This week in New Orleans, the weather finally cooled down (Hallelu), giving us all the breezes. So, you know what that means: The weather is going to be so bomb this weekend! Between the National Fried Chicken Fest, Oktoberfest, and the International Arts Fest, there are ample options of places to go and enjoy outside. And if you’re not in the festing mood, you can also find a dope event or two to get into. Enjoy!
Here’s what’s going on this weekend…
ALL WKND
Chris Rock Ego Death World Tour [9/30 + 10/1] – SOLD OUT – The legendary comedian, actor, director, producer, and writer will perform live at the Saenger Theatre. FYI: This event will be a phone-free experience. Use of phones will not be permitted in the performance space. 8p.
National Fried Chicken Fest [10/1 + 10/2] – The FCF is back in physical form and will be held at a new location on the scenic New Orleans Lakefront, featuring all things fried chicken (veg + vegan options available) from some of the city’s finest eateries. The entertainment lineup is so fire, with performances by The Soul Rebels, Partners-N-Crime, Flagboy Giz, Mannie Fresh, and more. Sat: 11a – 9p; Sun: 11a – 8p.
Oktoberfest at Faubourg Brewery [10/1 + 10/2] – The FREE fest will feature live music, German eats and other goodies, new Oktoberfest beers, games for kids and adults, contests, and more. Faubourg Brewery, 12 – 7p.
International Arts Festival [10/1 + 10/2] – Presented by the International Arts Foundation, the IAF is a global celebration of music, culture, and people. This year’s fest will be at the Mandeville Wharf at Crescent Park with a musical lineup including Steel Pulse, Soca artists, Bunji Garlin and Nailah Blackman, Cyril Neville, and more. Sat: noon – 8:30p; Sun: noon – 6:45p.
FRIDAY, SEPT. 30
The Tipping Point – Catch good vibes at this weekend’s edition of DJ RQ Away’s weekly series at the Dragon’s Den, featuring DJs Kidd Love and B-Nice. No cover. 11p.
SATURDAY, OCT. 1
Art for Art’s Sake – Presented by the Magazine Street Merchants Association, AFAS is an annual showcase of art, food, music, and fun on Magazine Street. Over 100 shops, stores, restaurants, and galleries along the six-mile stretch welcome guests for after-hours shopping, special sales, sips, bites, music, and more in celebration of the Fall art season. 6 – 9p.
Ladies & Lowriders Opening Reception – Photographer Kimberly Ha presents her iconic photography exhibition at the Ace Hotel from October 2022 – January 2023. Ladies & Lowriders is all about cars and high fashion as the photos take us through New Orleans’s notable areas like Canal Street, in front of Cajuns on Claiborne, and more. Mad Nails will pop up to do guests’ nails in front of the photos. 6 – 9p.
$leazy EZ & BLÜ – After the opening reception, NOLA X NOLA, the citywide celebration of NOLA music and culture, brings two unique artists to Three Keys at the Ace Hotel. Hip-Hop + R&B artist, $leazy EZ, and Neo-Soul artist, BLÜ, will be performing live from 9 – 10:30p.
SETDEFLO [Set The Floor] – Following his DJ set at the Nat’l Fried Chkn Fest earlier in the day, Lil Jodeci will be turning up the heat at Hi-Ho Lounge. The Dirty South House party, named after an African dance competition, is also celebrating 5 years. Hosted by Lord Chilla, featuring ATL’s Wifi Daddy and more special guests. 11p.