Good morning, New Orleans.

New Orleans celebrates Juneteenth with a free festival running Thursday through Sunday.

The event kicks off Friday at Congo Square with a second-line and features performers, health screenings, food trucks, and an economic summit on Saturday — honoring Black culture and community growth.

Gulf Coast Tactical, LLC announced it will invest $6.1 million in Iberia Parish to expand production of unmanned surface vehicles, patrol craft and maritime platforms, creating 65 direct jobs (retaining 16 current positions) and about 72 indirect roles over the next 12 to 24 months.

Governor Landry proposes funding a $2,000 teacher stipend by shifting $168 million from district operations, which could force a 5% cut in school funds—officials worry this may strain budgets, and lawmakers must approve the plan with a two-thirds vote by 5 p.m. June 23.

Tropical Storm Arthur is triggering heavy rain and life-threatening flash flooding today in southeast Louisiana.

Rain is expected to total 5 to 10 inches with isolated areas nearing 20 inches, and residents in low-lying spots may face evacuations (watch local updates for safety).

As summer begins, pet owners are urged to keep pets hydrated and out of parked vehicles to avoid heatstroke & paw burns on hot pavement.

Animal Rescue New Orleans is hosting a PetSmart Adoption Event at 6851 Veterans Blvd. in Metairie on June 20 from noon to 4 p.m.

Gigi is a Brussels griffon and Chihuahua mix, 4 years old and weighing 13 pounds, who is finding new hope at Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO) after her person could no longer care for her and her siblings; the nonprofit shelter rescues and rehabilitates local pets.

AM Plaza will serve as a new commercial development with a 14,400 sqft facility housing August Moon and Hoang Law Firm at 1411 Claire Avenue in Gretna.

The $4.4 million project (financed through the SBA 504 Loan Program) broke ground Monday and aims to drive future expansion and job growth.

Residents at the Willows Apartments in New Orleans East had to leave by today (June 18) to make way for a $13 million renovation that will last about two years with work set to begin in August; the new owner, The Lee Adrion Company, has also established a $50,000 relocation fund to help affected tenants.

Franklin Parish four-star running back Trey Martin is set to join LSU after a standout high school season (ranked No. 14 nationally) as he prepares for his senior year.

Coach Adrian Burnette praised his work ethic and athletic versatility on the field.

New Orleans Saints signed defensive end Cam Jordan to a one-year, incentive-based deal during minicamp Tuesday.

The franchise’s all-time sacks leader, who is entering his 16th season (and likely his last), will aim to make key plays on the field.

The Saints held Day 1 minicamp today as they built momentum for the 2026 season.

Rookies Oscar Delp and Christen Miller returned to team drills (after missing practice for hamstring injuries) as coaches fine-tuned lineups for training camp.

Candlelight Concert featuring Coldplay & Imagine Dragons

9:00 p.m. — The Sazerac House — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of live music in a stunning candlelit setting.

Key-Key Live Performance

9:00 p.m. — Casa Honduras Restaurant #1 — Ticketed event — Experience a lively performance by Key-Key in an inviting restaurant setting.

Father's Fest 2026

2-8 p.m. — The Broadside — Free entry — Celebrate fatherhood with food, entertainment, and activities dedicated to dads making a difference.

Charmaine Neville Band Performance

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Ticketed event — Experience the vibrant sounds of Charmaine Neville, blending R&B, Jazz, and world rhythms in an electrifying performance.

Ilana Glazer Live!

7-10 p.m. — Joy Theater — College discounts available — Enjoy an evening of laughs with Ilana Glazer in the heart of New Orleans.

Dead Letter Office Concert

9-10:30 p.m. — Chickie Wah Wah — Tickets starting at $32.61 — Experience the energetic tribute to R.E.M. with hits and deep cuts alike.

Stooges Brass Band Concert

8 p.m. — Tipitina's — Free entry — Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Free Fridays Concert Series with an energetic performance from the Stooges Brass Band.

Kieko Komaki Duo Performance

4:30-8:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Check website for entry details — Experience the fusion of classical training and New Orleans jazz from Keiko Komaki.

Lawrence Sieberth & Christian Winther Concert

4:30-8:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Check the venue for ticket info — Enjoy a captivating evening of jazz with a versatile pianist and his talented collaborator.

Charmaine Neville Band Performance

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Tickets required — Experience the soulful sounds of Charmaine Neville in the vibrant New Orleans jazz scene.