News Summary
This weekend, New Orleans is alive with an exciting array of events including the Symphony Book Fair, Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival, and New Orleans Card & Collectible Convention. The city’s vibrant culture is on full display for residents and visitors alike, featuring music, arts, and activities for families. Notable highlights include live performances, a seafood festival, comedy shows, and community engagement events, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone involved.
New Orleans Hosts Weekend Extravaganza with Multiple Events
This weekend, New Orleans is buzzing with a diverse array of events, including the annual Symphony Book Fair, the Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival, and the New Orleans Card & Collectible Convention. Residents and visitors can take part in a variety of cultural, musical, and family-oriented activities throughout the city.
Symphony Book Fair
The Symphony Book Fair is taking place at the UNO Kiefer Lakefront Arena, featuring more than 100,000 items for sale, including books, music, and art. The fair runs through Sunday, with operating hours of 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. For those eager to get an early start, a $20 fee grants early admission on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. There is also a special offer for children on Sunday, allowing them to fill a bag with items for just $5 from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.. Proceeds from the book fair will support the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.
Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival
Another highlight of the weekend is the Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival, celebrating the vibrant music of southwest Louisiana. The event is set for Saturday and Sunday from 3 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Wein Jazz & Heritage Center and is free to attend. Performers such as Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers will thrill audiences with their energetic music.
Jean Lafitte Seafood Festival
The Jean Lafitte Seafood Festival will feature live music and local cuisine at the auditorium and grounds. Festivities begin at 4 p.m. on Friday and continue through the weekend, with gates opening at 11 a.m. Saturday and noon on Sunday. Tickets for the seafood festival start at $10, offering a flavorful experience of Louisiana’s rich culinary traditions.
Other Events
The New Orleans Card & Collectible Convention takes place at the Caesars Superdome this weekend, allowing collectors to explore a wide range of sports cards and memorabilia. The convention operates from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, with tickets starting at $19.
Comedy lovers can attend the LGBTLOL Queer Comedy Fest, featuring various comedy shows running from 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday at multiple locations throughout the city.
Additionally, a Scrabble tournament is scheduled for Saturday at the East Bank Regional Library from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., requiring participants to bring their own boards and game materials. There will be competitions in various divisions.
The Storm Awareness and Preparedness event takes place on Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at the New Canal Lighthouse, providing free supplies and valuable information on storm preparation.
Make It in Old Algiers Festival and Family Events
The Make It in Old Algiers Festival will take place on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring live music, arts and crafts, and activities for children. On Sunday, the Run/Walk Through History benefit race will attract over 700 participants, offering both 1K and 5K courses.
Lastly, the Family Equality Day event at Longue Vue House and Gardens will occur on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., catering to families of all types with engaging activities.
Upcoming Events
Looking ahead, the New Orleans Book Festival is scheduled for March 27-29 at Tulane University, featuring various authors, panels, and activities, further enriching the cultural landscape of the city.
With a robust lineup of events, New Orleans offers something for everyone this weekend, ensuring both locals and visitors have a memorable experience full of art, music, and community engagement.
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Additional Resources
- NOLA: Weekend Plans in New Orleans
- NOLA: New Orleans Book Fest
- NOLA: Greek Cajun Zydeco Fests
- Google Search: New Orleans events
- Encyclopedia Britannica: New Orleans
