Good morning, New Orleans.

A statue of Spanish Louisiana Governor Bernardo de Gálvez near the foot of Canal Street and Spanish Plaza stands as a local reminder of his leadership in uniting diverse forces to secure American independence, and it highlights contributions that continue to shape our community (a nod to multicultural roots).

Crowds gathered at the Essence Festival today in New Orleans amid dangerous heat, and organizers are monitoring conditions to keep attendees safe + adjust measures as needed.

Families gathered in Jefferson Parish to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary at Uncle Sam Jam today.

The event features live music, food vendors (and local activities) that bring neighbors together.

Harahan investor Danny McKearan took control of the 2.25-acre former Sacred Heart of Jesus property on Canal Street with a 50-year lease that keeps the Sacred Heart Apartments serving low-income seniors until 2052 + he has no immediate redevelopment plans.

Defensive back Greedy James, a native of New Orleans who had long pledged to Texas, switched his commitment to LSU on Thursday because he values the team's culture and coaching staff; he is expected to play cornerback under Coach Corey Raymond.

Brother Martin's Matt Millet and The Willow School's Ben Barcelona recapped USA's victory on Final Bet, sharing insight into key plays and teamwork (their analysis focused on the game’s turning points).

The New Orleans Pelicans have rejected trade proposals from the Knicks for center Yves Missi after the Knicks looked to replace Mitchell Robinson, who moved to Boston.

NBA insider Chris Haynes said the Pelicans remain firm & will keep him.

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.

2026 X Games in New Orleans - Friday

4:00-8:30 PM — Caesars Superdome — Check event page for details — Experience three days of elite action sports at the MoonPay X Games Championship.