Good morning, New Orleans.

Community groups, churches, hospitals, and police are hosting toy drives for families.

The Toys for Tots Breakfast is on Dec. 11 (8:30 to 11 a.m.) at Marchand Creative Kitchens in Metairie while Everett’s Toy Chest drive runs on Dec. 13 (8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) at Brent House Hotel.

The New Orleans Archdiocese approved a settlement on Monday — it will pay at least $230 million to hundreds of abuse survivors while adding child protection policies, a survivors’ bill of rights, and outside expert oversight.

Hondo Rodeo Fest will debut at Caesars Superdome from April 10 — 12, 2026.

Co-founder Blake Cody said the three-day event will feature rodeo competitions, concerts with shows by Lynyrd Skynyrd, Cody Johnson and Creed, plus a Western-themed Street Fest with food and local shopping and tickets starting at $40.

Tulane University will expand its downtown presence by redeveloping the former Charity Hospital building for research, education and mixed-use space - construction and streetscape improvements are underway with plans to add 2,500 employees and boost research funding over the next eight years.

The Pointe-au-Chien Tribe is building oyster shell reefs and fortified homes to slow coastal erosion and protect its traditions along Louisiana's coast.

Their work has cut land loss by 50% in key areas and continues as they seek support amid funding challenges and a lack of federal recognition.

Newlab New Orleans and JERA (a Japanese power firm) announced a partnership to develop next-generation carbon capture technologies for energy-intensive industries along the Gulf Coast.

The innovation hub will provide lab space and advanced equipment to support startups focused on energy efficiency and carbon management.

Air Products plans to secure permits for a full carbon capture project at Lake Maurepas despite strong local opposition to its CO₂ pipeline and industrial noise; Gov. Landry will decide soon whether to protect our wetlands and schools from potential risks (community leaders and residents are united in caution).

Tulane and Mississippi are set for a College Football Playoff rematch on Dec.

20 in Oxford as Tulane, a conference champion, and Mississippi, an at-large qualifier, prepare for a high-stakes game — the winner will face No. 3 seed Georgia in a Jan. 1 Sugar Bowl quarterfinal in New Orleans.

On Sunday, the underdog Saints upset the Buccaneers 24 to 20 as rookie Tyler Shough scored two rushing touchdowns and led a key drive in a driving storm (Tampa Bay game).

Their win boosted hopes in the NFC South race and energized fans for future matchups.

Tulane promoted longtime assistant coach Will Hall as the next head coach; he will lead the Green Wave after the College Football Playoff run beginning Dec.

20 while Jon Sumrall stays with the team during the playoffs.

Beats Antique Live Performance

7-9:30 p.m. — Joy Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the genre-defying sounds of Beats Antique as they blend world music, electronic, and art into an unforgettable night.

One Night Only: A Christmas Carol Staged Reading

6-10:30 p.m. — The Josephine — Ticket sales support programming — Enjoy a festive staged reading of a lively retelling of Dickens’ classic with heart and humor.

Tank and The Bangas Live Performance

8-10:30 p.m. — Tipitina's — Check for ticket prices — Experience the vibrant sound of Tank & the Bangas blending soul, rock, hip-hop, and funk.

December Holiday Book Party

8 PM – 12 AM — D'zara 1804 — Drinks on the house — Celebrate a year of reading in a dazzling winter wonderland atmosphere.

Nutcracker Ballet Performance

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Orpheum Theater New Orleans — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting Nutcracker ballet performed by the New Orleans Ballet Theatre.

Stanton Moore Trio Live Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Ticket prices vary — Experience the infectious rhythms of Stanton Moore, a New Orleans native and renowned drummer.

Leslie Odom, Jr. - The Christmas Tour

8-9:30 p.m. — Orpheum Theater New Orleans — Tickets available — Experience a magical evening of holiday music with award-winning artist Leslie Odom, Jr.

The Soul Rebels Brass Band

11 PM – 2 AM — Le Bon Temps Roule — Cost Info Not Available — Experience the vibrant blend of hip-hop, soul, and jazz from one of New Orleans' most dynamic brass bands.

Hotel Burgundy Concert Featuring My Beloved

8-11 p.m. — No Dice — Ticket prices vary — Experience the unique sounds of My Beloved with their hit song 'None Prevailed'.

Indiana Pacers vs. New Orleans Pelicans

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Smoothie King Center — Ticket prices vary — Catch the thrilling NBA matchup as the Pacers battle the Pelicans.