Good morning, New Orleans.

Lafayette chef Kris Allen was crowned King of Louisiana Seafood at the 19th Annual Seafood Cook-Off earlier this week after showcasing his crab-stuffed flounder recipe.

He will represent the state at the Great American Seafood Cook-Off in New Orleans on July 25.

Local restaurants are expecting a busy weekend as thousands arrive for the ESSENCE Festival of Culture, boosting local dining and retail experiences (owners urge visitors to explore neighborhood spots).

Essence Fest will draw big crowds to New Orleans this weekend and boost the local economy by about $300 million as travelers enjoy a DJ welcome at the airport.

The festival lineup includes Cardi B, Latto, and more, with hotels expecting near-full occupancy.

Startup Prize hosted its inaugural Startup Prize: Energy competition from June 26-28 in New Orleans; 24 companies from 11 states + one from Switzerland competed in two energy tracks, including 5 local startups like eWay Technology, Edge Orbital Inc., Pelican Carbon and VerdiVolt Innovations.

New Orleans hotels are expected to be more than 80% full today and tomorrow as the 4th of July weekend brings visitors for the Essence Festival and conventions including groups (3,056 and 2,456 room nights) arriving Saturday.

LSU New Orleans celebrated its return to the LSU System today with a ceremony that gathered more than 600 community members on campus.

University officials, including LSU President Wade Rousse (highlighting expanded research and academic programs) and Mayor Helena Moreno, unveiled new campus signage to mark the event.

Experts recommend New Orleans homeowners raise the thermostat 7—10° when away for work to save energy and cut cooling costs during hot months.

They warn that turning the AC off completely in humid climates may lead to mold and more repairs while smart thermostats offer an efficient alternative.

A new Louisiana law protecting student-athletes in NIL deals went into effect July 1; anyone working as an agent or attorney must register through the Attorney General's online portal, pass a criminal background check, and complete mandated training.

French Quarter business owners met with city officials Tuesday, June 30 to discuss a 10-month project on Decatur Street that has disrupted access and reduced revenues.

Officials announced a new $200,000 relief fund offering grants up to $5,000 and said pedestrian access would resume by mid-to-late September.

Louis Armstrong officials urged travelers to prepare for the busy Fourth of July weekend after Thursday’s record travel day, offering guidance such as early parking, emptying pockets, and following TSA rules (including 3-1-1 guidelines).

City Council will vote on July 9 on a proposal that directs Entergy New Orleans to use net crediting consolidated billing for community solar subscribers (aiming to simplify bills and ease project financing).

If approved, Entergy must present plans in 60 days and finish the system by March 30.

The new owners of One Canal Place filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on June 5, 2026, less than three months after purchasing the 32-story office tower for $28 million – Corporate Realty said the building will continue normal operations despite the filing.

Bobby V Live Concert

10 p.m.-3 a.m. — House of Blues New Orleans — Tickets required — Experience an unforgettable night with Bobby V at the iconic House of Blues.

R&B Glow Paint & Sip N'awlins Fest Weekend 2026

12-4 p.m. — Crowne Plaza New Orleans French Qtr - Astor — Admission included — Enjoy a glow-in-the-dark painting party with great drink specials in a festive atmosphere.

Candlelight: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons Tribute

6:30-7:45 p.m. — The Sazerac House — Tickets required — Experience a magical candlelight concert featuring the music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons in a stunning venue.

Teena May - Happy Hour Concert

4:30-6 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Free entry — Enjoy original alt-Country and Folk music from the talented Teena May and her band.

FLYLEAF with Lacey Sturm Concert

1 PM — House of Blues New Orleans — Ticket info available — Experience the hard-hitting sound of Flyleaf live with Lacey Sturm.

Clarence Johnson III Performance

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Ellis Marsalis Center for Music — $5-$45 — Experience the captivating jazz virtuoso Clarence Johnson III live on stage with special ticket pricing options.

Davell Crawford Live Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Ticket info not provided — Experience the soulful sounds of the 'Piano Prince of New Orleans' in an intimate jazz setting.

A Taste of Napa: An Evening with Treasury Wine Estates

7-9 p.m. — Hilton New Orleans Riverside — Free parking — Experience guided tastings featuring distinguished California wines paired with delicious dishes.

Colombia Nola Fest 2026

3-10 p.m. — The Broadside — Kids up 12 Free entry — Celebrate Colombia's culture with live music, dance, and delicious food.

Tim Laughlin Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Check venue for entry fee — Experience master clarinetist Tim Laughlin as he brings New Orleans jazz alive with original compositions and fresh takes.