Good morning, New Orleans.

Audubon Nature Institute will open a new phase of Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park this spring, connecting Spanish Plaza and Crescent Park with continuous Mississippi River access.

The expansion features a marsh-themed playground—riverfront seating and misting stations ahead of the French Quarter Festival.

NEW ORLEANS — Delta Utilities launched the DU Cares Program to help families struggling with high gas bills.

Eligible households can receive up to $250 in direct assistance to ease unexpected hardships this season.

Popular Mexican restaurant Vals on Freret Street closed Wednesday after a storage unit fire just before 6 a.m. caused minimal damage (22 firefighters were on scene) and it is expected to reopen today following necessary maintenance.

ExxonMobil started transporting and storing CO2 from CF Industries near Baton Rouge and plans three more carbon capture projects in Louisiana in 2026.

The company uses existing pipelines — with an EPA permit at its Rose Carbon Capture Hub — to support its Gulf Coast low-carbon solutions.

The Idea Village announced its 2026 VILLAGEx cohort today, selecting eight startups out of over 60 applicants for a 16-week accelerator program in New Orleans.

The companies will work with dedicated mentors + advisory boards to scale their operations and prepare for capital raises.

M C Bancshares announced that Karl E.

Hoefer has been named regional president for Louisiana and Texas as the bank prepares for its merger with DMMS Purchaser, Inc. Hoefer (with over 24 years in banking leadership) will assume the role once regulatory and shareholder approvals are complete.

Mayor Helena Moreno secured over $40,000 in private funding to hire DJs for Carnival celebrations at Gallier Hall and is inviting interested DJs to apply through the Office of Cultural Economy by Friday, Jan.

30.

New Orleans officials approved Carnival parade start times and route changes to ease traffic before Mardi Gras.

The plan sets a 5 p.m. start for the Krewe of Oshun on Friday, Feb. 6 and a 4:30 p.m. start for the Knights of Chaos on Thursday, Feb. 12 (with parades shifting).

French Quarter Management District partners with 16 hotels to offer bead recycling during the 2026 Mardi Gras season from Jan.

19 to Feb. 17. Run by Glass Half Full, the program recycled 10,705 pounds last year and donates beads to ArcGNO to create jobs.

Louisiana is reporting high flu rates as officials expect cases to rise with the extended cold pushing people indoors ahead of Mardi Gras.

Dr. MarkAlain Déry advised residents to consider wearing masks (especially if sick) to protect others.

The Orleans Parish School Board approved the final agreement for 9th Ward Stadium next to George Washington Carver High School, setting construction to begin in late March or early April; the facility will serve as a shared sports venue for public schools (expected to open summer 2027).

Cajun Music Celebration with Bruce Daigrepont

5:15-7:15 p.m. — Tipitina's — Tickets starting at $21.83 — Experience the rich cultural heritage of Cajun music with Bruce Daigrepont and his band.

Rebirth Brass Band Performance

9 PM – 12 AM — The Rabbit Hole — Cost not listed — Experience the vibrant energy of New Orleans' brass band revival with the Grammy-winning Rebirth Brass Band.

Mardi Gras 2026 Balcony and Viewing Stand Tickets

6 PM – 3 PM, Feb 6-17 — Blake Hotel New Orleans, BW Signature Collection — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant Mardi Gras parades from the comfort of a prime balcony spot.

Blue House Music Presents CHA WA!

2-5 p.m. — The Broadside — $15 for adults, free for kids — Experience a lively Carnival season show with the Grammy-nominated Mardi Gras Indian group Cha Wa.

Post-Barkus Celebration with Tephra Sound

5-8 p.m. — No Dice — $19.83 — Celebrate Barkus with pup-friendly improvisations from Tephra Sound featuring Helen Gillet, Brian Haas, and Nikki Glaspie.

Sacramento Kings at New Orleans Pelicans

7-9 p.m. — Smoothie King — Tickets required — Thrilling NBA matchup as Pelicans clash with Kings in a packed arena.

Chris Shinn Live

8-10 p.m. — Chickie Wah Wah — Tickets start at $68 — Experience an unforgettable evening with Chris Shinn in New Orleans.

The Rumble

9-11 p.m. — Tipitina's — Ticketed event — Experience Grammy-winning Jon Cleary’s funk-infused piano rolls that celebrate New Orleans music legends.

The Soul Rebels Brass Band Live

11 PM - 2 AM — Le Bon Temps Roule — Tickets available — Experience the electrifying blend of brass, hip-hop, and soul from one of New Orleans' most beloved bands.

Mardi Gras Masquerade Gala

8 p.m. — 8700 Lake Forest Blvd — Ticketed event — Celebrate in style with masks, dancing, and exquisite food and drinks.