Good morning, New Orleans.

On April 24th, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival kicked off at Fair Grounds in Gentilly with local talent and international acts, featuring artists such as FlagBoy Giz, Lil’ Wayne, Trombone Shorty, Tems & Burna Boy.

Local vendor Antoine Smith returned after more than 20 years to sell his artwork while visitors enjoyed a blend of music and art.

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is in full swing with people enjoying live music and local food offerings—family-run vendors serve quick, quality meals.

The event began on Thursday and will run until May 4.

New Orleans native Lil Wayne is headlining the Festival Stage today at Jazz Fest (marking the first time he has closed the main stage in his 30-year career) with The Roots (who back him on stage), a historic moment that shifts the festival's focus to hip-hop.

Louisiana lawmakers are advancing a constitutional amendment and bills to ban foreign donations in elections—Senate Bill 109 and House Bill 590 would block both direct and indirect foreign funding to ballot initiatives and impose fines and prison terms on violators.

If passed, the amendment will appear on the Nov. 15 ballot—part of a national effort to tighten election security.

New Orleans Restoration Properties broke ground on Grove Place II in Hollygrove to build 36 affordable homes that include restored historic houses and new eco-friendly units.

The $19 million project—set to finish in 2026—will create 70 full-time jobs and boost local economic opportunity.

Dustin Poirier—a Louisiana native—will fight Max Holloway for the BMF belt at UFC 318 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans on July 19, marking his final fight before retiring.

Presale tickets start May 14 as fans get ready to witness him end his career where it all began.

UFC veteran Dustin Poirier will have his final fight against Max Holloway for the BMF title on July 19 at UFC 318 in New Orleans — he will retire in his home state where his career began after long wins over top fighters.

Fontaines D.C. Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — The Civic Theatre — Tickets start at $65 — Enjoy an energetic performance by Dublin's Fontaines D.C.

Daze Between New Orleans 2025

5-11 p.m. — Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts — Tickets from $67.50 — Experience an incredible lineup featuring Umphrey's McGee and more across two days of music.

Mitch Woods Live

5-6 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Free entry — Experience the boogie-woogie sounds of Mitch Woods in a lively happy hour concert.

A New Orleans Tribute to Phil Lesh

9-10:30 p.m. — Joy Theater — Tickets start at $62.50 GA — Celebrate the music of Phil Lesh with a star-studded lineup of talented artists.

Mike Gordon Concert

8:30-10:30 p.m. — Joy Theater — Tickets from $47 — Experience a live performance from the Phish bassist in a vibrant setting.

Walk It Off Sis

9-11 a.m. — Metropolitan Events — Empowering women through group walks and open conversations about health and well-being.

Bearly Dead Tribute Show

7 PM - 12 AM — No Dice — $16.09 — Experience the vibrant tribute to Grateful Dead with a full-throttle live performance filled with energy and great musicianship.

Ed Volker & Dave Malone Concert

8 PM – 12 AM — Chickie Wah Wah — Tickets available — Celebrate Jazzfest's end with Ed Volker and Dave Malone accompanied by special guests.

Wessell Anderson Jazz Concert

6:30-8 p.m. — Ellis Marsalis Center for Music — $15 General Admission, $45 Reserved, $5 Students — Experience an evening of lively jazz with acclaimed musician Wessell Anderson on GiveNOLA Day.

October London Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Saenger Theatre — Tickets starting at $81 — Experience an electrifying evening with October London in New Orleans.