Celebrating the Legacy of Black Activism at A.P. Tureaud Civil Rights Memorial Park

Last weekend, the community came together to celebrate the revitalization of the A.P. Tureaud Civil Rights Memorial Park and the unveiling of the 1868 Mural, a powerful tribute to 100 years of Black activism and resilience.

The event featured a compelling address by Frederick Delahoussaye, emphasizing the importance of honoring history, underscoring the enduring legacy of those who fought for justice and the ongoing commitment to equity and empowerment.

The revitalized park and mural now stand as symbols of hope and progress, inspiring all to continue building a stronger, more united community for generations to come.

The Winter Concert at The New Orleans Jazz Museum

Alana Harris attended The Winter Concert and graciously accepted recognition on behalf of the Office of Cultural Economy staff. Her presence emphasized the office’s commitment to supporting cultural initiatives and fostering creative opportunities both locally and globally.

The evening provided a cozy and inspiring atmosphere where the magic of music came alive. Attendees left with hearts full of holiday spirit, inspired by the power of music to unite and uplift.

Now Hiring: Workforce Program Coordinator 

The Workforce Program Coordinator will act as a conduit between NOVAC’s youth program and local and national Film & TV industry workforce development programs. The Workforce Program Coordinator will provide programmatic assistance and support with participant recruitment, delivering training programs, and job placement.

The Workforce Program Coordinator will report directly to the Workforce Program Director and the Media Education Director. This position is based in NOVAC’s Baton Rouge office and requires regular travel to New Orleans.

WHO SHOULD APPLY:
Career Readiness professionals with two to five years of non-profit programming, skills training, workforce development, or HR experience and a background/ interest in film, storytelling, youth/YA development and equity.

IMPORTANT INFO:
APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 3, 2025

JOB LOCATION: Baton Rouge, LA

START DATE: Winter 2025 (February)

SALARY: $45,00 – $50,00 + Benefits

For more information, visit: novacvideo.org

Expand Your Creativity for Free with NOVAC’s Born Digital Program

High school students in grades 8–12 are invited to join NOVAC’s Born Digital After School Program next semester, where they’ll gain hands-on experience in creative media production. Participants will receive free training in Adobe Premiere Pro, the film industry’s standard editing software, with an opportunity to earn professional certification and develop a creative portfolio to showcase their work.

Students from all learning backgrounds will to create their own content with their own voice after learning with NOVAC. Students will also have the opportunity to access high-wage digital media positions and be equipped with a comprehensive set of 21st century workplace skills. NOVAC students will be part of the next generation of storytellers, designers, makers, technologists, and artists.

This is your chance to explore the world of digital media, build industry skills, and create something amazing!

Questions? Contact Julia at mediaprograms@novacvideo.org.

For more information, visit: novacvideo.org

NOTCF Mini-Grant Assistance and Grant Applications

The New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund (NOTCF) is thrilled to announce that grant applications for all levels will open on Thursday, January 2, 2025. 

2025 Grant Cycle Update:

• New Lottery-Based System: Beginning January 2025, an automated lottery-based system will ensure fairness, equity, and accessibility for all eligible applicants.
• Cycle 1 Intake Day: Applications will be accepted from 12:00 AM to 11:59 PM on January 2, 2025.

For more information and to apply, visit the NOTCF Grants Page at www.notcf.com/grants. 

Level 1 Mini-Grant Application Assistance
For those applying for Level 1 Mini-Grants, personalized assistance is available through scheduled appointments with NOTCF staff.

Appointment Details:

• Dates:
  • Regular Appointments: Wednesday, January 22 – Friday, January 24
  • Golden Age Appointments: Monday, January 27 – Tuesday, January 28 (for Culture Bearers aged 60+)

• Walk-ins are not allowed; appointments are required.

This is an excellent opportunity to receive support in completing your Level 1 Mini-Grant application. Take advantage of these resources and get ready to bring your creative projects to life with NOTCF!

Starting January 15, click this Schedulicity link to schedule your appointment: Mini-Grant Application Assistance 

NEA Grants for Arts Projects + Guidelines Webinar

The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) invites organizations to apply for its Grants for Arts Projects (GAP), the agency’s largest grant program dedicated to strengthening the nation’s arts and culture ecosystem. This project-based funding supports diverse artistic disciplines, elevating artists and designers as essential contributors to a vibrant society. GAP grants foster creativity, celebrate cultural heritage, encourage cross-sector collaborations, and promote arts and design projects that enhance individual and community well-being.

Application Deadlines:

• February 13, 2025: Includes the only opportunity to apply for 2026 Design funding.
• July 10, 2025: For all other projects taking place in 2026.

The NEA is offering guidelines webinars to help you navigate the updated application. Registrations will be posted on the Events page soon:

General GAP Application Guidelines Webinar

Wednesday, January 8, 2025

3:00 pm - 4:30 pm ET

Design-specific Guidelines Webinar

Wednesday, January 22, 2025

2:00 pm – 3:00 pm ET

For more detailed questions or to discuss your project idea, please contact Courtney Spearman via email at spearmanc@arts.gov.

For more information, visit: arts.gov

Art 504 Winter Camp + Spring Semester After School

Students aged 7–14 will team up to build a Spaceship House Float and launch Ziggy into the cosmos. From crafting hanging planets and designing miniature aliens to constructing control panels and astronaut suits, this camp combines creativity, hands-on learning, and fun.

Camp Highlights:

• Learn power tool safety while building the navigation system
• Create intergalactic bolo ties and unique "Freddie and the Chins" memorabilia
• Customize shirts and hats with Captain Dee and his heat press
• Join the Stardust Space Crew Media Announcement filming

For more information, visit: artcamp504.coursestorm.com

NOBT’s The Nutcracker Returns to New Orleans This Holiday Season!

Celebrate the magic of the season with the New Orleans Ballet Theatre’s (NOBT) beloved two-act ballet, The Nutcracker. This December, NOBT’s professional company, joined by over 120 talented local children, will present nine unforgettable performances at the iconic Orpheum Theater.

Experience the enchanting story, dazzling choreography, breathtaking sets, and costumes paired with Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's timeless score. A holiday tradition for the whole family, The Nutcracker is a must-see this season!

Performance Schedule:

• Dec. 20: 7:00 PM
• Dec. 21: 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM
• Dec. 22: 2:00 PM
• Dec. 23: 2:00 PM

Approximate run time is 2 hours with one intermission. Don’t miss this spectacular holiday tradition! Secure your tickets now for a magical experience.

For more information, visit: neworleansballettheatre.com

Celebrate the Holidays with Girls Play Trumpets Too!

Join Girls Play Trumpets Too (GPTT) for an unforgettable Holiday Concert this Saturday, December 21, 2024 from 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM at The Ellis Marsalis Center for Music, 1901 Bartholomew St., New Orleans, LA ! Enjoy an afternoon of extraordinary performances by talented young trumpeters, special guests, and festive cheer.

Highlights:

• Incredible live music
• Delicious food sponsored by Chapter IV Restaurant
• Refreshments for all guests
• Hosted by Helena Moreno, President of the New Orleans City Council

Celebrate the season and support a great cause! RSVP today to secure your spot.

For more information or to purchase a ticket, visit: girlsplaytrumpetstoo.org

Caroling in Jackson Square & Holiday Home Tour

Experience the magic of the season with a beloved New Orleans tradition hosted by Patio Planters of the Vieux Carré.

Caroling in Jackson Square

• When: Sunday, December 22, 7:00 PM (Gates open at 6:30 PM)
• Where: Jackson Square
• Details: Join a free community sing-along, a New Orleans tradition since 1946. Candles and songbooks provided at all gates. Standing-only event with no restroom facilities.

Important Reminder:
Due to street repairs for Super Bowl preparations, traffic may be heavier than usual. Plan your travel and parking accordingly.

About Patio Planters:
Founded in 1946, Patio Planters is a volunteer organization dedicated to preserving the French Quarter’s charm. Events like the Holiday Home Tour and Caroling in Jackson Square are funded through their year-round efforts, ensuring these cherished traditions continue for locals and visitors alike.

Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the festive spirit of New Orleans this holiday season!

For more information, visit: patioplanters.net

 Free Organ Demonstrations at HNOC’s 

Experience the rich history and beautiful sounds of HNOC’s restored 1925 Aeolian player pipe organ during free demonstrations held Wednesday through Sunday at 11 a.m. This December, the program explores how the rapid modernization of the 1920s influenced holiday traditions.

These demonstrations provide a look into the past, showcasing a rare and technologically advanced musical instrument that was once a luxury in the homes of the most affluent. Installed by tobacco magnate William Ratcliffe Irby in 1918 as part of his lavish personal residence at 520 Royal Street, the organ remains one of the few surviving instruments in its original location. It was meticulously restored by the Holtkamp Organ Company to its working condition.

Additionally, this program is a bonus stop on the Creole Christmas Holiday Home Tour, featuring several historic French Quarter properties adorned in holiday finery, taking place December 27 to 29. Tour tickets are available from the Friends of the Cabildo.

Come celebrate the rich history of New Orleans through the enchanting sounds of the past. 

For more information, visit: hnoc.org

Louisiana Children’s Museum Winter Wiggle Party & Noon Year’s Eve

Join Louisiana Children's Musuem on Friday, December 27, from 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. for a special Winter Wiggle Party at the Louisiana Children’s Museum!

The day kicks off with a cozy Pajama Story Time at 11:00 a.m., followed by a PJ Parade at 12:30 p.m. ending with a lively Winter Wiggle Party from 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m., featuring the Artist in Residence, Sari Jordan! Enjoy cozy holiday treats throughout the day.

This Winter Wonderland celebration is included with general admission tickets or your LCM membership. Don’t miss out on this festive, family-friendly event!

Celebrate Noon Year’s Eve 

Ring in the new year early at the Louisiana Children’s Museum’s annual Noon Year’s Eve celebration on Sunday, December 31, from 9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.!

Join in the fun with a famous countdown to NOON that culminates in an explosion of colorful confetti and bubbles. Guests can get into the holiday spirit by making their own noisemakers, designing festive paper bag hats, and enjoying music, face-painting, dancing, and games for children and adults of all ages!

Noon Year’s Eve event pricing is $15 per person for members, $25 per person for non-members, and $8 for those eligible for our Museums for All program. Tickets are available now!

For more information, visit: lcm.org

Allstate Sugar Bowl New Year’s Parade

Get ready for a festive Mardi Gras-style parade with floats, bands, and other participants entertaining fans of all ages! The official Allstate Sugar Bowl New Year’s Parade, presented by Louisiana Tourism, will take place on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, starting at 2 p.m. The parade route will begin at the intersection of Elysian Fields Avenue and Decatur Street, traveling through the French Quarter along Decatur Street with iconic landmarks such as The Old US Mint, the French Market, Cafe du Monde, and Jackson Square, before concluding at Canal Street.

Check back for final route details and times. The parade will be broadcast live on Nola38CW (WNOL-TV) in New Orleans, with a live online broadcast available at wgno.com. The parade will also be rebroadcast on WGNO-TV ABC 26 on New Year’s Day starting at 9 a.m. Don’t miss this exciting New Year’s Eve tradition!

For more information, visit: allstatesugarbowl.org.

Big Night New Orleans New Year’s Eve

Big Night New Orleans New Year’s Eve 2025 is thrilled to celebrate the new year at our incredible host venue—the Fillmore, located adjacent to Caesars Casino New Orleans! Ring in 2025 at the city’s biggest annual New Year’s Eve celebration, featuring appearances by Trina, Yung Joc, Brass-A-Holics, Inferno Burlesque, DJ Kelly Green, DJ Rozay, and special midnight countdown host, former New Orleans Saints Super Bowl Champion WR Robert Meachem!

For more information, visit: eventbrite.com

Parlour Galleries Internship

Camp Street Studios and Gallery is offering internship opportunities for qualified emerging artists, art historians, designers, and administrative professionals. Interns will gain valuable experience in public engagement, communication, promotion, art preparation, written publications, and video documentation. This paid position offers $15 per hour for onsite time, plus access to shared studio space.

Candidate Requirements:

• A time commitment of 10 hours a month onsite, with availability on Fridays and Saturdays from 12-5.
• Currently enrolled university student.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Background in fine arts or graphic design with a specialization in creation, administration, and/or art history.
• Experience in gallery work, including public engagement and handling fine art.
• Proficiency in Excel, G Suite, Square Space, and social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram.
• Motivation to use the provided studio space for at least 10 hours a month.

For more information, visit: Open Call: Internship Program.

Join the Greenway Board of Directors!

For more information, view the application here. 

Enroll Now for Spring Classes at the Ellis Marsalis Center for Music!

Don’t miss the opportunity to enroll in after-school and Saturday classes this spring! Students ages 8-18 can explore a wide range of musical and performing arts classes, including piano, strings, percussion, woodwinds, brass, voice, music production, dance, and audio engineering. No prior music experience is required!

Registration costs $30 per student per semester. Classes start on January 6th.

• Call 504-940-3400 for more information!

Join us for a musical journey this spring at the Ellis Marsalis Center for Music!

For more information, visit: ellismarsaliscenter.org.

Teen Leadership Program 2025

The Teen Leadership Program offers a unique opportunity for older teens to become mentors and role models within the community as they engage with young artists. This program is perfect for teens who have aged out of traditional camp offerings or have a strong interest in working with children. Participants will attend training sessions focused on building essential skills to effectively engage and connect with young artists. Twice a month, they will join art-infused social events to foster creativity, teamwork, and community among fellow participants. During camp sessions, participants will work as classroom assistants, providing support to young artists and instructors in a structured environment.

Program Benefits:

• Earn a stipend as a classroom assistant during camp sessions
• Gain valuable job skills, including teamwork, social-emotional learning, and positive reinforcement
• Develop meaningful connections with young artists and fellow participants
• Cultivate creativity and leadership skills through hands-on, art-based activities

Requirements:

• Must be at least 14 years old by May 1
• Commit to attending these program dates: January 10, 24; February 7; March 14, 28; April 4, 18; May 23
• New teens must attend 6 of the Friday night meetings; returning teens who completed last year’s program must attend 4 meetings
• Mandatory training on May 10 from 10 am – 4 pm

For more information, visit: upturnarts.org

The Office of Nighttime Economy Launches "Music Census Sessions" to Support Local Music Community

City of New Orleans Launches "Music Census Sessions" to Support Local Music CommunityThe City of New Orleans Office of Nighttime Economy, in partnership with The Ella Project and the New Orleans Public Library, is excited to announce the launch of Music Census Sessions, a free year-long series of professional development workshops, roundtables, and networking events for the New Orleans music community.

Created in response to the findings of the New Orleans Music Census, this program focuses on equipping local musicians and music professionals with actionable business and industry skills to build, grow, and sustain their careers. In-person sessions will also feature virtual options when available, making this resource accessible to a wider audience.

The Music Census Sessions are designed for all experience levels, from newcomers to seasoned performers who have been shaping the city’s sound for decades. Each session focuses on practical, real-world topics, ensuring participants leave with strategies to thrive in an ever-evolving music landscape.

The first session begins in January 2025, and registration is now open.

For more information, visit: www.nolamusiccensus.org/sessions.