Never Nothing to do in New Orleans: Five Upcoming Must-See Events

You can’t experience New Orleans without hearing some of its world-renowned Jazz music. Big Sam’s Funky Nation combines funk, jazz, rock, and hip-hop to bring listeners a musical experience that is both authentic and unique. Born and raised in New Orleans, lead vocalist and trombonist Big Sam Williams has dominated the Nola jazz scene for nearly two decades, remaining dedicated to his art even through Hurricane Katrina. Williams and his band, Big Sam’s Funky Nation will perform at The Jazz Playhouse in the iconic French quarter on Nov. 17 and Nov. 30. If you’re a fan of live music, you won’t want to miss this unforgettable event.

Are you spending the holiday season in New Orleans? If you’re looking for ways to celebrate, be sure to check out Marigny Opera Ballet’s Jazz Nutcracker. Founded in 2014, the award-winning Marigny Opera Ballet is a professional contemporary ballet company based in the Marigny Opera House of New Orleans. The classic full-length Nutcracker ballet features an original jazz score by New Orleans pianist, composer and producer, Lawrence Sieberth, performed live alongside the dancers. Choreographed by Jarina Carvalho, the show is the perfect hybrid of New Orleans culture and the classic Nutcracker holiday tale, set in Jackson Square on Christmas Eve. If you love music, dance and the holidays, this show is a must-see.

In the past decade, Burlesque has flocked to and flourished in New Orleans. Vivacious Miss Audacious, a New Orleans based independent showgirl and producer, presents a Psychedelic Speakeasy Burlesque on Dec. 5 at the AllWays Lounge and Cabaret. Audacious was one of the early performers who incorporated hoop dance into burlesque, and “loves to showcase her unique brand of powerhouse hoop dance, acrobatics, and circus arts with a mix of comedy, fierce striptease, and glamour.” Immerse yourself in a vibrant night full of wild sensations and outrageous acts, and don’t be afraid to sport your favorite colorful and neon attire.

The Tremé Creole Gumbo Festival returns for its 12th year alongside the Congo Square Rhythm Festival on Nov. 16 and 17. The festival incorporates a New Orleans staple food, fitting for fall weather, with the historic celebration of African dance and drumming. The festival takes place in Congo Square, an open space in the southern corner of Armstrong Park, where slaves and free people of color gathered throughout the 19th century. The square is particularly notable for its influence on African American music, particularly jazz. You can’t visit or live in New Orleans without appreciating its noteworthy history and culture, and this free event is the perfect place to start.

Kermit Ruffins is a New Orleans-based trumpeter, singer, songwriter, and bandleader, heavily influenced and reminiscent of jazz musicians like Louis Armstrong and Louis Jordan. On Nov. 16, Ruffins and his band, the BBQ Swingers will perform live at the historic Kermit’s Treme Mother-in-Law Lounge, a live music venue, pub and shrine to New Orleans music. As long as the weather permits it, Ruffins is known for setting up a grill and serving staff, band members and patrons classic New Orleans barbeque between sets. You won’t regret a laid-back and lively evening full of great food, music and company with Ruffins and his band.