New
in New Orleans
Thursday, February 5th, 2026
Good morning, New Orleans. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 5th of February.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Breeze Airways will launch its first nonstop international flight from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport on Saturday, Feb. 7 to Cancun. The flight departs at 2 p.m. with a return at 6 p.m.—introductory one-way fares start at $108. New Orleans City Business
- ➤ Local Black women business owners, including those behind Tasty Treat, B Sweet Bistro, JusTini's, and Lil Dizzy's Cafe, meet monthly to share experiences and support each other through industry challenges. They first gathered at Seaworthy last March after Mardi Gras – forging a sisterhood that drives collective growth. WDSU
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ New Orleans musician James (Sugar Boy) Crawford wrote the catchy song Iko Iko in 1953 by blending two Indian chants that became a Carnival staple; later, the Dixie Cups' recording helped cement its place in local music history. Verite News
- ➤ New Orleans' Krewe of Muses parade will occur Thursday before Fat Tuesday, featuring whimsical floats and the coveted throw of decorated shoes. Spectators can boost their chances by wearing colorful, vertical outfits (from hats to jackets) to stand out in the crowd. Verite News
- ➤ French Quarter Festival returns April 16 — 19 with a new riverfront site at Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park and more than 300 musical performances. The festival also debuts a community 5K run on April 18. New Orleans City Business
- ➤ The New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University (uptown campus) will open its fifth edition on March 12 with an 'America at 250' keynote in partnership with The Atlantic. It will feature speakers like Goldberg, Isaacson, Burns and Gordon-Reed and run free through March 15. New Orleans City Business
- ➤ French Quarter Fest is expanding its lineup in 2026 with live music across local venues. The event set includes Trombone Shorty's 40th birthday at Saenger Theatre, headliners Post Malone and Jelly Roll at Tiger Stadium, a Superdome debut, & community celebrations in Metairie. Fox 8
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ McDonald’s has released new data showing its Louisiana system bought more than $12 million in ingredients, employed over 11,500 workers & provided $529K in tuition aid to 260 staff. The report also shows community fundraising that raised over $1.2 million to support local families. Biz New Orleans
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ GNOSEF marks 70 years in STEM with its annual science fair at Tulane University’s Lavin-Bernick Center, Feb. 23-26, where about 300 middle and high school students will show their projects and compete for cash prizes - winners can later advance to the state fair. Biz New Orleans
- ➤ Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine in downtown New Orleans has received a $1.75M RWJF grant to advance its LCME accreditation and school development. The new HBCU medical school, a partnership between Xavier University & Ochsner Health, will offer community-based training to expand local healthcare opportunities. New Orleans City Business
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ In 2025, the greater New Orleans housing market recorded a median sale price of $279,000; Orleans Parish held steady at $335,000 (most ZIP codes decreased), Jefferson Parish saw a near 6% rise, and St. Tammany remained flat near $299,000. NOLA.com
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Drew Brees will be elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame at NFL Honors in San Francisco tonight. The Saints legend played 15 seasons in New Orleans and is the first member selected as a first-ballot Hall of Famer, joining Rickey Jackson, Willie Roaf, Morten Anderson and Sam Mills. 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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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
If you want to remember something, write it down. If you want to understand something, explain it to someone else.
~ Richard Feynman
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