New
in New Orleans
Wednesday, February 4th, 2026
Good morning, New Orleans. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 4th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The New Orleans East branch closed Monday for repairs to fix its roof and update its HVAC system for three months. Library books must be returned at other branches (library staff say the work will improve temperature control amid extreme summer heat). NOLA.com
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Callais Capital in New Orleans announced an NSF-supported FUELr program to develop emerging energy tech while also launching an AI platform plus hiring a new analyst to boost its team. The firm plans to roll out these initiatives this year as part of its focus on Louisiana's innovation economy. Biz New Orleans
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The French Quarter Festival has announced its spring music lineup including Irma Thomas, Cyril Neville, Big Freedia and Kermit Ruffins. The free festival runs April 16-19 in the newly expanded Woldenberg Riverfront Park + VIP family passes are available. WWL-TV
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Tulane University launched the Tulane Global Humanities Center — an interdisciplinary initiative that studies global trade, infrastructure and cultural exchange through the humanities using New Orleans’ rich port city legacy — and held its inaugural symposium on Jan. 22-23 at its Uptown campus. Biz New Orleans
- ➤ Officials with NOLA Public Schools held a news conference Tuesday (Feb. 3) urging the community to follow Mardi Gras etiquette for student safety as Carnival parades begin Friday at 5 p.m. with the Krewe of Oshun in New Orleans. WDSU
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ City crews continue cleanup in Uptown after a 48-inch water main (about 100 years old) on Panola Street broke over the weekend. The boil water advisory was lifted, and pavement restoration repairs will be completed (by Thursday). WRNO
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Costco recalled its Mini Beignets sold from January 16 to January 30 at Louisiana stores because they were labeled as caramel-filled instead of containing chocolate hazelnut filling that could trigger tree nut allergies. Affected customers should return the product for a refund + reach out to customer service for details. WRNO
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Construction is underway on a five-story hotel at 1304 St. Charles Ave as entrepreneur Curtis Lawrence plans to convert it to a hybrid with a rooftop bar and pool that may open this fall. Renovations are resuming on a nearby former church slated to become a congregation space. NOLA.com
- ➤ Element New Orleans Downtown by Marriott, a 216-room extended-stay hotel located at 221 O'Keefe Ave, will open tomorrow as part of the $90 million 1010 Common redevelopment (which also includes a planned 250-room Fairmont, offices, retail and a renovated parking garage) and brings 42 new hospitality jobs to downtown. New Orleans City Business
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ UNO baseball has named Andrew Gipson as head coach to lead the Privateers at a renovated Maestri Field. Returning from Belhaven, he is rebuilding the roster with 34 new faces & 12 returning players as the team seeks to end a postseason drought since 2008. Fox 8
- ➤ Tulane men's basketball ended its five-game losing streak with a 78-76 win over Memphis in American Conference play as Rowan Brumbaugh led with 27 points + the team will host Wichita State on Sunday afternoon. WRNO
- ➤ New Orleans Saints legend Drew Brees will be elected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame Thursday at NFL Honors. He played for the Saints from 2006 to 2020, led the team to its first Super Bowl win and set multiple NFL passing records. WDSU
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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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Cajun Holiday Fest on Paddlewheeler Creole Queen
6-9 p.m. — Paddlewheeler Creole Queen — $140 — Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a romantic cruise featuring live jazz, gourmet dining, and champagne.
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Tom McDermott & Suzanne Ortner Concert
7:30-11:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Check venue for cost — Experience the rich piano traditions of New Orleans with renowned musician Tom McDermott.
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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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