New
in New Orleans
Saturday, February 21st, 2026
Good morning, New Orleans. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 21st of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ New Orleans will honor civil rights leader Dr. Norman C. Francis with multi-day ceremonies beginning March 2 when his body lies in state at Xavier’s Convocation Center (9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.), followed by visitation at St. Louis Cathedral and burial at St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 on March 3. WWL-TV
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Loyola University New Orleans offers its 2026 Wolf Pack LaunchU boot camp for startups with $34K in funding and an additional $4K for food ventures—with the free incubator open to students, alumni, faculty, staff and parents. Biz New Orleans
- ➤ Meriton has entered Louisiana by forming a statewide HVAC platform with Mid-South Equipment, which unites Schully Strawn & Associates and JD Mechanical Equipment. The new network will serve North and South Louisiana with local expertise and national support. Biz New Orleans
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ New Orleans & Company announced that New Orleans will host the 2026 North America's 50 Best Restaurants awards on May 28. The multi-day program will feature culinary discussions, a collaborative Chefs' Feast and a live countdown to reveal the top regional dining spots. Biz New Orleans
- ➤ Thousands celebrated Mardi Gras yesterday along Uptown as parades including Zulu, Rex and Trucks passed Jackson and St. Charles Avenue in 75°F weather, delighting families who waited hours to see over 40 floats from Zulu (and about 30 from Rex) in a festive atmosphere. WDSU
- ➤ Three Louisiana brothers have made history by becoming the first African Americans inducted into the Motorcoach Hall of Fame & celebrated for decades of service driving tour buses on the West Bank, noted WDSU Anchor Darryl Forges. WDSU
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Downtown New Orleans recorded nearly 2.2 million visits during Carnival, according to the Downtown Development District. The high turnout & strong Lundi Gras Festival attendance show significant momentum for local businesses. WWL-TV
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Lucien Victor Alexis served as principal of McDonogh 35 from 1926 to 1956 and built a strong legacy with strict discipline and academic research (he was famously dubbed 'The Negro Einstein'). His work still resonates in the local archives and community today. Verite News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ New Orleans has proposed a $1M master plan to revitalize Armstrong Park and Municipal Auditorium into a cultural and economic hub. If approved by City Council, planning will take nine to 12 months and involve partnerships with Save Our Soul Coalition & the Greater New Orleans Foundation. New Orleans City Business
- ➤ The New Orleans Redevelopment Authority released its 2025 Annual Report showing progress in affordable housing, enhanced commerce corridors, and neighborhood revitalization across the city. The report highlights a $22 million mixed-use project — offering 51 new units in the 7th Ward — and early learning grants supporting community centers. Biz New Orleans
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Seafood season is underway as retailers and distributors see a surge in demand during Lent, with consumers cooking at home and dining out on Fridays. Executive director Samantha Carroll noted that pricing may fluctuate while alligator remains a delicacy and is permitted during Lent (an endorsement from the Archbishop). Louisiana Radio Network
- ➤ On Friday during Lent, local seafood vendors and restaurants experienced high demand as wild catfish and thin fish were plentiful despite a brief freeze that raised prices for crabs and crawfish; seafood expert Harlan Pierce noted oysters remained excellent + he encouraged support for local fishermen. WWL-TV
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Local high school soccer teams have reached the state semi-finals in LHSAA play, showcasing strong regional talent. Games will be played this week across New Orleans venues & promise competitive matchups that set the stage for the finals. Fox 8
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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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P.L.A.N. Appraiser & Umpire Certification Course
8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. — Hampton Inn & Suites New Orleans-Convention Center — Ticket required — Gain essential skills in property loss appraisal and umpire certification over five insightful days.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
What looks like talent is often careful preparation.
~ Ryan Holiday
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