New
in New Orleans
Wednesday, February 18th, 2026
Good morning, New Orleans. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 18th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Norman C. Francis, a dedicated leader of Xavier University and a civic pioneer, died today at Oschner Hospital at 94 (he was a key figure in education and civil rights in New Orleans). Verite News
- ➤ Mayor Helena Moreno rode on horseback ahead of the Zulu parade today as she began her first Mardi Gras as mayor — she will ride the Uptown parade route until Harmony Circle before heading to Gallier Hall for the annual toasts. WDSU
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Baton Rouge businessman John Miller plans a public-private partnership to buy Spirit Airlines and move its headquarters to New Orleans. He expects the deal to improve seating and boost Louis Armstrong International Airport as a hub with nearly 500 flights and 5 million visitors soon. Louisiana Radio Network
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The North Side Skull and Bone Gang marched through Treme on Mardi Gras morning Tuesday, Feb. 17, showcasing local cultural traditions in a spirited parade. Their vibrant procession added a lively note to this annual celebration. Fox 8
- ➤ Mardi Gras in the Marigny will bring daylong revelry to Frenchmen Street as families and visitors enjoy live music, parades, and local food today. The festival offers a festive chance to celebrate New Orleans culture in a vibrant setting. Fox 8
- ➤ Rex, King of Carnival, toasted his queen at the Josephine (a renovated former church on Napoleon Avenue) on Tuesday during Mardi Gras. The toast follows a change from previous years after organizers moved events to Pascal's Manale restaurant to give the Queen proper time after a 2024 scheduling issue. WDSU
- ➤ On Tuesday at 10:30 a.m., the Krewe of Rex ended Carnival 2026 with its 'Rebirth and Renewal' parade featuring the Boeuf Gras float — a nod to Mardi Gras traditions that showcased stories from ancient Egypt to classic theater in New Orleans. WWL-TV
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ St. Bernard Parish is set to host a new humanoid robotics pilot at SSE Steel Fabrication’s facility, launched via an MOU between Louisiana and Houston-based Persona AI — the pilot will collect work data to help robots safely support skilled tradespeople in heavy-industry settings. Biz New Orleans
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New Orleans Pelicans vs. Philadelphia 76ers
6-8 p.m. — Smoothie King Center — Tickets starting at $19 — Catch an exciting NBA match as the Pelicans face off against the 76ers!
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Natalie Prauser Concert
9 p.m. — Siberia — $12.47 — Experience the soulful blend of 60s folk and 70s outlaw country with Natalie Prauser's captivating storytelling.
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Roger Lewis & Baritone Bliss
4:30-6:00 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Ticket information not provided — Legendary baritone sax player Roger Lewis brings his soulful sound to New Orleans.
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The Enigma Variations Orchestra Rehearsal
12-2 p.m. — Orpheum Theater New Orleans — $15 for adults — Experience a behind-the-scenes look at the orchestra's rehearsal with insights from the musicians and conductor.
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Love Letters by A.R. Gurney
7-9:30 p.m. — Crescent City Stage Co. — Tickets available — Experience a heartfelt exploration of love through intimate letters.
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Loom Music Night
9:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. — Siberia — $12.47 — Experience an eclectic night of music with Laura Fisher, Theresa Romero, and Avian TV.
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The Grammy Winning Hot 8 Brass Band
10:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. — The Howlin' Wolf — Ticket prices vary — Experience the infectious energy of a Grammy-winning brass band in the heart of New Orleans.
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Fair Grounds Live Racing
12:45 – 2:45 p.m. — Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots — Reservation required — Experience exciting live horse racing in a vibrant atmosphere with buffet dining options.
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Morgan Jay Live Performance
7 PM — Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of music and comedy with Morgan Jay, a rising star from Los Angeles.
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Sticky Fingers Concert
7-10 p.m. — House of Blues New Orleans — Cashless venue — Experience live music in the heart of New Orleans at a renowned venue.
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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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