The๐wait๐is๐over! No, not for Game of Thrones to come back (more on that here), but FESTIVAL SEASON is upon us!
Hopefully you’ve had time to plan and prepare, because it’s only going to get crazier, and hotter, from here.
French Quarter Fest vs. Strawberry Fest
The first big weekend of festival season starts with a bang! Decisions, decisions: stay in town for French Quarter Fest, or hit the road for the Ponchatoula Strawberry Fest. Music cubes are out for FQF, so you can know out if there’s a performer you can’t miss and weigh out your options. If you do decide to make the trip for Strawberry Fest, we’ve got everything you need to know about where to shop, what to pack and where to park. ๐
Sundays are for church… and second lines
The end of the weekend is the perfect time for a second line. It’s that last hurrah before you settle down and get ready dread for the coming week. Just like church on Sundays, you see the same regulars: The Jello Shot Lady, the Pineapple Lady, and the OG, Ms. Linda, the Yaka Mein Lady. Here’s how the food and drinks along the route are just as important as the music and dancing.
From second lines to a store front location
Speaking of the economy connected to second lines, one 22-year-old entrepreneur has capitalized on her unique cocktails. NOLA Sips owner Stricen Carter made the decision to put her last semester at SUNO on hold to follow the dream of expanding her business. Now, sheโs on tour with one of New Orleans biggest social media moguls.
What To Do
Friday
Nola Dance United: Bollywood, Latin & Afrobeats Night | 9 p.m. โ 2 a.m. | Cafe Istanbul
When youโre on the dance floor, where you come from and where youโre going ceases to matter; all that matters is the here and the now.
Movies In The Park: Despicable Me 3 | 5 -9 p.m. | Joe Brown Park
This week, NORDโs Movie in the Park is in New Orleans East, with Despicable Me 3. Brings the blankets and the kids, the movie starts at dusk.
Saturday
5th Annual Roseโ Soireeโ | 6-7:30 p.m. | Martin Wine Cellar
Put on your best pink dress and celebrate Roseโ all day! The event will include samples for five different roseโs paired with cheese, of course.
Sheriff Marlin Gusmanโs Easter Egg Hunt | 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. | The Audubon Fly
Participants can exchange the eggs they find for a gift bag filled with candy, and if you get there early, you can register for free admission to the Audubon Zoo.
Sunday
Westbank Super Sunday | Noon | Starts at Landry-Walker High School
Since the cancellation of Downtown Super Sunday last week, Westbank Super Sunday will be the last time to see the Black Masking Indians up close.
Thai New Year and Food Festival | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Wat Wimuttayaram Buddhist Temple
This annual celebration will begin with worship and presentations of alms and food to the monks. A range of Thai food will be at various vendors.
