spring 2018

Sidney Bechet, King of the Soprano Sax

February 01, 2018
The soprano saxophone of jazz pioneer Sidney Bechet can be found in the New Orleans Jazz Museum along with many photos and recordings of the undisputed King of the soprano sax. Best known for his throbbing vibrato and piercing rhythmic attack, he infused his playing with the essence of New Orleans and is also one of the most innovative clarinetists in jazz.

All About the Party!

February 01, 2018
Here in the Big Easy, one thing is for sure. We know how to “pass a good time,” let the good times roll, and we know how to throw a good party that people from far and wide come to attend. Mardi Gras and the French Quarter Festival, the largest free music festival in the South, are two shining examples of hospitality in our fair city where “hostess with the mostest” has a whole new ring.

Elegantly Casual

February 01, 2018
New Orleans, renowned around the globe for its spectacular cuisine, among other charms, isn’t just about our Creole and Cajun heritage. Over the three centuries since the city was founded in 1718, emigrants, slaves, soldiers, suppliers, and settlers have shared their ethnicity– especially their culinary culture.

One More for the Road...

February 01, 2018
Libations are for socializing and celebrating, and then there’s the other side of the coin-- when there’s loneliness and sadness.

Maybe these two opposites joined by a familiar thread, drinking (!) is one reason the classic bar song, “One More for My Baby, and One More for the Road,” has been so popular for more than 75 years. Perhaps many have been on both sides of that situation, or that it’s just an emotionally charged song that once you hear it– stays with you for a while.

Chef's Profile - Curio's Hayley Vanvleet

February 01, 2018
The word is out!

Curio, the French Quarter’s newest and most exciting dining venue, is fast becoming a favorite for both visitors and residents alike. Whether by good reviews, whispers among friends, so Curio doesn’t get too busy for locals to get a reservation, or just passing by don’t miss a trip to this fantastic, new, and truly entertaining dining spot!

The main attraction for Curio’s instant success lies in the distinctive talent and creativity of Executive Chef Haley Vanvleet, French Quarterly’s featured chef for 2018’s first quarter.

Carl Mack... Mardi Gras Museum & Chris Owens, Queen of Bourbon Street

February 01, 2018
In a French Quarter version of a “rags to riches” story, Carl Mack, a Rochester, New York native first appeared in 1984 in his trademark red and white striped suit and straw hat playing his wheeled xylophone for tips in Jackson Square. Meanwhile, he was astutely observing the local culture thinking of ways he could carve out his niche in it. He expanded his repertoire of entertainment skills to juggling, face painting, balloon twisting, pantomiming, and basic magic tricks.

Spring 2018 Calendar of Events

February 01, 2018
February 2
Krewe of Cork Parade
Cheers! This walking krewe celebrates “everything wine.” About 200 members donned in wine and grape related costumes saunter through the French Quarter handing out wine centric throws to lucky recipients. kreweofcork.com

February 4
Krewe of Barkus Parade
This parade has gone to the dogs! Man’s best friend takes center stage in parade. Escorted by their human owners, dogs are dressed up in their festive costumes as they walk down the streets in the French Quarter. It’s a must see! Barkus.org

February 9

Art Spotlight- Martin Lawrence Galleries

February 01, 2018
As the blossoms bloom, returning color to City Park, spring hits New Orleans like a second line on Royal Street. Think of spring, and what comes to mind? Martin Lawrence Galleries, of course. With their Annual auction season kicking off, Martin Lawrence Galleries at 433 Royal Street is preparing to bring “Buy it now, or Bid later” back to the Westin Hotel in Canal Place for their annual Auction Season Gala. You can expect their regular, impressive world collections along with some new surprises this year.

It’s All The Same Difference

February 01, 2018
You know, the more I think about it, the more I think there is something to the old adage “opposites attract.”

Take my sister Neely and me for example. We go to together like peanut butter and jelly, but separate us and you see just how different we really are.

New Orleans Mint

February 01, 2018
On March 3, 1835 President Andrew Jackson, signed a bill authorizing the U. S. Treasury to establish a branch mint in New Orleans. By the same act, branch mints were also established in Charlotte, North Carolina and Dahlonega, Georgia. The Southern branch mints were the result of Andrew Jackson’s long war with the Bank of America and paper currency. New Orleans was selected as a location for the manufacture of hard currency because it was the “emporium of the Great Valley” with gold specie from Mexico flowing through its active markets.

A Season of Performance and Celebration

February 01, 2018
While New Orleans sets the stage for one of the world’s most fascinating winter festivals, Carnival, culminating in Mardi Gras --- the city may make a stab at observing Ash Wednesday, or giving up a pleasure for Lent. However, despite observations and traditions, New Orleans kicks the entertainment and social scene into a higher gear.