New
in New Orleans
Saturday, May 2nd, 2026
Good morning, New Orleans. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 2nd of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Local architecture firm Practis has permanently transformed the temporary Harry Tompson Center on Gravier into a modern nonprofit shelter after a $3.6 million, two-phase renovation completed in 2025. The facility now provides essential services including showers + laundry for around 200 guests daily. Biz New Orleans
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Rising energy costs are forcing local businesses and homeowners to use solar panels, battery storage and microgrid systems for energy independence. The City of New Orleans DER Program has set aside nearly $30 million to support installations at homes, businesses and community institutions before federal help ends. Biz New Orleans
- ➤ Majoria Drugs marks 50 years on Metairie Road while adjusting to fewer prescriptions and tougher pricing from big chains. Pharmacist Al Spitale said better service and price strategies are key for survival (local customers have supported the store for generations). Biz New Orleans
- ➤ DMMS merged with MCBANK to form MC Bancshares in New Orleans after regulatory approvals and raising over $225 million from more than 550 investors; the bank plans to expand its markets to include Atlanta and Baton Rouge as it builds on its legacy of community banking. Biz New Orleans
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Audubon Zoo welcomed a rare Hartmann’s mountain zebra species last week in its savannah exhibit alongside young giraffes. The group includes two-year-old sisters Athena and Selene and six-year-old JB (named for James Bond) and is the zoo’s first to house the vulnerable species, one of only 80 in care worldwide. WWL-TV
- ➤ New Orleans Jazz Fest posters are nearly sold out as 78% of artist-signed and 81% of numbered copies have been purchased during the festival’s final weekend. Paul Rogers designed the poster honoring Louis Armstrong, blending historic jazz figures with modern artistry. WDSU
- ➤ A University of New Orleans archaeologist tracked a 2,000-year-old Roman tombstone uncovered in a Carrollton backyard, and it has been returned to Italy for future display at the National Archaeological Museum in Civitavecchia (awaiting renovations). University of New Orleans
- ➤ Port NOLA celebrates its 10th annual Maritime Month from May 1 to May 31 to honor the region's maritime heritage. The event includes National Maritime Day on May 22 and a record tall ship flotilla along the Mississippi River from May 28 to June 1 for SAIL 250. Biz New Orleans
- ➤ Armand Piron, a noted jazz violinist from early New Orleans, copyrighted his hit 'Sister Kate' in 1919 — a move that sparked a long-time dispute with Louis Armstrong over the tune’s true origins. Verite News
- ➤ The Jazz Fest Cultural Exchange Pavilion spotlights Jamaican culture with reggae, dancehall and authentic food as festivalgoers enjoy live performances today at the Fair Grounds. WWL-TV
- ➤ The Omni Royal Orleans Hotel, a historic French Quarter landmark, opened a new 68-seat jazz club with a speakeasy-style bar in January that features local musicians and updated sound to blend its classic charm with modern flair. Biz New Orleans
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ New Orleans celebrates National Travel and Tourism Week from May 3-9, highlighting the travel industry's role in boosting local jobs and community funds. New Orleans + Company will host events including a driver appreciation day on May 4 and a luncheon with Mayor Helena Moreno on May 8. Biz New Orleans
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ NOLA Teacher Fest celebrates educators at Champion Square today as rain forces the event indoors — teachers enjoy food and music — with festivities continuing into the afternoon. WWL-TV
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed a 60-year recovery plan to restore the Pearl River map turtle by funding research, breeding programs & improving river habitats in local waters. Public comments on the draft plan are accepted until May 22. The Lens
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Robert Glasper with Christian McBride
6-8 p.m. — New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market — Tickets start at $65.50 — Experience the musical prowess of Robert Glasper and Christian McBride in an amazing performance.
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Charmaine Neville Band at Snug Harbor
7:30-11:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy Charmaine Neville's captivating voice in an intimate jazz setting.
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Ed Perkins Jazz Concert
6:30-8 p.m. — Ellis Marsalis Center for Music — $15 General Admission, $45 Reserved, $5 Students — Experience the soulful jazz of Ed Perkins, a New Orleans native and celebrated musician.
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WYES Juleps & Generosity
7-11 p.m. — Paulette And Frank Stewart Innovation Center For Educational Media — Refunds available — Celebrate the spirit of generosity at WYES while enjoying mint juleps and festive atmosphere.
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The Molly Ringwalds Live
8:30-11:30 p.m. — Southport Hall — $15 adv — Experience the world's greatest 80's tribute band from Sheffield, England.
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New Orleans Ballet Theatre Presents Cinderella
2-5 p.m. — Orpheum Theater New Orleans — Check event page for pricing — Experience the magic of Cinderella with the New Orleans Ballet Theatre this Mother's Day weekend.
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Charmaine Neville Band Live Performance
7:30-11:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Ticketed entry — Experience the soul of New Orleans through Charmaine Neville's vibrant R&B and Jazz performance.
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The Black Angels Concert
7:00–8:30 p.m. — House of Blues New Orleans — $42–$209 — Experience the psychedelic rock vibes of The Black Angels in a lively New Orleans setting.
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Gabrielle Cavassa 'DIAVOLA' Album Release
7:30-10:30 p.m. — New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market — Tickets start at $29.40 — Celebrate the launch of a new album by a local artist in the vibrant music scene of New Orleans.
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Andre Bohren Performance
6:30-7:30 p.m. — Ellis Marsalis Center for Music — $15 General Admission, $45 Reserved, $5 Student Tickets — Experience an evening of diverse musical talent from lifelong musician Andre Bohren.
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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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