses Culinary Innovation Center by

ReFresh Project Community Garden Farmers Market

300 N. Broad St. This weekly Monday market offers local produce, homemade kimchi, cocoa fruit leather, pesto and salad dressing. 4-7 pm. Continues each Monday in December.

4 TUES

Craft Happy Hour: Star Books with Yuka Petz Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Learn how to make the deceptively simple star book, which relies on just three folds for its elegant form. Each page opens with a dynamic map fold and the whole book can be tied together and hung as a star-shaped ornament. $20/ Member, $25/Non-member. 6-8 pm.

claimed his place as a true global icon. Don’t miss his final tour! 8 pm.

7 FRI

Shrimp Boil

NOPSI Hotel, 317 Baronne St. Peel & eat Louisiana jumbo shrimp, potatoes, corn and smoked sausage for $20. As always, the undercurrent bartenders will have all the refreshing cocktails needed while you eat and listen to live music. 5-8 pm. Continues on Dec 14 & 21.

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas

Jefferson Performing Arts Center, 6400 Airline Dr., Metairie. The dazzling score features well-known standards including “Blue Skies,” “I Love a Piano,” “How Deep Is the Ocean” and the perennial favorite, “White Christmas.” An uplifting musical great for the holiday season! Purchase tickets at jpas.org. Showtimes on Dec. 8-9, 14-16 – showtimes vary by day.

5 WEDS

Truffle Honey Holiday Concert 4747 W Napoleon Ave., Metairie. The “Truffle Honeys” are a female trio of singers consisting of Soprano I, Jennifer Messina, Soprano II, Barbara Bedestani and Alto, Sarah Martzolf. Join the trio for their holiday Concert at Jefferson Parish Library’s East Bank location. Free event. 7-8 pm.

Pat O’Brien’s 85th Anniversary Party

Pat O’Brien’s Bar, 718 St. Peter St. Every 5 years, Pat O’s throws a party that is not to be missed, and this is no exception. For more information, visit patobriens.com. Noon-2 am.

6 THURS

Elton John: Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour

Smoothie King Center. After more than half a century on the road and an unparalleled career that has redefined the cultural landscape, Elton John has

Let It Snow

Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts, 325 Minor St., Kenner. A delightful mix of holiday standards and classic hits that is sure to have you and yours “rockin around the Christmas tree.” Showtimes Friday and Saturday at 8 pm and Sunday at 2 pm. Continues Dec. 8-9, 14-16, and 20-23.

8 SAT

Allstate Sugar Bowl Celebration in the Oaks Run/Walk

City Park Storyland. This relaxed 2-mile course takes participants through New Orleans City Park during their annual Celebration in the Oaks light display. After the race, participants can enjoy free refreshments and complimentary entry into the Botanical Garden, Storyland and Carousel Gardens, before the gates are open to the general public. $25/Person, $20/Children ages 10 and under. 3-5 pm.

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Riverwalk Spanish Plaza, 1 Poydras St. A public menorah lighting and grand Chanukah celebration. Attended by community and civic leaders along with hundreds of community members and tourists. Kosher food, Jewish music, children’s program and entertainment, Chanukah materials. 4:30-6:30 pm.

Jenn-Air. Learn about the food of New Orleans and Louisiana while you eat an amazing lunch in the museum! Tickets available at natfab.org. Continues Dec. 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, and 27.

Holiday Spectacular with the 610 Stompers

Mahalia Jackson Theater, 1419 Basin St. The LPO celebrates the season with special help from New Orleans’ own band of “Ordinary Men with Extraordinary Moves” – the 610 Stompers – and special guest local artists. Tickets vary by seating. 7:30 pm.

Jerry Seinfeld

Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St. America’s premier comedian performs his signature stand-up routine. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com. 7 and 9:30 showtimes.

15 SAT

9 SUN

An Edible Feast

New Orleans Museum of Art. A private curator-led gallery tour of “The Orléans Collection” will be followed by a champagne reception, featuring delicacies from New Orleans’s leading pastry chefs. During the reception, Susan Pinkard, culinary scholar and author of A Revolution in Taste: The Rise of French Cuisine, 1650-1800, will discuss the history of desserts and champagne in early modern France. Reservations required: $90/Nonmember, $75/members. 7-9 pm.

12 WEDS

Harrison Avenue Marketplace 801 Harrison Ave. Come out with family and friends to see Shard Shop NOLA at The Harrison Avenue Marketplace! A family event with over 75 local vendors offering delicious meals, handmade crafts, and information. 5-8:30 pm.

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14 FRI

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis

Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St. The program includes dazzling multimedia effects performed in an intimate setting. Experience the magic as the spirit of the season comes alive with their signature sound. Ticket prices vary by seat. 8 pm.

16 SUN

Caroling in Jackson Square New Orleans Ballet Theatre Presents The Nutcracker

Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way. A two-act ballet, originally choreographed by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov with a score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Ticket prices and showtimes vary by seat/day. Continues on Dec. 16, 22-23.

37th Ole Man River Half & 5K

Mississippi River Trail, Gretna. The Ole Man River race is open to all runners and walkers, NOTC members and nonmembers alike. This year’s event benefits the Legacy Donor Foundation, a non-profit providing education and public awareness activities about organ, eye and tissue donation. For more information, visit runotc.org. Half marathon begins at 8 am. 5K starts at 8:15 am.

Lights on the Lake Holiday Bash

New Canal Lighthouse, 8001 Lakeshore Dr. The sixth annual Christmas boat parade, all featuring holiday light displays, will glide down the New Basin Canal into Lake Pontchartrain. There will also be a raffle, music from local choirs, pictures with Santa, food and drinks from local restaurants, holiday cocktails, craft beer, book readings and more. 4-8 pm.

Jackson Square, 700 Decatur St. A holiday tradition that has been going on since 1946, Christmas Caroling in Jackson Square is a joyful, fun experience that thousands of people participate in every year. 7-9 pm.

17 MON

Movies in Metairie: Will You Be My Neighbor 3747 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie. Free movie screening, drinks and snacks courtesy of the JCC. 12:30-2:30 pm.

19 WEDS

Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Smoothie King Center. TSO’s annual multi-sensory extravaganza, which sells out venues year after year, has cemented the group’s status as a must-attend, multi-generational holiday tradition. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com. 7:30 pm.

20 THURS

Harry Connick, Jr. - A New Orleans Tricentennial Celebration Caroling at Christmas in the Park

Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd., Metairie. Come and enjoy the musical stylings of the Genesian Players singing at Lafreniere’s Christmas in the Park! $5/ Vehicle. 7-8 pm.

UNO Lakefront Arena, 6801 Franklin Ave. Harry will play a very special show at UNO Lakefront Arena to benefit the Ellis Marsalis Center for Music, which he co-founded in the Ninth Ward in the aftermath of Katrina. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com. 7:30 pm.

NOLA ChristmasFest 2018

900 Convention Center Blvd. One of the Gulf Coast’s largest indoor holiday events featuring ice skating and slides on real ice, holiday characters, amusement rides, inflatables, and more Christmas-themed fun. 11 am-9 pm. Continues through Dec 31.

Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra: Baroque Christmas

26 WEDS

First Baptist Church, Covington. Featuring Handel’s ‘Messiah’ and more. $20-$140/ ticket. 7:30 pm. Continues Dec 21.

Allstate Sugar Bowl New Year’s Parade

21 FRI

Salon Series: David L. Harris presents a Nat King Cole Halliday Preservation Hall, 726 St. Peter St. David L. has graced legendary concert halls, such as the Apollo Theatre in Harlem, NY, The Lincoln Center in New York, NY, and The L’Olympia Music Hall in Paris, France, and has played beside some of the most astonishingly talented bands and vocalists. $35-$65/Person. 12:30-3:30 pm. Continues on Dec 22.

23 SUN

New Orleans Saints vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Purchase your tickets at ticketmaster.com. 3:25 pm.

24 MON

Christmas in Lafreniere Park: Free Entry Night

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker

Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St. Presenting world-class Russian artists, hand-painted sets, Russian Snow Maidens, and jubilant Nesting Dolls–Great Russian Nutcracker brings the Christmas spirit to life for all ages. Experience the Dove of Peace Tour, spreading goodwill in over 100 cities across North America. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com. 3 & 7 pm showtimes.

Shen Yun

Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts. The world’s premier classical Chinese dance company, Shen Yun brings to life a lost culture through profoundly beautiful art. For more information, visit shenyunperformingarts.org. $85-$155/ Person. 2 & 7 pm.

New Year’s Eve

The Westin New Orleans Canal Place, 100 Iberville St. Join for this annual event. Guests will be treated to two floors of live entertainment, an inspiring menu, champagne toast, and panoramic views of an impressive riverfront fireworks display at midnight. For more information, visit eventbrite. com/e/new-years-eve-at-the-westinnew-orleans-canal-place-tickets48653515976?aff=efbeventtix. 7 pm-1 am.

New Year’s Eve Celebration

“It’s All About New Orleans”

Jefferson Performing Arts Center, 6400 Airline Dr., Metairie. This very special concert is an exciting celebration of the music of New Orleans, dedicated to the legacy of New Orleans’ First Lady of Jazz, Ms. Germaine Bazzle, and the Jazz Master, Mr. Ellis Marsalis, together again for the first half of the evening’s program. Ticket prices vary by seat. 8 pm.

30 SUN

New Orleans Saints vs. Carolina Panthers

Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Purchase your tickets at ticketmaster.com. Noon.

The Cannery, 3803 Toulouse St. Enjoy an open bar, gourmet food by Toulouse Gourmet Catering and plenty of dancing! A rooftop champagne toast with a view of the city’s fireworks at midnight and then a continental breakfast to cap off the night. Tickets are available at cannerynola.com/nye. 8:30 pm-1 am.

Big Night New Orleans

Hyatt Regency New Orleans, 601 Loyola Ave. The countdown to 2019 is on and Big Night New Orleans will be hitting the Hyatt Regency in downtown New Orleans. Big Night New Orleans is part of the largest New Year’s Eve series in the country: Big Night America! A portion of the proceeds will benefit Son of a Saint. For more information, visit bignightneworleans.com. 9 pm-1 am.

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CHRISTMAS DAY

The parade will begin at the intersection of Elysian Fields Avenue and Decatur Street. The United States Air Force Honor Guard will be marching and the Mardi Gras-style parade will feature floats, bands, and much more. For more information, visit https:// allstatesugarbowl.org/allstate-sugarbowl/new-years-eve-parade/. 2:30 pm.

28 FRI

3000 Downs Blvd., Metairie. Special free entry to the sparkling light display at Lafreniere Park in celebration of Christmas Eve. Dusk-11:45 pm. Continues on Dec 25.

25 TUES

31 MON