What’s Hot in NOLA Now: Don’t Miss These Cool Summer Events

Check out some of the best things to do in New Orleans this summer. These are our favorites, and there’s something for everyone!

Essence Festival: July 5 – 7, 2019

Known as “the party with a purpose”, Essence Festival is produced by Essence Communications, and celebrates African-American musical talent, culture, food, and fashion. Held every 4^th of July weekend in New Orleans since its inception in 1995, the festival now attracts and inspires over a half million attendees annually. 2019 marks its 25^th anniversary with three jam-packed days of concert series, celebrity speakers, and empowerment seminars, all showcasing the best talent and biggest names in entertainment. Special highlights this year include a visit and conversation with Former First Lady Michelle Obama, plus headliners Missy Elliott, Mary J. Blige, NAS, and Big Freedia.  Find out more and buy tickets.

Tales of the Cocktail: July 16 – 21, 2019

Now in its 17^th year, the annual Tales of the Cocktail brings together the worldwide cocktail community – both professional mixologists and enthusiasts – for a spirited schedule of tastings, competitions and networking opportunities. Put on by the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation, the weeklong event features culture and business seminars, dining experiences, brand education, and wellness initiatives, showing all who partake a good time. Join a conversation about Tennessee Whiskey vs. Kentucky Bourbon, taste a perfect Bloody Mary, take a yoga or cycling class, and discuss the complexities of ethical entrepreneurship. Check out daily schedules and buy tickets.

White Linen Night: August 3, 2019

A celebration of the eclectic art scene in New Orleans, White Linen Night is an evening of performances, art installations, live music, parties, food vendors, and more than 20 open galleries throughout the Warehouse District. Be sure to wear your cool and crisp white linen, and don’t miss the free and open to the public Julia Street Block Party from 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm. There’s also the free Open Call 2019 Opening Reception at 5:30 pm at the Contemporary Arts Center (CAC), where you can see over 20 local and regional artists’ exploration of identity through lived experiences based on race, gender, ability, sexuality and class. The CAC’s “Party After Dark” and Cool Down Lounge are ticketed events, and proceeds support the CAC. Get more info and buy tickets.

COOLinary New Orleans: August 1 – 31, 2019

A great way to affordably indulge in all the fabulous food that New Orleans has to offer, COOLinary New Orleans is a city-wide event and annual culinary tradition where participating restaurants offer special prix-fixe lunch, dinner and brunch menus to be enjoyed all month long. Got a list of places you’ve been wanting to try, or favorites you’d like to return to? August is the time to do it. See all the participating restaurants and their specially priced menus — but check back often, because more are added daily.