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Contributing Writers: Kathy Bradshaw, Phil LaMancusa, Debbie Lindsey, Kim Ranjbar, Burke Bischoff, Julie Mitchell, Greg Roques, Sabrina Stone, Kimmie Tubre, Emily Hingle, Camille Barnett, Celeste Turner, Rowan Roudebush, Dean Shapiro, Jeff Boudreaux, Joey Cirilo, Brooke Adams
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Happy Halloween. The most frightening time of the year has arrived in the world’s most haunted city. This issue is filled with Halloween happenings, and the fun starts with Kimmie Tubre’s look at the history of costuming in the Crescent City.
The excitement continues with a profile of the Krewe of Boo—New Orleans’ official Halloween parade—as well as Emily Hingle’s report on the “real” haunted mansion at the Jacob Schoen Funeral Home.
If staying home and watching scary movies is your idea of excitement, then check out Jeff Boudreaux’s breakdown of New Orleans-centric Halloween movies. Jeff also shares something sweet with the history of beignets.
But October is more than just Halloween. Our rundown of the best fall festivals continues, as Sabrina Stone talks to Christopher Beary about the new NOLA Funk Fest. Have fun and stay safe. –Josh Danzig, Publisher
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Jacob Schoen & Son Funeral Home has taken residence here since 1936, and the guests of honor are usually no longer with us. In a city that houses our dearly departed loved ones in above-ground mini concrete castles, Jacob Schoen & Son Funeral Home is the best when it comes to the going-away party.
The legacy of the Schoen Family in New Orleans begins in 1859 when two men from Rommersheim, Germany landed in New
Orleans. Henry Frantz went into blacksmithing, and Jacob Schoen went into the carriage business. Over the years, they came to realize that they could make a lucrative business dealing with the dead. Patrick Schoen, President of Jacob Schoen & Son Funeral Home and fifthgeneration funeral home manager, said in an interview, “Ironically, it was the Yellow Fever epidemic that started my family’s business in 1874. We do have some of the old records,
although Katrina destroyed much of it. Most of the history we have is passed down orally from generation to generation.”
Yellow Fever as well as other debilitating and deadly maladies were constant in early New Orleans, and death was rampant. The unpaved city streets were dumping grounds for human and animal waste, garbage, and spoiled food. Stagnant water remained in the streets and sidewalks as there wasn’t sufficient drainage to remove it. Mosquitos bred wildly and infected thousands of people every year.
Frantz & Schoen Funeral Home was established on March 4, 1874 at 155 N. Peters Street, just a few years before the worst Yellow Fever epidemic in 1878, which killed tens of thousands of people throughout the Gulf Coast and up to Memphis. The fledgling funeral home had to expand to a larger space at 527 Elysian Fields Avenue in 1879 to keep up with demand. Figuring that the illness originated from New Orleans, some cities disallowed travel from and to New Orleans. This period invigorated many citizens to rally and improve drainage systems throughout the city so that water could not sit and become mosquito breeding grounds.
Though deaths attributed to Yellow Fever were lessening, Jacob Schoen remained in the funeral business. Frantz chose to leave the company and sold his share back which allowed Jacob’s oldest son Philip J. Schoen to step up to partner level in 1897. The funeral home was renamed Jacob Schoen & Son. Less than 20 years later, the business would expand onto the Northshore with Schoen Funeral Home in 1915, and even more homes in the coming years.
The Schoen family became synonymous with excellent services in dignified, peaceful surroundings as the citizens of the city entrusted them with their loved ones. The burgeoning business was able to purchase the gorgeous building it currently operates from today in 1936 in order to provide even larger services to more people.
“The property has had several owners, but the home
that sits here today can be traced back to Lorenza and Francis Raoul Tanneret. It was sold to the Pitard Family in 1896 as the ‘Tanneret Cottage.’ The Pitard family owned the home until 1906, although they left their mark—a custom-made, marble fireplace that depicts three of their children, who they lost very young, being ascended into heaven. The home was then purchased by Mary Ellen Rehm Virgin and her husband, Uriah J. Virgin, a florist known as ‘The Flower King.’ In the home, another fireplace, adorned with flowers and vegetables, pays homage to their family business. They owned the mansion up until it was sold to National Undertakers in 1931, and from them to E.J. Ranson & Sons, Inc., who sold it to my family in 1936,” Patrick elaborated.
While the house was considered large in its time, the Schoen family added on to the original building as space was needed. The main lobby and some parlors were added in the 1950s, a small chapel was built in the 1960s, and a large chapel was added in recent years.
Part of what makes Jacob Schoen & Son special is that they do not shun deceased people based on poverty, race, or orientation. The company motto, “The highest standard of funeral service to all, regardless of financial circumstance,” has proudly stood since day one. The business has willingly taken some controversial clients over the years, including two Italian men who were killed in the 1891 mass lynching of Italian people. In 1973, very few funeral homes would accept the victims of the Upstairs Lounge arson because they were presumed to be gay. Some of the bodies remain anonymous because families refused to identify or claim them. Jacob Schoen & Son was one of the homes that received the bodies, and Patrick can recall the charred scent when the remains were brought in.
Death is an inevitable part of life, and funerals can be a beautiful way to say goodbye. The services provided by the Schoen Family are just as much for the entire community of New Orleans as they are for the recently deceased and the living bereaved.
down the main street of Mid-City, it is impossible not to notice the gorgeous home at 3827 Canal Street. This is not some millionaire’s home, nor is it a venue to throw lavish weddings. This is a home to celebrate the dead.ROBERT WITKOWSKI
11:30am
Monte Cristo French Toast
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By Joey Cirilo
Vampires walking amongst the crowd, the fresh blood from their most recent victim spilling from the corners of their smirking lips. Members of the walking dead desperately seeking to satisfy their never-ending hunger. No, John Carpenter didn’t release a new film—it’s simply the Saturday night before Halloween weekend in New Orleans, and Krewe of BOO! is officially underway.
Founded in 2007, Krewe of BOO! first rolled in 2008, operating as a fundraiser for Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. The parade was a massive success, but akin to every ghost story you’ve ever lent an ear to, it disappeared. However, the spirit of the lone Halloween parade would not be forgotten, and, after years of anguish and perhaps a seance, it was brought back from the dead. Vowing to never return to its now empty grave was Blaine Kern Sr., otherwise popularly known amongst locals as “Mr. Mardi Gras.” Mr. Kern was no stranger to the mysticism surrounding Mardi Gras and ultimately, the Krewe of BOO!; his family has been spearheading Mardi Gras since 1932 when Kern Studios was founded. Originally constructed as a float building company, Kern Studios has since expanded their magic on a global-scale. They’ve come a long way from the days when his father, Roy Kern, a native painter, would erect signage for freighters and barges entering the port to make ends meet during the Great Depression. Like Michael Myers, no amount of running will outpace you from their extended reach. Unless your name is Laurie Strode, it is best you accept your fate.
In 2013, the Krewe of BOO! was given a new life. Brian Kern, son of Blaine Kern Sr., took over the reins as Krewe Captain with
the lofty expectation of growing his army of the dead beyond levels any mere mortal could comprehend as their Chief Spookster. Brian, himself, was raised in the giant float dens, oftentimes playing hide-and-seek as a youngster with his brothers and scampering around warehouses as if they were the hallways of the Stanley Hotel. He’d find refuge in the pockets of the monstrous well-crafted designs his family had created and wait for the opportune moment to remain hidden or jump out and reveal his whereabouts with a demonstrative, “BOO!" as the sound of his brothers’ footsteps drew near. It was only right that Brian would one day be crowned the King of Halloween. Speaking on Krewe of BOO!, Brian states, “It’s an expensive parade to put on the streets, and, unlike Mardi Gras, where the city pays for it, Krewe of BOO! pays for everything from sanitation to EMS, police— everything. If they like Mardi Gras, they’re going to love Halloween. I’d love to have more people from New Orleans riding in the parade to have fun and help off-set the costs.”
Each year, the Vieux Carré metamorphosizes into the “Boo Carré,” although the parade in itself is reason enough to pack the route. Brian and Krewe have done a monumental job in surrounding it with hair-raising events that take place both before and after.
TOP ROW: Krewe of BOO! Halloween parade
BOTTOM ROW, FROM LEFT: Trixie Minx burlesque float, Happy Hour, Monster Mash party.
600 Carondelet St, New Orleans, Louisiana
Daily happy hour, weekly Jazz brunch, monthly pasta-making & wine tasting classes.
630 Carondelet Street, New Orleans,
On Friday, there is the Royal Luncheon, held at noon at a (now) ghastly Galatoire’s. A satisfying meal for those capable of ingesting human food is provided along with entertainment and a premium cash bar to wet your beak with the Krewe Royalty in attendance, including this year’s King of Krewe of BOO!, Ron Bienvenu.
After this feast, it’s critical that one walk off the consumed carbohydrates and adult beverages. Fortunately, a Second Line immediately follows, providing the perfect opportunity to do just that. Ghouls, goblins, and everything in-between flood the streets of the French Quarter, bobbing and swaying to the music of familiar brass instruments from days past. Petrified residents, shopkeepers, and the like peer out from behind curtained windows in morbid curiosity as the Krewe marches its way to their next destination, Pat O’ Briens. There, a happy hour with specialty cocktails is held in the courtyard. Laughter and the sound of clinking glasses reverberates off of historic buildings, filling the surrounding air. Not yet a member of the Krewe or related to the army of the dead? Have no fear, this is open to the public. Come at your own risk.
The horrific happy hour is but a precursor
name of good fun—right?
If you’ve managed to live yet another day, the Krewe cordially invites you to attend their annual New Orleans’ Zombie Run. Taking place the following morning on the day of the parade, a two-mile race through the narrow French Quarter ensues. Zombies are put on notice as zombie killers cleverly disguised as the Big Easy Rollergirls seek out and hunt those in attendance in an attempt to clear the city of its current infestation. This method is not CDC compliant, yet highly effective. If you arrive safely at the quarantine zone on Frenchmen Street, you’re one of the lucky few.
Whether you’re lining the streets, plastic cup in hand, or observing the parade from one of the many VIP viewing parties, it is a
sight to behold. Over 40 marching groups now participate in the parade and Brian works hard to ensure the throws are of the highest quality ranging from glow in the dark beads to Halloween-themed Peeps. “The goal is to throw a lot of nice things, so when you catch them, you want them.”
Succeeding it is a post-parade costumed after-party at Generations Hall. Krewe of BOO! is more than just a themed romp throughout the city. It takes a supremely talented, dedicated bunch to successfully pull off a weekend’s worth of activities to kick off Halloween weekend in true New Orleans fashion, Mardi Gras-style. The only thing more frightening than the festivities themselves would be missing out on them.
Costuming is serious business in New Orleans. From wigs to hats to everything in between, locals will find any reason to throw on their most elaborate getup and have a good time. Because the city is a melting pot of cultures, there is no wonder why citizens love to try out new things while also appreciating different looks.
The diverse heritage has created a unique and vibrant cultural scene where people celebrate and embrace their roots through various art forms, including costuming.
The magic isn't in just wearing the costumes but also in creating them. Costuming here is an art form, and it's common for locals to spend long periods creating and placing much thought into their costumes. No matter the occasion, creating a magnificent piece to wear is just as crucial as actually wearing it.
That said, costuming in New Orleans is not limited to Halloween. Though the spooky holiday is heavily celebrated in the city, dressing up is a year-round affair.
Costuming is deeply intertwined with the city's rich heritage, especially during Mardi Gras. The iconic festival holds a tradition of costuming that has become an integral part of the celebration, but its roots extend far beyond this festive occasion.
The origins can be traced back to the 18th century where both French and Spanish cultures contributed to the practice of masquerading and costuming, which were common elements of European carnival traditions.
Masked balls, with origins in Venice, Italy, were a significant part of the festivities. This, along with costuming,
allowed people to disguise themselves, blur social boundaries, and engage in revelry. The anonymity afforded by costumes allowed people to engage in activities that would otherwise be deemed inappropriate or scandalous.
These European customs merged with the African, Native American, and Caribbean influences in the region, creating a unique blend of traditions that shaped the costuming culture that we know today.
During Mardi Gras, not only do you find patrons dressed in an array of costumes, but a wide variety of krewes and groups dress in themed costumes, keeping their long standing traditions alive.
Many of these krewes continue their traditions today. Rex is known for cloth coverings and face masks while the Zulu afro is a highlight of their costume. Many of the walking and neighborhood krewes continue decades-long traditions of suiting and costuming such as the Baby Doll Ladies famous babydoll style dresses to the Skull and Bone Gang's skeletal ensemble.
The elaborate and creative costuming has become a hallmark of the event, with people spending months preparing their outfits. The costumes range from traditional, historical, and mythological characters to pop culture figures and political satires.
holiday in New Orleans. There are many factors that contribute to its popularity. Yes this is quite the haunted city with its stories of vampires, witches, and ghostly tales, but costuming is truly what attracts locals to Halloween.
As they do for Mardi Gras, many people spend months deciding on their perfect costume and usually take an equal amount of time creating it. Streets, including Frenchmen and Bourbon, encourage creative costuming, which makes it a joyous affair for those who love to indulge.
Halloween parades such as the Krewe of BOO! parade along with other kid-friendly events including Boo at the Zoo foster costuming environments that
In the mid-19th century, private organizations known as "krewes" began to form and host Mardi Gras parades, events, and balls. Like today, each krewe had its theme, and members wore elaborate costumes to participate in the parades and festivities. These krewes added a sense of exclusivity and competition to the celebrations as they vied to outdo each other with extravagant floats and costumes.
In the early 20th century, Mardi Gras celebrations and costuming declined due to various factors, including World Wars and economic hardships. However, in the 1950s and 1960s, there was a revival of interest in Mardi Gras and the art of costuming, and the traditions have continued to flourish since then.
Costuming and dressing up in the Big Easy are also influenced by ancestral factors. Many families have passed down costuming traditions from generation to generation. Parents often involve their children in the creative process, fostering a love for costuming from a young age.
This continuity reinforces the cultural significance of costuming and ensures its preservation in the future.
As a longstanding tradition in the city, costuming has become an essential part of New Orleans' cultural identity and helps preserve the city's unique heritage.
With centuries of costume culture consuming the city, there's no shock to how Halloween became such a popular
keep on the tradition of loving to costume from Halloween to any opportunity that comes about.
The love for costuming in New Orleans helps to celebrate all of the things that the city stands for such as culture, community, creativity, and individuality. It has become an integral part of the city's identity, making New Orleans a place where art, history, and festivity come together in a kaleidoscope of colors and costumes.
Over the years, the obsession with costuming has consumed every aspect of our culture, from festivals to Pride to Linen Nights, Saints games, and so much more. Just give us a reason to wear a costume, and be sure that we will do just that.
The dead of New Orleans' permanent homes made of stone and brick peacefully sit right next to the homes of the living. It’s not uncommon to encounter a walking tour or two sweeping through the cemetery as burials are happening.
By Emily HingleDuring certain times of the year, you can join a marathon through a graveyard. Some of the colorful characters that have lived here brought their intriguing stories with them to their final resting place, and these graves are a sight to behold.
New Orleans is, of course, the birthplace of jazz, and the genre keeps people coming here. While the names of artists such as Louis Armstrong and Danny Barker are omnipresent, the musician that inspired them is not quite as well known.
Charles Joseph “Buddy” Bolden was a prominent cornetist in New Orleans in the first years of the 1900s. He played an unprecedented mix of ragtime, blues, and gospel, often adding his own improvisations to it. When he was only 30 years old, Buddy suffered dementia praecox (schizophrenia) and was admitted to the Louisiana State Insane Asylum. He lived here for more than 20 years until his death in 1931.
Due to his impoverished status, Buddy Bolden was interred in an unmarked grave in Holt Cemetery, an indigent cemetery located next to what became Delgado Community College’s campus. While the exact location of Buddy’s remains is unknown, Delgado Community College honored the progenitor of jazz with a jazz funeral and proper headstone in 1996 which includes Jelly Roll Morton’s quote, “The blowingest man since Gabriel.” This is also the cemetery where you’ll find drummer Jessie Hill, grandfather of James Andrews and Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews.
Many prominent New Orleanians came to nearby Metairie Cemetery for eternal rest. Tom Benson, Ruth Fertel, Anne Rice, and Al Copeland are some of the more well-known residents. Among the somber graves, you’ll come across one that’s a bit more cheerful. Musician Louis Prima’s grave features the descriptor “A Legend” followed by his song lyrics. You can’t help but sing along when you read, “When the end comes, I know, they’ll say, ‘Just a gigolo;’ life goes on without me.”
St. Roch Cemeteries 1 and 2 were established in 1874 in the Bywater neighborhood. In the center of St. Roch Cemetery 1, a small chapel sits and allows those in need of healing to send prayers to St. Roch. The chapel was commissioned by Rev. Thevis in gratitude for St. Roch’s intercession for sparing his congregation during the yellow fever epidemic of 1867. As you gaze upon the altar of the chapel, you’ll be looking at the grave of Rev. Thevis who is interred under the floor at the foot of the altar.
In addition to the chapel that serves as the National Shrine of St. Roch, people have brought items including glass eyes, prosthetic limbs, plaster casts of afflicted, now healed body parts, and other tokens that serve as thanks for St. Roch’s intercessions.
While citizens love to uphold long-standing traditions and enjoy teaching newcomers about
them, the legend of Storyville is not as widely told. The 19-year-long era of legalized vice in a notorious red-light district called Storyville was considered a decadence best left forgotten when it ended in 1917. Though numerous women and men met their demise here through violence, disease, and self-inflicted means, it has been difficult to locate the final remains of most of its residents.
One of the most notorious madams of Storyville was Josie Arlington. Born Mary Deubler in 1864, Josie worked her way through strife, violence, and even fire to become a rather wellrespected madam. She was so successful that she purchased a $2,000 burial plot in Metairie Cemetery and commissioned the building of a $5,500 red marble tomb with flaming torch statues, a copper door, and a statue of a woman bearing flowers at the door. Josie passed on February 14, 1914, at the age of 50.
Just one month later, Josie’s large house and the tomb were sold to attorney Jose Morales when a dispute over Josie’s estate ensued. Josie’s body was moved elsewhere in the cemetery, and the name on the tomb was quickly changed to its new owner’s name. Eventually Jose Morales and his family were interred there, and Josie’s exact location within Metairie Cemetery is unknown.
Someone else who wound up buried in Metairie was also moved around after their demise. Musician Gram Parsons played with The Byrds and The Flying Burrito Brothers in the 1960s and 1970s, but he was also a trust fund recipient and an heir to his grandfather’s vast estate. Gram passed away due to an overdose in 1973 at the age of 26 in California. Though Gram told his manager Phil Kaufman that he wanted to be cremated at Joshua Tree National Park in the event of his death, Gram’s stepfather demanded that he be brought back to Louisiana for burial (possibly in an attempt to access Gram’s estate).
The young musician’s remains were placed in a casket and brought to the airport to be flown from Los Angeles to Louisiana. Phil Kaufman and assistant Michael Martin managed to find a hearse that they drove to the airport and persuaded the employees to let them take the body as the plan had changed. The two men drove Gram’s body to Joshua Tree National Park and lit it on fire. The gasoline-fueled fireball caught the attention of the authorities, and they found the smoldering remains. Phil and Michael were fined for stealing the coffin, and the charred remains were eventually sent back to Louisiana. Gram Parsons is officially interred at Garden of Memories Cemetery in Metairie under a gravestone that bears a carving of Gram singing and playing guitar.
Revered or notorious in life, these residents of New Orleans are still drawing crowds in their death.
NOLA holds a unique reverence for our dearly departed citizens.
By Kevin Credo
One of the definitive figures in the tradition of late-night horror hosts, Morgus spent decades on the airwaves to deliver a distinctly local spin on horror and B-films. With the Halloween season as well as the 65th anniversary of the first Morgus the Magnificent broadcasts in 1959 coming up next year, it’s harder to think of a better time to celebrate with a lookback on the Crescent City’s most famed scientist, mad or not.
Created by Sid Noel, who got his start in New Orleans radio with Loyola in the 1950s, Morgus the Magnificent was a New Orleanian answer to the early horror host phenomenon. Broadcast live from the universally-nondescript location of “behind the old city icehouse,” Morgus would take to the airwaves to share the cutting-edge of (mad) science. Morgus’ assistants, the silent executioner-hooded, Chopsley, and the reanimated skull-computer, Eric, would assist the professor’s unique experiments in a series of scenes to accompany the breaks between the longer-format feature that would play late at night.
Each program would feature Morgus taking a crack at a different experiment, his own on-display genius often less of a hazard than his miscommunications with Chopsley or other rambunctious denizens of the city. Episodes would range from Morgus attempting to use the scientific method to identify and rehabilitate vampires, to building a machine that can diagnose any illness and uncovering secret technology taken from the Egyptian pyramids. Oftentimes, the experiments would link up with the corresponding B-movies that the segments were interspersed around. Audiences around New Orleans would be watching the program for two endings: the movie itself and, more importantly, what happens to Morgus’ experiment and how it would all go sideways. Described by Noel as a sort of “Don Quixote in a lab coat,” Morgus’ unshakable drive to test the limits of science became something of a symbol of the city’s resilience itself.
While Noel was careful in calculating the fantastical world-building of Morgus, he was conscious of creating a project that intersected authentically with the zeitgeist of its New Orleans setting. As Chuck Brillowsky, operator of Morgus’ official website and Facebook page recounts: “He would comment about locations, streets, and buildings that we knew, the current mayor or president's name was spoken, and he'd pick fights with local celebrities with humorous results. When he'd look out that slanted window in the back of the lab, he would be looking down and mentioning the names of nearby cities and neighborhoods that were actually there.” The location
of the “old city icehouse” the show was filmed in, though, was up for debate. After a period in which the show was broadcast in Detroit, Morgus again returned to New Orleans, broadcasting new iterations of the program in 1965 and 1987. These updated segments often reused certain experiment scenarios, updating them with color and more specific editing techniques worthy of modern television.
Morgus’s mark in New Orleans was hardly solely tied to late-night, though. Morgus, Chopsley, and Eric regularly appeared at local events for venues such as Pontchartrain Beach, and, in later incarnations of the show, he was featured providing comedic input on local weather reports. In more recent years, the program was paid direct homage in “Friends of Science,” the opening track of the legendary New Orleans jam band Galactic’s 2010 album Ya-Ka-May, even using audio excerpts from Morgus as samples within the recording.
Episodes of the program have been collected on limited-run DVDs and the feature film, The Wacky World of Dr. Morgus has yet to receive an HD rerelease despite being the first ever transition of a TV horror host into a full-length feature film (26 years ahead of Elvira’s 1988 feature Mistress of the Dark). However, clips were broadcast on a Halloween stream by the Historic New Orleans Collection in 2021, and local New Orleans television station WYES has recently started airing clips of the show close to Halloween in 2022. For this year, WYES Chief Operating Officer Dominic Massa has confirmed that Morgus will be coming back with not just a broadcast of select episodes on Halloween night, but an in-person event, “Morgus Madness,” at their studio space in Lakeview on Saturday, October 28.
In a place that has so many connotations of the macabre and the fantastical, Morgus is a character that persists in New Orleans’s memory. He’s a figure who, if you were to ask anyone over a certain age around the city, there’s a very good chance they would not only know of Morgus but have a specific story and memory to tell about how relatable the experience of tuning in on Saturday nights to watch the program could be. The city’s friends of science will make sure that such incredible experiments and the genius of their creator, are going to be remembered for years to come.
On Saturday, October 28, WYES will present Morgus Madness—a C elebration of Dr. Momus Alexander Morgus with food, fun, and live music. The event will be from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the WYES studios. Come in your favorite Halloween costume and celebrate all things Morgus.
An icon of horror in one of the most storied, supernatural cities in the world, Morgus the Magnificent has lived for years in New Orleans’ collective consciousness.
Over 60 years since his initial broadcasts, Morgus is still Magnificent.
By Brooke Adams
New Orleans is a city known for jazz funerals, ghost tours, and elaborate and beautiful above-ground tombs in our cemeteries, so it should come as no surprise that the Day of the Dead is very popular here.
The Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday that originated from pre-Hispanic indigenous groups, including the Aztec, Toltec, and Nahua, who believed that death was simply a continuation of life and not something to be mourned but, instead, celebrated. The holiday is a fusion of these indigenous traditions with the Catholicism of Spanish conquistadors. Followers of this tradition believe that on this special day, the dead come back to visit the living. Many of those who celebrate Día de Los Muertos erect altars covered with the deceased’s favorite foods, pan de muerto, flowers and photos, and drinks to welcome the dead back to the land of the living.
New Orleans is a city known for how we celebra te life, even in the face of death. Our city’s rich and diverse cultural heritage is influenced by African, French, Spanish, Native American, and Caribbean traditions, each blending to give rise to our unique way of honoring the departed. Our city has also long been connected to the Catholic church. As New Orleans draws such heavy historical and cultural influences from Catholicism, and Spanish and Native traditions, the Day of the Dead is widely celebrated across the city.
On November 1 and 2, coinciding with the Catholic holidays of All Saints’ Day
and All Souls’ Day, New Orleans joins many other places around the world in observing the Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos. In New Orleans, the Day of the Dead is celebrated with various events and activities all over town. Families visit cemeteries to commune with their departed and tend to their tombs. Some build colorful altars and leave elaborate displays. Others decorate themselves in the manner of stylized skeletons.
For those who want to experience the Day of the Dead in New Orleans, here are some of the events going on around the city:
DAY OF THE DEAD FET GEDE
New Orleans Healing Center
November 1 5:30 p.m. to 11:15 p.m.
La Source Ancienne Ounfo, a New Orleansbased Vodou society, in partnership with the New Orleans Healing Center, will celebrate the Day of the Dead/Fet Gede with a Vodou ceremony to invoke the Gede. This is a free celebration on November 1, which includes local artists, a potluck dinner, a parade, and a traditional voodoo ceremony. The event fuses the Day of the Dead with a Voodoo ceremony for Gede, a family of Haitian Voodoo spirits, who are the patrons of the dead.
Krewe de Mayahuel
November 2, 7 p.m.
In the most typical of New Orleans traditions, any reason to have a parade is a good reason to have a parade. The Day of the Dead is no ordinary excuse either. As a very Catholic city, nearly all Catholic holidays have a parade associated with them. In fact, you can thank the Catholic Church for the mother of all parade seasons—Mardi Gras. As the Day of the Dead has a deep connection to Catholicism, it would be near sacrilege to not have a parade. The Krewe de Mayahuel hosts an annual Mexican Day of the Dead procession, honoring the lives of those who have died (particularly in the preceding year).
The parade route travels from the Bywater to St. Roch Cemetery #1, where they stop at the gates, and there will be singing and remembrances.
Before the procession, at 4 p.m., the Krewe de Mayahuel will present a mini festival at Mickey Markey Park.
DE MUERTOS AT THE MUSEUM
New Orleans Jazz Museum
November 3, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Noche de Muertos at the Museum is a gala organized by the Jazz Museum and the Mexican Consulate in New Orleans. Admission to the event is a bit pricey at $100, but this is not an event to pass up. You can expect an enchanting evening filled with cultural immersion, live entertainment, and an array of delicious Mexican snacks and enticing cocktails. There will also be a costume contest, with awards given for the most captivating and imaginative Day of the Dead attire.
Lafayette Square
Saturday, November 4, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. New Orleans' love for festivals is endless, so it comes to no surprise that there is one for the Day of the Dead. The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana Young Professionals and the New Orleans Jazz Museum host an annual Día de Los Muertos Festival. You can enjoy local food, music, kids’ activities, local vendors, and much more. In a more personal touch, you can visit the ofrenda table to honor your loved ones. The Festival also holds a costume contest. This free family-friendly fest is to die for.
The Day of the Dead in New Orleans is more than just a holiday, it is a celebration of life and culture. It is a way of honoring the past while embracing the present. It is a testament to the resilience and diversity of New Orleans and its people.
Here we are again, starting the holiday countdown for another season. We can all gather in multitudes with costumed strangers and have a shockingly good time on Halloween night. But homebodies can play it safe and binge watch this list of certified New Orleans Halloween movie classics from the [supposed] safety of their home.
It is true that sometimes there is nothing better than grabbing your significant other and black cat, chowing down on some popcorn and a big bowl of candy (the one that was supposed to be for the trick-or-treaters), for an unforgettable, scary night at the movies. Let’s roll ‘em.
Night of the Strangler (1972) – Have you lain awake nights, just dreaming of encountering a proto-slasher film, starring none other than Micky Dolenz, the lone surviving member of The Monkees? Well, you are in luck, and the producers will even throw in an interracial romance, back when our world was a little less openminded. In fact, it is this racial strife in the city of New
Orleans that forms the catalyst for a series of murders, all of which seem to involve three siblings who spend their time arguing about who to love.
Mardi Gras Massacre (1978) – Yes, the title references another one of our city’s favorite holidays, but since there are beautiful girls being killed in gruesome ways by an absolute ritualistic crackpot, that screams Halloween. Truly, these two holidays go handin-hand, as dressing up for either is recommended for the adventurous partygoer and wide-eyed children alike. Of course, said children should go nowhere near this film—with its rampant nudity and gore, you know, the proud benchmarks of a “video nasty” qualification.
From legendary New Orleans exploitation filmmaker Jack Weis (Quadroon), follow along as our strange and dapper “John” continually inquires into the “evilest” prostitute he can find, only for them to literally lose their hearts on his Aztec altar. Will the hard-boiled NOPD detectives catch up with this killer, before all the prostitutes in New Orleans are gone? Hint: they are rumored to still be in the city.
The Beyond (1981) – As a lover of Italian horror, there is no conceivable way to formulate a list of this stature, without this masterpiece of supernatural terror, from the
real Godfather of Gore (apologies to Herschell Gordon Lewis), the incomparable Lucio Fulci. You know you’re in for a good time just by looking at the film’s alternate title—Seven Doors of Death. Not to mention that it was the second film of Fulci’s Gates of Hell trilogy (between City of the Living Dead and House by the Cemetery). As for the film itself—a warlock is crucified in a hotel basement by a New Orleans lynch mob, and it uncovers one of the seven gates of hell, which lies dormant until a woman (Catriona MacColl) renovates the cursed property in the present day. Reanimated corpses, hungry tarantulas, faces
burned away by acid are just a few of the horrific delights that await the viewer. Co-star David Warbeck (Twins of Evil) joins this surreal journey to the netherworld.
Cat People (1982) – There are deadly black leopards loose in the city of New Orleans. The New Orleans Zoo (now Audubon) can’t seem to round them up. Could it be because they’re just a couple of cursed, incestuous “werecats” who moonlight as humans? Zoo curator Oliver Yates (John Heard) has his hands full, making love to the sexy and exotic Irena (Natassia Kinski), when he’s not helping the NOPD investigate the murders propagated by her brother Paul (Malcolm McDowell) and his pet panther. A very loose remake of Jacques Tourneur’s 1942 classic, watch these big felines “chew” the scenery in front of fascinating local backdrops, such as Audubon Park, City Park, and the Harvey Tunnel (with a not-yet completed Westbank Expressway in clear view). Director Paul Schrader’s follow-up to American Gigolo, this stylish horror film features a synth score by Giorgio Moroder and a closing title song by David Bowie.
Dracula 2000 (2000) – It was obvious that we couldn’t conclude our Halloween movie list without the granddaddy of all monsters. Yes, you guessed it, bad, old Dracula himself. At least, a long-haired, beefcake version of the Transylvanian count played by Gerard Butler, which wasn’t a big deal at the time because no one knew who he was yet. Here, Dracula is the reincarnation of Judas Iscariot (put that into your Dracula folklore pipe and smoke it), and he travels to New Orleans in search of Van Helsing’s daughter, Mary. You know, the
basic plotline in nearly every retread of Bram Stoker’s creation on the silver screen since the Hammer Films of the 1970’s. Except this time we’re in the Crescent City. Not only that, but watching this film is like jumping into a 1990s time machine, as Mary spends a lot of time working at the Virgin Megastore, that former mecca of physical media collectors. Co-starring Jonny Lee Miller, Omar Epps, legendary thespian Christopher Plummer, and about a dozen other familiar faces.
Skeleton Key (2005) – tells the story of a New Orleans hospice nurse (Kate Hudson), relocating to the good ol’ bayou where all sorts of supernatural shenanigans take place including: hoodoo, conjuration, and even soul transference in this atmospheric U.S.-German co-production. Filmed at Felicity Plantation in St. James Parish, it co-stars Gena Rowlands and John Hurt.
Renfield (2023) – Classic monster fans can rejoice as Universal has revamped its Dracula folklore with this horror-comedy about his daytime protector. Nicolas Cage gives everything he’s got to the role of the Prince of Darkness (as we expect nothing less), whose lair is located beneath what used to be Charity Hospital. Nicholas Hoult plays Renfield, the Count’s titular, yet faithful manservant, whose “new rule” of kidnapping only bad people gets him involved with New Orleans’ drug lords. What’s even crazier is that he’s prepared for such a battle due to his years of insect consumption, which has turned him into a cross between a generic superhero and Popeye. Co-starring Awkwafina as one of NOPD’s finest.
New Orleans’ newest festival is comin’ in hot and loud. They will be taking over the New Orleans Jazz Museum grounds and the surrounding areas from October 2022 with food, drinks, symposiums, vendors, artists, a museum exhibit, and, of course, tons of music.
The lineup is dripping with Louisiana royalty, including the one and only Irma Thomas, George Porter Jr., Leo Nocentelli, Stanton Moore, the New Orleans Suspects with Maggie Koerner, Big Sam’s Funky Nation, the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Erica Falls, Boukou Groove, Mark Mullins, Tribal Gold, Bucktown Allstars, and several bands from members of the revered Neville and Batiste clans. Guest artists Ghost-Note and Eric Krasno will be jamming with locals and there will be plenty of surprises.
NOLA Funk Fest aims to fill the October void left by Voodoo Music + Arts Experience with this explosion of musical talent plus live painting and great vibes. What’s most exciting is that this isn’t planned to be just a one-time event. It’s about what came before and what’s to follow. It’s a presentation of the musicians who have created and perpetuated the heart and soul of funk music, a genre that is essential to our city’s history, and while funk is the thread, that thread will be pulled towards R&B, Mardi Gras Indian music, rock, experimental jazz, gospel, and big band.
It also serves as an announcement for the Louisiana Music & Heritage Experience, an
enormous arts museum, created along the same vein as Cleveland’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture, and Memphis’ Stax Museum of American Soul Music. Set to be built across from the New Orleans Convention Center, at 120k square feet, projecting 700k+ visitors a year, and planning for a 2027 launch date. The new museum aims to memorialize decades of Louisiana’s musical history while weaving in our current culture.
Christopher Beary, the Developer and Board Chair for the Louisiana Music & Heritage Experience offered some sneak peaks of what we can expect from the future institution.
“It won’t be your typical museum where you go look at things on a wall and read some text next to it. It’s gonna be interactive. We’re going to be the first music museum that integrates live music performances into the actual experience. We’re designing a stage where [performances] will occur from 10 in the morning until 5 or 6 o’clock at night. It will mean a new style of education in the museum arena and the employment of a significant amount of New Orleans musicians. The mission here is to allow our musicians to be the tellers and the beneficiaries of this [presentation] of our music culture.”
365 days a year, you’ll find great music in New Orleans. This October, music lovers are invited to experience New Orleans Music Month — a celebration of the city’s vibrant music ecosystem.
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Brought
Beary is the ultimate social entrepreneur, having founded six local non-profits, including the Funky Uncle Live, an offshoot from his position as Captain of the Funky Uncles in the Krewe of Tucks, which he cites as inspiring the NOLA Funk Fest and starting the original conversations about the museum.
“The Funky Uncle Lounge is a rolling soundstage that’s designed to bring music to Mardi Gras crowds with studio quality sound, so an amplified band can sound right during a parade. It serves the dual purpose of being a portable stage for charity events around town with live music. When COVID occurred, we did live shows and interviews from the float every single week, even during Hurricane Ida, for two full years. Creating this archive of interviews and performances got us thinking about grabbing and institutionalizing this musical legacy and putting it out in a way that inspires and educates. [In those two years,] we raised over a million dollars and helped over 900 musicians and gig workers with grants.”
FRIDAY OCTOBER 20, 2023
3:00-4:00 p.m. Funky Uncle Allstars
4:00-5:00 p.m. New Orleans Suspects feat. Maggie Koerner
5:00-6:00 p.m. Irma Thomas
6:15-7:30 p.m. Ghost-Note feat. Tony Hall
7:30-9:00 p.m. Experiencing the Meters with Leo Nocentelli
SATURDAY OCTOBER 21, 2023
12:00-1:00 p.m. David Batiste and the Gladiators
1:00-2:00 p.m. Mark Mullins and Friends
2:00-3:00 p.m. Boukou Groove
3:00-4:00 p.m. Omari Neville and the Fuel
4:00-5:00 p.m. Tribal Gold feat. Big Chief Juan Pardo
5:00-6:00 p.m. Ivan Neville
6:00-7:30 p.m. Krasno Moore Project
7:30-9:00 p.m. Dirty Dozen Brass Band
SUNDAY OCTOBER 22, 2023
12:00-1:00 p.m. Jamal Batiste Band
1:00-2:00 p.m. Jason Neville Funky Soul Band
2:00-3:00 p.m. Eric’s Gonna Die
3:00-4:00 p.m. Russell Batiste Tribute
4:00-5:00 p.m. Big Sam’s Funky Nation
5:00-6:00 p.m. Erica Falls and Vintage Soul
6:00-7:00 p.m. George Porter Jr. and the Runnin’ Pardners
7:30-9:00 p.m. Bucktown Allstars
Beary is joined, on the Advisory Board and Board of Directors, by a who’s who of heavy hitters in every relevant field. PJ Morton, Irma Thomas, and Adonis Rose are on the team and everyone has had a part in steering this enormous dream ship.
“Reid Wick, our Grammy chapter representative, and I had been talking about the project. He said, ‘You’ve got to bring Bob Santelli in.’ He’s been heavily involved with every major music museum. Then Don Marshall, the executive Director of Jazz Fest suggested that we roll out other types of programming that we are going to feature at the museum, like oral histories with music sprinkled into them (we call them symposiums). We’re having two of those [at Funk Fest]. It’ll showcase who we are and what we do.”
Funk Fest’s Symposiums are called “The Bridge Between Jazz & Blues and R&B, Rock & Roll and Funk.” One features Earl King on Saturday, October 21, the other features Dave Bartholomew on Sunday, October 22. They feature family members of the artists, historians, guest musicians, and the backing band each day will be George Porter and the Runnin Pardners. The symposiums will pair with the exhibit inside the museum called, “I Found My Thrill: The Music and Artistry of Fats Domino and Dave Bartholomew.”
The Louisiana Music & Heritage Experience won’t be exclusively focused on funk. It will cover ever genre that ever came out of Louisiana, from blues to zydeco, hip hop to Cajun music, rock ‘n’ roll to gospel, but when asked why this festival is focused on funk, Beary excitedly explained that “funk is the genre out of which we’re born. The Funky Uncle series is what bore our whole idea (even though that wasn’t exclusively funk either). Funk is a very New Orleans genre. There is this idea that the bridge to the modern genres of music (funk included) comes from jazz and blues on the one hand, then R&B and rock ‘n’ roll on the other side, so we’re trying to feature and highlight those bridge builders in the Dave Bartholomew and Fats Domino exhibit—a 2,500 square foot exhibit curated by Bob [Santelli], that will [open with the Funk Fest], stay at the Jazz Museum for 6 months, then move to all of the museums around Louisiana.”
This wildly ambitious project seems well on its way, with the location chosen and funding started, a dream team of creatives assembled, a solid mission in place, and a huge party to kick it all off. NOLA Funk Fest is going to be a celebration, and, it’s safe to say, it will be the first of many.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 9
Apple Barrel Mark Appleford
Bamboulas Rugcutters, Melataun's, Ed Wills
Bourbon Orleans Hotel Wes Anderson
Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan, Southdown Souls
Breakway’s R&B il gruppo
Buffa’s Doyle Cooper Trio
Carrollton Station Two-Tone Merigold, Parallel
Threads, Larry’s Lounge
Chickie Wah Wah Alexis & The Sanity
Columns Hotel Stanton Moore Trio
DBA Secret Six Jazz Band, Jump Hounds
Dos Jefes John Fohl
Fritzel’s Lee Floyd, Richard Scott
New Orleans Jazz Museum Taiko Drummer
Gasa Gasa Pinko & Nerver
House of Blues Rina Sawayama
Kermit's Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge
Mike Jones
MRB Ben Buchbinder
Preservation Hall Preservation Brass
St. Roch Tavern Lilly Unless
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10
Bamboulas Andy J Forest Blues, Giselle Anguizola, Villains
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, O.G.’s, Steve Masakowski
Blue Nile Bomb's Ex-Lover
Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan, Steve
Mignano
Broadside David Buchbinder, Dan Oestreicher
Buffa’s Alex McMurray
Capulet Washboard Chaz
Dodwell House Down in Tremé, John Boyd
Cannon
Dos Jefes Dale Spalding
Fritzel’s Richard “Piano” Scott, Colin Myers
Holy Diver amazing Henrietta
Irene’s Monty Banks
Kermit's Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge Irvin
Mayfield, Kermit Ruffins, J Batiste
Mahalia Jackson Theater Snarky Puppy
Maple Leaf TBC Brass Band
New Orleans Jazz Museum Yusa, Victor
Campbell
Siberia A Giant Dog, Dregs
The Rabbit Hole Rebirth Brass Band
Treme Hideaway Juvenile
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11
Bamboulas J.J, Boardwalker and The 3 Finger
Swingers, Roule and the Queen
Bayou Bar Firm Roots, Peter Harris, Derek
Douget, Dwight Fitch
Blue Nile New Breed Brass Band
Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan, Southdown Souls
Broadside BIRTH, Trapper Keaper, Cranston
Clements
Buffa’s Wooton Wednesdays
Cafe Negril Colin Davis, Night People
Capulet Susanne Ortner
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
DBA Tin Men, Roadmasters
Dos Jefes Tangiers Combo
Fillmore Lil Yachty
Fritzel’s Richard Scott, Bourbon Street Stars,
Gasa Gasa Pile, Prewn, KC Wren
Hard Rock Cafe Adam Pearce
Irene’s Monty Banks
Joy Theater Ethel Cain
Madam Vic’s Bruno Elisabetsky
Maple Leaf Skeptic Moon
MRB Lynn Drury
New Orleans Jazz Museum New Orleans
Tropicalia
Old Point Bar Jamey St. Pierre
Pour House Huey C
Siberia Jeffrey Lewis, Voltage
St. Paul’s UCC Church Amina Scott
The Jazz Playhouse Big Sam
The Joy Theater Ethel Cain
The Rabbit Hole Earthkry
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12
Apple Barrel Bubbles Brown
Bamboulas Roule and the Queen, Miss Sigrid, Christina Kamini
Bayou Bar Kaleidoscope, Ashlin Parker, Victor Campbell
Blue Nile New Breed, Where Y'at Brass Band
Bourbon Street Drinkery Cyprus Angels, Southdown Souls
Breakaway’s R&B Tuba Skinny
Cafe Negril Sierra Green
Capulet Belinda Moody
Chickie Wah Wah Sari Jordan
Davenport Loungtipie Jeremy Davenport
DBA Aurora Nealand Wood, Little Freddie King
Dmac’s Da Lovebirds
Dos Jefes Mark Coleman, Cass Faulconer, Charlie
Kohlmeyer
Fritzel’s John Saavedra, Kevin Ray Clark
Gasa Gasa Dog Party, Flip Fitch
Gendusa’s Italian Eatery Santi “Harmonica”
Garcia House of Blues Yacht Rock Revue
Houston’s Hansen’s Garden District Band
Irene’s Monty Banks
Houston’s Hansen’s Garden District Band
Irene’s Monty Banks
Le Bon Temps Roule Khaliko, Joe Gelini
Madam Vic’s The Emerald Trio
Maple Leaf Dave Jordan
MRB HG Breland Duo
New Orleans Jazz Museum Oscar Linero, Marcia
Ball
NOLA Brewing Jamie Bernstein, Dave Easley
OAK Wine Bar Buddha Bellies
Orpheum Theater LPO
Polo Club Lounge John Royen, Robin Barnes
Pour House Friday the 13th, Shawn Williams
Santos Bar Man on Man
Tipitina’s Soul Rebels
Toulouse Theatre Del Water Gap
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14
Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell
British pop band The 1975 will be coming in October for their Still… at Their Very Best Tour to support their recent album Being Funny in a Foreign Language.
Thursday, October 12, 7:30 p.m., $25 to $230, saengernola.com
Le Bon Temps Roule Soul Rebels
Madam Vic’s Ricardo Ferrini, Andy J Forest
Maple Leaf Johnny Vidacovich, Nicholas Payton
MRB Clint Johnson
Orpheum Theater LPO
Peacock Room Da Lovebirds, Robin Barnes, Pat Casey
Polo Club Lounge John Royen
Pour House Ron & Tina
Santos Bar Genitorturers
Smoothie King Center The 1975
The Jazz Playhouse Brass-A-Holics
Toulouse Theatre Sweet Crude
Vaughan’s Lounge Corey Henry
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13
Apple Barrel Bubbles Brown
Bamboulas Jaywalkers, Chris Christy, Bettis, Les Getrex
Bayou Bar YYRP, Peter Varnado, Joe Ashlar
Blue Nile Kermit Ruffins
Blue Nile Balcony Room Conjunto Tierra Linda
Bourbon Street Drinkery Cyprus Angels, Southdown Souls
Breakaway R&B Chris Christy Band
Buffa’s Fr Ron
Bullet’s Sports Bar Sporty’s Brass Band
Cafe Negril Higher Heights
Chickie Wah Wah Whiskey Bayou
Congo Square Le Code Noir, Bill Summers
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
DBA Season of the Witch, Dwayne Dopsie, Zydeco
Hellraisers
Dmac’s Cast Iron Cactus
Dos Jefes Tom Fitzpatrick
Fillmore Blue October
Fritzel’s Chuck Brackman, Kevin Ray Clark
Gasa Gasa Pricked, Bad Misters
Hard Rock Cafe Kes O’Hara
House of Blues Sariyah Idan
Bamboulas Stephen Brasher, Boardwalker, Paggy
Prine
Blue Nile George Brown Band, Gov't Majik
Bourbon Street Drinkery Cyprus Angels, Southdown Souls
Brieux Carre Brewing Company Sister Street
Aces, Planet of the Little Green Men, Dick Deluxe
Buffa’s Freddie Blue
Cafe Negril Sierra Green
Chickie Wah Wah Samantha Fish
Congo Square Le Code Noir
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
DBA Tuba Skinny, Eric Lindell
Dos Jefes Sunpie
Fillmore Corey Holcomb
Fritzel’s Lange/Woodis, Jamil Sharif
Gasa Gasa Milly, Rocket, Sleep Habits
Hilton Riverside Phil Melancon
Houston’s Hansen’s Garden District Band
Le Bon Temps Roule Reverend Rob B. Mortimer, Ted Hefko
Maple Leaf Julian Primeaux, Sgt. Splendor
Margaret Place Hotel Monster Bash, Very Cherry
MRB 2’s a Crowd
NOLA Brewing Hash Cabbage
Oak Wine Bar Tom Leggett
Polo Club Lounge John Royen, Bean
Pour House John Lisi, Delta Funk
Roosevelt Hotel Leslie Martin
Sweet Lorraine’s Rick David
The Jazz Playhouse Nayo Jones
Tipitina’s Steel Woods, Danno Simpson
Toulouse Theatre Erin Rae, Lostines
White Roach Anna McClellan, Sharks Teeth
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15
AllWays Lounge Sabertooth Swing
Bamboulas Les Getreux, Midnight Brawlers, Ed Wills
Blue Nile Baked Potatoes, Street Legends
Bourbon Street
Drinkery Cyprus
Angels, Bang Bang
Breakaway’s R&B
Tangiers Combo
Brieux Carre
Brewing Company
Jamie Berstein, Dusky Waters, Swingin’ Doors
Broadside Son Rompe Pera
Buffa’s Some Like it Hot
Bullet’s Sports Bar 24/7
Cafe Negril Vegas Cola
Congo Square Le Code Noir, Bill Summers
DBA Palmetto Bug stompers, Eric Lindell
Da Jump Off Lounge Big 6 Brass Band
Dos Jefes Tony Testa
Fritzel's Big Joe Kennedy
Gasa Gasa Dawn of Ouroboros, Teratoma
Houston Hansen’s Garden District Band
Howlin’ Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band
Jazz Playhouse Quiana Lynell
Joy Theater Raye
Maple Leaf Papa Mali, Cass Falconer, Wayne
Maureau
NOLA Brewing Shawan Rice
Polo Club Lounge David Boeddinghaus
Pour House Jamey St. Pierre
Preservation Hall Preservation Legacy Band
Santos Bar Bob Log Ill, Luxurious Faux Furs
The Jazz Playhouse Quiana Lynell
The Maison Nickel-A-Dance
Treme Hideaway Big 6 Brass Band
MONDAY, OCTOBER 16
Apple Barrel Mark Appleford
Bamboulas Jon Roniger, Melataun's, Ed Wills
Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan, Southdown Souls
Capulet Layla Musselwhite
Chickie Wah Wah Alexis & The Sanity
Columns Hotel Stanton Moore Trio
DBA Secret Six Jazz Band, Jump Hounds
Dixon Concert Hall Faina Lushtak, Julian Milkis
Dos Jefes John Fohl
Fritzel’s Lee Floyd, Richard Scott
Gasa Gasa Pepperbelly
Kermit's Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge Mike
Jones
Maple Leaf George Porter Jr.
MRB Ben Buchbinder
St. Roch Tavern Sister St Aces
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 17
Bamboulas Andy J Forest, Giselle Anguizola Bar Marilou In the Library
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, O.G.’s
Blue Nile Bomb's Ex-Lover
Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan, Steve Mignano
Buffa’s Alex McMurray
Capulet Lady O
Dos Jefes Kris Tokarski
Fritzel’s Colin Myers, Jamil Sharif
Gendusa’s Italian Eatery Santi “Harmonica” Garcia
Holy Diver Amazing Henrietta
House of Blues Signs of the Swarm, To the Grave, Last 10 Seconds of Life
Houston’s Hansen’s Garden District Band
Irene’s Monty Banks
Joy Theater Johnnyswim
Kermit's Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge Irvin Mayfield, Kermit Ruffins, J Batiste
Maple Leaf TBC Brass Band
New Orleans Jazz Museum Arrowhead
Orpheum Theater Mt. Joy
Polo Club Lounge David Boeddinghaus
Santos Bar Halluci Nation
The Rabbit Hole Rebirth Brass Band
Toulouse Theatre George Clanton
Treme Hideaway Juvenile
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18
Bamboulas Boardwalker, Roule and the Queen, New Breed Brass Band
Bayou Bar Firm Roots, Derek Douget, New Orleans Groovemaster
Blue Nile New Breed Brass Band
Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan, Southdown Souls
Broadside Very Cherry, Phil Degruy, James
Singleton
Cafe Negril Colin Davis
Capulet Brian Quezergue
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
DBA Tin Men, James McClaskey
Dos Jefes Gloria Turrini
Fritzel’s Richard Scott, Bourbon Street Stars
Gasa Gasa Panama Papers, Sly Watts, Nancies
Irene’s Monty Banks
Jazz Playhouse Funkin’ It Up
Madame Vic’s Thugsy Da Clown, Stanley Roy
Maple Leaf Cardboard Cowboy
MRB Lynn Drury
New Orleans Jazz Museum Jamil Sharif
Old Point Bar Jamey St. Pierre
Orpheum Theater Ke$ha
Pour House Huey C
Santos Bar Metal Vamps Gorelesque
The Jazz Playhouse Big Sam
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19
Bamboulas Miss Sigrid, Wolfe John, Villains
Blue Nile Where Y'at Brass Band
Cafe Negril Sierra Green
Chickie Wah Wah Deer Tick
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Gasa Gasa Budokan Boys
House of Blues Third World, Legendary Wailers
Le Bon Temps Roule Soul Rebels
Peacock Room Da Lovebirds, Robin Barnes, Pat
Casey
The Jazz Playhouse Brass-A-Holics
Toulouse Theatre Beauty School Dropout
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20
Bamboulas Chris Christy, Les Getrex, Bettis
Blue Nile Repeat Offenders, Kermit Ruffins
Buffa’s Johnny Sansone, John Fohl
Cafe Negril Sierra Green, Higher Heights
Carrollton Station Dial-Up Tones, Sweet
Magnolia
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Fillmore The Tipping Point
Hilton Riverside Phil Melancon
Le Bon Temps Roule Retrofit
Smoothie King Center Alabama
Tipitina’s Generational, Mmeadows
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21
Bamboulas Stephen Brasher, Boardwalker, Paggy
Prine
Blue Nile Khris Royal, Dark Matter
Cafe Negril Sierra Green
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Fillmore Desi Banks
Gasa Gasa Djunah
Hilton Riverside Phil Melancon
Le Bon Temps Roule Hash Cabbage
Music Box Village Nathalie Joachim
Orpheum Theater LPO
Republic Luci
Santos Bar drag me, Chanel Beads
The Jazz Playhouse Nayo Jones
Tipitina's Lost Bayou Ramblers
Toulouse Theatre Allison Russell
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22
Bamboulas Les Getreux, Midnight Brawlers, Ed Wills, Jon Roniger
Blue Nile Baked Potatoes, Street Legends Brass
Band
Buffa’s Some Like it Hot, Z2 Jazz Trio
Cafe Negril Vegas Cola
Gasa Gasa Boyscott, Nova One
Music Box Village Nathalie Joachim
Southport Hall Drowning Pool, Adelitas Way
The Jazz Playhouse Quiana Lynell
Tipitina’s Bruce Daigrepont
MONDAY, OCTOBER 23
Apple Barrel Mark Appleford
Bamboulas Jon Roniger Band, Rugcutters, Melataun's, Ed Wills Blues Explosion
Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan,
Southdown Souls
Buffa’s Doyle Cooper Trio
Cafe Istanbul Tim Berne, Aurora Nealand, Hank
Roberts
Capulet Crescent City Gentlemen
Chickie Wah Wah Alexis & The Sanity
Columns Hotel Stanton Moore Trio
M
NOLA Funk Fest celebrates Louisiana’s rich music history, and to mark the future opening of the Louisiana Music & Heritage Experience.
October 20 - 22, 3 p.m., $45 to $345, nolafunkfest.com
DBA Secret Six Jazz Band
Dos Jefes John Fohl
Fritzel’s Bourbon Street Stars, Richard Scott
Gasa Gasa Mitchell Mobley, NOLA Synth Cult
House of Blues Expendables, Bumpin Uglies
Kermit's Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge Mike Jones
Maple Leaf George Porter Jr.
MRB Ben Buchbinder
St. Roch Tavern Max Bien Kahn, Maddy Kirgo
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 24
Bamboulas Villains, Giselle Anguizola, Andy J
Forest
Blue Nile Bomb's Ex-Lover
Buffa’s Alex McMurray
Gasa Gasa Meltt
House of Blues The Church
New Orleans Jazz Museum Arrowhead
Saenger Theatre TIGERAMA
The Rabbit Hole Rebirth Brass Band
Toulouse Theatre Jockstrap
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25
Bamboulas J.J, Boardwalker and The 3 Finger
Swingers, Roule and the Queen
Blue Nile New Breed
Cafe Negril Colin Davis, Night People
Civic Theatre Unknown Mortal Orchestra
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Gasa Gasa Speedy Ortiz
Gasa Gasa Cindy Lee, Freak Heat Waves
Hilton Riverside Phil
Melancon
House of Blues
Michelle Branch
Le Bon Temps Roule
Killer Whale
Mardi Gras World Subtronics, Dr. Fresch, Level Up, UBUR B2B PHISO
Orpheum Theater Raphael Saadig
The Saenger Theatre Heilung
Toulouse Theatre Altin Gün
Tipitina’s Alanis Morissette tribute
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28
Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell
Bamboulas Stephen Brasher, Boardwalker, Paggy
Prine
Blue Nile George Brown
Cafe Negril Sierra Green
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Hilton Riverside Phil Melancon
Mandeville Lakefront Sunset Symphony
Mardi Gras World John Summit, Mau
P, Aluna, Merger
Santos Bar Morning 40 Federation
The Joy Theater Chappell Roan
The Saenger Theatre Celtic Thunder
Tipitina's Galactic
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29
Bamboulas Les Getreux, Midnight
Brawlers, Ed Wills
Blue Nile Baked Potatoes, Street
Legends
Buffa’s Some Like It Hot
Cafe Negril Vegas Cola
Fritzel's Big Joe Kennedy
House of Blues Sunny Day Real Estate
The Jazz Playhouse Quiana Lynell
Tipitina's Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Dogs in a Pile
Toulouse Theatre Bully
Rock band My Morning Jacket, hailing from Kentucky, will be bringing their experimental, psychedelic sound for the North American stretch of their new fall tour.
Tuesday, October 31, 8:30 p.m., $53.50 to $203, saengernola.com
House of Blues Peter Murphy, Adrian Belew, Scrote
New Marigny Theatre Milhaud
The Jazz Playhouse Big Sam
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26
Bamboulas Miss Sigrid, Christina Kamini, Wolfe
John
Cafe Negril Sierra Green
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Fillmore 6LACK
Gasa Gasa Ulrika Spacek, Holy Wave, New Fools
House of Blues Here Come The Mummies,
Perpetual Groove
Le Bon Temps Roule Soul Rebels
Peacock Room Da Lovebirds, Robin Barnes, Pat
Casey
Smoothie King Center Maluma
The Jazz Playhouse Brass-A-Holics
Toulouse Theatre EVAN + ZANE
Friday, October 27
Bamboulas Jaywalkers, Chris Christy, Les Getrex, Bettis
Blue Nile Caesar Brothers, Kermit Ruffins, Trumpet Slim
Buffa’s Washboard Chaz
Cafe Negril Higher Heights
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
MONDAY, OCTOBER 30
Apple Barrel Mark Appleford
Bamboulas Melataun's, Ed Wills
Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan, Southdown Souls
Capulet Daphne Parker Powell
Chickie Wah Wah Alexis & The Sanity
Columns Hotel Stanton Moore
DBA Secret Six Jazz Band, Jump
Hounds
Dos Jefes John Fohl
Fritzel’s Lee Floyd, Richard Scott
Gasa Gasa Messa, Maggot Heart
House of Blues Nicotine Dolls
Kermit's Tremé Mother-in-Law
Lounge Mike Jones
Maple Leaf George Porter Jr.
MRB Ben Buchbinder
Siberia Painted Hands, mssv, Anareta
St. Roch Tavern Chris Acker, Zach Bryson
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31
Bamboulas Villains, Giselle Anguizola, Andy J
Forest
Blue Nile Bomb’s Ex-Lover, Strange Roux
Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan, Steve
Mignano
Capulet Washboard Chaz
Chickie Wah Wah George Porter Jr.
Dos Jefes Joe Krown
Fritzel’s Colin Myers, Fritzel’s All Star Band
Gasa Gasa Uniform, Body Void, Doctors
Gendusa’s Santi “Harmonica” Garcia
Holy Diver Amazing Henrietta
House of Blues Sammie
Irene’s Monty Banks
Kermit's Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge Irvin
Mayfield
Maple Leaf TBC Brass Band
MRB And Then Came Humans
New Orleans Jazz Museum George Brown, Arrowhead Jazz Band
Orpheum Theater My Morning Jacket
The Rabbit Hole Rebirth Brass Band
Toulouse Theatre Brian Jonestown Massacre
October 8–31 | neworleans.com/musicmonth
New Orleans is celebrating the first ever New Orleans Music Month this October in partnership with local organizations, music festivals, and business leaders. The month will feature a new music industry conference called NOLA MusiCon and will be an exciting four day event that will help to inform and educate those in the music business, as well as emphasizing that New Orleans is a viable city in the industry. NOLA MusiCon will highlight the live music events in the city during the month of October.
October 8–November 4 | neworleansnightmare.com
For those who enjoy a good fright, New Orleans Nightmare Haunted House is an intense and fear-inducing experience that is not for the faint of heart. This interactive opportunity is available on weekends during Halloween season and is known for chilling Satanic themes. The haunted house will open on September 22 and runs through November 4.
October 8-November 4 | themortuary.net
Lovers of haunted houses will thoroughly enjoy the Mortuary this spooky season. Located right at the dead-end of Canal St, they host ghost tours in a historic Victorian mansion from 1872. Only three miles away from the French Quarter, this mansion used to house its own mortuary. It will open for the season on September 16 and run through November 4.
October 14 | louisianaspca.org/events/ louisiana-spcas-carnival
The Louisiana SPCA will be holding their inaugural carnival this year to celebrate pets and their owners. This immersive community event will engage with families through educational activities in order to emphasize the importance of keeping pets and their owners together. The event will take place from 2-6 p.m., and tickets can be purchased online.
October 21 |
frenchmarket.org/ event/boo-carrehalloween-haunt-3
Boo Carré is the perfect kid-centric event with live music, children’s activities, and even a New Orleans-style second line. There will be plenty of planned activities, including an opportunity to trick or treat for children. Wear your favorite spooky costume and come on out. The festivities will start on Sunday, October 21 at 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. that day.
October 21 | nobadance.com/performances/ complexions-contemporary-ballet
If you need a break from the spooky festivities of Halloween, spend an evening unwinding with the New Orleans Ballet Association. This dynamic evening will feature music from all different genres and will showcase an entirely new and exciting version of human movement. The night will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Mahalia Jackson Theater.
CREOLE & CAJUN FOOD ARTS & CRAFTS VENDORS ANTIQUE DEALERS
CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES HOUSE TOURS
October 21 | kreweofboo.com/ monstermash
9AM TO 4PM
LIVE MUSIC PERFORMANCES BY:
Krewe of Boo will be hosting their annual post-parade party this year, so the party doesn’t have to stop just because the parade is over. Held at Generations Hall, there will be drink specials, costume contests, live entertainment, and more. Doors open at 8 p.m., and both general admission and VIP tickets are available for purchase.
October 27 | themetronola.com
Halloweekend means more than just dressing up in your scariest look—it’s also time to dance and cut loose at Fright Night at the Metropolitan. The night will be hosted by Griffyn, featuring Kai Wachi, SidePiece, and a number of other talented musicians and DJs. Bring some friends and enjoy a night out on the dance floor, or purchase a VIP ticket for even more perks.
October 27-October 28 | hellsgala.com
October 28 |
$9 for adults and teens
$5 for children ages 6 - 12 Free for children 5 and under
RTA will be celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Perley A. Thomas streetcar this fall. They will be hosting a block party from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the corner of Dublin and Willow St. With lots of fun in store, this will be the perfect spot to celebrate the historic and iconic New Orleans streetcar.
If you’re looking for a themed party to go during the Halloween season, Hell’s Gala will be perfect for you. As one of the biggest parties in the entire city, Hell’s Gala includes fun activities such as a costume contest, performers, food trucks, and much more. The party will run for two nights, starting on October 27 and then finishing the next night on October 28.
Precious
OKTOBERFEST NEW ORLEANS
Oct. 13-14, 20-21, 27-28 | Deutsches Haus, oktoberfestnola.com
Enjoy German food and music in celebration of the immigrants who were welcomed to the New Orleans’ area many years ago. The Deutsches Haus presents this event to share their history and connection to the culture, but all are welcome. So bring the family for an afternoon of drinking, eating, and fun.
CRESCENT CITY BLUES & BBQ FESTIVAL
Oct. 13-15 | Lafayette Square Park jazzandheritage.org/events/ crescent-city-blues-bbq-festival
Pig out and sing the blues at this free-admission festival. Explore the art market and feel the music by acts including Tab Benoit and Little Freddie King at two stages throughout the weekend. Best of all, NOLA’s top barbeque joints will come together to bring you juicy, tangy barbeque.
50TH ANNUAL GEM & MINERAL SHOW
Oct. 13-15 | Alario Center gmsofla.org
It's time to line up once again for the annual Gem and Mineral Show, where big rocks, small rocks, and everything in between will be showcased. This event is for all the stone, mineral, and fossil lovers out there. There will be food and activities as well, so bring the kids.
CRESCENT CITY BLUES & BBQ FESTIVAL
Oct. 13-15 | Lafayette Square Park jazzandheritage.org
The Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival has brought out some top blues performers from all over the South since 2006. It gives young listeners the truth about the origins of jazz and R&B while allowing their elders to reminisce on a blast from the past. No tickets needed.
FESTIVALS ACADIENS ET CRÉOLES
Oct. 13-15 | Girard Park festivalsacadiens.com
This event celebrates French Louisiana, especially the culture of the Cajuns and Creoles. Live music, food, and good times are what you can expect when you attend this vibrant festival. It celebrates Acadian’s history while bringing together an entire community through Southern love.
BRIDGE CITY GUMBO FESTIVAL
Oct. 13-15 | Holy Guardian Angels Catholic Church bridgecitygumbofestival.org
Te Bridge City Gumbo Festival is one that every Louisianian can relate to as its theme is the most beloved dish from our region—gumbo. Between the 2,000
gallons of gumbo and the rides for your kids to enjoy, the whole family will leave with a smile.
LOUISIANA GUMBO FESTIVAL OF CHACKBAY
Oct. 13-15 | 326 Highway 304 lagumbofest.com
If you want to come outside and enjoy nice weather and good food, this may just be the all-in-one festival for you. The Louisiana Gumbo Festival of Chackbay offers delicious gumbo, rides, games, and music. You’ll have the chance to sample lots of different kinds of tasty gumbo.
PRAISE FESTIVAL ON THE BAYOU
Oct. 13-15 | Bayou St. John praisefestnola.com
Created in 2009 to lift victims' spirits after Hurricane Katrina, Praise Fest is a highly anticipated free three-day outdoor event. Families travel from all over to spend a weekend getting closer to the Lord and eating good food in celebration. Gospel music artists, entertainers, and world-renowned speakers will be present.
OLD ARABI SUGAR FEST
October 14 | Old Arabi, oldarabi.org/ sugarfest
In celebration of the history and culture of the St. Bernard community, the Old Arabi Neighborhood Association will host the Old Arabi Sugar Festival on October 14 for a day of community, sweet food, live music, and fun activities at the Aycock Barn. Admission is free and the music lineup is coming soon, so follow their page for more updates.
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
GUMBO COOKOFF
Oct. 14-15 | Bouligny Plaza iberiachamber.org/gumbocookoff
Hot, fresh, and delicious gumbo awaits
in New Iberia. Listen to live music and taste several types of the classic New Orleans dishes as over 100 teams vie to win the “Super Bowl of Gumbo.” Professional and amateur categories include chicken and sausage, seafood, non-seafood, and melange.
Oct. 15 | Dutch Alley, frenchmarket.org
The French Market District will be having their annual Boo Carré Haunt this year with live music, children’s activities, trick-or-treating, and a Spooky Second Line. Be sure to wear your best costumes. Kids who wear costumes are eligible for a free Boo Carré tote bag so they can trick or treat and scoop up on all of the goodies.
NATCHEZ BALLOON FESTIVAL
Oct. 20-21 | Rosalie Mansion, Natchez natchezballoonfestival.com
The Natchez Balloon Festival promises a colorful time and is continuing its tradition with an even better lineup of live music, food vendors, and, of course, hot air balloons. This is one of the best festivals in Mississippi so bring the family for balloons with a side of summer arts and crafts.
Oct. 20-21 | Abita Springs Trailhead abitafallfest.com
Abita Fall Fest is a cozy festival with a harvest matchup, a kids’ zone, food, and live music. This is an event that will provide you with full-on activities all day on the Northshore. Don’t miss out on the After Dark performance on Friday or the Main and Trail stage performances on Saturday.
ANDOUILLE FESTIVAL
Oct. 20-22 | St. John Community Center, andouillefestival.com
Enjoy a weekend full of the best sausage in town. There will be the 48th annual Andouille run, the kickoff and poster reveal, and the famous Andouille Pageant. The famous andouille sausage is a true staple to South Louisiana and there will be plenty for everyone to enjoy.
NOLA FUNK FEST
October 20-22 | New Orleans Jazz Museum, nolafunkfest.com
The Louisiana Music & Heritage Experience is hosting the New Orleans Funk Fest. The festival will feature exhibits and funk artists at the Jazz Museum for a threeday celebration of Big Easy culture, food, and music. The lineup will include Funky Uncle Allstar, Irma Thomas, David Batiste and the Gladiators, the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Big Sam's Funky Nation, Bucktown Allstars, and more.
ROUGAROU FESTIVAL
Oct. 20-22 | 7910 Park Ave. rougaroufest.org
Halloween time means another season with the Rougarou Fest bringing families a spooky good time. Live music, cultural activities, children’s activities, Cajun food, and more await you this year. All proceeds go to the South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center, a nonprofit organization that fights the state’s coastal erosion issue.
GULF BREW
Oct. 21 | Acadiana Center for the Arts acadianacenterforthearts.org/events/ gulf-brew-2023
Louisiana’s oldest craft beer festival, Gulf Brew, will be returning to downtown Lafayette with more than 200 different types of beer to try. There will also be craft vendors, live entertainment, a coronation of the King and Queen of the Brew, and more.
TREMÉ FALL FESTIVAL
Oct. 21 | 1210 Governor Nicholls tremefest.org
Celebrate Treme’s history and culture at this family-friendly festival. With an art market, local food vendors, performances, and activities for all to enjoy, this historic New Orleans neighborhood will be filled with fun for all ages. The fest will also raise funds for St. Augustine Catholic Church.
TOP TACO
Oct. 26 | Lafreniere Park toptaconola.com
For anyone interested in experiencing an exciting taste of Hispanic culture in the South, do not hesitate to buy a ticket for Top Taco. There will be lots of tasty tacos to try. With a purchase of a ticket, the event promises unlimited dishes, cocktails, beers, spirit tastings, and live entertainment.
DOMCON
Oct. 26-29 | Astor Crowne Plaza Hotel domcon.com/sessions/new
You will not want to miss this passion-filled fest. The event is a four-day experience in New Orleans for all the doms, subs, and more out there. Workshops, performances, and intriguing displays will occur before you leave, so be prepared to mingle and have fun while you're doing it.
NOLA REGGAE FEST
Oct. 27-29 | Congo Square facebook.com/nolareggaefest
Vibe along at this year’s Summer Reggae Fest. This is a perfect festival for family and
friends of all ages. There will be performances by Sister Nancy, the Meditations, Tanto Metro & Devonte, Ha Sizzle, Claude Bryant AllStars, and more. There will be great music to dance to and Jamaican food to enjoy.
ACADIA MUSIC FEST
Oct. 28 | Percy Brown Road, Thibodaux, Acadiamusicfest.net
This fest is for true music lovers, both young and old. Marcus King, Better Than Ezra, Niko Moon, and so many more will take the stage for this family-friendly event. Face painting
Oct. 27 - Nov. 5
Experience the hilarious 1974 Mel Brooks movie with this musical featuring the same monster sized silliness.
and a fine selection of handmade crafts and art will also be available.
BAYOU ARTS FEST FEATURING VOICE OF THE WETLANDS
October 28 | Downtown Houma bayouarts.org/bayou-arts-fest
The Bayou Arts Fest is set to commemorate the historical and cultural legacy of Terrebonne Parish. The festival will highlight the musical talent of the bayou, culinary delights from local celebrity chefs, and it will include an exciting kids zone, complete with bounce houses, a reptile petting zoo, refreshing treats, and engaging art activities.
NOLA FILM FESTIVAL
November 2-12 | New Orleans Theaters
neworleansfilmsociety.org/festival
The New Orleans Film Festival will celebrate their 34th annual event, which will bring together 150+ films and 100+ filmmakers to celebrate film in all of its forms. With events in person, along with parties, panels, filmmaker pitches, and more, NOFF will allow audiences to meet filmmakers and filmmakers to network with other people in the industry.
ATCHAFALAYA BASIN FESTIVAL
Nov. 11 | Henry Guidry Memorial Park basinfestival.com
The Atchafalaya Basin Festival originated in 2007 due to the love for community and unity from Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Henderson and Sacred Heart of Jesus Chapel in Butte La Rose. The event features music, a cooking contest, arts and crafts, live and silent auctions, and more.
COVINGTON THREE RIVERS
ART FESTIVAL
Nov. 11-12 | Columbia Street, Covington covingtonthreeriversartfestival.com
Almost 200 artists will cover several city blocks for the Covington Three Rivers Art Festival. Both sides of the famous Columbia Street will be lined with works of art in booths. Different types of crafts will be available from each vendor, including ceramics, paintings, photography, and more.
DESTREHAN PLANTATION'S ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL
Nov. 11- 12 | 13034 River Rd. Destrehan, LA destrehanplantation.org
This year’s festival will have over 160 arts and crafts vendors, who will showcase and sell handcrafted items that won’t be available anywhere else. Also, a variety of Cajun and Creole food dishes will be available to choose from. There will be tours of the plantation home led by historical interpreters throughout the day, as well as additional activities for children.
SLIDELL ANTIQUES & CRAFTS STREET FAIR
October 29-30 | Historic Olde Towne Slidell, slidellstreetfair.com
Slidell’s largest antiques and crafts fair is back this year with more historical and unique items. These creations can add that special touch to your home. The goal of the street fair has remained the same after 40-plus years, to provide family entertainment and promote shopping in the Slidell area.
OAK STREET PO-BOY FESTIVAL
November 19 | 8100-8700 Oak Street poboyfest.com
The Oak Street Po-Boy Festival celebrates the iconic New Orleans sandwich, the po-boy, by bringing together the local community to eat, drink, and dance. This event will include 40 food and beverage vendors, live music performances, an arts market, a kids zone, and a po-boy competition that will be judged by a panel of celebrities
There are certain dishes that may turn people’s stomachs when they are mentioned. While liver and onions, pickled pigs’ feet, and lunch tongue all may sound disgusting to some people, these food items are also really beloved by others. The same can be said
This animal product, which is not actually a “cheese” because it does not contain any dairy, is made from scraps of pig flesh that has been cooked in a way that it , it was traditionally made by boiling a pig’s head in water after first removing its eyes and brain. The pig’s feet are then added in order to get the natural gelatin that is needed to get the dish’s signature texture. Finally, any desired seasonings or other additives to give it either a mild or hot flavor are added.
The finished product, which can be served either cold or room temperature, is versatile enough that it can be eaten a variety of ways such as on crackers, on a charcuterie board, or in a sandwich.
Where hog’s head cheese exactly originated from is, unfortunately, unclear. Different online sources, such as US Wellness Meats, say that it originated in Europe during the Middle Ages and that it may have been used as a way to stretch out people’s food because it allowed them to use as much of the pig as possible and not waste anything.
A British cookbook from 1732 called The Compleat City and Country Cook, written by Charles Carter, contains a recipe for hog’s head cheese in which it is salted, boiled, and finally laid into a cheese press. The recipe also says that one can “souse” the dish, which means it could be pickled in vinegar if desired.
Despite not knowing where hog’s head cheese was specifically created, versions of it can be found all over Europe, as well as in other countries elsewhere around the world. For other English-speaking nations, it can be referred to as “brawn” (in England, Wales, Australia, and South Africa), “potted heid” (in Scotland), and “souse” (in the Anglophone Caribbean).
Now where exactly is hog’s head cheese best represented within the United States of America? Both Wide Open Eats and Hemphill Foods in Jackson, Mississippi, claim it is primarily found in the South.
Louisiana, in particular, has its fair share of restaurants, meat markets, and food product suppliers that contain both mild and hot varieties of hog’s head cheese such as Bourgeois Meat Market in Thibodaux, Richard’s Cajun Foods in Church Point, and Manda Fine Meats in Baton Rouge.
There are also a number of places in LaPlace that serve their own hog’s head cheese such as Jacob’s World Famous Andouille, which has been in business since 1928. Wayne Jacob’s
Cheese Catering Platter, as part of its special Snack Basket, and even as “Christmas trees.” There is also Bailey’s Andouille, which offers mild head cheese by the pound, in different party trays, and in fun molds like different holiday icons, a fleur de lis, and even a brain.
Remarkably, hog’s head cheese is a dish that has withstood the test of time, as well as changing tastes, and is something that can still be found in local grocery stores in the Greater New Orleans area such as Rouses Markets, Terranova’s Supermarket, Zuppardo’s Family Market, and Dorignac’s Food Center
Both mild and hot versions of hog’s head cheese can be found at Creole Country Sausage Factory on David Street and is sold by PaPa Vic’s Hog Head Cheese at Gretna’s Farmers Market, which occurs every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
There are even New Orleans restaurants that feature hog’s head cheese on their menus. Chefs Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski’s Cochon Restaurant, located on Tchoupitoulas Street, has the dish on the restaurant’s Boucherie section of the menu and it comes with crackers, pickles, and mustard. Cochon Butcher, another Link Restaurant Group establishment and directly connected to Cochon, offers head cheese as one of the selections for its charcuterie plate, alongside other selections like Genoa salami, duck pastrami, and mortadella.
Mid-City’s Toups Meatery, helmed by Chef Isaac Toups, offers à la carte hog’s head cheese on its lunch, brunch, and dinner menus. The ever-popular and quirky Turkey and the Wolf, owned by Chef Mason Hereford, also has its own unique take on the dish. Patrons can find hog’s head cheese tacos on the restaurant’s menu, which is served on corn tortillas and dressed with shredded lettuce, jalapeños, sour cream, American cheese, and hot sauce.
While hog’s head cheese may sound off-putting at first mention, it is a dish that has survived for hundreds of years and is still enjoyed by people who are willing to give it a chance. So for anyone craving a truly interesting take on pork, try it out. You might just be pleasantly surprised.
Humble and delicious hog’s head cheese has been eaten around the world for
Whether you’re local or not, you can’t help but love them. Crispy on the outside, with that airy, pastry interior, they’re smothered in as much powdered sugar as you can possibly handle. It’s a recipe for bliss that is celebrated each September at Beignet Fest, located, as always, in City Park. While you’re chowing down on all the traditional, jazzed-up, or even savory beignets that are offered, there’s no better way to appreciate these culinary wonders than to immerse yourself in the history of this four-cornered, steam-risen pastry—one that has traversed empires to become synonymous with our own French Market.
To trace the origins of the beignet, one must first recognize that this word is more or less French for fritter. That’s right, we can thank the long-departed French Acadian settlers of the 17th century for bringing with them this shockingly simple recipe of a deep-fried, yeasted pastry, that many believe originated as far back as the Roman Empire. It’s not hard to acknowledge that fried dough has been around for ages—just ask the Spanish who have a similar pastry called the sopapilla. The only differences are that theirs are triangular, and they are doused in honey upon serving. The Islamic domain can also take a fair amount of credit for this concoction because of the parallels in preparation of the fried dough that was used in Andalusia in the 16th century, which then made its way to the shores of France and their choux pastry cuisine.
In modern times, when most locals (and especially tourists) think of delicious beignets, the first place that comes to mind is the world-famous Café du Monde. From its humble beginnings as a small coffee and chicory stand on Decatur Street in 1862, founder Fred Koeniger eventually decided that the fancy, French café au lait (i.e., coffee with milk) he peddled would be best served by introducing a comparably, innovative food item to accompany it. Hence, their version of the beignet was born, and a love affair began between New Orleanians and powdered sugar–diabetes be damned. Ownership of the establishment changed hands to New Orleans entrepreneur Hubert Fernandez in 1942, where it grew into the iconic brand it is today, boasting ten area locations, with their flagship café at 800 Decatur Street operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, except for Christmas Day.
While everyone undoubtedly loves and appreciates this great grandaddy of the French Market, it is proven that healthy competition benefits the consumer. So I would be remiss not to mention the historically number two establishment of New Orleans beignets, Morning Call
Established in 1870 by Joseph Jurisch, this rival coffee stand grew into an equally popular French Market landmark as well, before rent and redevelopment issues forced them to leave for Metairie in 1974. They returned to New Orleans in 2012, only for
By Jeff Boudreaux
an ugly legal dispute with their landlords at City Park to result in them being replaced in 2019 by Café du Monde. New Orleans’ favorite nomadic beignet establishment has most recently found a home at 5101 Canal Blvd, where you know you’ll be served a unique café au lait, which is derived from their signature, French drip method of coffee making. Never fear, the beignets over here are as delicious as they’ve ever been, especially if you grab a seat at one of their patio tables and apply even more powdered sugar, courtesy of a do-it-yourself dispenser.
Naturally, these two legendary establishments aren’t the only places to get your beignet fix. Café Beignet has been around since 1990, is a Royal Street staple, and boasts three other locations in the city. These folks are so focused on carrying the torch for our favorite pastry that they were the first establishment to even include the word “beignet” in its name. Believe it or not, the items in question were referred to as simply “doughnuts” before a local rebranding in 1958. It seems that everyone involved was just happy that they didn’t have to refer to it as such anymore or explain why it hadn’t a hole in its delectable center. The wonderful, unique situation regarding
the beignet is that you don’t have to venture very far in the city to obtain that unmistakable “order of three,” plus it can forever be appreciated and enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
No matter where you find yourself enjoying them now and into the future, think about the diverse cultures responsible for this sweet treat’s introduction into New Orleans culinary lore, as well as the visionary local merchants who turned it into the celebrated coffeeshop fare that it is today. Whether you prefer to partake in these confectioner’s sugary delights for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or as part of a trusty nightcap with a café au lait, any time is the right time for beignets. Just be mindful of black clothing, and pray you don’t have to sneeze.
One of the great pleasures of living in New Orleans is the abundance of cafés and eateries which serve the state of Louisiana’s official donut (est. 1986)—our beloved, fried beignet.
By Kim Ranjbar
We're bubbling over with breweries from taprooms to microbreweries and brewpubs. At last, New Orleans has it all. Though swillin' brews and other boozy beverages may be one of our city's favorite pastimes, enjoying good food frequently competes for the top slot.
As one might expect, many breweries are focused solely on their beers, leaving food options for pop-ups and trucks, but there are some brewpubs crafting tasty grub as well. For clarification, with prices the way they are these days, having a craft brew with lunch is bound to go over a $20 budget, but maybe we can bubble over a little?
When Bywater Brew
Pub opened nearly three years ago on the corner of Royal and Montegut streets, Chef Anh Luu was behind the wheel offering Viet-Cajun fare with a flare. Though Luu has gone forth to explore new culinary adventures, the brewery bubbles on, and, while not quite as fanciful, the grub is still good. Budgeting in at least one brew, such as a pint of their “snappy” Stimulus Czech pilsner, you can still swing a giant, soft-baked Bavarian pretzel with beer cheese or cut it close with a grilled sausage sando served with fries. Speaking of fries, “my wife's salad” also comes in close, with fresh lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes, topped with a hefty helping of crispy, battered French fries and shredded cheddar cheese.
Located on Decatur Street, the Crescent City Brewhouse has been the French Quarter's sole microbrewery for the past 32 years. It continues their founding tradition of brewing distinctive lagers and award-winning house brews, including Pilsner, Red Stallion, Weiss Beer, and Black Forest. Their abundant choices are more than flight-worthy. Pair a pint with an order of fried alligator with remoulade for dipping, a pub burger on a pretzel bun, or Wolf's German sausage plate featuring steamed pork sausages, sauerkraut and Creole mustard.
The restaurant scene in the bougie South Market District has been bouncing since it debuted, but then something really hoppy happened with the recent launch of Brewery Saint X, the sister establishment to the equally new 'cue spot nearby, Devil Moon BBQ. Naturally, the brewery is taking advantage of the Devil next door with dishes that include smoked chicken wings and pulled pork sandwiches on brioche. Add a 16 oz. can of Swarm Czech dark lager or Time Goes pilsner, and you can stay under budget, but you can only have one. If you don't need to limit your funds, the world is your lager.
Calliope Beer Works is the shiniest of suds on the New Orleans brewery scene, as it just opened a few months ago in July. Owner and brew master Richard Szydlo launched his brewpub inside the former Cowbell spot at the river end of Oak Street with the intention of offering “food-friendly, flavorful beers,” and it seems he has delivered. Szydlo's initial Calliope creations have just become ready for the tap: an IPA, rye pale ale, Belgian blonde, and an ESB (English bitter amber). But the menu has been in swing since day one, offering “fried fungi fingers” made with portabello mushrooms and queso for dipping, hot honey-drizzled chicken and waffle sandwiches, and crab and watermelon salad.
Port Orleans Brewing Co. on Tchoupitoulas Street has been sporting New York-based Avo Taco as a permanent kitchen installment since 2020. This came after hosting a bevy of successful pop-ups for years’ prior. Featuring a “fun, fast-casual” environment, Avo Taco offers a large menu, with everything from carnitas nachos and street corn with cotija and Tajin, to quesadillas, burgers, and—yes—tacos. A couple of “cowboy” tacos with BBQ-braised pork and crispy onions, and 10 oz Dorada Mexican-style lager should see you wellsatiated and under the mark.
Finally, yet another Tchoupitoulas denizen, Urban South Brewery, will be celebrating its 8th year in business this March, just after Mardi Gras. Led by Jacob Landry, the brightly-branded brews have been pleasing so many palates and winning all the awards, they were able to launch a second location in Houston. After a year-long stint in Europe, Landry wanted to “share the gospel of good beer” back in his hometown. Urban South's Americanized European-style brews tend to be fruity and light, from their Grapefruit Holy Roller hazy juicy IPA to the fresh Paradise Park American lager. At their New Orleans location on the LGD end of Tchoupitoulas Street, Urban South has a semi-permanent Urban Smash food truck offering plates of Noni's Chicken Sandwich: buttermilk-battered and fried chicken breast topped with a tangy red cabbage slaw, LCG beer pickles, and Noni's pepper jelly; BBQ bacon burger with smoked gouda; and cheeseburger egg rolls with Tchoup sauce. While you can add a can of brew to several of the sandwiches offered and still make it under budget, Urban Smash also offers one heck of a lunch deal during the week. Just order an Urban Smash burger with a side of fries, and you get a pint of one of their core brews for free.
A few pearls of sugar . . . In a fit of nostalgia for their hometown, French immersion-elementary school teacher Gerard Coulon (a.k.a. Mr. G) and his wife Céline began making Liège waffles, a family recipe, as gifts for neighbors, co-workers and friends. Now everybody wants them. Armed with a real Belgian waffle maker, his mom's recipe (with a few tweaks), and a bin of pearl sugar shipped from the motherland, Mr. G is open for orders at La Wafe (@ lawafe504) baking every Saturday out of their home in Gentilly. facebook.com/NolaWaffle
lowercase please . . . Chef Farrell Harrison, who's worked in local kitchens such as Josephine Estelle and Caribbean Room, has joined forces with hospitality
By Kim Ranjbarwith herb-truffle aioli on brioche and grilled banana bread with maple bacon butter.
1330 Prytania St., (504) 766-6711, beggarsbanquetneworleans.com
Abuzz in the burbs . . . The local restaurant scene is also jumpin' on Metairie Road, what with Chef Michael Gulotta's Italian spot Tana and Las Cruces Tex Mex opening, the mid-summer launch of Garrison Kitchen & Cocktails has fallen slightly under the radar, and that's too bad. Aside from the cool (cooler now it's fall) gazebo tables with individual heating/cooling and sound systems, owner Steven Stewart, founder of Garrison Builders, has tapped Chef John Sinclair to head the kitchen. The menu includes a dizzying array of “American”
veteran Brian Weisnicht to present plates restaurant & bar. The new lowercase concept launched recently in the Cotton Mill, a commercial space on the apartment building's south corner that previously held Hawaiian Don's and, even further back, the Warehouse District location of Sun Ray Grill. Emphasizing ingredients both local and sustainable, the menu is all over the map with everything from Spanish patatas bravas—crispy fingerling potatoes in a piquillo pepper sauce to scallop “maque choux” and saffron pork ragu atop orecchiette.
1051 Annunciation St., (504) 5829020, platesnola.com
Raise your glass . . . The Lower Garden District just keeps getting hotter and it has nothing to do with the more recent signs of global warming. New Jersey-born chef Michael Dilonno opened Beggars Banquet mid-July on Prytania Street. It’s a moody bar and restaurant with espresso martinis, ceviche parfait, and gnocchi with mushrooms in a truffle cream sauce. Beggars Banquet also offers brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, and menu highlights include a sliced steak sandwich
plates
plates including shrimp toast, pork cutlet sandwich, beef kebabs and chargrilled Gulf oysters. Don't leave without trying some of Pastry Chef Jillian Duran's incredible desserts.
2928 Metairie Rd., garrisonkitchen. com
Cooked to order . . . Washington D.C.area restaurant, Medium Rare, has begun its nationwide expansion with the opening of its first out-of-area restaurant in New Orleans, specifically, on Magazine Street. Situated right across the street from Whole Foods in the corner-store building which formerly housed Juan's Flying Burrito, Medium Rare offers a Parisian-like prix fixe menu featuring steak frites, an “award-winning” sirloin steak Coulotte, hand-cut fries, artisan bread, and a mixed green salad for a little under $30. Finish with a slice of key lime pie or six layer carrot cake.
5538 Magazine St., (504) 354-2588, mediumrarerestaurant.com
Munching on memories . . . Luzianne Cafe, an extension of Reily Foods Co., opened a spot created from local grocery
store staples this past June. Featuring a family of brands including Swans Down Flour, Blue Plate Mayonnaise, and, of course, Luzianne coffee and tea, the Girod Street restaurant offers breakfast and lunch menus featuring a morning joy biscuit sandwich (made from Swans Down, of course) with eggs, bacon or sausage, American cheese, and hot sauce, a triple stack of pancakes, and a fried chicken sandwich with Blue Plate buttermilk dressing. It's New Orleans nostalgia on a plate (and in your cup) offered Wednesday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Warehouse District.
481 Girod St., (504) 265-1972, luziannecafe.com
Do it with zest The Zesty Creole
from places such as Grand Isle, New Brunswick, Baja California, and British Columbia. The understated but overtlyshmancy spot also features high-end caviar plates served with cornmeal blinis and crème fraiche, plus a menu created by Executive Chef Paul Terrebonne. Dishes offered include a royal red shrimp cocktail, roasted bone marrow, beef tartare with duck egg, and pecan butter and marinated crab claws.
529 St. Ann St., (504) 399-6954, fives.bar
Nooshe jân . . . With the dissolution of Persian food pop-ups such as Persian Lime and Sabzi, New Orleans desperately needed another source for Persian cuisine, and the answer is here. Baba Joon (@
APPETIZERS
Hummus √ Falafel √
Bathenjan Dip (Roasted Eggplant w/ Garlic) √
Vegetarian Grape Leaves
Lunch & Dinner Daily (Closed on Tuesdays)
DINNERS
Shish Kabob (Chicken, Lamb or Beef) √ Lula Kabob (Lamb) √ Hummus w/ Lamb Meat √ Rosemary Lamb Chops
1500 S. CARROLLTON √ UPTOWN TELEPHONE: 862-6200 / 862-0768
is a new spot that opened up on Canal Street a few months ago. Located a couple doors down from IHOP, this new restaurant launched by Liz Farrington features a menu of casual Creole fare for breakfast and dinner. Enjoy classic New Orleans foodstuffs with everything from shrimp and grits and catfish po-boys to fried oyster platters and jambalaya. Just don't leave without trying the bananas Foster cheesecake.
827 Canal St., (504) 766-6368. zestycreole.com
Fingers or a fist . . . Fives is a brand new raw oyster bar, located on Jackson Square in the French Quarter, featuring local, and not-so-local mollusks hailing
babajoonnola) offered its first menu midsummer at Bywater Brew Pub. Melbournenative Michael Rowshan was born to an Iranian father and Russian/ Ukrainian mother. Though Rowshan's father never taught him Farsi, he did teach him to cook—sharing recipes passed down from his mother and grandmother. In honor of his father, Rowshan named his pop-up Baba Joon, meaning “father dear,” and is offering a changing menu with dishes such as kashk bademjan, a whey and eggplant dip; ghormeh sabzi, a lamb and herb stew served with saffron rice; and kuku kadoo, a summer squash frittata with a garlicky cucumber yogurt. instagram.com/babajoonnola
AMERICAN
Boulevard American Bistro serves wood-fired grilled dishes from their scratch kitchen while providing exceptional service. It’s the perfect spot to have dinner in one of their red booths or enjoy a martini at their bar. Multiple Locations, (504) 889-2301, boulevardbistro.com
Crescent City Steakhouse is a family-owned steakhouse that’s been serving traditional New Orleans cuisine for 89 years. Their filet mignon ordered to your liking is a juicy and flavorful Crescent City delight. 1001 N. Broad St., (504) 821-3271, crescentcitysteaks.com
Daisy Dukes is a fun spot for authentic Southern food. They serve breakfast all day as well as lunch and dinner. Their shrimp po-boy is a fan favorite with crispy seasoned shrimp and tangy sauces. Multiple locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com
Gattuso’s serves comfort food with Southern inspiration. Enjoy live music and sit outside at the bar and grill. Try the firecracker shrimp salad served with fried shrimp in a firecracker sauce. 435 Huey P Long Ave., (504) 368-1114, gattusos.net
Jimmy J’s Cafe is a vibrant spot with colorful stained glass windows for breakfast and lunch. The Cochon Panini serves up a cheesy and jammy bite with slow roasted pork, smoked gouda, bacon jam, and a fried egg. 115 Chartres St., (504) 3099360, jimmyjscafe.com
Legacy Kitchen’s Steak + Chop delivers with their sizzling steaks and traditional American offerings. Their cowboy bone-in ribeye is 22 ounces of pure flavor with sizzling butter and parsley served with loaded mashed potatoes. 91 Westbank Expy #51, (504) 513-2606, legacykitchen.com
Luke blends Creole inspiration with the FrancoGerman brasseries of New Orleans’ past. One of Luke’s signature dishes is a delicious speckled trout amandine served with wild mushrooms, gulf shrimp, toasted almonds, and a side of haricots verts. 333 St Charles Ave., (504) 378-2840, lukeneworleans.com
Luzianne Café serves up New Orleans breakfast classics in the same building where Luzianne Coffee was first roasted in 1909. A staple on the menu is the delicious Morning Joy biscuit sandwich. 481 Girod St., (504)-265-1972, luziannecafe.com
New Orleans Vampire Cafe serves classic breakfast and brunch to both vampires and mortals alike in a hauntingly beautiful setting. While they may not serve blood, their Bloody Marys and specialty cocktails are to die for. 801 Royal St., (504) 581-0801, nolavampirecafe.com
NOLA Steak is Boomtown Casino’s finest dining spot serving juicy steaks and American entrees. There are delicious choices, but consider opting for a signature dish like the 16 oz. ribeye with a loaded baked potato. 4132 Peters Rd., (855) 8055596, boomtownneworleans.com
Spudly’s surely has a menu like no other, especially if you’re a potato lover. A must-try is their “shrimply put” one-pounder spud freshly baked with an original cheese sauce, cheddar, chives, and shrimp. 2609 Harvard Ave., (504) 455-3250, spudlys.com
The Carriage House Restaurant at Houmas House, a plantation estate, offers fine dining at Latil’s Landing Restaurant and casual dining at the Carriage House Restaurant and Dixie Café. The Eggplant Napoleon layers jumbo-lump crab meat, saffron cream sauce, and eggplant medallions. 40136 Hwy 942, houmashouse.com
The Country Club is a sophisticated spot, fusing local and Italian-French cuisine. They offer weekly brunch and serve a delicious short rib and eggs dish complete with tasso and potato hash. 634 Louisa St., (504) 945-0742, thecountryclubneworleans.com/restaurant
The Steakhouse at Harrah’s is a fine establishment to enjoy succulent steaks and local artwork. Savor a steak with a side of their mac and cheese, served with white cheddar and fried onions. 228 Poydras St., (504) 533-6111, caesars.com/harrahs
Voodoo Chicken and Daiquiris serves fried chicken and fruit daiquiris in the French Quarter. Get their four-piece mixed combo, and enjoy a selection of white and dark meat. 629 Canal St., (504) 345-2222, voodoochickenanddaiquirisnola.com
ASIAN
Asia offers traditional Vietnamese and Chinese flavors to visitors in the Boomtown Casino. They offer classics like shaking beef and lo mein noodles as well as great appetizers such as pork potstickers and crab rangoon. 4132 Peters Rd., (504) 3648812, boomtownneworleans.com
Mikimoto is the place to go for fresh sushi and fast, friendly service. They offer an assortment of sushi that is sweet, spicy, tangy, and presented to you in a beautiful, colorful arrangement. 3301 S Carrollton Ave., (504) 4881881, mikimotosushi.com
TD Seafood and Pho House offers Vietnamese food in a cozy environment. Along with pho, they serve boiled seafood with a Louisiana flair. Order the combination pho for their best seafood, veggie, and meat pho. 1028 Manhattan Blvd., (504) 302-1727, tdseafoodphohouse.com
Thai’d Up serves modern Thai street food in a quaint setting. The convivial vibe of this family-owned business would make anyone smile, even more so if paired with their fresh and tasty Thai papaya salad. 1839 Gentilly Blvd., (504) 354-8202, thaidupla.com
Bamboulas exemplifies all the best parts about New Orleans with their Caribbean-Creole cuisine and live music. This casual bar and restaurant are the perfect place to end the day with good food, local music, and dancing. 514 Frenchmen St., (504) 206-8057, bamboulasmusic.com
Bar Marilou is known for its stylish setting and signature cocktails, but they also specialize in French staples. Try their pommes marilou–a crispy layer of potatoes with crème fraîche, bowfin caviar, and chives. 544 Carondelet St., (504) 8147711, barmarilou.com
Buffa’s has been a staple New Orleans-style neighborhood bar since 1939. They are known for their specialty sandwiches, especially their avenger sandwich with deli meats, pepper jack, and spicy sambal sauce. 1001 Esplanade Ave., (504)949-0038, buffasbar.com
JB's Fuel Dock’s open bar and kitchen makes its waterfront setting even more inviting. Try the Supreme pizza with pepperoni, Italian sausage, red onion, green peppers, black olives, and
mushrooms. 126 S Roadway St., (504) 5102260, jbsfueldock.com
Le Bon Temps Roule is a 24-hour bar known for their Bloody Marys, billiards, live music, and juicy burgers and sandwiches. Get the pimento cheeseburger for the perfect last-night bite. 4801 Magazine St., (504) 897-3448, lbtrnola.com
Peacock Room, at the Kimpton Hotel Fontenot, serves handcrafted cocktails and savory small plates. Try the octopus with vadouvan curry and Benton's Bacon, which uniquely combines seafood with curry and bacon. 501 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 324 3073, peacockroomnola.com
Rivershack Tavern has an unmistakable location on River Road with typical dive bar decor and grub. The alligator sausage is the perfect shareable appetizer to snack on while sitting on their famous “bar legs.” 3449 River Rd, (504) 834-4938, rivershacktavern.com
Stumpy’s Hatchet House lets you get your frustrations out or hang out with friends while throwing hatchets. They have a full bar with traditional pub fare and light snacks. 1200 Poydras St, Suite C, (504) 577-2937, stumpyshh.com/neworleans
The Garage is deep in the French Quarter and has delicious food and daily live music. Housed in
Carmo offers vegan and vegetarian dishes from Southeast Asia, West Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. The tiradito Peruvian style sashimi combines the tenderness of fish with the fiery zest of yellow chili peppers. 527 Julia St., (504) 8754132, cafecarmo.com
The Vintage is a cute, stylish café serving small plates, cocktails, coffee, and hot, fresh beignets. If you want something different from traditional beignets, order a flight with your choice of three fancy beignets. 3121 Magazine St., (504) 3247144, thevintagenola.com
Willa Jean is known for their chocolate chip cookies and classic New Orleans dishes. Willa Jean’s unique BBQ shrimp toast is served with gulf shrimp, nola style BBQ sauce and burrata on grilled sourdough. 611 O'Keefe Ave., (504) 509-7334, willajean.com
Cafe Degas serves decadent French cuisine for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. The fan favorite, seared hanger steak with pommes frites, mixed vegetables, and toasted garlic and shallot bordelaise is sure to impress. 3127 Esplanade Ave., (504) 945-5635, cafedegas.com
King Brasserie and Bar brings fresh ingredients to their dishes served within their walls adorned with pop culture legends. Taste the restaurant’s exotic grilled octopus with vadouvan curry and Benton’s bacon. 521 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 324-3000, kingbrasserieandbar.com
A Tavola offers modern Italian cuisine like woodfired pizzas, pasta, or their house-made limoncello. Voted one of the best happy hours in the city, A Tavola Restaurant and Wine Bar, offers modern Italian cuisine with extensive wine offerings. 3413 Veterans Memorial Blvd., (504) 577-2235, atavo.la
a historic building, this bar will transport you to the 1930s. The Cajun Gumbo is a local favorite. 810 Conti St., garagemusicclub.com
The Jimani has good food, sports, a jukebox, and trivia. The hang ova burger will cure you of any hangover with hot sausage patty, bacon, cheese, and a fried egg. 141 Chartres St., (504) 5240493, thejimani.com
The Marsh Room is a bar and grill also serving up rocking live music. The eight o.z. Marsh burger is served on your choice of french bread or bun, and is topped with marsh sauce and pepper jack cheese. 4740 Rye St., (504) 571-5733, facebook.com/themarshroom
Tracey’s Original Irish Channel Bar is a casual spot serving seafood and po-boys. With hundreds of beers and several specialty cocktails to choose from, Tracey’s is a great place to grab a drink and a bite with friends. 2604 Magazine St., (504) 897-5413, traceysnola.com
Cafe Amelie serves tasty Louisiana dishes in their picturesque courtyard. Try their shrimp and grits with blackened gulf shrimp and a corn and andouille maque choux that brings all the Louisiana flavors together 900 Royal St., (504) 4128065, cafeamelie.com
Alto Rooftop Bar, at the Ace Hotel, has succulent Italian small plates and salads at the hotel rooftop pool. The “snacks'' portion of the menu features chicken wings with a calabrian vinaigrette and furikaki. 600 Carondelet St., (504) 900-1180, acehotel.com/new-orleans
Domenica will transport you to Italy with its warm, refined scene and authentic menu offering antipasti, pizza, pasta, and wine. Be sure to try their wood fire-roasted delicata squash, which is flavorful and fresh. 123 Baronne St., (504) 648-6020, domenicarestaurant.com
Josephine Estelle, in the Ace Hotel, specializes in Italian-Southern fusion. Try their rigatoni or their tasty tortellini en brodo, with a rich pork consomme, corn, pickled sweet pepper, and parmesan. 600 Carondelet St., (504) 9303070, josephineestelle.com
Mosca’s has been a classic spot for traditional Italian dishes since 1943 with an unassuming exterior that feels like home. Their famous Shrimp Mosca’s dish is a local favorite with delicious shrimp in shell. 4137 US-90 West, (504) 436-8950, moscasrestaurant.com
Pizza Domenica serves both classic and inventive pies in a chic setting. Try their funghi e salsiccia–a decadent pizza with mixed local mushrooms, black truffle salami, smoked mozzarella, roasted garlic and egg. Multiple locations, pizzadomenica.com
The Original Italian Pie specializes in freshlyserved, budget-friendly bites of pizza, delectable pastas, wraps, and sandwiches. The Italian pie combo is everyone’s favorite with house-made
Bon Terre Credit Stage
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13
6:30 PM – 9:30 PM Reese and His 2 Piece
10:00 PM – MIDNIGHT Snapper and The Fishsticks
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14
NOON – 2:00 PM Darel Gros & The High Rollin Band
2:30 PM – 4:30 PM Ryan Foret & Foret Tradition 5:00 PM
7:00 PM Miller Point 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM Good Feelin 9:00 PM – MIDNIGHT Kings of Neon
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15 10:30 AM Sunday Parade
12:00PM – 1:00PM Strait Hag
1:00PM LIVE AUCTION
1:30PM – 3:30PM Canebreakers
4:00PM – 6:00PM JP Bourgeois
FOR MORE INFO VISIT LAGUMBOFEST.COM
pizza sauce, meat and veggies. 3706 Prytania St., (504) 766-8912, italianpie.com
Venezia Restaurant is the place to go for triedand-true Italian dishes. Enjoy pastas, pizzas, and steaks in a cozy environment with exquisite service. Venezia’s Veal Pontchartrain is the best panne veal option on the menu. 134 N. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-7991, venezianeworleans.com
Alma Cafe is the perfect spot for a trendy, yet homey, Honduran breakfast or lunch. A signature dish, the pescado ceibeño, comes with deep fried red snapper, tostones, and encurtido. 800 Louisa St., (504) 381-5877, eatalmanola.com
Empanola blends South American empanadas with New Orleans flavors. They have been serving up creative and hand-crafted empanadas since 2017, so enjoy their cost-efficient combo deals and try out their various options. Multiple locations, empanolaempanadas.com
Tapas e Vino is a cozy dining spot located on the second floor of Bamboula’s music club. They offer tasty crawfish beignets that are savory and spicy–perfect to have with a glass of merlot. 514 Frenchmen St., (504) 206-8057, bamboulasmusic.com
Tito’s Ceviche & Pisco is a picturesque bistro offering Peruvian cuisine for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Take a seat on the terrace and enjoy the fresh ceviche limeño Multiple locations, titoscevichepisco.com
Felipe's Mexican Taqueria is great for budgetfriendly, fresh Mexican food. If you want the best bang for your buck, order their nachos classico served with grilled chicken and all the perfect nacho toppings. Multiple locations, felipestaqueria. com
Tacos Del Cartel has healthy options for all Mexican food lovers. Their birria tacos are stuffed with chile adobo-stewed beef short ribs and served with a chile adobo broth that taco lovers will love. 2901 David Dr., (504) 381-5063, tacosdelcartel.com
Gita Pita provides quick service for a fresh, healthy Mediterranean meal. Dine in, take out, or order delivery to satisfy your shawarma or gyro craving. Try their fattah and have some baklava for dessert. 2530 Canal St., (504) 766-6519, gitapita.com
Lebanon’s Cafe serves the top Middle Eastern dishes in New Orleans. A staple is their rosemary lamb chops char-grilled to give you that rustic taste and experience. 1500 S Carrollton Ave., (504) 862-6200, lebanonscafe.com
Shaya offers upscale Israeli dishes in a warm, sophisticated setting. This James Beard Awardwinning restaurant has a carefully curated menu with delicious crispy halloumi served with seasonal fruit, apricots, arak, and mint. 4213 Magazine St., (504) 891-4213, shayarestaurant.com
Annunciation brings out the best of New Orleans cuisine with classic and contemporary takes on Cajun and Creole cooking. Annunciation’s escargot appetizer comes served with mushrooms and a Moutarde Beurre Blanc. 1016 Annunciation St., (504) 568-0245, annunciationrestaurant.com
Apolline is a cute, cozy spot for traditional
Louisiana cooking with a modern flair. Their delicious grilled four-bone lamb rack comes with yellow rice, roasted garlic mashed potatoes and collard greens. 4729 Magazine St., (504) 8948881, apollinerestaurant.com
Cafe Normandie, in the Higgins Hotel, pays homage to the spread of French culture and cuisine during World War II. Try their sweet, spicy chicken wings, crab beignets, or pork belly tacos. 1000 Magazine St., (504) 528-1941, higginshotelnola.com/new-orleans
Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop offers classic New Orleans’ fare. Their mumbo gumbo is a medley of chicken, shrimp, crabmeat, sausage, okra, crawfish, and tomato, and it’s best when “stuffed” with Louisiana fried catfish. 230 N Causeway Blvd., (504) 835-2022, gumbostop.com
Crescent City Brewhouse is a microbrewery with Louisiana dishes and live jazz. The redfish Acadiana includes the option to add jumbo grilled shrimp to redfish and roasted potatoes with crawfish cream sauce. 527 Decatur St., (504) 522-0571, crescentcitybrewhouse.com
Curio is the perfect spot to enjoy Creole-influenced cuisine and craft cocktails in a renovated historic building in the French Quarter. Known for their ambiance, they serve up vibrant meals on their balcony overlooking Royal Street. 301 Royal St., (504) 717-4198, curionola.com
Evangeline serves Cajun and Creole flavors in their quaint courtyard. A specialty menu highlight is the Crab Cake BLT, a tender La. blue crab cake topped with bacon, lettuce, tomato, remoulade, and fried egg. 329 Decatur St., (504) 3734852, evangelineneworleans.com
House of Blues Restaurant and Bar is the place to go for live music and Southern favorites. House of Blues’ NY steak & fries is cooked in a delicious “blues rub” and is served with garlic fries. 225 Decatur St., (504) 310-4961, houseofblues. com/neworleans
JusTini’s is known for its specialty cocktails and small-plate style cuisine. This sophisticated spot in the heart of New Orleans has a sleek decor with beautiful chandeliers. 3162 Dauphine St., (504) 381-5098, justinisnola.com
Kingfish honors traditional New Orleans cuisine while adding their own new-school twists. It is the perfect meeting spot for anyone, local or tourist, to stop and have a drink or to catch up over a
meal. 337 Chartres St., (504) 598-5005, kingfishneworleans.com
Lakeview Harbor brings land and sea to your plate with burgers as well as tasty po-boys. They serve up the classics, like an 8 oz. cheeseburger of USDA Choice meat and a buttery hot potato. 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., (504) 486-4887, lakeviewharbor.us
Lil Dizzy’s Café offers Creole classics for lunch in a laid-back environment. A star attraction is the catfish Jourdain, which is topped with crabmeat and shrimp in a lemon butter sauce. 1500 Esplanade Ave, (504) 766-8687, lildizzyscafe.net
Mandina’s is a classic New Orleans restaurant and has been a pink-painted staple in Mid-City since 1932. This family owned and operated seafood spot serves delicious, comforting Creole Italian dishes. 3800 Canal St., (504) 482-9179, mandinasrestaurant.com
Meril serves up New American dining. Take a seat at the bar and peer into the open kitchen to watch their spin on a New Orleans classic muffuletta take shape. 424 Girod St., (504) 526-3745, emerilsrestaurants.com
Mother’s is a cafeteria-style diner that has been serving classic Southern dishes since 1938. Order a quarter fried chicken with two pieces of dark or white meat for a tasty meal. 401 Poydras St., (504) 523-9656, mothersrestaurant.net
New Orleans Creole Cookery is the quintessential New Orleans’ dining experience. Enjoy Cajun and Creole fare while listening
to live jazz on the courtyard patio. The menu star attraction is the pecan crusted redfish. 508 Toulouse St., (504) 524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com
Neyow’s Creole Cafe serves Southern soul food in a setting complete with New Orleans decor. Try their delicious gumbo, crab claws, or the fan favorite chargrilled oysters topped with parmesan and a butter sauce. 3332 Bienville St., (504) 827-5474, neyows.com
Neyow’s XL is next door to the Creole Café offering a fine dining experience with steak, seafood, and more. Try their red snapper, which is subtly sweet and delicate with a hint of nuttiness. 3336 Bienville St., (504) 503-1081, xl.neyows.com
At Nice Guys NOLA, feast on traditional pub fares with a Creole twist in a covered outdoor bar setting. Enjoy the Lambo stuffed potato, featuring grilled lamb chops and BBQ shrimp. 7910 Earhart Blvd., (504) 302-2404, niceguysnola.com
Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro is a taste of France in the heart of the French Quarter. The black angus house filet is best with bacon wrapped around the 8 oz. steak. 720 Orleans Ave., (504) 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com
Parkway Bakery has been perfecting their poboys since 1911. You’ll have your choice of classic and seasonal po-boys. Their flash-fried Louisiana wild caught Gulf shrimp po-boy is New Orleans in a bite. 538 Hagan Ave., (504)-482-3047, parkwaypoorboys.com
Please U Restaurant serves the New Orleans
community with great diner-style dishes. Take a seat at the counter and indulge in a selection of dozens of po-boys, omelets, and more. 1751 St Charles Ave., (504) 525-9131, pleaseunola.com
Restaurant August is a contemporary Creole restaurant featuring dishes that focus on classic Louisiana ingredients. They serve a delicious D'art Engnen dish with citrus flavors seared into a juicy duck breast. 301 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 299-9777, restaurantaugust.com
Short Stop Po-Boys is perfect for a quick bite. Their prime size soft shell crab po-boy is just that—soft on the inside with a double breaded and fried crisp on the outside. 119 Transcontinental Dr., (504) 885-4572, shortstoppoboysno.com
SEAFOOD
Briquette showcases beautiful fresh fish on your plate. Their Louisiana redfish on the half shell combines the flavors of charred lemon butter, Belle River crawfish relish, and heirloom potatoes. 701 S. Peters St., (504) 302-7496, briquettenola.com
Legacy Kitchen’s Tacklebox serves up oysters your favorite way. The Tacklebox has a variety of raw oyster choices, and their chargrilled oysters come served in a garlic and parmesan herb butter. 817 Common St., (504) 827-1651, legacykitchen.com
Middendorf’s has all you need for a fin-tastic experience. Come for their world-famous thin fried catfish and stay for live music and happy hour specials. Order the seafood platter to satisfy all your cravings. Multiple locations, middendorfsrestaurant.com
Seaworthy serves the best catches of the Gulf in a cottage setting. Seaworthy brings a taste of the East, South, and West coasts with wildcaught oysters charbroiled for the best flavor profile. 630 Carondelet St., (504) 930-3071, seaworthynola.com
The Galley Seafood, in the heart of Old Metairie, has been serving fresh, delicious seafood for a long time. Their Louisiana fresh soft shell crab comes topped with crabmeat with alfredo pasta. 2535 Metairie Rd., (504) 832-9055, facebook. com/galleyseafood
Alto (Ace Hotel) 600 Carondelet St. 504-900-1180
Babylon Sports Bar 2917 Harvard Ave., Suite A 504-324-9961
Bar Marilou 544 Carondelet St. 504-814-7711
Boot Scootin’ Rodeo 522 Bourbon St. 504-552-2510
Bourbon “O” Bar 730 Bourbon St. 504-523-2222
Buffa’s 1001 Esplanade Av. 504-949-0038
Club 38
4132 Peters Rd. 504-366-7711
Crescent City Brewhouse
527 Decatur St. 504-522-0571
Evangeline 329 Decatur St. 504-373-4852
Fillmore New Orleans
6 Canal St. 504-881-1555
High Grace NOLA
733 St. Peter 504-218-5649
House of Blues
225 Decatur St. 504-310-4999
Lots A Luck Tavern
203 Homedale St. 504-483-0978
Martine’s Lounge
2347 Metairie Rd. 504-831-8637
Pal’s Lounge
949 N. Rendon St. 504-488-7257
Rosie’s on the Roof
1000 Magazine St. 504-528-1941
Stumpy’s Hatchet House 1200 Poydras St., Suite C 504-577-2937.
The Garage 810 Conti St.
The Marsh Room Patio Bar & Grill 4740 Rye St. 504-571-5733
The Metropolitan 310 Andrew Higgins Blvd. 504-568-1702
The Rabbit Hole 1228 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. 504-354-9709
The Vintage 3121 Magazine St. 504-324-7144
Tracey’s Original Irish Channel Bar 2604 Magazine St. 504-897-5413
Tropical Isle Multiple Locations 504-523-1927
Located on top of the Ace Hotel, Alto is a chill spot to hang out with your friends. You can cool down with some of the bar’s signature cocktails like Calypso and Turkish Royale.
Babylon is a great place to watch football and listen to live music in Metairie. The bar also provides a homey atmosphere with reasonable prices on all of their drinks.
Bar Marilou has a sophisticated French-style atmosphere in a very beautiful location alongside the Maison de la Luz hotel. The bar offers plenty of wine, beer, and craft cocktails.
If you’re in the mood for country, Boot Scootin’ Rodeo is your place. This country bar plays good old music and serves cold beer and cocktails. Mechanical bull included.
The Bourbon “O” Bar is the perfect French Quarter spot, right on Bourbon Street, offering great live music options every night as well as an excellent menu of fresh cocktails.
Since 1939, Buffa’s has served authentic New Orleans fare, spirits, and live music. Feast on Buffa’s award-winning bratwurst jambalaya. Open from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. every day, with local music Wednesday through Monday.
Located inside Boomtown Casino & Hotel in Harvey, Club 38 is the perfect VIP experience. Available through Boomtown’s mychoice® loyalty program, guests can enjoy complimentary food and drinks after signing up.
Enjoy live jazz performances, signature craft brews, and traditional Louisiana bites in the only microbrewery in the French Quarter. Crescent City Brewhouse offers courtyard and balcony dining.
Evangeline provides some of the best Cajun food that can be found in the French Quarter. Enjoy local craft beers and other drinks the restaurant offers like the strawberry blonde or the rum punch.
The Fillmore is a beautiful, state-of-the-art 22,000 square-foot entertainment space above Harrah’s Casino. While there for a night of live music, make sure to grab a cocktail in BG’s Lounge.
A cozy, upscale dive bar offering light bites, specialty cocktails, and friendly service in a chill, inclusive environment. In the heart of the French Quarter, stop in day or night for a sip while touring historic New Orleans.
The House of Blues offers one of the best nightlife experiences in all of NOLA. Choose from a long list of beers, wines, and more and jam out to one of the venue’s many live music events.
Lots A Luck Tavern is one of the best places in New Orleans to play bar games. Watch the next big football game while enjoying cold beer or some of the bar’s other refreshments.
Cold beer and other specialty drinks including frozen Irish coffee, cherry limeade, and frozen sangria await at Martine’s Lounge. Pop-ups are sometimes on-site to offer food.
Open from 3 p.m. to 3 a.m., Pal’s Lounge is one of New Orleans’ perfect late-night spots. Some of Pal’s most popular, and affordable, drinks include the gingerita, the watermelon mojito, and the bacon Bloody Mary.
Located atop of the Higgins Hotel, Rosie’s surrounds guests with World War II-era Americana. Cold beer and delicious small plates like fries loaded with brisket and bacon cheese curds are available.
Stumpy’s Hatchet House gives patrons the perfect opportunity to test their hatchet-throwing skills. Light snacks and refreshing drinks from Stumpy’s fully-stocked bar are available for a quick pick-me-up.
Enjoy all sorts of entertainment like live music and open mic nights at The Garage. In addition to a fully stocked bar, the venue offers tasty NOLA favorites such as gumbo and spicy beef yaka mein.
The Marsh Room is one of the best establishments to hang out at in Metairie. While sipping on your favorite drink, grab some bites such as cheese curds, steak, and the bar’s “Marsh burger.”
The Metropolitan is one of New Orleans’ premiere nightclubs. While partying with your friends, make sure to visit the multiple different bars located all around the large, two-story club.
The Rabbit Hole is a truly eclectic club that always provides a great night of fun. Enjoy the venue’s outdoor and indoor stages for live music, as well as The Rabbit Hole’s downstairs bar.
Indulge in the best of New Orleans’ bubbles and bites at The Vintage with a menu of gourmet beignets, bar bites, coffee, wine, and signature cocktails, Try a mix of sips with a Bitter Good Morning, a boozy cold brew, or Espresso Yourself.
Beer lovers will be happy when they see Tracey’s six draught taps and over 100 bottles of different brands to choose from. The bar also serves delicious oysters, poboys, and more.
Tropical Isle is a Bourbon Street staple that is beloved by both tourists and locals. The bar is best known for being the birthplace of the “hand grenade,” aka New Orleans’ most powerful drink.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Wall Street went into a frenzy after ordinary people invested in GameStop in large numbers, fueled by YouTube videos and a Reddit group. The fictionalized version of those events, Dumb Money, is mostly entertaining and would make an intriguing double-bill with The Big Short Paul Dano plays Keith Gill, a middleclass trader who believes hedge funds are unfairly shorting the video game store GameStop (to short means to bet heavily that something will fail). Keith makes a video explaining why he is investing in the company, and slowly but surely online followers start joining him. Eventually, the stock rises and wealthy hedge fund owners (played by Seth Rogen, Nick Offerman, and Vincent D’Onofrio) start to squirm a bit.
Interspersed with these scenes are
By David Vicari & Fritz Esker
scenes featuring working class investors, including a nurse in debt (America Ferrara), a GameStop clerk (Anthony Ramos), and two heavily in debt college students (Talia Ryder and Myha’la Herrold). These characters are all inventions.
Director Craig Gillespie, who helmed 2021’s surprisingly excellent Cruella, captures the atmosphere of the first year of COVID. There’s a lot of wealthy and upper-middleclass people staying safely at home while their working class servants don masks and keep going out into the world. The script by Lauren Schumer Blum and Rebecca Angelo (from Ben Mezrich’s book) does a good job of explaining the stock market terminology to viewers without seeming like an endless series of exposition dumps.
The
Watching The Creator, other science fiction movies came to mind: Blade Runner, District 9, and The Terminator, but this film is so well done that it feels fresh and not at all like a lazy retread.
In the future, war rages between humans and artificial intelligence because the AI purportedly decided to nuke Los Angeles. The U.S. Military launches a campaign to eliminate AI from existence by hunting down “Nirmata,” the elusive creator of advanced AI. Ex-special forces soldier Joshua Taylor (John David Washington) is recruited to find and destroy the new weapon engineered by “Nirmata.” Joshua takes the mission because he is told by the army rep that they can reunite him with his wife, Maya (Gemma Chan), who has been presumed dead for several years.
Eventually, Joshua finds the new AI weapon, which is a robot in the form of a little girl (Madeleine Yuna Voyles). Joshua names the little girl Alphie, and uses her to find his wife, but that just pisses off his superiors.
feel out of place.
Washington’s impassioned performance really keeps you invested in the character. Joshua is a flawed individual, as he is confused about what side of the fight he is on. This is a terrific character with many layers. Washington also has great chemistry with young Madeleine Yuna Voyles, who is absolutely wonderful here in her first role. The special effects in The Creator are eyepopping. The robots—many of whom have human faces but with visible robotic parts look absolutely convincing. Of course, the effects are awe inspiring because they are at the service of a compelling story and terrific performances.
EskerAt the heart of it is Dano’s performance. If he’s not sympathetic, the movie stalls, but Dano makes you care. –Fritz
The Creator is directed and co-written by Gareth Edwards (Godzilla, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story), and he infuses his story with allusions to the Vietnam War, which gives the movie an effective weightiness. Yes, this film is bleak, as it deals with the horrors of war, but strangely, it has moments of humor that work and don’t
The Creator is occasionally repetitive, and it does go on a little too long, but it is good and thought provoking science fiction, and that is worth something.
–David Vicari
Little Shop of Horrors has nothing on me. Wanna be scared? Just catch me in a swimsuit. I am that cautionary tale—that glimpse into the future. Want really scary? Me wandering around my house in that swimsuit flapping my sagging arms as I wave, shake, and brandish photos from my house inspection. My newly purchased house, Missy Money Pit, and I share the dubious honor of aging. Missy sags. I sag. She needed foundation work, and my foundation could use some bracing. Her piers are scabbed for reinforcement and my knees are supported with KT-Tape (looks more athletic than support hose). There is much to fear, and I feel certain that one day a year, Halloween simply can’t encompass it all. But I shall share with you the many things that frighten me, make my skin crawl, and simply paralyze me with dread.
My body. I am convinced that the body snatchers have taken over me. I mean, come on. Why do I look like an ugly and phony version of myself? I was cute with great legs. When did this growth, this mask, this costume of an old lady take over?
doctor, who as a believer of science and facts, said any health or age related quirks that my body might spring on me, probably will not manifest itself before climate change gets us. Oh! he tempered this with a degree of humor and lots of proactive healthy recommendations for my physical well being. However, he said he wasn’t so sure just how motivated he felt about making financial investments for his future.
My house. Sweet Jesus, it’s bad enough that years of neglect by former slum lords have weakened this once proud and beautiful structure. But even the land it sits upon is cursed. Little tiny sinkholes in the backyard/courtyard. Is it the normal effects of our subsidence that has our city sinking at the same rate that our oceans are rising? Or, as one termite inspector remarked of a rotten half eaten (hungry termites) tree next door, “That just might be the Mother Ship of termites.” Are they tunneling city-wide from here? Either way, anytime I pass a house that doesn’t have the easy to notice termite baits or drill injections around it, I shudder because I know they will tunnel over to it. Termites will eat you out of house and home.
Ghosts are one thing, but attic moisture that seeps into your chimney and rears its ugly multiple little heads in the forms of tumors on your home’s freshly painted interior walls next to that antique mantle is just terrifying. If only the things that go bump in the night were ghosts and not pipes rattling and floors creaking as the washing machine roars into an emergency landing during spin turbulence only inches away from the hot water heater.
But all my above concerns and fears pale next to the impending apocalypse. There is some cold, icy dark comfort in knowing that the world could come crashing, melting, sinking, flooding, exploding apart long before my roof (or hip) needs replacing. Even my
Yes, our future on this Earth is tenuous at best. And if that doesn’t scare the bejesus out of you, then you might wanna rethink your news source. I am a huge fan of Joe Biden, but I doubt he will take us to that mountain top. I fear he will not inspire us to do right by this planet because doing right will require more resolve and sacrifice than most of us possess. Will I support him when the presidential race truly begins and the candidates hit the ground running? You bet. But do I wish he could light a fire under our complacent asses? Damn straight. However, I doubt even the most charismatic, factbased, powerhouse of a candidate could wipe the malaise of indifference from our citizenry. Yet, science-deniers, homophobes, and morally bankrupt folks will most likely jumpstart some angry adrenaline in those unwilling to accept the paramount challenges that we as a species are facing, not to mention our possible extinction, and misdirect that angry energy to attacks on library books. I need not mention it by name—just think 2016. “Those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.”
There is much to fear, more than Stephen King could pen to paper or Jordan Peele could direct to film. Horror goes beyond my monster termites or wrinkled skin or the adult diapers that loom large in my future (okay, that’s thirty years from now). Ya want scary? Look at the communities of homeless folks with no escape, the astronomical number of kids with no one to steer them clear of drugs and violence (these young people should have a future of hope and security to look forward to), politicians with no moral compass who play god with women’s bodies and dictate their idea of sexual and gender orientation, and, above all, a planet that is understandably trying to shake us off like the blood-sucking ticks we as a species have become.
So for Halloween, I think I will lock our door, take my calcium, make sure our flood insurance is in order, and then watch the news as the latest terrors unfold. Nah, I will grab a bottle of wine, a bag of candy corn, and watch reruns of The Marvelo.
BROOKE LAIZER
AMY RUSSO
Halloween—being the day and evening before the Christian holy days of All Hallows Day (All Saints Day) on November 1st and All Souls Day on November 2nd. The ancient Gaelic festival of Samhain, considered the earliest known root of Halloween and celebrated on October 31—hijacked by Christians and brought to this country— rumored to be the time when the spirit gates are thrown open and goblins, ghosts, spirits, and the dead are free to roam the earth and have a good old Monster Mash. We’re all supposed to be very much afraid and give them candy.
I wish that it was as easy as giving away sweets to assuage the fears that I have. Daily, I feel like the gates of hell have come down like the Berlin Wall without the accompaniment of Pink Floyd. Like they say in the Middle East, “The fit has hit the Shan,” and there’s no escaping the manure storm.
Are you also feeling like that? A lot of people that I know are, and it’s not just a matter of “who is the child with no complaint?” The world around us has gone certifiably insane, and it seems that the inmates are running the asylum; we‘ve gone to hell in a bucket and I, for one, am not enjoying the ride. Pass the Kit Kats please.
“Nature is alive and talking to us. We’re not listening; this is not a metaphor” (Terence McKenna). Here comes the first Trick or Treaters:
First, the politicians. You can tell right away because they come with their entire dirty laundry showing. They don’t want candy. They want money (and my vote). They also want to give me a list of banned books and reasons why global warming is bogus. Go back to Florida, ya bums.
Next, the AI people know who I am because of facial recognition. They have ingested data and quantum computing has told them that I’m keeping the good stuff for myself and the probability of where my stash is. They claim not to be responsible for anything because they’re “still learning.” I yell, “That man’s nuts. Grab ‘em!” And they all scattered.
And who is this in those campy outfits, sequins, spandex, and kitschy make up? Why, it’s Gen Z. They want tickets to “Cirque du Soleil” (they are so into feats of athletic daring). Sorry kids, you need to hit up the guy next door with the Toyota Camry in the driveway.
Then, the unhoused and food insecure, formerly known as the homeless and hungry. I’m ready with blankets, bags of ice, and gift cards to Starbucks and Bed, Bath, and Beyond. They are now setting up camp in my backyard, and we’ll have a weenie roast and sing-along, and I have a new family (complete with tarps, bicycles and shopping carts). They’re some swell folks, and I’ll never be lonely again.
Oops! Here comes door-to-door
salvation. Dressed like a sixties’ family television program. They just want to talk about my future heaven-wise or hellbent, and have I gotten their pamphlets and newsletters. Could I please offer up my salvation as their treat before they TP my house?
Now, the environmentalists are a knockin’, and they want to know if I would give up my electronic equipment, my power mower, blower, air conditioner, and any and all plastic in my house—including the toilet seat and shower curtain. What do I think about zoos and have I considered a vegan diet? I am humbled. I sit on my steps and weep.
Here’s the politically correct contingent. They want to know if, since the visitors have come around tonight, I’ve done or said anything to offend or upset trick-or-treaters who are disadvantaged because of their sex, gender, race, or disability. They tell me that if I’ve commented on anyone’s appearance that it could be construed as sexual harassment. They want me to sign something. I quote Archie Bunker (“Meatheads”) and slam the door.
I knew they’d come. The millennials: special, confident, team-oriented, smart, and casual in slip dresses, tube tops and cargo pants. They don’t want much. They want to talk about the latest trends, sustainability, social justice, and economic equality. They’re all on plant-based diets, inquire after fruit flavored filtered Smart water, avocado toast, acai, and poké bowls in the funniest accents.
Holey samolies, at the door now is an entire cast of a late night news and entertainment shows. They’re all talking and, sometimes, shouting to be heard over each other, “A storm in the gulf appears to be headed right toward your house. See my spaghetti models?” “My next guest needs no introduction—she has a new book out,” “In Washington, twelve senators have indicted each other over free speech being spoken,” “The wife of a famous ex-politician is reportedly having an affair with a French pop star and is…” “Across the globe, fires, earthquakes, tornadoes, and migrant boats….” “Hold it! Hold it!” I yell, “Cut to a station break and move along and do not—I repeat—do not send the commercials over here, or I’ll cancel the lot of you.”
Just in time, some children are dressed up like comic book heroes, Barbie dolls, the Flash, Spiderman, minions, Turtle Ninjas, Darth Vadar, and some girls named Wednesday and Eleven? They’re all yelling. One is crying. They’ve got their grubby little hands out. They’re high on sugar and are chocolate-stained. Their shopping bags must weigh ten pounds already, and they want more. One has lost a shoe. There are no adults in sight, and I think that little one has wet his pants. Now, I’m really scared
