Monday, October 31, 2011

A Ghoulishly Fun NOLA Halloween Night - BOO!!!

Happy Halloween!!

Spooky Fun!!!

Tonight Molly's at the Market hosts their annual Halloween Parade beginning at 1107 Decatur St. and winds its way around the entire French Quarter. Dress up as your favorite ghouly or beasty and join in on the scary fun. Assembly begins in front of Molly's at 6 p.m., parade rolls out at 6:30.

It's that time of year again. Time for Halloween at Pat O'Brien's (718 St. Peter) and the annual crowd-pleasing Costume Contest. As always the contestants will be struttin' their stuff and the winners will be taking home cash. It'll be a wild VOODOO weekend and then Halloween night falling on a Monday. The categories for the contest are Sexiest, Funniest and Scariest. Either come out dressed to win or come help us judge by cheering on your favorites! Doors open at noon but the contest will be around 10 pm.

If your idea is a scary haunted house...then I've got the list for you!!

The Mortuary Haunted House
4800 Canal St., 504.483.2350
Tonight from 7 to 11 p.m.
Admission: $25, with VIP tickets available.

House of Shock
319 Butterworth St., Jefferson, 504.734.7462
Tonight through Sunday from 8 to 11 p.m.
Admission: $25, with VIP tickets available.

Ghoulish Muscial Monday!

If you're Uptown - Enjoy the spooky Fall weather with some porch sippin' over at the Columns Hotel (3811 St. Charles)....Tonight David Doucet of Beausoleil fame performs at 8:00 pm tonight!

Head on down to Mid-City and to the Banks Street Bar (4401 Banks) about 10:00 pm for the N'awlins Johnnys and FREE creepy red beans tonight!

And If you're lookin' for some bluegrass music tonight you don't have to go too far to find it....Check out the Hi Ho Lounge (2239 St. Claude) and the Bluegrass Pickin' Party at 8:00 pm...there's no cover, cheap and yummy red beans (veggie red beans too) plus it's smoke-free!!  After the Bluegrass stay on for Dead Elvis at 10:00 pm...Elvis may have technically left the building, but his hunka hunka burnin' love lingers on!!!

There's lots of Halloween fun around Funky Frenchmen Street!

BMC (1331 Decatur) has a super scary early show at 5:00 pm with Lil Red and Big Bad...then stay on for the next show at 9:30 with Smoky Greenwell's Blues Jam!!

There's a whole night full of scary fun at Maison (508 Frenchmen) with The Royal Roses at 7:00 pm, e. company at 9:00 pm, Yojimbo at 11:30 pm, Royal Teeth at 1:00 am and top off the night Professor Naughty at 2:30 am...Boo!!

Be sure to make a stop by the Spotted Cat (623 Frenchmen) for a whole day of Halloween festiveness...Brett Richardson at 10:00 am, Jumbo Shrimp at 2:00 pm, Dominick Grillo and The Frenchmen Street All Stars at 6:00 pm and be sure to stay on for the Jazz Vipers at 10:00 pm.....it's sure to be another ghoulish good time this Monday evening!

To top off you're ghostly evening....you gotta go Uptown and over to the Maple Leaf (8316 Oak) for Papa Grows Funk at 10:00 pm - they'll get your Monday night freakishly funked up - remember there's a cover - but it's worth it!!!





For more super spooky fun and music be sure to check out the WWOZ Livewire!! 

Saturday, October 29, 2011

A Spooky Saturday with double the Voodoo & Haunted NOLA Fun!!

Happy Halloween Weekend!!  Boo!!

Of course, Halloween weekend in New Orleans means one thing and you know that's the Voodoo Experience over in City Park!

GratisNOLA's picks of the day include:  Iris May Tango at 12:15 over at the WWOZ stage, Chris Thomas King at 2:45 (you probably remember him from "O Brother Where Art Thou" fame)at the Preservation Hall Stage and Ozomatli  at 3:15 (they are amazing  latin, hip hop, percussion!!) over at the WWOZ stage, and X with Exene Cervenka at 7:00 at the Bingo Parlor Stage and of course at the big Voodoo Stage you've got Social Distortion at 5:45 pm, Snoop Dogg at 7:15 pm and Blink-182 closes out the stage at 9:00 pm....For more info and complete schedule of Voodoo events click on the link....http://thevoodooexperience.com/2011/

After Voodoo celebrate more Voodoo with The Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association's 22nd Annual Voodoo on the Bayou celebration which will be held on the grounds of The Historic Pitot House. The event has live music by "Los Po-Boy-Citos" and the New Orleans sounds of "Lips & the Trips". There's gonna be an open bar, food from some of New Orleans most beloved restaurants including Café Degas, Santa Fe, Nonna Mia and Angelo Brocato's...and an amazing silent auction! Tickets are $40 in advance ($50 at the door the night of the event) and available at:
Terranova Supermarket 3308 Esplanade Avenue
Swirl Wine 3143 Ponce de Leon
New Orleans Bamboo 6065 Magazine Street
Cork & Bottle 3700 Orleans Avenue
For more info go to www.voodooonthebayou.com

If your idea is a scary haunted house...then I've got the list for you!!

The Mortuary Haunted House
4800 Canal St., 504.483.2350
Tonight through Sunday, from 7 to 11 p.m.
Admission: $25, with VIP tickets available.

House of Shock
319 Butterworth St., Jefferson, 504.734.7462
Tonight through Sunday from 8 to 11 p.m.
Admission: $25, with VIP tickets available.

Haunted Maze on S. Claiborne near Jefferson
Tonight and Sunday from 6 to 10 pm
Admission is $5.00for adults and $3 for children

For more super spooky fun and music be sure to check out the WWOZ Livewire!!  BOO!!!!!

Thursday, October 27, 2011

TGIT with Gal at the "O", a Beer Can Party and Lots of Music!

Good Morning Everybody - it's almost the weekend!!

Thursday Events

Don't miss out on the weekly wine tasting at Cork and Bottle (3700 Orleans ) about 5:00 pm in Mid-City. You can also stop at Clever (right next door) for their "tasting special" - $1 off your first cocktail after attending the free wine tasting.  And be sure to stop by the Crescent City Farmer's Market and patronize local Louisiana vendors with fresh veggies, seafood and more! 

Need a little more art, culture and music? You gotta go to the show at the Ogden Southern Museum of Art (925 Camp St.) -better known as Ogden after Hours.  The concert starts up at 6:00 pm with Gal Holiday and the Honky Tonk Review.....with a sound that conjures Patsy Cline, a Johnny Cash attitude and a reverence for Merle Haggard and Bob Wills, Gal Holiday and the Honky Tonk Revue pull from the best of Honky Tonk, Western Swing and Rockabilly classics (and a few originals) to create a show that is pure American roots - and there's also going to be an amazing interview with Gal by hubby Bill deTurk!  Besides the fantastic music (and interview) come enjoy the Oktoberfest beers at the "O" bar, and remember if you're a member of the Ogden you always get in free!

Join the 3 Ring Circus Arts & Education Center (1638 Clio St.) tonight from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm for a Halloween Membership Drive featuring one of New Orleans hottest new bands -- Nasimiyu and The Many Moons plus DJ Real and a special Costume Auction Fashion Show presented by Carolina Gallop.  3 Ring Circus is made possible through memberships, grants, art sales and kind donations from people like you!

Tonight is the NOLA Brewing Company's Can Release Party!! The cans are ready and NOLA Brewing Co. is celebrating BIG! Party with NOLA's favorite local brewery at the beloved Tipitina's (501 Napoleon). The party kicks off at 8:30 pm with the slide guitar stylings of blues man Colin Lake, followed by Flow Tribe's backbone cracking funk. Big Sam's Funky Nation will crown the party with a dance-off, Big Sam style. Keep it cool with NOLA Brewing can specials all night! AND THE FIRST CAN IS ON US! Also pick up your FREE limited edition commemorative NOLA Brewing coozie! **Keep the party going all weekend long at Tipitina's with NOLA Brewing Can Kick-off special- $3 cans of NOLA BLONDE ALL WEEKEND! Tickets for tonight's big event are only $15.

Some Thursday Night Music

There's  fun on Frenchmen at the Maison (508 Frenchmen) with a triple header tonight with Those Peaches at 5:00 pm, the Courtyard Kings at 7:00 pm and the Roosevelt Collier Allstars at 10:00 pm !

Spotted Cat Music Club (623 Frenchmen) has a triple header with Brett Richardson at 4:00 pm, Miss Sophie Lee at 6:00 and stay on and party with The New Orleans Moonshiners at 10:00 PM!!

If you're looking for some more dancing - head on over to Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal)  for swing dance lessons - 6:00 to 7:00 pm for beginners and 7:00 to 8:00 pm for advanced  (go to http://www.nolajitterbugs.org/ for more info and to sign up for lessons.)   And stick around afterwards for the Kristin Diable and The City at 9:00 pm (there might be a cover, but the sultry sounds of Kristin is worth it)!  It's gonna be a fun night at the Chickie's!!  PS  I think it might be a very special somebody's birthday at Chickie's tonight - so, be sure to give a big b-day hug!

More fun in Mid-City with a different kind of dancing over at Bayou Park Bar (542 S. Jeff Davis)!  It's the burlesque stylings of Spooky Lestrange and Her Million Dollar Baby Dolls...the show consists of a rotating cast of local dancers and out of towners, venerate cultural icons, both classic and cult.  With a literary flair, their past “Church of Burlesque” events include ‘sermons’ on True Blood, banned books, and comic books.   This should be a good one!  (Might be a small cover - but it will be worth it!)

For more fun stuff to do and more music...check out the WWOZ Livewire - http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar!



www.gratisnola.com

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

A Wednesday w/Concerts, Bar Competion & Lots of Music!

Happy Wednesday Everybody!!

Check it out..... The 2011 HARVEST THE MUSIC CONCERT SERIES PRESENTED BY HANCOCK BANK and WHITNEY BANK is going strong with only two concerts left!!!!

A free concert series benefiting Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans & Acadiana....Every WEDNESDAY through November 2 from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm at LAFAYETTE SQUARE!!

In addition to a free weekly concert, concert-goers will enjoy food and drinks for purchase (no outside food or drinks, please) from local favorites including: Martin Wine Cellar, Squeal, Ye Olde Kettle Cooker, Miss Linda's Soul Food Catering, Lil Dizzy's Café, Lucy's Retired Surfer's Bar & Restaurant, Crepes a la Cart, Oceana and Second Harvest Food Bank Community Kitchen. An artists' village will feature artwork and crafts from regional artists and designers, all available for purchase.

Here's the line-up for the series!!!
Oct. 26 Blind Boys of Alabama Plus Krown Washington and Batiste
Nov. 2 Buckwheat Zydeco Plus Tommy Malone of the Subdudes with Ray Ganucheau

MORE SPECIAL EVENTS!

42 Below Iron Chef Bartender Competition invites you to an an evening of education, libations and fun over at Rock 'N Bowl  (3016 S. Carrollton) with the competition starting up at 5:00 pm, and an after party from 7:00 to 10:00 pm! Come watch some of New Orleans finest behind the stick go head to head Iron Chef Style to create an innovative and fresh new cocktail. Each contestant will receive a list of ingredients that will be available prior to the competition. There will be one secret ingredient revealed upon arrival to the venue. After the competition guests will enjoy signature 42 Below cocktails as well as a chance to create their own at mixing stations while interacting with Borys Saciuk, 42 Below Brand Ambassador. Bowling lanes will be open and light appetizers served. *Please RSVP to Vanessa Miller at vmiller@teament.com

Take in the hottest styles at Fashion with a Twist tonight at Mike's on the Avenue (628 St. Charles Ave.) from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. - Enjoy complimentary Ciroc cocktails and gourmet appetizers while viewing the hottest looks from Molly Stackhouse-Ernst. This fun evening is brought to you by Glam Squad and Niki Walker Salon...Be sure to stay on for live music after the show with Robin Barnes!

Experience an Evening of Cultural Indulgences at the JW Marriott Lobby Lounge (614 Canal Street)from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This Week Featuring: "Face, Forms and Figures Art Clay Exhibit" by Marla Donovan and Ernie Manzanera. There will also be music by guitarist, Javier Gutierrez and a spirit tasting with complimentary hors d’oeuvres....Make a purchase of $1,000 or more by either of our Local Artist tonight and the JW Marriott will give you a 1 night complimentary stay in the Presidential Bi-Level Suite a $1,500 value!! (Parking is available at a special event Rate of $5 on Common Street).

More Wednesday Evening Music

Hang out in Mid-City for all kinds of good stuff tonight - first stop Banks Street Bar (4401 Banks) for some Major Bacon and some FREE BLTs - tonight at 10:00 pm...you can never get enough of the bacon and no cover!!

Have more fun in Mid-City when you head on over to Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal) for an amazing night of  romantic, medieval and Spanish blues with Claude Bourbon at 8:00 pm...the kitchen is rolling so come check out the new menu! 

There's great music this evening on Frenchmen Street over at d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) catch the early show at 7:00 pm with the Tin Men - and stay on for Walter "Wolfman" Washington at 10:00 pm - cover's only $5.00 and you know the Wolfman's worth it!

Have a wonderful Wednesday and for more fun shows and events going on click on the WWOZ Livewire - http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar!



www.gratisnola.com

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Tuesday w/Veggies, a Radiator, a Guitar & a Sax!

Good Morning and happy Tuesday!

Special Events Today!

You can get your day started off right with a trip to the Farmer's Market!!!  Visit the Crescent City's Farmer's Market at University Square (200 Broadway) from 9:00 to 1:00 pm and pick up some fresh seafood, veggies and you can even grab some lunch!  October brings the Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group to the Green Plate Special tent.  This week the Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group returns with lunch items from the Red Fish Grill. We're super excited to try the Hominy, Ham & Onion Soup, Local Goat Cheese, Arugula & Clover Honey Tart, and BBQ Oyster Wrap.....yummy!!

The Trinity Artist Series continues tonight at Trinity Episcopal Church (1329 Jackson Ave.) with "Organ & Labyrinth" with Albinas Prizgintas on the 5000 pipe Trinity tracker organ. The program includes some of the greatest music ever written ranging from Classical Baroque to vintage rock and popular tunes. The concert is from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm and it's FREE!

Good Music Tonight!

Head on over to Mid-City and to Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal) for Camile Baudoin & The Living Rumors at about 8:00 pm - Of course, you know Camile from the Radiators, so it's going to be an amazing show!  (There's might be a cover for the show - but it will be well worth it!)

It's gonna be a beautiful evening to hang out at the The Columns (3811 St. Charles Ave.)...Have a cocktail and listen to the amazing guitar playing of John Rankin along with Ray Moore on sax, flute, clarinet, and tonette at 8:00 pm...this is going to be a good one!

There's some fun on Frenchmen tonight over at d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) with The New Orleans Night Crawlers at 9:00 pm - there's a $5 cover, but the Night Crawlers are definitely worth the dinero!

Right down the street the Spotted Cat (623 Frenchmen) has a triple header with no cover - Brett Richardson at 4:00 pm, Smokin' Time Jazz Club at 6:00 pm and top off the evening with Meschiya Lake & The Little Big Horns at 10:00 pm!

End your night over at the Maple Leaf Bar on Oak Street...with  the REBIRTH Brass Band they come on around 10:30ish - there's a cover, but you'll be glad you paid and stayed up late!! 

Have a wonderful Tuesday and for more fun shows and events going on click on the WWOZ Livewire - http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar!



www.gratisnola.com

Monday, October 24, 2011

Celebrate Monday w/a Saints Win & the Music of Mahalia Jackson!

Hope everyone had a lovely weekend - Celebrate the Saints massive win today with great music around town!

Special Event

Celebrate the birth of Mahahlia Jackson with a very special concert tonight - It's The New Orleans Musical Roots of Mahalia Jackson, with Dr. Michael White and the Liberty Band plus Cynthia Girtley at the Xavier University Center Ballroom from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. Michael White and his Original Liberty Jazz Band are joined by gospel singer and pianist Cynthia Girtley for a concert dedicated to the New Orleans roots of Jackson’s musical style. The concert is FREE and open to the public.

Monday Night Music

If you're Uptown - Enjoy the lovely Fall weather with some porch sippin' over at the Columns Hotel (3811 St. Charles)....Tonight David Doucet of Beausoleil fame performs at 8:00 pm tonight!

Head on down to Mid-City and to the Banks Street Bar (4401 Banks) about 10:00 pm for the N'awlins Johnnys and FREE red beans tonight!

And If you're lookin' for some bluegrass music tonight you don't have to go too far to find it....Check out the Hi Ho Lounge (2239 St. Claude) and the Bluegrass Pickin' Party at 8:00 pm...there's no cover, cheap and yummy red beans (veggie red beans too) plus it's smoke-free!! 

Lots of fun around Frenchmen Street!

d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) has an excellent double header tonight with Jesse Moore at 6:00 pm, and stay on for Glen David Andrews at 9:00 pm (there's a $5 cover for the late show - but that's not much to pay for this performance!)

BMC (1331 Decatur) has a great early show at 5:00 pm with Lil Red and Big Bad...then stay on for the next show at 9:30 with Smoky Greenwell's Blues Jam!!

And two great shows at the Maison (508 Frenchmen) with The Royal Roses at 7:00 pm, and The New Orleans Super Jam at 10:00 pm.

Be sure to make a stop by the Spotted Cat (623 Frenchmen) early for this great line-up of music...Brett Richardson at 4:00 pm, Dominick Grillo and The Frenchmen Street All Stars at 6:00 pm and be sure to stay on for the Jazz Vipers at 10:00 pm.....it's sure to be another smokin' Monday evening show.

To top off you're evening....you gotta go Uptown and over to the Maple Leaf (8316 Oak) for Papa Grows Funk at 10:00 pm - they'll get your Monday night funked up - remember there's a cover - but it's worth it!!!

Have a great one...and for more musical fun check out WWOZ Livewire - http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar...until tomorrow!



www.gratisnola.com

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Saturday w/Broadmoor Fest, Art, Halloween Fun, Drive-Ins & Sexy Lingerie!

It's a beautiful Saturday with so much to do!!

Saturday Events

Looking for some music, food and fun?  Then head on over to Broadmoor Fest!! Broadmoor will be holding its annual festival today from 11a.m. till 7 p.m. on Galvez Street, between Upperline Street and Napoleon Avenue. It’s a great day to celebrate with your neighbors and friends: eat some good food,listen and dance to live New Orleans music with Gal Holiday, Sunpie Barnes, Charmaine Neville and more, shop from the local vendors and let your kids play in the children’s section!  It's gonna be a fun one!

There's some Halloween fun over at the French Market today with the Boo Carre' Halloween and Harvest Festival from 10 to 6:30 pm (and trick or treating for the kids at 4:00 pm!)  There's gonna be music with Benny Grunch and the Bunch and Egg Yolk Jubilee, a petting zoo, pumpkin patches and a pumpkin procession at dark...Spooky!!! 

Prospect.2 New Orleans is an exhibit of works by 27 avant-garde artists from the Crescent City, the nation and around the world, displayed in various locations around the City....check out the website for all the cool things to check out today - http://prospectneworleans.squarespace.com/...And be sure to check out all the amazing art openings in the St. Claude Arts District too - click on the link for all the details!  http://scadnola.com/index.php/home

Looking for a scary movie Saturday night?  Then head on over to the Nola Drive-In Rooftop Screening (840 Carondelet)- this evening is the 1981 horror classic the The Evil Dead!  Doors open at 6:00 pm and the movie starts up at dark...Then stay on for the not so scary Slacker - tickets are $5 and food and drinks will be available for purchase.

If you're looking for a night of hot fashions - then I've got the event for you!! TEE & A: The Annual Dirty Coast Fashion Show with House of Lounge...Dirty Coast T-Shirt Company is having their annual Fashion show tonight at the Eiffel Society (2040 St. Charles). Doors open at 9pm with FREE appetizers and the show starts at 10pm. There's gonna be hot lingerie models with fashions from House of Lounge, Hip Hop dancing by Beaver Fever, and killer tees styled to maximize sexiness. And no worries about parking - drive right on up for free valet service - cool!!

For more fun stuff to do and more music...check out the WWOZ Livewire - http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar!



www.gratisnola.com

Friday, October 21, 2011

TGIF! With Sooo Much to Do - U Just Have to Read This!

Hurray for Friday and what a beautiful day it is!!

Lookin' to hang out on the Bayou and drink some delicious wine...then go no further than the Pitot House on Moss Street for Vino on the Bayou tonight from 5:30 to 7:30 pm!!  This event is always a great way to kick off the evening. For more information concerning the event, you can contact Louisiana Landmark Society at 504.482.0312.

Head down to the Quarter for Concerts in the Courtyard at the Historic New Orleans Collection....What a treat this is (and beautiful weather!).....Experience a concert in the courtyard at the Historic New Orleans Collection in the heart of the French Quarter - 533 Royal Street. The show is from 6:00 to 8:00 pm with Meschiya Lake & the Little Big Horns...FUN!!! Admission is $10, FREE for THNOC members, and includes 3 complimentary beers and martinis from Southern Eagle.!!! Guests must be 21 or older to enter and memberships begin at the low low price of $35.00 per household

Tonight Animal Helper presents the 2nd Annual Fur Ball Fundraiser from 7-10 pm at the Chateau Bourbon (800 Iberville)! With these funds Animal Helper was able to save 92 animals over the past year.  Their goal this year is to raise a minimum of $20,000, which will allow them to rescue more animals in need. The event will feature a silent auction, 50/50 raffle, and door prizes.  Guests will enjoy refreshments, music, entertainment, cash bar, and more! Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.
Tickets are available at four locations:
- Crumb Engineering in Metairie
- Esthetique Facial Spa in New Orleans
- Adventure Pets in Mandeville
- Puppy Love Daycare in Metairie

Another fun event this evening!  It's Cosmos for a Cure: A Fundraiser and Fashion Show benefiting the New Orleans affiliates of Susan G. Komen at Twist (628 St. Charles Ave.) from 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm.  $10.00 admission includes complimentary  cosmo and light hors d'oeuvres.  Come enjoy cocktails and fashion for a great cause!

The Where Y'Art? party is celebrating Elegant Images Closing Weekend this evening over at the New Orleans Museum of Art starting at 5:00 pm with Gallery & Exhibition Tours, lots of fun activities and music!! The event is FREE with museum admissions. $10 Adults, $8 seniors, students, active military, $6 children ages 17 to 7, children 6 and under are free. Check out the events!
- 5pm to 8pm: Art Making Activity with KIDsmART
- 5pm to 8pm: Bhangra Folk & Classical Indian Dancing
- 5:30pm to 8:30pm: North Indian/Hindustani Instrumental Classical Music: Priyo Majumdar (sarode) with accompaniment by Andrew McLean (tabla)
- 6:30pm: Directors Dialogue with Derek Gillman, Executive Director and President of the Barnes Foundation
- 7pm: The Elegant Image: Walk Through with Lisa Rotondo McCord
- 7:30pm to 8:30pm: Slide presentation by Robert Arnett, photographer and author of "India Unveiled"
- DiWali Celebration (Festival of Lights) with Indian sweets and sparklers

You say - you still don't know what to do???

Start off your weekend the right way with a little New Orleans/Hawaiian music!!  The fun is happening over at the Bayou Beer Garden (326 N. Jeff Davis) with an Autumn Luau with Hawaii 504.  The party gets started at 7:00 pm - don't miss some island tunes with a little New Orleans thrown in!

Head on over to Chickie Wah Wah on Canal at about 7:00 pm for New Orleans Women In Music presents: "Sisters in Song", an event featuring Germaine Bazzle,The Honey Pots and Romy Kaye. Proceeds to go to the New Orleans Musicians Assistance Fund and our sister musicians affected by the tornadoes of Tuscaloosa, AL and Joplin, MO.!!  And don't forget to come hungry cause the kitchen is back open! (There's gonna be a cover, but your money is going to a great cause!)

And there's another big celebration on Banks Street over at the Banks Street Bar and Grill (of course - 4401 Banks) - it's the Banks Street Anniversary Celebration with The Egg Yolk Jubilee, Tony Italiano, Tina Jamieson, Hannah KB, Eloise Davis, Ricardo Slowhand at 9:00 pm!

And there's more good music in Mid-City (almost Uptown) over at Rock 'N Bowl (3016 S. Carrollton) celebrate the cd release party for the Creole String Beans at 9:30 pm!!  Remember if you eat at Ye Olde College Inn right next door you get a discount to the show!  Happy rockin' and bowlin'!

Need more music??  Then go to Frenchmen Street! You can get started early at the Spotted Cat (623 Frenchmen) with Brett Richardson at 4:00 pm, Washboard Chaz Blues Trio at 6:00 pm, and the New Orleans Cottonmouth Kings at 10:00 pm.

Stop by Mojitos Rum Bar & Grill (437 Esplanade - corner of Frenchmen) for some excellent margaritas and some great music all afternoon and stay late for Fredy Omar con su Banda at 10:30 pm!!

Right down the street you have another trio of shows at BMC (1331 Decatur)...with El DeOrazio & Friends at 3:00 pm for some happy hour, Caroline and Moonshine at 7:00 pm, and the Dana Abbot Band at 10:00 pm!!

d.b.a.'s (618 Frenchmen) got The Hot Club of New Orleans at 6:00 pm it's FREE, but don't forget to tip the band!! And stay on for the Happy Talk Band at 10:00 pm...there's a $5cover, but you don't want to miss some Happy Talkin'!!

Alrighty, well that should keep you busy this evening and tomorrow...If you're looking for more fun stuff to do...check out the WWOZ Livewire -  http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar!!  Have a good one!



www.gratisnola.com

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Thursday with a Dome Light Up, Mahalia Tribute & Lots More!

Good Morning Everybody - Yea for a beautiful Thursday!!
Thursday Events

Don't miss out on the weekly wine tasting at Cork and Bottle (3700 Orleans ) about 5:00 pm in Mid-City. You can also stop at Clever (right next door) for their "tasting special" - $1 off your first cocktail after attending the free wine tasting.  And be sure to stop by the Crescent City Farmer's Market and patronize local Louisiana vendors with fresh veggies, seafood and more! 

Celebrate the new glowing Superdome tonight and watch 'em Light up the Dome!!....New Orleans Saints owner Tom Benson, Superdome commission Chairman Ron Forman and SMG Senior Vice President Doug Thornton will host a free-to-the-public lighting ceremony to showcase the capabilities of the $1.6 million permanent lighting system that will be set to a musical soundtrack. The ceremony is at 7:15 p.m. tonight and the Square opens at 6 p.m...and don't worry about parking - they'll be free parking in the Champions Garage!


Need a little more art, culture and music? You gotta go to the show at the Ogden Southern Museum of Art (925 Camp St.) -better known as Ogden after Hours.  The concert starts up at 6:00 pm with a Celebration of the Centennial Birth of Mahalia Jackson, this concert seeks to expose her music to a new generation. The concert will showcase vocalists Leah Chase and her daughter Chase Kamata, George French, Topsy Chapman and Solid Harmony (featuring her daughters Yolanda Windsay and Jolynda "Kikki" Phillips). The event will also showcase Matt Lemmler's New Orleans Jazz Revival Band, and the premiere of the WWOZ Choir under the direction of Matt Lemmler featuring Leslie Smith, Cindy Scott, Miki Fujii, Sarah Quintana and special guests.  Besides the fantastic music come enjoy the Oktoberfest beers at the "O" bar, and remember if you're a member of the Ogden you always get in free!

Tonight is the next big installment of Live at Lafreniere Park (3000 Downs Blvd.) at 6:00 pm with Rockin' Dopsie! They'll have frosty beverages and delicious food. Look for the huge stage on the island, and the best part? . . .Admission is FREE!!! Kids and pets are welcome too!

Some Thursday Night Music

There's  fun on Frenchmen at the Maison (508 Frenchmen) with a double header tonight with Those Peaches at 5:00 pm and Dave Easley at 7:00 pm !

Spotted Cat Music Club (623 Frenchmen) has a triple header with Brett Richardson at 4:00 pm, Miss Sophie Lee at 6:00 and stay on and party with The New Orleans Moonshiners at 10:00 PM!!

If you're looking for some more dancing - head on over to Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal)  for swing dance lessons - 6:00 to 7:00 pm for beginners and 7:00 to 8:00 pm for advanced  (go to http://www.nolajitterbugs.org/ for more info and to sign up for lessons.)   And stick around afterwards for the Kristin Diable and The City at 9:00 pm (there might be a cover, but the sultry sounds of Kristin is worth it)!  It's gonna be a fun night at the Chickie's!!

More fun in Mid-City with a different kind of dancing over at Bayou Park Bar (542 S. Jeff Davis)!  It's the burlesque stylings of Spooky Lestrange and Her Million Dollar Baby Dolls...the show consists of a rotating cast of local dancers and out of towners, venerate cultural icons, both classic and cult.  With a literary flair, their past “Church of Burlesque” events include ‘sermons’ on True Blood, banned books, and comic books.   This should be a good one!  (Might be a small cover - but it will be worth it!)

For more fun stuff to do and more music...check out the WWOZ Livewire - http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar!



www.gratisnola.com

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Wednesday w/a Concert, a Party, Fashion & Lots of Music!

Happy Wednesday Everybody!!

Check it out..... The 2011 HARVEST THE MUSIC CONCERT SERIES PRESENTED BY HANCOCK BANK and WHITNEY BANK is going strong!!!!

A free concert series benefiting Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans & Acadiana....Every WEDNESDAY through November 2 from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm at LAFAYETTE SQUARE!!

In addition to a free weekly concert, concert-goers will enjoy food and drinks for purchase (no outside food or drinks, please) from local favorites including: Martin Wine Cellar, Squeal, Ye Olde Kettle Cooker, Miss Linda's Soul Food Catering, Lil Dizzy's Café, Lucy's Retired Surfer's Bar & Restaurant, Crepes a la Cart, Oceana and Second Harvest Food Bank Community Kitchen. An artists' village will feature artwork and crafts from regional artists and designers, all available for purchase.

Here's the line-up for the series!!!
Oct. 19 Dirty Dozen Brass Band and Jon Cleary's Philthy Phew
Oct. 26 Blind Boys of Alabama Plus Krown Washington and Batiste
Nov. 2 Buckwheat Zydeco Plus Tommy Malone of the Subdudes with Ray Ganucheau

MORE SPECIAL EVENTS!

It's the Grande Finale of the 2011 One Book One New Orleans tonight from 7:00 to 8:30 pm at the New Orleans Healing Center (2372 St. Claude Avenue).  Please join the Young Leadership Council's One Book One New Orleans program for their finale event!
So come on down and say farewell the New Orleans way!
* FREE delicious eats and beer!
* The Original Pinettes Brass Band! Yep, that's right, the world's only all-female brass band!
* The unveiling of our 2011 Children's Art Project executed through a partnership with Community Works of Louisiana!
* Announcement of our 10th Life Essay Contest Winners!

Take in the hottest styles at Fashion with a Twist tonight at Mike's on the Avenue (628 St. Charles Ave.) from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. - Enjoy complimentary Ciroc cocktails and gourmet appetizers while viewing the hottest looks from Prima Donna's Closet with Designers Carolina Gallop and Jose' L. Rodriguez. This fun evening is brought to you by Glam Squad and Niki Walker Salon...Be sure to stay on for live music after the show with Robin Barnes!

Experience an Evening of Cultural Indulgences at the JW Marriott Lobby Lounge (614 Canal Street)from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Featuring the Premier Showing of New work by Jenny Koelbel "The Masquerade Collection". There will also be some Gypsy Swing with Raphael Bas and Pierre Pichon and a spirit tasting with complimentary hors d’oeuvres....Make a purchase of $1,000 or more by either of our Local Artist tonight and the JW Marriott will give you a 1 night complimentary stay in the Presidential Bi-Level Suite a $1,500 value!! (Parking is available at a special event Rate of $5 on Common Street).

More Wednesday Evening Music

Hang out in Mid-City for all kinds of good stuff tonight - first stop Banks Street Bar (4401 Banks) for some Major Bacon and some FREE BLTs - tonight at 10:00 pm...you can never get enough of the bacon and no cover!!

Have more fun in Mid-City when you head on over to Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal) for an amazing night of music with with Meschiya Lake & Tom McDermott
at 8:00 pm...and grab some dinner before you go...the kitchen is closed for a little reno! 

It ain't Mid-City, but there's great music this evening on Frenchmen Street tonight at d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) catch the early show at 7:00 pm with Paul Sanchez, Alex Mcmurray and Washboard Chaz - and stay on for Walter "Wolfman" Washington at 10:00 pm - cover's only $5.00 and you know the Wolfman's worth it!

Have a wonderful Wednesday and for more fun shows and events going on click on the WWOZ Livewire - http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar!



www.gratisnola.com

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

A Tuesday w/Veggies, Dogs in Costumes, Books & Guitars!

Good Morning and a happy beautiful Tuesday to you!

Special Events Today!

You can get your day started off right with a trip to the Farmer's Market!!!  Visit the Crescent City's Farmer's Market at University Square (200 Broadway) from 9:00 to 1:00 pm and pick up some fresh seafood, veggies and you can even grab some lunch!  October brings the Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group to the Green Plate Special tent.  This week has Red Fish Grill under the big tent with roasted pumpkin bisque with spiced apple butter, pulled beef brisket on brioche with horseradish cheddar, onions and smokey mayo, and pecan Creole cream cheese brownies.......yummy!!

The Trinity Artist Series continues tonight at Trinity Episcopal Church (1329 Jackson Ave.) with "Organ & Labyrinth" with Albinas Prizgintas on the 5000 pipe Trinity tracker organ. The program includes some of the greatest music ever written ranging from Classical Baroque to vintage rock and popular tunes. The concert is from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm and it's FREE!

Feeling Devilish? Don't miss the 1st Annual Canine Costume Contest and Trick or Treating Pawty at Fetch! Mid-City (3536 Toulouse St.). The fun goes from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. It's $10 per human and funds benefit the Southern Animal Foundation...This evening includes wine tasting by Cork & Bottle for Humans, doggie & people Treats from Fetch! MidCity, and entrance into Canine Costume Contest which starts up at 7:00 p.mm at MidCity Theatre! Woof! Don't miss it!

Louisiana Landmarks Society Presents - "Lost Restaurants of New Orleans: and the Recipes That Made Them Famous" with guest speakers and authors of "Lost Restaurants": TOM FITZMORRIS, longtime New Orleans restaurant critic and radio talk show host with PEGGY SCOTT LABORDE, WYES-TV producer of history documentaries,including Lost Restaurants of New Orleans, a perennially popular program on public television. The event begins at 7:00 pm at 6330 St. Charles Ave. with a reception following. Lost Restaurants of New Orleans books will be available for purchase. Please contact 504-482-0312 or email info@louisianalandmarks.org for more info.

Good Music Tonight!

Head on over to Mid-City and to Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal) for a special CD Release Party with Camile Baudoin & The Living Rumors at about 8:00 pm - Of course, you know Camile from the Radiators, so it's going to be an amazing show!  (There's might be a cover for the show - but this a must see!)

It's gonna be a beautiful evening to hang out at the The Columns (3811 St. Charles Ave.)...Have a cocktail and listen to the amazing guitar playing trio of Jimmy Robinson, Phil deGruy and John Rankin at 8:00 pm...you don't want to miss this one!

There's some fun on Frenchmen tonight over at d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) with The New Orleans Night Crawlers at 9:00 pm - there's a $5 cover, but the Night Crawlers are definitely worth the dinero!

Right down the street the Spotted Cat (623 Frenchmen) has a triple header with no cover - Brett Richardson at 4:00 pm, Smokin' Time Jazz Club at 6:00 pm and top off the evening with Meschiya Lake & The Little Big Horns at 10:00 pm!

End your night over at the Maple Leaf Bar on Oak Street...with  the REBIRTH Brass Band they come on around 10:30ish - there's a cover, but you'll be glad you paid and stayed up late!! 

Have a wonderful Tuesday and for more fun shows and events going on click on the WWOZ Livewire - http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar!



www.gratisnola.com

Monday, October 17, 2011

Beat the Monday Blues with Some Good Music!

Hope everyone had a lovely weekend - the Saints may have lost, but we'll get 'em next week!!  If you need to beat the Monday blues there's lots of great music going on.

Monday Night Music

If you're Uptown - It's lovely weather for some porch sippin' over at the Columns Hotel (3811 St. Charles)....Tonight David Doucet of Beausoleil fame is back at 8:00 pm tonight!

Head on down to Mid-City and to the Banks Street Bar (4401 Banks) about 9:00 pm for the N'awlins Johnnys and FREE red beans tonight!

And If you're lookin' for some bluegrass music tonight you don't have to go too far to find it....Check out the Hi Ho Lounge (2239 St. Claude) and the Bluegrass Pickin' Party at 8:00 pm...there's no cover, cheap and yummy red beans (veggie red beans too) plus it's smoke-free!! 

Lots of fun around Frenchmen Street!

d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) has an excellent double header tonight with Jesse Moore at 6:00 pm, and stay on for Glen David Andrews at 9:00 pm (there's a $5 cover for the late show - but that's not much to pay for this performance!)

BMC (1331 Decatur) has a great early show at 5:00 pm with Lil Red and Big Bad...then stay on for the next show at 9:30 with Smoky Greenwell's Blues Jam!!

And two great shows at the Maison (508 Frenchmen) with The Royal Roses at 7:00 pm, and The New Orleans Super Jam at 10:00 pm.

Be sure to make a stop by the Spotted Cat (623 Frenchmen) early for this great line-up of music...Brett Richardson at 4:00 pm, Dominick Grillo and The Frenchmen Street All Stars at 6:00 pm and be sure to stay on for Kristina Morales and the Bayou Shufflers at 10:00 pm.....it's sure to be another smokin' Monday evening show.

To top off you're evening....you gotta go Uptown and over to the Maple Leaf (8316 Oak) for Papa Grows Funk at 10:00 pm - they'll get your Monday night funked up - remember there's a cover - but it's worth it!!!

Have a great one...and for more musical fun check out WWOZ Livewire - http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar...until tomorrow!



www.gratisnola.com

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Saturday w/Blues, Oktoberfest, Latin Fun, Dogs & Cats!

Good Morning and Happy Saturday - and time to celebrate some beautiful weather and some fun fests...oh yes, and I can't forget - GEAUX TIGERS!!

The Crescent City Blues and BBQ Festival at Lafayette Square celebrates it's 6th annual festival today and tomorrow starting up at 11:00 am!! The Fest is New Orleans' premier showcase of Southern blues and soul - with two stages of music, a dozen vendors of outstanding barbecue and a massive crafts fair featuring hand-made works by artisans from throughout the region. The festival is free and open to the public!! Check out the line-up below and click the link above for all the festival fun!

SATURDAY, OCT. 15
Camp Street Stage
11:00 am to 12:00 pm Washboard Chaz Blues Trio
1:15 pm to 2:15 pm Jimmie Duck Holmes
3:30 pm to 4:30 pm South Memphis String Band
5:45 pm to 6:45 pm Mel Waiters

St. Charles Ave. Stage
12:00 pm to 1:15 pm King James & the Special Men
2:15 pm to 3:30 pm Little Freddie King
4:30 pm to 5:45 pm Tab Benoit
6:45 pm to 8:00 pm Kenny Wayne Shepherd

SUNDAY, OCT. 16
Camp Street Stage
11:00 am to 12:00 pm Voodoo Blues Challenge Winner Ed Wills & Blues 4 Sale with guest Chance Casteel
1:15 pm to 2:15 pm Homemade Jamz
3:30 pm to 4:30 pm Super Chikan & Watermelon Slim
5:45 pm to 6:45 pm Marcia Ball

St. Charles Ave. Stage
12:00 pm to 1:15 pm Eric Lindell
2:15 pm to 3:30 pm Luther Kent & Trick Bag
4:30 pm to 5:45 pm The Campbell Brothers
6:45 pm to 8:00 pm Bettye LaVette

Ready to get your Chicken Dance on?! You know the Deutsches Haus Oktoberfest can help you out...They may night be in Mid-City anymore, but all the fun is happening for the next two weekends in Rivertown in Kenner (Williams Blvd. and the River).  From Noon till 11:00 pm on Saturday and Noon till 8:00 pm Sunday!  Admission is $6.members + 1 guest enter free
Children 12 and under enter free, Active military enter free and Lederhosen / Dirndl - Get in Free on Sundays!

And of course lots of Beer! 23 different beers 12 German, 5 European, 2 local and more....Beer & wine tasting on Saturday, October 15 & October 22 (to sign up for beer/wine tasting visit http://www.deutscheshaus.org/)

And lots of Food!
Schnitzel Sandwich - Schnitzel with black forest ham and Swiss cheese on a Kaiser roll
Hot soft pretzels
Flammkuchen - German Pizza Grilled Bratwurst,
Knockwurst, and Weisswurst on a bun
Grilled Brat burger on a Kaiser roll
Grilled Cheese burgers
Grilled Kielbasa on a stick
As well as daily specials...
And as always lots of chicken dancing with the Oomp Pah Pah Band!

Celebrate Latin culture all weekend long at Carnaval Latino the fun is happening over at Mardi Gras World (1380 Port of New Orleans Place).  It's a celebration of extraordinary Latin music and the Hispanic heritage and culture, presented by the non-profit Hispanic American Musicians and ArtistsCultural Association(H.A.M.A.C.A.).

Carnaval Latino 2011 will include: Top headline entertainment; Music and folkloric dances from Spain, Portugal and the Americas; An extensive array of Hispanic and creole food and drinks; Visual arts and interactive entertainment and activities for people of all ages. General admission is only $10!  Click on the link above for more info and check out the music schedule below.
Saturday
~El Jeffrey~12:45am-2:00am
~Banda Blanca~11:00pm-12:30am
~Sonora Dinamita~9:45pm-10:45pm
~La Makina~8:00pm-9:30pm
~Little Phas~6:00pm-7:00pm
~Los Astros de America~5pm-6pm
~Rumba Buena Band~4pm-5pm
~Grupo Recuerdo~3pm-4pm

Sunday
~Carmen Jara~8:30pm-9:00pm
~Los Cadetes de Linares~9:00pm
~La Chanchona~8:00pm-8:30pm
~El Ejemplo~7:00pm-8:00pm
~Banda Blanca~6:00pm-7:00pm
~El Sheriff~5:00pm-5:45pm
~Grupo Sensacion~4pm-5pm
~Los Froggies~3pm-4pm
~Julio & Cesar~2pm-3pm

If you and your pups a looking for a little fun and fashion...then Bad to the Bone - Rescued on the Runway is just for you tonight at the Eiffel Society (2040 St. Charles) from 6:00 to 9:00 pm! The evening includes live music with Calvin Johnson and Chapter Soul, a Halloween fashion show with adoptable dogs from six local non-profit animal rescues.  So bring your dog out for a night on the town & to support animal rescue. Cash door prizes, dog and human costume contest, great food, free giveaways, pet photography, gorgeous models, and lots of fun.  Admission for this doggylicious evening are $20 for humans and $15 for pets...go to http://www.petceteraneworleans.com/ for discounted pre-sale tix!

The Amazing Acro-Cats Halloween Spooktacular continue at The Shadowbox Theatre (2400 St. Claude) with only two days left of Halloween spooky fun running through tomorrow. If you think it's difficult housebreaking a kitten, imagine training one to ride a skateboard. Shows are at 7 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays, with 10 p.m. performances on Fridays and Saturdays and 4 p.m. matinees Saturdays and Sundays (they've added a 1:00 pm matinee on Sunday too!)  Click on the link to purchase tickets: http://www.theshadowboxtheatre.com/Shadowbox/Tickets.html

That should keep you pretty busy today, but for more fun stuff to do and more music...check out the WWOZ Livewire - http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar!



www.gratisnola.com

Friday, October 14, 2011

Friday w/Wine, Blues, BBQ and Cats!!

TGIF!!

Always a fun way to kick things off.  It's the weekly wine tasting over at Cork & Bottle (Orleans at Moss St.) - from 5:00 to 7:00 pm.  Come out and sample some! 

And you can double your wine tasting fun!  Check out Swirl located on Ponce de Leon right off Esplanade and enjoy a FREE wine tasting at 6:00 pm. Once you've tasted one of their excellent choices you'll be sure to be buy a bottle! 

The Where Y'Art? party is celebrating Young Audiences this evening over at the New Orleans Museum of Art starting at 5:00 pm with Gallery & Exhibition Tours, lots of fun activities and music!! The event is FREE with museum admissions. $10 Adults, $8 seniors, students, active military, $6 children ages 17 to 7, children 6 and under are free. Check out the events!
  • 5p to 8p: Art Making Activity: Royalty for the Evening (Crowns)
  • 5p to 8:30p: Student Art Work on Display
  • 5:30p to 8:30p: Music: Mr. Michael's Class: Michael Patrick Welch and Kerry Gibson will share some of the music they have created in New Orleans schools
  • 6p: The Elegant Image: Lecture with Don Statdner
  • 6:30p: Tour: The Art of Storytelling: Permanent Collection
  • 7:30p: Classical Iyengar Yoga Demo
  • 7p: The NOLA Project: A Midsummer Night's Dream (Sculpture Garden)
  • 8p: Tour: The Art of Storytelling: Permanent Collection  

The Crescent City Blues and BBQ Festival at Lafayette Square kicks off this afternoon with a little warm-up for the big weekend!! The Fest is New Orleans' premier showcase of Southern blues and soul - with two stages of music, a dozen vendors of outstanding barbecue and a massive crafts fair featuring hand-made works by artisans from throughout the region. The festival is free and open to the public!! Check out the line-up!

Tonight:
5:30 p.m. - Henry Butler
6:15 p.m. - Walter "Wolfman" Washington & the Roadmasters

Saturday:
Kenny Wayne Shepherd
Mel Waiters
South Memphis String Band (featuring Luther Dickinson, Jimbo Mathus and Alvin Youngblood Hart)
Tab Benoit
Jimmy "Duck" Holmes
Little Freddie King
King James & the Special Men

Sunday:
Bettye LaVette
Marcia Ball
The Campbell Brothers
Super Chikan & Watermelon Slim
Luther Kent & Trick Bag
The Homemade Jamz Blues Band
Eric Lindell

Get Fired Up for Kingsley House (1600 Constance) with Kermit Ruffins tonight! Kingsley House and the Young Leadership Council will host "Get Fired Up for Kingsley House with Kermit Ruffins" from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. The event will feature entertainment by Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers, drinks and raffle prizes. VooDoo BBQ and Grill will spend time at Ruffin's famous BBQ grill cooking some tasty treats for guests. WWL Traffic Reporter Christina Leavenworth and Kingsley House Board Member Miles Channing Thomas will serve as mistress and master of ceremonies. There's no charge to come on in, but donations are much appreciated!

You still don't know what to do?

The Amazing Acro-Cats Halloween Spooktacular continue at The Shadowbox Theatre (2400 St. Claude) with nearly two weeks of Halloween spooky fun running through October 16. If you think it's difficult housebreaking a kitten, imagine training one to ride a skateboard. Shows are at 7 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays, with 10 p.m. performances on Fridays and Saturdays and 4 p.m. matinees Saturdays and Sundays. Click on the link to purchase tickets: http://www.theshadowboxtheatre.com/Shadowbox/Tickets.html

Head on over to Chickie Wah Wah on Canal for their happy hour and a double header of music this evening.  Come on by around the 5 o'clock hour for a happy hour and music by the Sweet Olive Swing Band, and stay on for David Vandervelde with Caddywhompus and Carter Tanton at 9:00 pm there's a small cover, but the show will be worth it!

And there's more good music in Mid-City (almost Uptown) over at Rock 'N Bowl (3016 S. Carrollton) for Guitar Shorty plus Josh Garrett at 9:30 pm!!  Remember if you eat at Ye Olde College Inn right next door you get a discount to the show!  Happy rockin' and bowlin'!

Need more music??  Then go to Frenchmen Street!

You can get started early at the Spotted Cat (623 Frenchmen) with Brett Richardson at 4:00 pm, Washboard Chaz Blues Trio at 6:00 pm, and the New Orleans Cottonmouth Kings at 10:00 pm.

Stop by Mojitos Rum Bar & Grill (437 Esplanade - corner of Frenchmen) for some excellent margaritas and some great music all afternoon with Bryce Eastwood at 4:00 pm, Eudora Evans and Deep Soul at 7:00 pm and stay late for Fredy Omar con su Banda at 10:30 pm!!

Right down the street you have another trio of shows at BMC (1331 Decatur)...with El DeOrazio & Friends at 3:00 pm, Moonshine and Caroline at 7:00 pm, and the Dana Abbott Band at 10:00 pm!

Alrighty, well that should keep you busy this evening and tomorrow...If you're looking for more fun stuff to do...check out the WWOZ Livewire -  http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar and tune in today from 11-2 pm for the Louisiana Music Party with my hubby Bill deTurk!!


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Thursday, October 13, 2011

A Thursday w/Wine, Jazz, Cats and Burlesque!

Good Morning Everybody - TGIT one more day 'til the weekend!!

Thursday Events

Don't miss out on the weekly wine tasting at Cork and Bottle (3700 Orleans ) about 5:00 pm in Mid-City. You can also stop at Clever (right next door) for their "tasting special" - $1 off your first cocktail after attending the free wine tasting and hang out and watch the Tigers kick some Mississippi butt! And be sure to stop by the Crescent City Farmer's Market and patronize local Louisiana vendors with fresh veggies, seafood and more! 

And there's more wine!! Come to Tastings at the Track and enjoy 35 plus "Robust Reds" from around the world at this casual, reception-style wine tasting. Held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the clubhouse at Fair Grounds Race Course and Slots (1751 Gentilly Blvd.), the spirited sampling is sponsored by Dorignac's. Wine experts are on hand to answer all of your wine questions, and there will be gourmet cheeses to compliment the wines. Cost to attend is $25 per person. Tickets are sold at Dorignac's or at the door. Don't miss it!

Need a little more art, culture and music? You gotta go to the show at the Ogden Southern Museum of Art (925 Camp St.) -better known as Ogden after Hours.  The concert starts up at 6:00 pm with Glen David Andrews. Glen David Andrews has played in both the New Birth, Lil Rascals, and Tremé brass bands, among others, lending equal measures of musicianship and showmanship to each. Now he fronts his own high-powered ensemble that veers from traditional jazz to gospel, rock, blues and funk, all in the same show.  Besides the fantastic music come enjoy the Oktoberfest beers at the "O" bar, and remember if you're a member of the Ogden you always get in free!

Go hang out at City Park this evening for The Thursdays at Twilight Garden Concert Series with the incredibly talented John Rankin!  The gates open up at 5:00 pm and the performance starts at 6:00 pm in the City Park Botanical Garden Pavilion of the Two Sisters...There is an admission charge, but hey, it's helping the Park out..so....it's a good thing...$8 for adults and $3 for children.

Tonight is the next big installment of Live at Lafreniere Park (3000 Downs Blvd.) at 6:00 pm with the Category 6! They'll have frosty beverages and delicious food. Look for the huge stage on the island, and the best part? . . .Admission is FREE!!! Kids and pets are welcome too!

The Amazing Acro-Cats Halloween Spooktacular continue at The Shadowbox Theatre (2400 St. Claude) with nearly two weeks of Halloween spooky fun running through October 16. If you think it's difficult housebreaking a kitten, imagine training one to ride a skateboard. Shows are at 7 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays, with 10 p.m. performances on Fridays and Saturdays and 4 p.m. matinees Saturdays and Sundays. Click on the link to purchase tickets: http://www.theshadowboxtheatre.com/Shadowbox/Tickets.html

Some Thursday Night Music

There's  fun on Frenchmen at the Maison (508 Frenchmen) with a double header tonight with Those Peaches at 5:00 pm and Kristina Morales at 7:00 pm !

Spotted Cat Music Club (623 Frenchmen) has a triple header with Brett Richardson at 4:00 pm, Miss Sophie Lee at 6:00 and stay on and party with The New Orleans Moonshiners at 10:00 PM!!

If you're looking for some more dancing - head on over to Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal)  for swing dance lessons - 6:00 to 7:00 pm for beginners and 7:00 to 8:00 pm for advanced  (go to http://www.nolajitterbugs.org/ for more info and to sign up for lessons.)   And stick around afterwards for the Kristin Diable and The City at 9:00 pm (there might be a cover, but the sultry sounds of Kristin is worth it)!  It's gonna be a fun night at the Chickie's!!

More fun in Mid-City with a different kind of dancing over at Bayou Park Bar (542 S. Jeff Davis)!  It's the burlesque stylings of Spooky Lestrange and Her Million Dollar Baby Dolls...the show consists of a rotating cast of local dancers and out of towners, venerate cultural icons, both classic and cult.  With a literary flair, their past “Church of Burlesque” events include ‘sermons’ on True Blood, banned books, and comic books.   This should be a good one!  (Might be a small cover - but it will be worth it!)

For more fun stuff to do and more music...check out the WWOZ Livewire - http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar!



www.gratisnola.com

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Wednesday w/a Market, Music, Wine, Fashion, Art & Cats!

Happy Wednesday Everybody!!

Check it out..... The 2011 HARVEST THE MUSIC CONCERT SERIES PRESENTED BY HANCOCK BANK and WHITNEY BANK is going strong!!!!

A free concert series benefiting Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans & Acadiana....Every WEDNESDAY through November 2 from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm at LAFAYETTE SQUARE!!

In addition to a free weekly concert, concert-goers will enjoy food and drinks for purchase (no outside food or drinks, please) from local favorites including: Martin Wine Cellar, Squeal, Ye Olde Kettle Cooker, Miss Linda's Soul Food Catering, Lil Dizzy's Café, Lucy's Retired Surfer's Bar & Restaurant, Crepes a la Cart, Oceana and Second Harvest Food Bank Community Kitchen. An artists' village will feature artwork and crafts from regional artists and designers, all available for purchase.

Here's the line-up for the series!!!
Oct. 12 Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue Plus Stooges Brass Band
Oct. 19 Dirty Dozen Brass Band and Jon Cleary's Philthy Phew
Oct. 26 Blind Boys of Alabama Plus Krown Washington and Batiste
Nov. 2 Buckwheat Zydeco Plus Tommy Malone of the Subdudes with Ray Ganucheau

MORE SPECIAL EVENTS!

Unleash your hidden sleuth with a Mystery Wine Tasting at Cork & Bottle (3700 Orleans Ave.) This one is not a who done it, but more like a what is it? Join the folks at C&B at 6:30 pm for Winesense Wednesday hosted by their very own David Harvylkoff! Come Sip 6 robust reds from around the world and see if YOU can sniff out the truth! The wine detective who gets the most varietals correct, wins a FREE bottle of vino! Call 483-6314 for reservations - cost is $20.

Head on over to Lakeview to celebrate Halloween a little early at the Harrison Avenue Marketplace presented by Beacon of Hope tonight from 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm in the parking lot of Lakeview Grocery at 801 Harrison Avenue.  You'll enjoy music by the Louisiana Hellbenders and with the holidays almost here, get a jump start on your holiday shopping and support the featured local artists who can help you find that perfect something. There will be 75 arts, crafts and food vendors on hand.  First Baptist New Orleans church will be there with great activities for the little ones. You can enjoy the famous char-grilled oysters from Drago's or or crab cakes from Meals from the Heart.  Keep it cool with NOLA Snow Snowballs or a cold refreshing libation from the Beacon Beverage booth serving an array of thirst quenchers including margaritas.  It's going to a fun evening!

Take in the hottest styles at Fashion with a Twist tonight at Mike's on the Avenue (628 St. Charles Ave.) from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. - Enjoy complimentary Ciroc cocktails and gourmet appetizers while viewing the hottest looks from Maria Rodriguez. This fun evening is brought to you by Glam Squad and Niki Walker Salon...Be sure to stay on for live music after the show with Robin Barnes!

Experience an Evening of Cultural Indulgences at the JW Marriott Lobby Lounge (614 Canal Street)from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The featured artist this week is photographer Dan Milham (yes, he's more than just a weather man!)  There will also be music by Tony Seville and a spirit tasting with complimentary hors d’oeuvres....Make a purchase of $1,000 or more by either of our Local Artist tonight and the JW Marriott will give you a 1 night complimentary stay in the Presidential Bi-Level Suite a $1,500 value!! (Parking is available at a special event Rate of $5 on Common Street)

The Amazing Acro-Cats Halloween Spooktacular continues tonight at - The Shadowbox Theatre (2400 St. Claude)! The Spooktacular with The Amazing Acro-Cats runs through October 16. If you think it's difficult housebreaking a kitten, imagine training one to ride a skateboard. Shows are at 7 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays, with 10 p.m. performances on Fridays and Saturdays and 4 p.m. matinees Saturdays and Sundays. Click on the link to purchase tickets: http://www.theshadowboxtheatre.com/Shadowbox/Tickets.html

More Wednesday Evening Music

Hang out in Mid-City for all kinds of good stuff tonight - first stop Banks Street Bar (4401 Banks) for some Major Bacon and some FREE BLTs - tonight at 10:00 pm...you can never get enough of the bacon and no cover!!

There's great music this evening on Frenchmen Street tonight at d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) catch the early show at 7:00 pm with The Tin Men - and stay on for Walter "Wolfman" Washington at 10:00 pm - cover's only $5.00 and you know the Wolfman's worth it!

Have a wonderful Wednesday and for more fun shows and events going on click on the WWOZ Livewire - http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar!



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Tuesday, October 11, 2011

A Tuesday Against Crime and Lots o' Music Too!!

Good Morning and a happy Tuesday to you!

Special Events Today!

You can get your day started off right with a trip to the Farmer's Market!!!  Visit the Crescent City's Farmer's Market at University Square (200 Broadway) from 9:00 to 1:00 pm and pick up some fresh seafood, veggies and you can even grab some lunch!  October brings the Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group to the Green Plate Special tent.  Chef Chip Flanagan of Ralph's on the Park is preparing today's delicious menu which includes Corn and Crab Soup, Cafe BLTs and Lemon Icebox Pie for dessert......yummy!!

The Trinity Artist Series continues tonight at Trinity Episcopal Church (1329 Jackson Ave.) with "Organ & Labyrinth" with Albinas Prizgintas on the 5000 pipe Trinity tracker organ. The program includes some of the greatest music ever written ranging from Classical Baroque to vintage rock and popular tunes. The concert is from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm and it's FREE!

Tonight come out and celebrate the 27th Annual National Night Out Against Crime.  Meet and visit with your neighbors and learn how you can make your neighborhood a safer place.  For a complete list of all the block parties going on this evening click on the link:  http://www.crimestoppersgno.org/nightout.php

Good Music Tonight!

Head on over to Mid-City and to Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal) for Candye Kane at 9:00 pm with her band followed by Davina and the Vagabonds!!!!  (There might be a cover for the show - but you don't want to miss this one!)

It's gonna be a beautiful evening to hang out at the The Columns (3811 St. Charles Ave.)...Have a cocktail and listen to the amazing guitar playing of John Rankin with Todd Duke at 8:00 pm...it's always a lovely night for porch sippin'!

There's some fun on Frenchmen tonight over at d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) with The New Orleans Night Crawlers at 9:00 pm - there's a $5 cover, but the Night Crawlers are definitely worth the dinero!

Right down the street the Spotted Cat (623 Frenchmen) has a triple header with no cover - Brett Richardson at 4:00 pm, Smokin' Time Jazz Club at 6:00 pm and top off the evening with Meschiya Lake & The Little Big Horns at 10:00 pm!

And if you're hungry for food and music stop by Three Muses (536 Frenchmen) for the sweet sounds of Gypsy Jazz with Raphael Bas at 4:30 pm, and unique accordion playing of Schatzy at 7:00 pm - Fun!!

End your night over at the Maple Leaf Bar on Oak Street...with  the REBIRTH Brass Band they come on around 10:30ish - there's a cover, but you'll be glad you paid and stayed up late!! 

Have a wonderful Tuesday and for more fun shows and events going on click on the WWOZ Livewire - http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar!



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Monday, October 10, 2011

Happy Monday!!!

Hope everyone enjoyed this beautiful weather weekend, and of course the big LSU and Saints wins...Woo hoo!  Celebrate with some Monday music!!

Monday Night Music

If you're Uptown - It's lovely weather for some porch sippin' over at the Columns Hotel (3811 St. Charles)....Tonight it's New Orleans Jazz Legend Don Vappie at 8:00 pm tonight!

Head on down to Mid-City and to the Banks Street Bar (4401 Banks) about 9:00 pm for the N'awlins Johnnys and FREE red beans tonight!

And If you're lookin' for some bluegrass music tonight you don't have to go too far to find it....Check out the Hi Ho Lounge (2239 St. Claude) and the Bluegrass Pickin' Party at 8:00 pm...there's no cover, cheap and yummy red beans (veggie red beans too) plus it's smoke-free!! 

Lots of fun around Frechmen Street!

BMC (1331 Decatur) has a great early show at 5:00 pm with Bryce Eastwood...then stay on for the next show at 9:30 with Smoky Greenwell's Blues Jam!!

There's great food and music over at Three Muses (536 Frenchmen St.)...Come for the yummy food - stay for the music.  Come early for Bart Ramsey at 4:30 pm, and stay on for Mario Abney at 7:00 pm!
And two great shows at the Maison (508 Frenchmen) with The Royal Roses at 7:00 pm, and The New Orleans Super Jam at 10:00 pm.

Be sure to make a stop by the Spotted Cat (623 Frenchmen) early for this great line-up of music...Brett Richardson at 4:00 pm, Dominick Grillo and The Frenchmen Street All Stars at 6:00 pm and be sure to stay on for theJazz Vipers at 10:00 pm.....it's sure to be another smokin' Monday evening show.

To top off you're evening....you gotta go Uptown and over to the Maple Leaf (8316 Oak) for Khris Royal and Dark Matter at 10:00 pm - they'll get your Monday night funked up - remember there's a cover - but it's worth it!!!

Have a great one...and for more musical fun check out WWOZ Livewire - http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar...until tomorrow!



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Saturday, October 8, 2011

Saturday with Fests from Around the World and Gretna & Houma too!

Happy Saturday Everybody - Hope everyone is having an excellent weekend so for!

Here's some good stuff going on today!

Check out Japan Fest from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at the New Orleans Museum of Art and Sculpture Garden.  Lots of fun stuff with demos of Japanese crafts and tea ceremonies, traditional drummers, raffles, anime costume contest, martial arts and dance demonstrations plus food and crafts for sale.  Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for Seniors, students and active military and $ 3 for kid 17 and under.

Check out Que Pasa Fest 2011 at Lafreniere Park (3000 Downs).  The Latino cultural festival features, music, food and entertainment from noon to 8:00 pm.  Artists include Rumba Buena, Jovany Barreto, Fredy Omar con su Banda and More - Admission is Free!

Head on over to Houma for the Voice of the Wetlands Festival at Southdown Plantation House (1208 Museum Dr.) today and Sunday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm - Entertainment includes Tab Benoit and the Voice of the Wetlands Band. Check out the website for all the info:  www.voiceofthewetlands.org.


The Gretna Heritage Festival is all weekend long!!
* Saturday October 8 2pm - 11pm
* Sunday October 9 2pm - 9pm
With music, food, arts & crafts, games & rides and 7 Stages Local and International Acts!! Located in historic downtown Gretna, LA the Gretna Heritage Festival encompasses approximately 25 city blocks. Free parking and a free shuttle during the festival will be available at the Westside Shopping Center behind Academy Sporting Goods and at Oakwood Center in Terrytown. Pedestrians ride free on the
Gretna-Canal Street ferry.

The Gretna Heritage Festival offers a varied food court featuring fresh New Orleans cuisine and much more. The food dished out from the giant food tent will be exceptional with just about every culture represented. Dine under a large tent complete with tables & chairs. Check out the site to see some of the dishes available at the Festival - http://www.gretnafest.com/food.php
*Check out the site to see the enormous selection of arts, crafts and collectibles available at the Festival - http://www.gretnafest.com/arts-crafts.php
*Check out the site to see some of the crafts exciting carnival rides & games for wholesome family fun - http://www.gretnafest.com/rides.php
*$15 Admission and $40 Weekend Pass 12 and Under Admitted Free
Tickets Available Online - http://www.gretnafest.com/

The Amazing Acro-Cats Halloween Spooktacular continue at The Shadowbox Theatre (2400 St. Claude) with nearly two weeks of Halloween spooky fun running through October 16. If you think it's difficult housebreaking a kitten, imagine training one to ride a skateboard. Shows are at 7 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays, with 10 p.m. performances on Fridays and Saturdays and 4 p.m. matinees Saturdays and Sundays. Click on the link to purchase tickets: http://www.theshadowboxtheatre.com/Shadowbox/Tickets.html

Have a great Saturday and Geaux Tigers!!!  For more great music and fun stuff going on today click on the WWOZ Livewire - http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar - Have a good one!



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Friday, October 7, 2011

Friday Fun at Lafayette Square, Gretna Fest and More!

Hurray for Friday!!

Sneak out of work a little early and head on down to Lafayette Square for the Conservancy's Fifth Anniversary! The bash is in the Square from 4:00 to 7:00....3 bands - Ian Cunningham, 30x90 Blueswoman and Remedy, artist tents, and food by Crepes A La Cart and Theo's Neighborhood Pizza!  Bring the kids and your friends and picnic with with the folks at the Square and celebrate all that's been accomplished in the past five years!

Always a fun way to kick things off.  It's the weekly wine tasting over at Cork & Bottle (Orleans at Moss St.) - from 5:00 to 7:00 pm.  Come out and sample these fantastic wines - Driven Primitivo California, Sassy Bitch Cabernet Sauvignon Chile, Villa Ponciago Fleurie France, Bouchard Pere & Fils Bourgogne and Blanc & Rouge France! 

And you can double your wine tasting fun!  Check out Swirl located on Ponce de Leon right off Esplanade and enjoy a FREE wine tasting at 6:00 pm. Once you've tasted one of their excellent choices you'll be sure to be buy a bottle! 

The Where Y'Art? party is celebrating the opening of Wayne Gonzales: Light to Dark / Dark to Light this evening over at the New Orleans Museum of Art starting at 5:00 pm with Gallery & Exhibition Tours, lots of fun activities and music!! The event is FREE with museum admissions. $10 Adults, $8 seniors, students, active military, $6 children ages 17 to 7, children 6 and under are free.
  • 5:00 pm: Visiting Ceramic Artist: Susan E. Bergman (Museum Shop)
  • 5:00 pm  to 8:00 pm: an art making activity for the kiddies
  • 5:00 to 8:00 pm: Music by Mykia Jovan, Jazz Vocalist
  • 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm: The NOLA Project Presents - A Midsummer Night's Dream (Sculpture Garden)
The Gretna Heritage Festival is all weekend long!!
* Friday October 7 4pm - 11pm
* Saturday October 8 2pm - 11pm
* Sunday October 9 2pm - 9pm
With music, food, arts & crafts, games & rides and 7 Stages Local and International Acts!! Located in historic downtown Gretna, LA the Gretna Heritage Festival encompasses approximately 25 city blocks. Free parking and a free shuttle during the festival will be available at the Westside Shopping Center behind Academy Sporting Goods and at Oakwood Center in Terrytown. Pedestrians ride free on the
Gretna-Canal Street ferry.

The Gretna Heritage Festival offers a varied food court featuring fresh New Orleans cuisine and much more. The food dished out from the giant food tent will be exceptional with just about every culture represented. Dine under a large tent complete with tables & chairs. Check out the site to see some of the dishes available at the Festival - http://www.gretnafest.com/food.php
*Check out the site to see the enormous selection of arts, crafts and collectibles available at the Festival - http://www.gretnafest.com/arts-crafts.php
*Check out the site to see some of the crafts exciting carnival rides & games for wholesome family fun - http://www.gretnafest.com/rides.php
*$15 Admission and $40 Weekend Pass 12 and Under Admitted Free
Tickets Available Online - http://www.gretnafest.com/

The Amazing Acro-Cats Halloween Spooktacular continue at The Shadowbox Theatre (2400 St. Claude) with nearly two weeks of Halloween spooky fun running through October 16. If you think it's difficult housebreaking a kitten, imagine training one to ride a skateboard. Shows are at 7 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays, with 10 p.m. performances on Fridays and Saturdays and 4 p.m. matinees Saturdays and Sundays. Click on the link to purchase tickets: http://www.theshadowboxtheatre.com/Shadowbox/Tickets.html

You still don't know what to do?

Head on over to Chickie Wah Wah on Canal for their happy hour and a triple header of music this evening.  Come on by around the 5 o'clock hour and music with the Sweet Olive String Band startin' up at 5:30, and stay on for Paul Sanchez with Alex McMurray at 8:00 pm there's a small cover, but Paul  and Alexis worth the dinero!

And there's more good music in Mid-City (almost Uptown) over at Rock 'N Bowl (3016 S. Carrollton) for Karma at 9:30 pm!!  Remember if you eat at Ye Olde College Inn right next door you get a discount to the show!  Happy rockin' and bowlin'!

Need more music??  Then go to Frenchmen Street!

You can get started early at the Spotted Cat (623 Frenchmen) with Brett Richardson at 4:00 pm, Washboard Chaz Blues Trio at 6:00 pm, and the New Orleans Cottonmouth Kings at 10:00 pm.

There's a trio of shows at BMC (1331 Decatur)...with El DeOrazio & Friends at 3:00 pm, Moonshine and Caroline at 7:00 pm, and the Dana Abbott Band at 9:00 pm!!

d.b.a.'s (618 Frenchmen) got The Hot Club of New Orleans at 6:00 pm it's FREE, but don't forget to tip the band!! And stay on for Shamarr Allen and the Underdawgs at 10:00 pm...there's a $5cover, but you don't want to miss the show!!

Alrighty, well that should keep you busy this evening and tomorrow...If you're looking for more fun stuff to do...check out the WWOZ Livewire -  http://www.wwoz.org/new-orleans-community/music-calendar  - Have a great Friday - TGIF!!!


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