New
in New Orleans
Saturday, January 31st, 2026
Good morning, New Orleans. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 31st of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Residents in southeast Louisiana face dangerously cold weather until at least Feb. 2. New Orleans activated its freeze plan with free warming shelters available at Rosenwald Recreation Center, Ozanam Inn, New Orleans Mission, Salvation Army, and Low Barrier Shelter (other parishes like Jefferson and St. Tammany have also opened centers for people and pets). WDSU
- ➤ The NOPD Mounted Unit will host the 14th annual Horses, Hops & Cops fundraiser on Feb. 4 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the NOPD horse stables at 1021 Harrison Ave, City Park, featuring self-guided tours, K-9 demos & an equestrian soccer game at 5:30 p.m.; the event is free. NOLA.com
- ➤ New Orleans East will come alive as the all-women Krewe of Nefertiti rolls down Lake Forest Blvd and Read Blvd on Sunday, Feb. 1 at 1 p.m. The parade, themed Bayou Nefertiti, brings Mardi Gras spirit and a local economic boost to the community. Verite News
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ New coverage at BizNewOrleans spotlights the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center after its 40th birthday, detailing its role in Carnival events and Fan Expo New Orleans. New contributors address local efforts to boost tourism and keep the conventions market competitive. Biz New Orleans
- ➤ Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company reported record 2025 earnings with net income rising over 500%, and it will expand next year into new markets including Panama City and Hattiesburg while adding Commercial Loan Officers in New York & California. Biz New Orleans
- ➤ New Orleans & Company senior vice president Stephanie Turner said the city is rising as a top convention destination by combining its rich culture, updated infrastructure and sustainable practices to attract meetings and boost the local economy. Her 'Built to Host' strategy positions New Orleans to compete as more cities expand their convention spaces. Biz New Orleans
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Arthur Hardy said that despite freezing temperatures, Mardi Gras parades will roll this weekend because the krewes are committed to their scheduled floats and bands and cannot reschedule. He advised paradegoers to dress warmly and avoid alcohol for a safe experience. WWL-TV
- ➤ George Lewis was a New Orleans jazz pioneer who began with a tin fife and taught himself clarinet, recording his signature ‘Burgundy Street Blues’ with local musicians in the French Quarter + he played at Preservation Hall until his 1968 death, ensuring his legacy endures. Verite News
- ➤ The Titan Marching Band at Lakeshore High School in Mandeville is preparing to perform during Carnival along the parade route, where tight teamwork defies expectations. Band director Craig Byers said every student gives 110 percent to showcase local pride. WWL-TV
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Gov. Jeff Landry told regional leaders at Washington Mardi Gras Friday that Louisiana’s energy and infrastructure investments + major projects such as a new steel mill and potential digital center will drive future growth. NOLA.com
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Louisiana public schools, including several charter operators in New Orleans, must have a camera in every self-contained special education classroom by Sunday (Feb. 1) under Act 479. School leaders say they are on track for compliance, but it remains unclear who will monitor the new law. Verite News
- ➤ On Monday, Jan. 26, Xavier University received $3 million from Humana to fund a scholarship for medical students pursuing primary care, internal medicine or maternal care at the Ochsner College of Medicine in Benson Tower (Poydras Street). The award will cover a four-year program and help reduce student debt. Verite News
- ➤ Students and alumni at University of New Orleans back the switch to the LSU System starting July 1 but worry the school may lose its identity. The university will be renamed LSU New Orleans and adopt new colors—purple and gold—while keeping its Privateers mascot amid concerns over tuition and programs. New Orleans City Business
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Today’s highs hit the mid-30s while wind gusts to 40 mph add chill to events; an Extreme Cold Warning stays in place tonight through Sunday morning as wind chills feel like the teens. Sunday will be milder with highs in the mid-40s and temperatures rebounding later in the week. WDSU
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ The Milestone Mate app (created by Shay Claiborne) helps parents track key childhood milestones after a 2025 beta test in local childcare centers. The company will expand partnerships with healthcare providers in New Orleans later in 2026. Biz New Orleans
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Chris Shinn Live
8-10 p.m. — Chickie Wah Wah — Tickets start at $68 — Experience an unforgettable evening with Chris Shinn in New Orleans.
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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.
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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.
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Mardi Gras Masquerade Gala
8 p.m. — 8700 Lake Forest Blvd — Ticketed event — Celebrate in style with masks, dancing, and exquisite food and drinks.
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Reveal the authorAbout New in New Orleans
Welcome to the New in New Orleans, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the New Orleans, Louisiana community. If you like the New in New Orleans, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in New Orleans.
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