Saturday, March 31, 2012

Weekend Fun in NOLA w/B-Ball Fest, Algiers Fun, A Drive-In & Helping the Kitties

What a crazy weekend of fun stuff to do! 


NCAA - Final Four Big Dance Concert Series at Woldenberg Park continues with a stellar line-up for both today and Sunday


March 3111 a.m.-4:30 p.m.Coca-Cola Zero Countdown (Viewing Party to follow)
11 a.m.Park opens to the public
11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.Funky Meters
1:30-2:30 p.m.Blondie
3:15-4:30 p.m.The Black Keys
April 13-10 p.m.Capital One JamFest
3 p.m.Park opens to the public
3-4 p.m.Big Sam’s Funky Nation
4:30-5:30 p.m.Dr. John
6-7:30 p.m.Avett Brothers
8-10 p.m.Jimmy Buffett
10-10:15 p.m.Fireworks on the river

And if you're not heading down to the big show - no worries, there's plenty more fun 'round town!!

FESTIVALS!!

Celebrate all things French at the Fete Francaise at Ecole Bilingue de la Nouvelle Orleans (821 Gen. Pershing) from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm...The Fête is a unique opportunity to celebrate the French heritage of the city and showcase all things French: language, cuisine, art and music.  The 13th Annual Fête Française theme is “Bleu, Blanc, Rouge.”  This fun-filled event celebrates all things uniquely French and helps to keep the Francophone heritage alive and well in New Orleans and Louisiana through a delicious food, entertainment, children’s activities and cultural demonstrations - and admission is FREE!

Head on over to the West Bank for the Old Algiers Riverfest at Mardi Gras World (233 Newton). The growing festival, is now in its eighth year, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional jazz and other indigenous sounds that came of age along the banks of the Mississippi River. A FREE authentic New Orleans cultural experience that features performances by some of the top names in traditional jazz, Gospel choirs, brass bands and Mardi Gras Indians, RiverFest™ also offers local cuisine, local and regional arts and crafts and children's activities.

2012 ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE

Saturday, March 31
12 noon Mohawk Hunters Mardi Gras Indian Parade
12:45 p.m. Algiers Brass Band
2 p.m. Shannon Powell & the Traditional Jazz All-Stars
3 p.m. Delfeayo Marsalis Jazz Band
4 p.m. Sasha Masakowski
5 p.m. Irvin Mayfield Sextet

Sunday, April 1
12 noon Palmetto Bug Stompers
1 p.m. George French Band featuring Ellen Smith
2 p.m. Leah Chase
3 p.m. Hot 8 Brass Band
4 p.m. Don Vappie & the Creole Jazz Serenaders
5 p.m. Michael White’s Liberty Jazz Band

MOVIE!

Nola Drive-In Rooftop Screening (840 Carondelet St.)....The New Orleans Film Society and WTUL present director Richard Linklater's 1993 ensemble comedy "Dazed and Confused" (7 Sat), starring Matthew McConaughey, Jason London, Joey Lauren Adams, Milla Jovovich, Adam Goldberg, Rory Cochran and Wiley Wiggins as high school students on the last day of school as they try to get the summer of 1976 started right. Tickets are $6 per person. Food and drinks are available for purchase.

BENEFIT!

Help the kitties and Spaymart on Sunday over at Shamrock (4133 S. Carrollton Ave.) in Mid-City from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm for Paws for the Cause. Join Spaymart Sunday for music, silent auction, pool & dart tournaments raffles, food, cash bar and more. Admission is only $10 for all the fun, and the money you donate will help out the "Kitten Foster and Adoption Program" - they found home for 300 kitties last year - so come on down!!

Alrighty, well that should keep you busy this today 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!!



www.gratisnola.com

Friday, March 30, 2012

Super Sporty Friday w/Final 4 Fun, Benefit For Steve Gleason & More!

Happy Friday Everybody - I guess you might have heard...there's a little tournament going on this weekend. ;)

Head on down to Woldenberg Park for the NCAA - Final Four Big Dance Concert Series going on all weekend long.  The amazing list of performers is below, but remember before you head out it is FREE, but do yourself a favor and don't bring outside food and drinks, coolers, festival chairs, gigantic cameras or noise makers (dang - no cow bell!!)


DateTimeEvent
March 304-10 p.m.AT&T Block Party
4 p.m.Park opens to the public
4:30-5:45 p.m.Vintage Trouble
6:15-7:30 p.m.Cowboy Mouth
8:30- 10 p.m.KISS
March 3111 a.m.-4:30 p.m.Coca-Cola Zero Countdown (Viewing Party to follow)
11 a.m.Park opens to the public
11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.Funky Meters
1:30-2:30 p.m.Blondie
3:15-4:30 p.m.The Black Keys
April 13-10 p.m.Capital One JamFest
3 p.m.Park opens to the public
3-4 p.m.Big Sam’s Funky Nation
4:30-5:30 p.m.Dr. John
6-7:30 p.m.Avett Brothers
8-10 p.m.Jimmy Buffett
10-10:15 p.m.Fireworks on the river

If you're looking to stay away from the March Madness - no problem, there's plenty of other good stuff going on 'round town to keep you happy!!

There's good times at the New Orleans Museum of Art this evening with Where Y'Art from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
*5 pm to 8 pm: Art Making with KIDsmART
*5:30 pm to 8:30 pm: Music by Amanda Walker
*6 pm to 7:30 pm: Isidore Newman School: Dance Performance in the Besthoff Sculpture Garden
*6:30 pm to 7:30 pm: Lecture & Hard Truths Tour by artist, Shawne Major
*7:30pm: Celebrate Women’s History Month with a lecture, Black women, Black Politics, Black Art, by UNO Professor, Nikki Brown
The cost of this event is free with regular admissions. Prices range from: $10 for adults; $8 for seniors, students, and military members; and $6 for ages 7-17.

And there's a very special benefit tonight at Tipitina's - supporting the Who Dat Nation's Steve Gleason and the Gleason Family Trust - Check out the info and spectacular line-up below!



You still don't know what to do?

Head on over to Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal) for Friday the Big Easy Weekender meet and greet - startin' up at 5:00 pm with Gallivan Burwell & the Predatory Drifters then stay on for the incredible Paul Sanchez at 8:00 pm, and then top off the evening with Sugarcane Jane all the way from Alabama at 10:00 pm!  Come hungry too - there's delicious pizza and other yummy items being served up!

Need more music?? Then go to Frenchmen Street!

d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) has two great shows with Meschiya Lake & The Little Big Horns at 6:00 pm, and stay on of for The Iguanas at 10:00 pm!

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 Alex Marti Trio at 4:00 pm, the Blues Trees at 7:00 pm and stay late for a Latin dance party with  Javier Olondo & AsheSon at 11:00 pm!!

Right down the street you have another trio of shows at BMC (1331 Decatur)...with El DeOrazio & Friends at 3:00 pm for an early happy hour, Jeff Chaz Band at 6:00 pm for more happy hour fun, and top off the night with a the Dana Abbot Band at 9:00 pm!!

Alrighty, well that should keep you busy this evening...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!!


www.gratisnola.com

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Thursday w/Wine, Concerts at the Parks, Boogalooin' and More!!

Good Morning Everybody - Lots going on this 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. Come sample some delicious vinos and kick off your early weekend right! You can also stop at Clever (right next door - don't even have to walk outside) for their happy hour specials after attending the free wine tasting and tonight they're gonna have a crawfish tasting too!  And be sure to stop by the Crescent City Farmer's Market (right outside the door) and patronize local Louisiana vendors with fresh veggies, seafood and more!! 

Go hang out at City Park this evening and enjoy Tom McDermott and Meschiya Lake for the Thursdays at Twilight Garden Concert Series!  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...$10 for adults and $3 for children (it was $3 last year :)

And there's a new concert series!! Armstrong Park Thursdays kicking off tonight with the Marlon Jordan Trio and Robin Barnes. The concert is the first of five with upcoming performances from Mike Baptiste and Juice and Da Krewe, Donald Harrison and Troy Sawyer, James Andrews and the Craig School Brass Band, and Kermit Ruffins. The concerts will run from 5 to 7 p.m. and come hungry - there will be food from Café Treme, Wine and Bistro, Jacques-Imo's Café, and more...Fun!!

Need a little 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. Tonight the Ogden presents Aurora Nealand - Playing saxophone, clarinet and accordion, as well as being a vocalist and composer, Aurora Nealand is one of a handful of traditional jazz musicians who dabbles in the local free improv scene, as well as Klezmer, Western Swing and Balkan music!  And be sure to head on over to the bar for this month's signature cocktail the - The Blarney Stone: A combination of Jameson Irish Whiskey and other flavors will definitely give you the gift of gab! Remember if you're a member of the Ogden you always get in free!

Come on down to Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal) for the Bayou Boogaloo Fundraiser!!  See all the fun info below:


Some More Thursday Night Music

And head on over to Frenchmen and the Spotted Cat Music Club (623 Frenchmen) cause they have a triple header with Brett Richardson at 4:00 pm, Miss Sophie Lee at 6:00 and stay on and party with The Smokin' Time Jazz Club at 10:00 PM!!

There's more fun on Frenchmen over at d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) with piano man Jon Cleary at 7:00 pm with no cover!!  And stay on for more music with Colin Lake ($5 cover) at 10:00 pm - you don't want to miss it!!

Stay in the neighborhood - come early and stay late at Mojitos (437 Esplanade Ave.).  They've got Peter Novelli Band at 6:00 pm and stay on for the super talented bluesy women of 30x90 at 9:30 pm!!

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, March 28, 2012

Wednesday at the Square with some Post Square Music and Fun!

It's a warm and beautiful Wednesday!

It looks like it's going to be a rainy day, but we're hoping the Square can be spared!!  So come on down to Lafayette Square for another stellar line-up for this year's concert series....there will be crafts, food and libations....Big Sam's Funky Nation plus The Wise Guys get things movin' this evening at 5:00 pm - and check out the entire line-up so you can make your plans.

Wednesday Evening Music

If you're all revved up from all that early evening fun...check this out...

Head on over to Galvez (914 N. Peters) and there new music venue. You can enjoy great food while enjoying the best view of the Mississippi River tonight at 6:30 pm with The Marc Stone Duo with special guest John Gros!

Enjoy some more fun after the Square over at the 12 Bar (608 Fulton) - the fun kicks up at 7:00 pm - they're gonna have crawfish, New Orleans Rum specials, the Brass-a-Holics Brass Band and the 610 Stompers will be filming for the Peep Show!

Have triple the fun in Mid-City when you head on over to Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal) for some happy hour fun with the Sweet Olive String Band at 5:00 p.m., Meschiya Lake & Tom McDermott at 7:00 pm and to top it off - Marc Adams and the House of Clements at 9:30 pm - what a night! And come hungry - the kitchen is kickin' with pizza and all kinds of yummy food!

And there's more fun in Mid-City over at the Banks Street Bar (4401 Banks)! Come on out for some Major Bacon and some FREE BLTs - tonight at 10:00 pm...you can never get enough of the bacon and no cover!!

Looking for some dinner and then some music for dessert?  Rock 'N Bowl (3016 S. Carrollton) can help you out!  Get an entree' over at Ye Olde College Inn and then get a half price ticket to the show right next door at Rock N' Bowl....Tonight you'll be dancing the night away with Johnny Angel and The Swinging Demons at 8:30 pm!!

Heading over to Frenchmen Street?  Lots of places with no cover, but don't forget to tip the talent!!

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 with Alex McMurray and Washboard Chaz - and stay on for Walter "Wolfman" Washington and the Roadmasters at 10:00 pm - cover's only $5.00 and you know the Wolfman's worth it!

The Spotted Cat (623 Frenchmen) has an afternoon and evening filled with music!!  Brett Richardson at 4:00, The Orleans 6 at 6:00 pm and top off the night with St. Louis Jim & The Frenchmen St. Jug Band!

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

Monday, March 26, 2012

Beautiful Musical Monday!

Happy Monday Everybody!

Monday Night Music

If you're Uptown - Enjoy some cocktail 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 Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal) for the Guitar Masters at 8:00 pm - Phil DeGruy, John Rankin, Jimmy Robinson - cover is only $5!!   Don't forget to come hungry for some delicious pizza and other good stuff from the kitchen!!

There's more fun in Mid-City over at the Banks Street Bar (4401 Banks) come by for The N'Awlins Johnnys at 9:00 pm and don't forget about the 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...plus cheap and yummy red beans (veggie red beans too) plus it's smoke-free!!

Lots of fun around Frenchmen Street!

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!!

Satisfy your hunger for great food and music over at Three Muses (536 Frenchmen)...Tonight they've got Iguana man Joe Cabral and his Trio - don't miss the show!

And two great shows at the Maison (508 Frenchmen) with The Royal Roses at 7:00 pm, and The New Orleans Super Jam at 9:30 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 jazzalicious Monday evening show.

And Head right across the street to d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) for Glen David Andrews at 10:00 pm (there's a $5 cover for the late show - but that's not much to pay for this performance!)

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, March 24, 2012

Weekend Fun in NOLA w/Hogs, Beer, Roadfood, Crawfish, Pups & Pirates!

Happy weekend and we deserve it - what a beautiful day and so much to do!!

Weekend Festivals and Fun!!

First things first!! The delicious smell of pork and the amazing sounds of music are filling the air over at City Park today for Hogs for the Cause! This pork lovers extravaganza includes 60 competing BBQ teams plus lots of beer, food and trucks and of course music! The musical line-up is spectacular with Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue, Voice of the Wetlands Allstars, Marcia Ball and more!! And remember all the money goes to a worthy cause - to aid families with children suffering from pediatric brain cancer. So get high on the Hog for a very good cause! Tickets are $10 in advance and $20 at the gate - Gates open at 10:30 am - for more info click www.hogsforthecause.org!

You can also get your beer on this weekend over at Champions Square at the inaugural New Orleans International Beer Festival. There's gonna be more than 150 craft beers for the tasting from 2:00 to 6:00 pm today...so come on out and try some brews. Tickets are $40 in advance, which includes unlimited samples. For more info visit neworleansinternationalbeerfest.com

And if you happen to be in the Quarters head on over to the French Market for the Roadfood Festival!  The flavorful fest runs Saturday 11:00 am to 7:00 pm and Sunday 11:00 pm to 6:00 pm.  Four blocks in the French Market will be lined with dozens of top Roadfood cooks from New Orleans and all of Louisiana as well as from all across America, each offering a unique specialty. This is NOT typical and expected festival fare: it is a taste of America's most celebrated dishes, all gathered in one place: a foodie's dream. Portions are right-sized and priced to provide everyone a chance to taste the maximum number of great regional eats as they stroll through the French Market inhaling delicious smells that range from real Texas pit barbecue to Pecan Pie to artisan boudin sausage made by Cajun country's most beloved butchers. There is no admission fee - just bring plenty of appetite!  For more info visit www.neworleansroadfoodfestival.com

And for all you crawfish lovers out there the Louisiana Crawfish Festival (8245 W. Judge Perez Dr.) continues all weekend long in beautiful Chalmette!  You don't want to miss the endless crawfish dishes, the crawfish races, rides, crafts and plenty of great music!!  For more info visit: www.louisisanacrawfishfestival.com

And on Sunday City Park goes to the dogs with Dog Day Afternoon!!  Enjoy a day of dog loving activies with a dog walk-a-thon, food, games, dog contests music by Amanda Shaw and and the Cute Guys all funds to to benefit the LA/SPCA!!  Festivities take place at City Park's Big Lawn (near the NOMA entrance) - it's gonna be a doggone good time ya'll!!!

Ahoy me' maties!!  It's NOLA Pyrate Week with art, music, food and general swashbuckling for pirates and pirate lovers!!  For all the fun and festivities click on www.nolapyrateweek.com!

Alrighty, well that should keep you busy this today 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!!



www.gratisnola.com

Friday, March 23, 2012

TGIF w/Chalmette Crawfish Fun, Festivals Galore & Lots o' Music!!

Happy Friday Everybody!!

There's sooo much going on this weekend - I wish I could be in two places at once!!

The Louisiana Crawfish Fest is kickin' in Chalmette, and the fun starts up tonight at 6:00 pm and all weekend long. There's going to be plenty of amazing food, music and you can ride the rides for one low low price!! Click on the link for all the info!!!

Hangin' in the Quarter this beautiful evening? Head first to Jackson Square and the premier spring performance of Bon Operatit! at the Upper Pontalba starting up at 4:00 pm. There's gonna be three free concerts this spring at the Upper Pontalba on Jackson Square. Limited seating provided; so bring your own chairs. Singers will be performing from the balcony at 520 St. Peter Street. Fun!!

There's good times at the New Orleans Museum of Art this evening with Friday Night at NOMA and Where Y'Art from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm with the Opening of "Dario Robleto: the Prelives of the Blues" featuring music by Marc Stone
*5 pm to 8 pm: Art Making with YAYA
*5:30 pm to 8:30 pm: Music by Marc Stone
*6:30 pm: Comedic Gallery Tour by The New Movement
*7 pm: Film: Mr. Dial Has Something to Say
*8 pm: Comedic Gallery Tour by The New Movement
The cost of this event is free with regular admissions. Prices range from: $10 for adults; $8 for seniors, students, and military members; and $6 for ages 7-17.

You still don't know what to do?

Head on over to Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal) for Friday the Big Easy Weekender meet and greet - startin' up at 6:00 pm with Phil Lee doing a short happy hour set, then on to Davis Rogan Band until 9:45 pm and then back to Phil Lee at 10:00 pm!  Come hungry too - there's delicious pizza and other yummy items being served up!

And there's more good music in Mid-City (almost Uptown) over at Rock 'N Bowl (3016 S. Carrollton).  Dance the night away with Mixed Nuts 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 Andre Bouvier & the Royal Bohemians at 4:00 pm, Indian Cigars at 7:00 pm and stay late for The Soulabilly Swampboogie Band at 11:00 pm!!

Right down the street you have another trio of shows at BMC (1331 Decatur)...with El DeOrazio & Friends at 3:00 pm for an early happy hour, The Touchables at 6:00 pm for more happy hour fun, and top off the night with the Dana Abbot Band at 9:00 pm!!

Tomorrow is another day with the New Orleans Roadfood Fest, Hogs for the Cause, The New Orleans International Beer Festival,  Taste at the Lake, and more Crawfish!!!  Click on all the links so you can make your weekend plans!!

Alrighty, well that should keep you busy this evening...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!!


www.gratisnola.com

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Thursday fun w/Africa Brass at the "O", Ven Pa' Ca at Twilight and More!

Good Morning Everybody - It's kind of a gloomy Thursday, but don't let the weather get you down - don your best Saint's jersey and get out and show everybody your New Orleans spirit!!

Thursday Events

Don't miss out on the weekly tasting at Cork and Bottle (3700 Orleans) about 5:00 pm in Mid-City. Come sample some delicious vinos and kick off your early weekend right! You can also stop at Clever (right next door - don't even have to walk outside) for their happy hour specials after attending the free wine tasting.  And be sure to stop by the Crescent City Farmer's Market (right outside the door) and patronize local Louisiana vendors with fresh veggies, seafood and more!! 

Go hang out at City Park this evening and enjoy the Latin sounds of Ven Pa' Ca for the Thursdays at Twilight Garden Concert Series!  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...$10 for adults and $3 for children (it was $3 last year :)

Need a little 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. Tonight the Ogden presents Africa Brass. Africa Brass blends American jazz, New Orleans brass and African drums into a powerful and moving sound, bridging the music of two continents and eight centuries.  Led by master percussionist Thierno Dioubate from Guinea, West Africa, with Tim Green (sax), Matt Perrine (sousaphone), Charles Joseph (trombone), Jeff Papafrog Klein (African drums), Fritzgerald Barrau (trumpet) from Haiti and the spectacular Michaela Harrison (vocals)....And my hubby, Bill deTurk will be doing the interview - so, it's gonna be an extra good evening!  Be sure to head on over to the bar for this month's signature cocktail the - The Blarney Stone: A combination of Jameson Irish Whiskey and other flavors will definitely give you the gift of gab! Remember if you're a member of the Ogden you always get in free!

If you get there a little early head by the Circle Bar right around the corner on Lee's Circle for some great drinks!!  And stop by after the Ogden too for Fort Wilson Riot with Glish plus Pals at 10:00 pm!

Some More Thursday Night Music

There's lots of fun going on over at Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal) tonight!  Come on over early for Happy Hour with Electric Yat String Quartet at 5:30 pm, and stay on 'til 8:00 for the The Geraniums!  Make sure you come hungry for some yummy pizza too!!

And head on over to Frenchmen and the Spotted Cat Music Club (623 Frenchmen) cause they have a triple header with Brett Richardson at 4:00 pm, Miss Sophie Lee at 6:00 and stay on and party with The Smokin' Time Jazz Club at 10:00 PM!!

There's more fun on Frenchmen over at d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) with piano man Jon Cleary at 7:00 pm with no cover!!  And stay on for more music with World Be Freeman ($5 cover) at 10:00 pm - you don't want to miss it!!

Stay in the neighborhood - come early and stay late at Mojitos (437 Esplanade Ave.).  They've got Alabama Slim at 6:00 pm and stay on for the super talented bluesy women of 30x90 at 9:30 pm!!

**And don't forget to buy your tix for Hogs for the Cause - it's $10 now and $20 at the gate...it's gonna be a most beautiful day of food and music and helping out the kids!!!  www.hogsforthecause.org

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, March 21, 2012

A Wednesday w/Antiques, Fashion, and Music Music Music!!

Rain rain go away!!  Here's to hoping those weather guys and gals are totally wrong!!

If you're a lover of antiques, music, food and drinks stop by the Crescent City Auction Gallery (1330 St. Charles) between 5:00 and 8:00 pm for they're Grand Opening Celebration with an evening of fine food, entertainment by Kristin Diable and of course antiques and art!

It looks like it's going to be a rainy day, but we're hoping the Square can be spared!!  So come on down to Lafayette Square for another stellar line-up for this year's concert series....there will be crafts, food and libations....Tea Leaf Green plus Colin Lake get things movin' this evening at 5:00 pm - and check out the entire line-up so you can make your plans.

And right on across the street at 7:00 pm for the Fashion Week New Orleans Kick Off Party at Twist (628 St. Charles)...Mix and mingle with top designers, special & celebrity guests, industry professionals and fashionistas in a toast to Fashion Week New Orleans 2012!!

Wednesday Evening Music

If you're all revved up from all that early evening fun...check this out...

Have triple the fun in Mid-City when you head on over to Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal) for some happy hour fun with the Sweet Olive String Band at 5:00 p.m., Meschiya Lake & Tom McDermott at 7:00 pm and to top it off - David Mayfield Parade at 9:30 pm - what a night! And come hungry - the kitchen is kickin' with pizza and all kinds of yummy food!

And there's more fun in Mid-City over at the Banks Street Bar (4401 Banks)! Come on out for some Major Bacon and some FREE BLTs - tonight at 10:00 pm...you can never get enough of the bacon and no cover!!

Looking for some dinner and then some music for dessert?  Rock 'N Bowl (3016 S. Carrollton) can help you out!  Get an entree' over at Ye Olde College Inn and then get a half price ticket to the show right next door at Rock N' Bowl....Tonight they've got Johnny J. and The Hitmen with Derek Huston at 8:30 pm!!

Heading over to Frenchmen Street?  Lots of places with no cover, but don't forget to tip the talent!!

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 with Alex McMurray and Washboard Chaz - and stay on for Walter "Wolfman" Washington and the Roadmasters at 10:00 pm - cover's only $5.00 and you know the Wolfman's worth it!

The Spotted Cat (623 Frenchmen) has an afternoon and evening filled with music!!  Brett Richardson at 4:00, The Orleans 6 at 6:00 pm and top off the night with St. Louis Jim & The Frenchmen St. Jug Band!

Move down Frenchmen for a great show at Three Muses (536 Frenchmen)....it's Schatzy at 7:00 pm...if you didn't think you were a big fan of accordians this performance will change your mind!!

**And don't forget to buy your tix for Hogs for the Cause - it's $10 now and $20 at the gate...it's gonna be a most beautiful day of food and music and helping out the kids!!!  www.hogsforthecause.org

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, March 20, 2012

A Tuesday w/Veggies, Mad Men, 2x the Music at Chickie's & More!!

Good Morning Everybody 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 Chef Shane of Fat Hen Grocery is serving up lunch under the Green Plate Special Tent. This week BBQ smoked okie round steak "bologna" sandwiches with mustard slaw, Thai-style cucumbers, house-smoked pit baked beans and freshly baked espresso-chocolate chip cookies....yummy!!

Celebrate the fabulous '60's at the Carousel Bar and Lounge (214 Royal) with the Mad Men Party tonight from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Celebrate the fifth season of Mad Men with a 60's themed soiree and costume contest. Actor Bryan Batt, former star of the popular drama series, will serve as special guest and costume contest judge. In keeping with the theme, The Yat Pack will perform hits from the 60's in the style of Sinatra and company. Complimentary themed cocktails will be served including Absolut® Vodka Gimlet, Beefeater®Gibson and Chivas® Rob Roy. Hotel Monteleone is providing 60's-inspired hors d'oeuvres for guests throughout the event. For those who want to dine like a "mad man," "The Unofficial Mad Men Cookbook: Inside the Kitchens, Bars and Restaurants of Mad Men" will be available for sale alongside local bookstore Octavia Books.

Good Music Tonight!

And there's a great evening on the Avenue....Cause it's another lovely southern night for porch sitting and music over at the The Columns (3811 St. Charles Ave.)...Have a fancy cocktail and listen to the guitar stylings of John Rankin!

Head on over to Mid-City and to Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal)!  They've got two amazing shows with Tommy Malone on guitar and Bill Malchow on piano at 8:00 pm, and stay late for Greensky Bluegrass at 10:30 pm - and come hungry for delicious pizza, pasta, salads and more!!

There's some fun on Frenchmen tonight too over at d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) with the Treme Brass Band at 9:00 pm - there's a $5 cover, but that's practically free!

Right down the street the Spotted Cat (623 Frenchmen) has a double header with no cover - Brett Richardson at 4:00 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 Grammy Award winning REBIRTH Brass Band they come on around 10:30ish - there's a cover, but you'll be glad you paid and stayed up late!! 

**And don't forget to buy your tix for Hogs for the Cause - it's $10 now and $20 at the gate...it's gonna be a most beautiful day of food and music and helping out the kids!!!  www.hogsforthecause.org

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, March 19, 2012

Happy St. Joseph's Day - a List of Altars

March 19th marks the Catholic celebration of St. Joseph's Day where Catholic New Orleanians construct elaborate altars in honor of this saint. The tradition, commemorating the relief St. Joseph provided during a famine in Sicily, began in the late 1800’s when Sicilian immigrants settled in New Orleans. Today, St. Joseph’s day is not just for Italian-Americans. Every year, this celebration offers New Orleans natives and visitors a chance to share food with others and for believers, a way to express gratitude for any sort of fortune in their lives.  Stop by and celebrate one of the most unique New Orleans traditions - here's a list of some of the altars around town today!

St. Joseph Altars

St Joseph Feast at Isrealite Church 3000 Frenchmen St. Doors open 12 Noon. Given by: Bishop Brumfield.

SAINT JOSEPH'S ALTAR Opening For Viewing  7am-7pm 3533 ELYSIAN FIELDS AVE.

ST JOSEPH ALTAR St. Stephen's Church 1025 Napoleon Ave. Altar my be view 9am-6pm Meals served at 12noon-6pm

PLAIA FAMILY ST JOSEPH ALTAR 100 SHANNON DR. MANDEVILLE, FORMERLY OF 7600
MERCIER SUN 18TH VIEWING 6-9PM MON. SERVING 1-9 PUBLIC INVITED

ST. JOSEPH ALTAR St. Cletus Church, Jerome Hall, 3600 Claire Ave., Gretna. Open to Public from 11:30 AM to 7 PM

ST. JOSEPH ALTAR THE TALAMO FAMILY 6122 PATTON ST. N.O. 1:-6:00 19TH

St. Joseph Altar St. Dominic 775 Harrison Ave. LAKEVIEW Viewing 8am-6p

ST JOSEPH ALTAR The Greater New Orleans Italian Cultural Society. Viewing at Holy Rosary Academy 3368 Esplanade Ave. in school cafeteria - 9am till 4pm. Holy Mass in Our Lady of The Rosary Church 11am. Immediately after mass the public will be served Pasta Milanese. Music provided by American Legion Post 175. For info call Dom Grieshaber (504) 494-2058.

St Joseph Altar The Zanca Family 4113 Tchoupitoulas St. Sunday, 9 AM-3 PM All are welcome.

St Joseph Altar at Ozanam Inn 843 Camp St. N.O.LA. 70130 Open 10:am-6:00 Daily, Everyone Welcome! Sponsored by St. Patrick Church.

ST. JOSEPH ALTAR 141 Woodlake Blvd. - Kenner. All Food Served Noon - 8 pm

ST. JOSEPH ALTAR In Memory of Dianne Williams 724 Marengo St. New Orleans 8:00 am to 3:00 pm.

St Joseph's Altar given by the Noote Family. 208 Cougar Dr. in Arabi, LA. Feeding the public after 12:30pm.

ST. JOSEPH ALTAR at the Lost Love Lounge-2529 Dauphine St. New Orleans, LA 70117 VIEWING today.

ST. JOSEPH ALTAR AT ST. FRANCIS XAVIER CHURCH 444 METAIRIE RD 8:30AM-6PM PUBLIC FEEDING STARTS 11:30 am

CROSS Mark & Gina Farrugia invite you to attend a St. Joseph's Altar at their home at : 416 Shrewsbury Ct. Jefferson from 12:00 p.m. to 7 p.m.

ST. JOSEPH ALTAR Serving 1:00 PM-7:00 PM Miriam & Jesse Murphy 4161 East Loyola Dr. Kenner

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

Friday, March 16, 2012

TGIF'n with an Irish Gov. Edwin Edwards!

And the St. Patrick's festivities keep on rollin'!!

Jim Monaghan’s Annual St. Paddy’s Day Parade will roll this evening at 6pm (or 6:30 - there's two startin' times on the website) from Molly’s at the Market, (1107 Decatur St.) Enjoy the music of the Storyville Stompers, and New Wave Brass Band, along with several marching groups. Get there early and enjoy the entertainment of the Celtic Highlanders! This year, our Grand Marshal is Louisiana Governor Edwin Edwards! See you there!

Wine and Music!!

Hooray for wine!  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 fantastic wines!

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!

This is a short one - so click on the link below for all your musical fun this evening!  And remember to buy those Hogs for the Cause tix for next weekend - you're not gonna want to miss it!!

Alrighty, well that should keep you busy this evening...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 and be sure to PLEDGE it's the WWOZ Spring Fund Drive and I hear Bonerama is going to be paying a special visit around 11:00 am so tune in for sure!!


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Thursday, March 15, 2012

Hogs for the Cause - It's a Pork & Music Lovers Paradise - March 24th!


Great music plus yummy BBQ for a great cause can only mean one thing, and that's Hogs for the Cause (Hogs)! The pork (and music) lovers paradise is back in City Park on Saturday, March 24th - so, get ready to get high on the hog with Louisiana’s only all-pork competition & fundraiser featuring an incredible musical line-up, including Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Voice of the Wetlands All-Stars, Marcia Ball & more!

In its fourth year, the annual fundraiser has grown featuring a larger location, more competitors, expanded on-site activities, and new competition categories. Event founders have set a goal of raising $350,000 to help support the fight against pediatric brain cancer.  And when gates open at 10:30 AM, attendees will be inundated with the sounds and smells of Louisiana, including an array of delicious pork dishes prepared by 60 competitors, bites prepared by local food truck vendors, and ice cold beer provided by sponsor NOLA Brewing. New to Hogs this year is the Porkade, an adult-themed arcade including games like “Ring Around the Rosé” Wine Toss, as well as VIP ticket packages.

Festival goers will also have a chance to vote for their favorite team through the "free" Hogs iPhone application. “By engaging fans to vote for their favorites, we expect this year’s festival to be the most competitive ever. I can’t wait to see what all of our teams cook up,” says co-founder, Rene Louapre.



And Hogs isn't just about the pork - check out the musical line-up!

Mississippi Rail Company - 11:00 am
Stooges Brass Band - 12:15 pm
Marcia Ball - 1:45 pm
The Gourds - 3:45 pm
Voice of the Wetlands Allstars - 6:00 pm
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue - 8:00 pm

So make your plans to come out to Hogs - It's going to be a fun filled, music loving, pork filled day for a very worthy cause. Recognizing the need by more children and families for their support, Hogs for the Cause, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has distributed nearly $75,000 in grants to families with children battling pediatric brain cancer, filling the gap on expenses where insurance might not cover, alleviating the financial burdens associated with the disease.

Hogs Info:

When: Saturday, March 24, 2012 - Gates open at 10:30 am; Music & food all day till 10pm
Where: Frisbee Golf Fields at City Park (1 Palm Drive)

Tickets:

General Admission - $10 in advance / $20 at the gate / Kids Under 12 Get in Free!
VIP Packages:
$100 Market Hog Pass - (Includes unlimited draft beer from NOLA Brewing & free pork samples from competitors)
$250 Boss Hogs Pass - (Includes all-access pass to Hogs VIP area with open bar, catering, private restrooms, unlimited draft beer from NOLA Brewing, free pork samples from competitors, and judging of pork cook-off)

For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.HogsfortheCause.org.

Erin Go Braugh Thursday w/Pre-St. Paddy's Day Fun!!

And the festivities continue.....Erin go braugh!!

Pre-St. Patrick's Day Events

Parasol's/Tracey's Block Party!
10:00 a.m. til 7:00 (or whenever ;)  The Annual celebration in the Irish Channel - corner of Third and Constance Streets. Lots o' green beer!

The Irish Channel St. Patrick's Day Club
This a great event!!  It's a benefit block party from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Annunciation Square Playground, directly in front of St. Michael's Special School; to whom the proceeds of the block will be donated - so be sure to drink a lot o' beer and eat a lot o' food.

And if you're not able to sneak out of work early for the green beer - no worries, there's plenty o'stuff happenin' after 5:00 pm!!

Don't miss out on the weekly tasting at Cork and Bottle (3700 Orleans) about 5:00 pm in Mid-City. Come sample some delicious vinos and kick off your early weekend right! You can also stop at Clever (right next door - don't even have to walk outside) for their happy hour specials after attending the free wine tasting.  And be sure to stop by the Crescent City Farmer's Market (right outside the door) and patronize local Louisiana vendors with fresh veggies, seafood and more!! 

Go hang out at City Park this evening and enjoy Phillip Manuel - a versatile performer and an accomplished  songwriter. As a vocalist Phillip has recorded and performed with such  notable musical talents as Aaron Neville, Patti Labelle, Dr. John, Joe  Sample, Jon Hendricks, and many others.  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...$10 for adults and $3 for children (it was $3 last year :)

Need a little 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. Tonight the Ogden has blues man John Mooney.  A master of the Delta Blues, John Mooney has developed his own distinctive guitar and vocal style.  Since 1981, he has been touring with his group, the Bluesiana Band, performing all around the world!  Be sure to head on over to the bar for this month's signature cocktail the - The Blarney Stone: A combination of Jameson Irish Whiskey and other flavors will definitely give you the gift of gab! Remember if you're a member of the Ogden you always get in free!

If you get there a little early head by the Circle Bar right around the corner on Lee's Circle for some great drinks!!  And stop by after the Ogden too for Bantam Foxes with Denton Hatcher at 10:00 pm!

Some More Thursday Night Music

There's lots of fun going on over at Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal) tonight!  Come on over early for Happy Hour with Marc Stone at 5:30 pm, and stay on 'til 8:00 for the Phil Lee - the King of Love! (I heard something about him being a knife thrower - but you'll have to go Chickie's to find out more).....

And head on over to Frenchmen and the Spotted Cat Music Club (623 Frenchmen) cause they have a triple header with Brett Richardson at 4:00 pm, Miss Sophie Lee at 6:00 and stay on and party with The Smokin' Time Jazz Club at 10:00 PM!!

There's more fun on Frenchmen over at d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) with piano man Jon Cleary at 7:00 pm with no cover!!  And stay on for more music with Andrew Duhon ($5 cover) at 10:00 pm - you don't want to miss 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, March 14, 2012

Wednesday w/St. Alphonsus - Fun Under the Frescoes - Irish Extravaganza!

Good Morning Everybody, Happy Pre-St. Patrick's Day and Erin go braugh!

Kick off your Irish festivities a little early and head on out to St. Alphonsus Church (2025 Constance) in the Irish Channel for Fun Under the Frescoes - Irish Extravaganza - the concert begins at 6:00 pm with the Crescent City Celtic Band plus the McTeggart Irish Dancers!  Beverages are generously provided by Gordon Biersch and the Boondock Saint.  Admission is $10 and includes three complimentary beverages and a $25 membership (per person) gets you a free pass to the entire concert series! (no worries - we'll be kicking the series back up in the Fall!)

Special thanks to our beverage sponsors - Gordon Biersch and the The Boondock Saint!! 
And a special big thank you for a generous grant from the the New Orleans Hash House Harriers Red Dress Run!!!!

**St. Alphonsus Catholic Church was built in 1855 to serve the needs of the Irish Catholic immigrants who began settling in the neighborhood in the 1840s. In 1979, the church was closed. After a continuing fall into decline, FOSA was formed in 1990; in 1996, the building was declared a National Historic Landmark. With glorious, yet deteriorating, ceiling frescoes and stained glass windows over a century old, the building is breathtakingly beautiful and has been featured in several movies… and the acoustics rock!  And for more fun info on the church - join our Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/groups/stalphonsusnola/

Enjoy fabulous music with your friends and support one of New Orleans’ cultural treasures, the 155 year-old Saint Alphonsus Church. We will see you this season for Fun Under the Frescoes!

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, March 13, 2012

Happy Tuesday with Veggies, BBQ and Music!

Good Morning Everybody 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 Chef Shane of Fat Hen Grocery is serving up lunch under the Green Plate Special Tent. This week look forward to BBQ pulled pork with house made sauces, southern-style collard greens with ham hock, Rocking R Dairy cheddar biscuits and chocolate chip cookies....yummy!!

Good Music Tonight!

And there's a little different vibe a little ways down the Avenue....Cause it's gonna be another lovely evening for porch sitting and music over at the The Columns (3811 St. Charles Ave.)...Have a fancy cocktail and listen to the guitar stylings of John Rankin!

Head on over to Mid-City and to Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal)!  They've got an amazing show with Tommy Malone on guitar and Bill Malchow on piano at 8:00 pm - and come hungry for delicious pizza, pasta, salads and more!!

There's some fun on Frenchmen tonight too over at d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) with the Treme Brass Band at 9:00 pm - there's a $5 cover, but that's practically free!

Right down the street the Spotted Cat (623 Frenchmen) has a double header with no cover - Brett Richardson at 4:00 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 Grammy Award winning 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, March 12, 2012

It's a Musical Monday Uptown, in Mid-City and on Frenchmen!

Happy Monday Everybody!

Monday Night Music

If you're Uptown - Enjoy some cocktail 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 Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal) at 8:00 pm for a performance by guitarist, Rayland Baxter as he makes a stop at Chickie's before heading over to SXSW (tix are $10).  Don't forget to come hungry for some delicious pizza and other good stuff from the kitchen too!!

There's more fun in Mid-City over at the Banks Street Bar (4401 Banks) come by for Love Betty at 8:00 pm and don't forget about the 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...plus cheap and yummy red beans (veggie red beans too) plus it's smoke-free!!

Lots of fun around Frenchmen Street!

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!!

Satisfy your hunger for great food and music over at Three Muses (536 Frenchmen)...Tonight they've got Iguana man Joe Cabral and his Trio - don't miss the show!

And two great shows at the Maison (508 Frenchmen) with The Royal Roses at 7:00 pm, and The New Orleans Super Jam at 9:30 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 jazzalicious Monday evening show.

And Head right across the street to d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) for Glen David Andrews at 10:00 pm (there's a $5 cover for the late show - but that's not much to pay for this performance!)

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, March 10, 2012

Weekend Fun - The Italians & Irish Are Coming plus Oysters, Markets, Music & More!

The Italians are coming!!  The Irish are coming!!  It's that time of year for fava beans, flowers and cabbages - let's see what's going on this weekend!

Saturday Fun and Music!

Markets, Fests and Music!

Head on down to the Quarter early for the Louisiana Oyster Jubilee at 10:00 am at Musical Legends Park (311 Bourbon).  There's gonna be music, and food with the world's longest oyster po-boy!!  The "Best Oyster Po-Boy in New Orleans Competition" kicks off at 10 am with the construction of the humongous sandwich..cutting and distribution begins at Noon.  First come first served - so get there early - yum!!!

Head on out to the Piety Street Market (The Old Ironworks - 612 Piety St.) from Noon to 5:00 pm. There's gonna be live music by Mas Mamones and a special performance by The Bards of the Bywater with Helen Gillet, Mark Growden, Troi Bechet, Alex McMurray, Aurora Nealand, James Singleton and Larry Sieberth at 4:00 pm!  And of course, 40+ vendors offering an eclectic assortment of art, handmade jewelry and crafts, homemade goodies, vintage collectibles and flea market finds at this bustling neighborhood market.

If your heading down to the Quarters for the Day be sure to stop by the Old U.S. Mint (400 Esplanade) for Jazz at the Mint at 2:00 pm for the concert "Vozes Inspiradas", a showcase of Brazilian jazz with Cindy Scott, Sasha Masakowski and Leah Chase with a six piece band.

Parade!

Tonight is the annual Italian-American Marching Club's St. Joseph's Day Parade at 6:00 pm.  It kicks off on the corner of Canal and Chartres and marches through the Quarter.  Hundreds of tuxedo clad, flower carrying marchers will head through the streets handing out fava beans and paper flowers for a hug and a kiss!  Look out for grand marshalls Michael Badalucco, Vincent Pastore and Zach Strief!  Click the link for the parade route - http://www.iamcnola.org/

More Music!

After parading head on over to Chickie Wah Wah (2828 Canal) they've got a really big show this evening with another triple header of music!  The music starts early with Sami.the.Great at 6:00 pm, then it's the New Orleans Guitar Masters with Cranston Clements, Phil DeGruy, John Rankin and Jimmy Robinson, then top off the night it's the Harmed Brothers at 11:00 pm...wow - what a line-up!

Also, check out the Foburg Fest line-up with venues around the Frenchmen Street/St. Claude neighborhoods. They've got some really amazing shows tonight! http://www.foburgneworleans.com/

Sunday Fun and Music!

St. Paddy's Parade

The first round of St. Patrick's Day parades kick off on Sunday with the Old Metairie St. Patrick's Day Parade at noon.  The group begins at Archbishop Rummel High School on Severn and makes it way to Metairie Road.  There's going to be lots of flowers, beads, and of course cabbage!!

Sunday Brunch and More!

For those of you not in the parading mood...no worries...there's plenty of other good stuff going on.

Grab some delicious brunch and delight in the sounds of the Courtyard Kings starting up at 11:00 am over at Cafe' Rani (2917 Magazine)...Nothing like some Bloody Marys and some great music!  And there's more great brunch and food over on the Avenue at the Columns Hotel (3811 St. Charles Ave.) with guitarist Chip Wilson...I'm sure he'll be singing about gin and mimosas!!

After brunch head take ride on the ferry over to old Algiers.  It's Algiers Friendship Day on Algiers Point (corner of Olivier and Patterson) from noon to 6:00 pm.  It's a big old street party with green beer, hot dogs, cabbage and lots of music!  Don't miss out on the fun!

The Nickel-A-Dance concert series continues over at the Maison on (508) Frenchmen Street at 4:00 pm with Herlin Riley and the Hot Foot Floozies.  The free series runs the entire month of March and it's family friendly - so bring the gang!!

Alrighty, well that should keep you busy this today 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!!



www.gratisnola.com

Friday, March 9, 2012

TGIF w/Movies in the Park, A Chickie Triple Header & Lots Mo' Good Stuff!

Hooray for the weekend!!

Hooray for wine!  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 fantastic wines!

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!

Join the New Orleans Museum of Art, the Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival, and The New Orleans Film Society as they present music, art making, a tour, and an outdoor screening of the classic film A Streetcar Named Desire tonight in the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden at NOMA. See below for the night’s scheduled events. Admission: $6 for adults : Children (17 & under), free : $3 for NOMA/NOFS/Friends of Tennessee Members (Tickets can be purchased in advance below.) No outside food or beverages will be permitted. Please bring a blanket (recommended) or folding chair for seating.

Schedule for the Night:

• 5 pm to 8pm: Food by Crêpes à la Cart (additional purchase required)
• 5 pm to 7pm: Music by The Ramblin’ Letters
• 5 pm to 7pm: Art Making with the Preservation Resource Center : Explore the art in architecture with the PRC at this edition of NOMA's weekly Where Y'Art event with a shotgun house façade design activity.
• 6 pm: Celebrate Women’s History Month with “Women Artists”, a tour by curator Miranda Lash
• 7 pm: Film: A Streetcar Named Desire

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. It's Linda McRae at 5:00 pm and be sure to stay on for Paul Sanchez at 8:00 pm, and top off the evening with new music from Tommy Womack at 10:30 pm!! There's a small cover for Paul and Tommy - but you know they're worth the dinero! Come hungry too - there's delicious pizza and other yummy items being served up!

And there's more good music in Mid-City (almost Uptown) over at Rock 'N Bowl (3016 S. Carrollton).  Get your groove on with Shamarr Allen and the Underdawgs 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, Shotgun Jazz Band 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 the Alex Marti Trio at 4:00 pm, Emily Estrella & the Faux Barrio Billionnaires at 7:00 pm and stay late for Salsa Night with Javier Olondo & AsheSon at 11:00 pm!!

Right down the street you have another trio of shows at BMC (1331 Decatur)...with El DeOrazio & Friends at 3:00 pm for an early happy hour, Peter Novelli at 6:00 pm for more happy hour fun, and top off the night with the Dana Abbot Band at 9:00 pm!!

d.b.a.'s (618 Frenchmen) has the super talented Meschiya Lake & The Little Big Horns at 6:00 pm and stay on for Good Enough for Good Times at 10:00 pm...there's a $5 cover, but you don't want to miss this the show!!!

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


www.gratisnola.com