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National Guard exits New Orleans as federal surge winds down

About 350 troops have been in the city since December.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Louisiana National Guard" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/12/23/trump-national-guard-new-orleans-louisiana-deployment" data-vars-content-id="e0350341-b3fd-452d-a914-ebc18ccae75d" data-vars-headline="National Guard exits New Orleans as federal surge winds down" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/12/23/trump-national-guard-new-orleans-louisiana-deployment" target="_self">Louisiana National Guard</a> leaves New Orleans this weekend.Why it matters: The departure ends two months of heightened federal law enforcement presence in the city, sparked by Gov. Jeff Landry&#x27;s request and backed by President Trump.

15+ New Orleans festivals to put on your calendar this spring

Things to Do

It&#x27;s spring, the most glorious time of the year in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="e5c332d0-e0c7-4adf-859b-8738284deb05" data-vars-headline="15+ New Orleans festivals to put on your calendar this spring" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a>. Crawfish are boiling, it doesn&#x27;t feel like a furnace outside yet and everything is blooming.Why it matters: This is one of the busiest social periods of the year, with festivals almost every weekend.

Tree giveaway returns to New Orleans on Saturday

The NOLA Tree Project is trying to replace trees lost during Hurricane Katrina.

Residents in metro <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="837dc1f7-d869-43c3-bebe-c0d199dd5871" data-vars-headline="Tree giveaway returns to New Orleans on Saturday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a> can get free trees this weekend at the NOLA Tree Project&#x27;s biggest giveaway of the year.Why it matters: Trees help absorb stormwater runoff and mitigate extreme heat.

New Orleans leaders hail Mardi Gras as "resounding success"

Mardi Gras

New Orleans leaders say <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mardi Gras" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" data-vars-content-id="8b483573-bcba-4485-a0d3-ed7d549bac53" data-vars-headline="New Orleans leaders hail Mardi Gras as &quot;resounding success&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" target="_self">Mardi Gras</a> was a &quot;resounding success,&quot; citing robust tourism numbers, great weather and no major public safety issues.Why it matters: The city relies on Mardi Gras for an economic boost.

Where to recycle Mardi Gras beads in New Orleans

Several drop-off sites are open all year.

<figure><img alt="Image shows beads, footballs and other Mardi Gras parade throws on the grass." height="450" id="68baf701-5460-42fa-b2b3-9d43def9bb7a" src="https://images.axios.com/2j69gb74-8n9K21a7v71d54_m2M=/2026/02/17/1771360086576.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>Mardi Gras throws include beads, doubloons, cups, footballs and plush items. Image: Carlie Kollath Wells/Axios</figcaption></figure>Several <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="1d319c76-b376-405e-9f75-c2bbf8ef7537" data-vars-headline="Where to recycle Mardi Gras beads in New Orleans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a> organizations can help keep your <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mardi Gras" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" data-vars-content-id="1d319c76-b376-405e-9f75-c2bbf8ef7537" data-vars-headline="Where to recycle Mardi Gras beads in New Orleans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" target="_self">Mardi Gras</a> beads, stuffed animals and other throws out of landfills.Why it matters: Mardi Gras leaves behind mountains of trash. Recycling cuts waste and supports local nonprofits.

Shia LaBeouf arrested on Mardi Gras morning in New Orleans

Actor Shia LaBeouf faces two counts of simple battery after <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="a4461893-6616-486a-a1e8-382f36e5cdee" data-vars-headline="Shia LaBeouf arrested on Mardi Gras morning in New Orleans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a> police say he punched two men early <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mardi Gras" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" data-vars-content-id="a4461893-6616-486a-a1e8-382f36e5cdee" data-vars-headline="Shia LaBeouf arrested on Mardi Gras morning in New Orleans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" target="_self">Mardi Gras</a> morning.Driving the news: The altercation happened around 12:45am Tuesday at a Marigny business in the 1400 block of Royal Street, NOPD said in a statement.

On Mardi Gras, we let joy win in New Orleans

It's the best day of the year in the city.

<figure><img alt="Image shows women in brightly colored wigs and aprons dancing in a parade." height="450" id="7b768ecc-48c0-4732-b1fe-cb55d580f16f" src="https://images.axios.com/rV8oboPJrmGnT_7psypoLebCWyQ=/2026/02/13/1771006776670.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>The relatively new sNoBalls dance krewe shows off their moves in a parade. Image: Carlie Kollath Wells/Axios</figcaption></figure>We made it, friends, to the best day in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="93647e7d-82f3-4afe-a051-dfc8e084d23d" data-vars-headline="On Mardi Gras, we let joy win in New Orleans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a> — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mardi Gras" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" data-vars-content-id="93647e7d-82f3-4afe-a051-dfc8e084d23d" data-vars-headline="On Mardi Gras, we let joy win in New Orleans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" target="_self">Mardi Gras</a>.Why it matters: This is our annual reset.

How to watch Mardi Gras live from anywhere

Check out these live cams for parades and Bourbon Street.

Not everyone is lucky enough to be in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="96b909c4-d660-4730-b286-0dbcda846c2c" data-vars-headline="How to watch Mardi Gras live from anywhere" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a> for the biggest free party on Earth.Why it matters: There are livestream options for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mardi Gras" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" data-vars-content-id="96b909c4-d660-4730-b286-0dbcda846c2c" data-vars-headline="How to watch Mardi Gras live from anywhere" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" target="_self">Mardi Gras</a>.

A defining moment for New Orleans' first Latina mayor

Helena Moreno says it's "imperative" she speaks up now.

Politics

Mayor Helena Moreno — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/politics" data-vars-content-id="e1c187ce-f13d-4095-95a9-b28eca36853c" data-vars-headline="A defining moment for New Orleans&#x27; first Latina mayor" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/politics" target="_self">New Orleans</a>&#x27; first Latina mayor — says it&#x27;s &quot;imperative&quot; that she speaks up during what she describes as a &quot;very challenging time&quot; for Latinos facing increased targeting.Why it matters: Moreno&#x27;s background wasn&#x27;t central to her campaign, but it&#x27;s now shaping how she governs — from speaking out against immigration enforcement tactics to pushing for city services that reach residents in their own language.

City slashes Mardi Gras spending amid budget crisis

Mayor Helena Moreno won't have a Mardi Gras ball.

Mayor <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Helena Moreno" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/politics" data-vars-content-id="6763065f-d0d0-45ae-b485-e99b37778822" data-vars-headline="City slashes Mardi Gras spending amid budget crisis" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/politics" target="_self">Helena Moreno</a>&#x27;s administration made deep budget cuts for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mardi Gras" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" data-vars-content-id="6763065f-d0d0-45ae-b485-e99b37778822" data-vars-headline="City slashes Mardi Gras spending amid budget crisis" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" target="_self">Mardi Gras</a> festivities amid the city&#x27;s fiscal crisis.Why it matters: VIPs at Gallier Hall will have security, but the city won&#x27;t provide food, drinks or clear bags for throws.

DJ outcry proves worth of donor-supported events, Moreno says

The cost-effective solution is repeatable, Mayor Moreno says.

Music

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mardi Gras" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" data-vars-content-id="b317e485-1113-400b-af3a-b97a200e79e9" data-vars-headline="DJ outcry proves worth of donor-supported events, Moreno says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" target="_self">Mardi Gras</a> parade viewing at Gallier Hall may be <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="trimmed down in 2026" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/02/04/mardi-gras-budget-cuts-gallier-hall" data-vars-content-id="b317e485-1113-400b-af3a-b97a200e79e9" data-vars-headline="DJ outcry proves worth of donor-supported events, Moreno says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/02/04/mardi-gras-budget-cuts-gallier-hall" target="_self">trimmed down in 2026</a>, but it&#x27;ll still sound great, thanks to more than $40,000 raised in donations to cover the cost of hiring DJs for this year&#x27;s festivities.Why it matters: Mayor Helena Moreno said Monday that she sees the solution — private donations supporting a public event — as a repeatable option for future projects.

New Orleans finds money to fix I-10 lights

They will start with the High Rise Bridge.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans City Council" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/politics" data-vars-content-id="0e55057d-3fa6-42c2-bd0e-888bb0841dde" data-vars-headline="New Orleans finds money to fix I-10 lights" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/politics" target="_self">New Orleans City Council</a> members are expected to approve Wednesday a $2.8 million initiative to fix the streetlights on Interstate 10, starting with the High Rise Bridge.Why it matters: Councilmembers say broken streetlights are one of the most common complaints they hear from constituents.

The No. 1 fish cleaning tip from a guy who butchers 500 pounds a day

Food and Drink

If you want to get better at something, it&#x27;s a good idea to ask an expert. So if you&#x27;re looking to improve your fish game, the guy you want to talk to is GW Fins&#x27; Michael Perkins.Why it matters: Perkins has been personally responsible for butchering 300 to 500 or more pounds of fresh-caught fish every day for more than 20 years.

5 Lenten fish fries to try this season

It&#x27;s the first Friday of Lent, which means it&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fish fry season" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2024/02/16/best-lenten-fish-fries-lent-tradition" data-vars-content-id="5b49b15f-5c79-4171-96cc-a1cdcf49345a" data-vars-headline="5 Lenten fish fries to try this season" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2024/02/16/best-lenten-fish-fries-lent-tradition" target="_self">fish fry season</a> in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="5b49b15f-5c79-4171-96cc-a1cdcf49345a" data-vars-headline="5 Lenten fish fries to try this season" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a>.Why it matters: Lenten fish fries are as much about neighborhood gathering as they are about the food.

I tried it: Bathtub cocktail for Mardi Gras

<figure><img alt="Image shows a bartender adding a rubber ducky to a bathtub cocktail." height="450" id="d57cfbcc-6a39-484d-acf5-1b8b7e02abd2" src="https://images.axios.com/0PYfNH6u1kGIYvFJbkWZ4X1eLR0=/2026/02/11/1770845781088.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>The Duckie cocktail at Brennan&#x27;s. Image: Carlie Kollath Wells/Axios</figcaption></figure>Brennan&#x27;s has a fun new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mardi Gras" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" data-vars-content-id="092b1549-8287-4d02-8248-d6e2fb4957c5" data-vars-headline="I tried it: Bathtub cocktail for Mardi Gras" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" target="_self">Mardi Gras</a> cocktail in honor of Muses that&#x27;s served in a mini bathtub and topped with a rubber ducky.Why it matters: It disappears after Lundi Gras.

Hold the Mayo's ode to a classic New Orleans dish

Devin Snow with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Hold the Mayo" data-vars-click-url="https://htmsports.com/" data-vars-content-id="f51fca7e-a4ed-47a2-8922-bcea8039955f" data-vars-headline="Hold the Mayo&#x27;s ode to a classic New Orleans dish" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://htmsports.com/" target="_blank">Hold the Mayo</a> wraps up his multi-year video series Monday that highlights red beans and rice across southeast Louisiana.Why it matters: Snow turned a humble Monday staple into a love letter to southeastern Louisiana food and neighborhoods.

Louisiana's car insurance rates are falling

Car insurance prices dipped last year after a post-pandemic stretch of skyrocketing costs, a new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Insurify report" data-vars-click-url="https://insurify.com/car-insurance/report/" data-vars-content-id="fefecea5-6cb1-43e1-aa0c-621f6c35ab84" data-vars-headline="Louisiana&#x27;s car insurance rates are falling" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://insurify.com/car-insurance/report/" target="_blank">Insurify report</a> finds.Zoom in: Louisiana&#x27;s annual full-coverage premiums fell 15% between 2024 and 2025, Insurify says, outpacing a national average 6% drop.

What it takes to be a Carnival crafter for hire

Signature throws have created a new cottage industry.

When the pandemic hit, Kat Schweitzer says she needed a way to avoid &quot;sitting in a depression hole.&quot;<ul><li>Enter glitter.</li></ul>Why it matters: That period took Schweitzer from a casual <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mardi Gras" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" data-vars-content-id="a3a2d356-0730-4388-ae0d-98f7fecd7852" data-vars-headline="What it takes to be a Carnival crafter for hire" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" target="_self">Mardi Gras</a> crafter to a crafter-for-hire, joining the ranks of New Orleans-area artists who use their skills to elevate float riders&#x27; throws — for a price.

Redevelopment begins at blighted Bywater naval property

An incubator space, NewLab, is slated to open this year.

Work is officially underway on the redevelopment of one of New Orleans&#x27; largest and most notorious blighted properties.Why it matters: Once complete, the former Naval Support Activity East Bank in the Bywater will offer a mix of 294 affordable housing units, retail space and a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new startup incubator" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/05/12/newlab-business-expansion-louisiana-startup" data-vars-content-id="44280f9a-4724-43a6-a003-89029acb68e2" data-vars-headline="Redevelopment begins at blighted Bywater naval property" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/05/12/newlab-business-expansion-louisiana-startup" target="_self">new startup incubator</a>.

Vampire thriller "Sinners" breaks Oscar nomination record

Ryan Coogler was nominated for directing, best picture and and original screenplay.

Ryan Coogler&#x27;s &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Sinners" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/04/21/michael-b-jordan-s-sinners-is-a-surprise-box-office-hit" data-vars-content-id="c6a56cb7-3696-407c-87cd-425ec46dad35" data-vars-headline="Vampire thriller &quot;Sinners&quot; breaks Oscar nomination record" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/04/21/michael-b-jordan-s-sinners-is-a-surprise-box-office-hit" target="_self">Sinners</a>&quot; secured 16 Oscar <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="nominations" data-vars-click-url="https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/2026" data-vars-content-id="c6a56cb7-3696-407c-87cd-425ec46dad35" data-vars-headline="Vampire thriller &quot;Sinners&quot; breaks Oscar nomination record" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/2026" target="_blank">nominations</a> on Thursday, breaking a long-standing record for the most-nominated film of all time.The big picture: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="genre-bending" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/04/17/sinners-michael-jordan-ryan-coogler-movie-louisiana" data-vars-content-id="c6a56cb7-3696-407c-87cd-425ec46dad35" data-vars-headline="Vampire thriller &quot;Sinners&quot; breaks Oscar nomination record" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/04/17/sinners-michael-jordan-ryan-coogler-movie-louisiana" target="_self">genre-bending</a> Black-directed film features a mostly Black cast and spotlights Black culture.

Monster Jam, crawfish and more things to do this weekend

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="ddc34b8e-cf32-4e21-9060-0c6d17c72d07" data-vars-headline="Monster Jam, crawfish and more things to do this weekend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a> has plenty to do this weekend. From Monster Jam to weiner dog races, you&#x27;ve got options.<ul><li>Here are a few of our suggestions.</li></ul>

New Orleans to revive historic building vacant since Katrina

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="d1cf2b4e-1b73-4a7d-8872-bd93028237f8" data-vars-headline="New Orleans to revive historic building vacant since Katrina" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a> City Council members are expected to vote Thursday to fund the next step in revitalizing the Municipal Auditorium and Armstrong Park.Why it matters: The goal is to turn the space in the Treme into a cultural destination to celebrate the city&#x27;s Black heritage.

French Quarter construction drags into festival season

French Quarter streets are a mess as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="4f4b96a1-4f1d-468e-b115-a95a12bb421d" data-vars-headline="French Quarter construction drags into festival season" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a> heads into its busy spring festival season.Why it matters: Businesses say they are struggling as a behind-schedule construction project drags on.

NOPD updates immigration policy amid state pressure

The New Orleans Police Department updated its decade-old immigration policy during <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mardi Gras" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" data-vars-content-id="1ce02cfd-996a-4650-9ad8-481291d336bb" data-vars-headline="NOPD updates immigration policy amid state pressure" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" target="_self">Mardi Gras</a>.Why it matters: Immigration enforcement has become a political flashpoint in Louisiana, with Attorney General Liz Murrill pressuring New Orleans leaders over so-called &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="sanctuary city" data-vars-click-url="https://lailluminator.com/2025/02/14/new-orleans-sanctuary/" data-vars-content-id="1ce02cfd-996a-4650-9ad8-481291d336bb" data-vars-headline="NOPD updates immigration policy amid state pressure" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://lailluminator.com/2025/02/14/new-orleans-sanctuary/" target="_blank">sanctuary city</a>&quot; policies and Mayor Helena Moreno issuing an order blocking formal ICE partnerships.

Norman Francis, Xavier's longtime president, dies at 94

"He changed this country, this city, and me for the better."

Norman Francis, the longtime president of Xavier University and a Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient, died Wednesday, his family said. He was 94. The big picture: Francis led <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Xavier for 47 years" data-vars-click-url="https://www.xula.edu/news//2026/02/remembering-president-emeritus-dr-norman-c-francis-52.html" data-vars-content-id="c6349139-9350-4528-9791-9643babf3aa5" data-vars-headline="Norman Francis, Xavier&#x27;s longtime president, dies at 94" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.xula.edu/news//2026/02/remembering-president-emeritus-dr-norman-c-francis-52.html" target="_blank">Xavier for 47 years</a> and was instrumental in shaping New Orleans&#x27; recovery after Hurricane Katrina.

Arthur Hardy makes his retirement official

<figure><img alt="A man shows off a formal proclamation in a folder. He closes is and says &quot;thank you.&quot;" height="450" id="6847d367-c3ea-407a-ba88-336b495a2e29" src="https://images.axios.com/glYNU3NiOhRh6cC9hiJbWL_tm2o=/2026/01/20/1768941200460.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>Arthur Hardy shows off a special recognition from Rex during a Carnival-season lunch ahead of his retirement. Video: Chelsea Brasted/Axios</figcaption></figure>For the past half-century, Arthur Hardy has narrated <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans&#x27; Carnival" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" data-vars-content-id="e5c9c017-c0d6-4bed-a5e1-22dc8803b51e" data-vars-headline="Arthur Hardy makes his retirement official" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" target="_self">New Orleans&#x27; Carnival</a>, season in and season out. Why it matters: That changes on Ash Wednesday, when Hardy officially retires.

Tet Fest, crawfish boils and more things to do this weekend

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mardi Gras" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" data-vars-content-id="93dfc559-1df7-462f-8ab1-0100e94c571d" data-vars-headline="Tet Fest, crawfish boils and more things to do this weekend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" target="_self">Mardi Gras</a> is over, but the fun doesn&#x27;t stop in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="93dfc559-1df7-462f-8ab1-0100e94c571d" data-vars-headline="Tet Fest, crawfish boils and more things to do this weekend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a>.<ul><li>Here are some things to do this weekend.</li></ul>

A five-holiday mashup hits New Orleans

Here are our suggestions for things to do.

All the holidays collide this weekend in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="99db571b-662c-4b9e-93a8-c54d8784043f" data-vars-headline="A five-holiday mashup hits New Orleans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a> — Friday the 13th, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mardi Gras" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" data-vars-content-id="99db571b-662c-4b9e-93a8-c54d8784043f" data-vars-headline="A five-holiday mashup hits New Orleans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" target="_self">Mardi Gras</a>, Valentine&#x27;s Day, Presidents Day and Lunar New Year.Why it matters: It&#x27;s your own fault if you&#x27;re bored.

How to watch Greasing of the Poles 2026

The unique French Quarter tradition kicks off Friday Gras.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Greasing of the Poles" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/02/28/how-to-watch-greasing-of-the-poles-2025" data-vars-content-id="82ec69c3-975d-4587-9000-dc8995983cd1" data-vars-headline="How to watch Greasing of the Poles 2026" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/02/28/how-to-watch-greasing-of-the-poles-2025" target="_self">Greasing of the Poles</a> is back at the Royal Sonesta on Friday at 10am.Why it matters: The fabulous French Quarter tradition offers a cheeky nod to the neighborhood&#x27;s past when residents and businesses would lube their balcony poles to keep overeager Mardi Gras revelers from climbing up.

Throws we want to catch at Mardi Gras 2026

Here's what we're looking for on the route.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="15ea9324-8543-4100-91ec-bb56948dd468" data-vars-headline="Throws we want to catch at Mardi Gras 2026" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a>&#x27; biggest parade weekend is here, and we&#x27;ve got our eyes on some pretty sweet throws that <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mardi Gras" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" data-vars-content-id="15ea9324-8543-4100-91ec-bb56948dd468" data-vars-headline="Throws we want to catch at Mardi Gras 2026" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" target="_self">Mardi Gras</a> krewes are tossing this year.Why it matters: Sure, you can elbow somebody out of the way for a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Cleopatra cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/02/03/carnival-glitter-mardi-gras-buy-shoes-cups" data-vars-content-id="15ea9324-8543-4100-91ec-bb56948dd468" data-vars-headline="Throws we want to catch at Mardi Gras 2026" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/02/03/carnival-glitter-mardi-gras-buy-shoes-cups" target="_self">Cleopatra cup</a>, but it&#x27;s a lot easier to aim for the things float riders will stock in bulk.

Bacchus adds a new baby to its parade lineup

Baby Whoppa is about the size of a school bus.

<figure><img alt="Image shows a man talking in front of a Mardi Gras float that looks like a baby whale." height="450" id="c877af5c-67a5-4150-a95e-34b85337e400" src="https://images.axios.com/4FuL4i05tjKDIp4nejmjAndBMFk=/2026/02/09/1770666508567.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>Clark Brennan, the captain of Bacchus, introduces the new baby. The original Bacchawhoppa is behind it. Image: Carlie Kollath Wells/Axios</figcaption></figure>The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Krewe of Bacchus" data-vars-click-url="https://kreweofbacchus.org/" data-vars-content-id="68a71be3-623a-4971-923f-776191de31fa" data-vars-headline="Bacchus adds a new baby to its parade lineup" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://kreweofbacchus.org/" target="_blank">Krewe of Bacchus</a> debuts a new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mardi Gras" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" data-vars-content-id="68a71be3-623a-4971-923f-776191de31fa" data-vars-headline="Bacchus adds a new baby to its parade lineup" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/mardi-gras" target="_self">Mardi Gras</a> float this weekend, adding to its crowd-favorite lineup.Why it matters: Baby Kong has competition.

Where to find private karaoke rooms in New Orleans

A new karaoke spot is quietly taking center stage in the Lower Garden District.Zoom in: Rockabye Karaoke opened about two months ago and offers private rooms for your own epic sing-along session.

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