New
in New Orleans
Friday, January 16th, 2026
Good morning, New Orleans. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 16th of January.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ CityBusiness has launched its 2026 Power List to spotlight local port and maritime leaders + showcase their role in boosting our regional economy. The publication previews a follow-up list that will focus on tourism and hospitality in April. New Orleans City Business
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The official 2026 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival unveiled its full daily lineup (April 23 to 26 and April 30 to May 3) at the Fair Grounds Race Course, featuring headliners such as Kings of Leon, Stevie Nicks, and Eagles alongside many Louisiana favorites. Fox 8
- ➤ The Mardi Gras Sober Safe Spot Crew offers a space during Carnival for people in recovery to celebrate safely and stay connected (without alcohol) in our local festivities. The initiative provides a secure option for community members to enjoy the celebration. WWL-TV
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says that extra planting and (mild weather) have sparked an early crawfish season, with some local outlets already selling fresh catches. More should be available later this month and in early Feb as demand grows. WWL-TV
- ➤ Residents near Gonzales worry about a planned CO2 pipeline for a new hydrogen plant being built near Sorrento Primary School, with environmental experts warning of health risks from potential leaks. Local officials have yet to address safety concerns + community voices urge more caution. Verite News
- ➤ A new study finds the Mississippi River Delta is sinking faster because reduced sediment and groundwater pumping accelerate land loss, and scientists warn that cancelled restoration projects heighten the need for new strategies — local leaders must act to save more coast. New Orleans City Business
- ➤ EPA inspectors found hundreds of chemical spills and damaged containers at Smitty’s Supply in Tangipahoa Parish during an inspection on Oct. 7 after the August explosion. The agency issued a consent order for corrective measures, and the company has not admitted fault (EPA report). Fox 8
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ City cuts homeless services funding from $3.6 million to $700,000 amid a $222 million shortfall, leaving shelters worried that rapid re-housing options will not meet rising needs; organizations at (A New Way of Life) celebrate their anniversary as budget changes threaten support. Fox 8
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Twelve Louisiana facilities received temporary federal exemptions from updated EPA rules governing emissions of ethylene oxide—a chemical linked to increased cancer risks—and experts say the waiver leaves workers without full safeguards against hazardous exposure. The Lens
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The Pelicans ended their homestand with a 116-113 win over the Nets on Wednesday night with Trey Murphy III scoring 34 points and Zion Williamson adding 25; they will play the Pacers tomorrow night. WRNO
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Steve Detroy Trio Live Performance
1:00 PM – 8:30 PM — Fritzel's European Jazz Pub — Check for pricing — Experience the soulful, sophisticated sounds of the Steve Detroy Trio as part of the Happy Hour Concert Series.
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Fair Grounds Live Racing
12:45-2:15 p.m. — Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots — Reservation required — Enjoy an exciting day of live horse racing with buffet dining options.
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Charmaine Neville Band Performance
7:30-10:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Tickets required — Enjoy Charmaine Neville's captivating voice and vibrant personality at one of New Orleans' favorite jazz spots.
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Keiko Komaki Concert
6:30-7:30 p.m. — Ellis Marsalis Center for Music — Tickets available — Celebrate New Orleans piano traditions with a live performance.
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Folk Alliance International Conference
10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Sheraton New Orleans Hotel — $300 CAD for artists — Celebrate folk music with showcases and networking opportunities in the vibrant heart of New Orleans.
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Blithe Spirit
7:30-10:30 p.m. — Le Petit Theatre — Ticket info not provided — Enjoy a comedic ghost story that brings the past to life with charm and wit.
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Hadestown
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a captivating musical journey to the underworld where myth and music intertwine.
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Noel Coward's Blithe Spirit
7:30-10:30 p.m. — Le Petit Theatre — Ticket prices vary — A whimsical comedy about a novelist haunted by a ghost after a séance goes awry.
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DUG: Folk Duo Performance
7-10 p.m. — The Broadside — Ticket prices vary — Experience the unique blend of American and Irish folk with DUG's captivating storytelling and humorous lyrics.
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Marlon Jordan Quartet Performance
5-9 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Enjoy happy hour with the Marlon Jordan Quartet, a dynamic musical experience rooted in New Orleans jazz.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Well done is better than well said.
~ Benjamin Franklin
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