Good morning, New Orleans.

Amtrak’s first train from Mobile to New Orleans on August 18 is fully sold out—both the Mobile train leaving at 6:30 a.m. and the New Orleans train departing at 7:35 a.m. have no available seats.

This service marks the return of Gulf Coast passenger rail since Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

Some Black business owners say Essence Fest restricts local vendors, arguing that the festival uses the city merely as a venue while its clean zone limits their ability to profit.

Others inside the zone argue the rules help control street vending—but local restaurant Vyoone’s has already seen significant losses and reduced hours during the festival.

Essence Festival explained on Thursday that renovations made many original Superlounge spaces unavailable at Caesars Superdome—and instead, they offered a premium lounge experience where ticket holders could enjoy curated moments on the main stage.

Organizers admitted the changes confused fans and promised clearer updates next year.

Alyssa Curtis previewed Essence Fest by sharing details on planned performances and panels—she noted that live music and special events will feature at the festival—providing insight for local attendees.

Alexander Dimitry was born in New Orleans in 1805 and became Louisiana's first superintendent of education while also serving as an ambassador to Costa Rica and Nicaragua—his work laid the foundation for the state's public school system.

A Tulane University study found that some levees in New Orleans are sinking at more than an inch a year—using satellite radar data to reveal the change.

The findings add to flood risk concerns nearly 20 years after Hurricane Katrina, as low elevation, groundwater extraction, and rising sea levels contribute to the problem.

Louisiana’s House delegation selected six student artworks for display in the Capitol tunnel—each winner comes from a different congressional district, with pieces featuring a detailed view of St. Louis Cathedral and a sketch that evokes local resilience.

The selections by Momin Mahmood, Lindsay Kane, Cole Ritter, Grace Rougeau, Gabrielle Sibley, and Kearra Grisby highlight young talent that will represent Louisiana’s heritage to congressional visitors for the coming year.

Essence Festival - Sunday

6-10 p.m. — Caesars Superdome — Check event page for pricing — Experience a star-studded lineup featuring Boyz II Men, Nas, and a tribute to Quincy Jones.

Abe Partridge and Jack Barksdale Live

9 PM - 12 AM — No Dice — $10 — Experience the soulful tunes of rising stars Abe Partridge and Jack Barksdale in an intimate setting.

An Evening With Mountain Grass Unit

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Tipitina's — Check website for price — Experience an exciting night of country and bluegrass music.

Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen

5-6 p.m. — The Sazerac House — Tickets available — Experience the magic of a live, multi-sensory tribute to the music of Queen in an awe-inspiring setting.

HNOC Chess Club Meeting

1-3 p.m. — REACH Center — Free entry — Explore the rich history of chess in New Orleans while enjoying creative activities.

Charmaine Neville Band Live Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Dinner reservations available — Experience the vibrant musical legacy of New Orleans with Charmaine Neville's captivating performance.

Creepy Fest

6-10 p.m. — The Broadside — Tickets available — Experience a night of spooky music and films under the stars at Creepy Fest 2025.

Will Wood Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — House of Blues New Orleans — $55+ — Catch Will Wood live in an energetic night of music for ages 18 and up.

Flow Tribe Concert

9 PM – 12 AM — Tipitina's — Free and open to the public — Experience a vibrant night of rock and funk with Flow Tribe.

Tales of the Cocktail

Various times — The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans — Price varies — Explore the evolution of the cocktail industry at this premier global drinks conference.