Satchmo SummerFest returns Aug. 1–2 with free music, lectures and a Satchmo Salute second-line; the Jazz Mass will be held again at St. Augustine Church's sanctuary.

Keith Thomas narrowly defeated Cedric Richmond to be named King Zulu for Mardi Gras 2027. The John F. Kennedy band director will lead the Zulu parade on Feb. 9.

Adelaide Wisdom Benjamin, a longtime patron whose endowments helped steady New Orleans’ orchestra, died May 30 at 93. Her name now names the LPO’s music-director post.

Willie Puckett Jr., a key figure in New Orleans bounce, died May 3 at 50. He helped popularize the "Doggie Hopp" and "trip out" dances that shaped local club culture.

The National WWII Museum hosted a sold-out early screening of Tom Hanks’ 20-part WWII series ahead of its Memorial Day premiere.

Jazz Fest will run April 22–25 and April 29–May 2, 2027 at the Fair Grounds. Organizers hinted a lineup could arrive in mid‑December.

David Byrne’s Gentilly set mixed Talking Heads classics, a St. Vincent cameo and theatrical brass, a reminder of Jazz Fest’s mix of spectacle and local tradition.

A Tremé corner tied to Storyville and early jazz was spared immediate demolition after preservationists and city regulators stalled a teardown plan. Stabilization is next.

Big Chief Demond Melancon will take hand‑sewn Mardi Gras Indian suits and bead portraits from the Lower Ninth Ward to the Venice Biennale this spring.

The New Orleans Giant Puppet Festival returns April 9–13 with more than 40 shows, workshops and two neighborhood parades across the Bywater and Marigny.

Fifteen life-size Seward Johnson bronzes arrive across St. Tammany Parish today, launching a yearlong 'Art Imitates Life' exhibition in downtowns and parks.

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation has parted ways with CEO Blake‑Anthony Johnson weeks before Jazz Fest; Sarita Carriere has been named interim executive director.

The Marigny staple Check Point Charlie closed after staff were told the building was sold, leaving musicians and longtime regulars stunned.