If you are in town this coming weekend, and VoodooFest is not your cup of tea, the Smithsonian Magazine is hosting the Louisiana CultureFest in New Orleans from October 26-28.
CultureFest
Every year, the Smithsonian festival highlights the history, cuisine, art, and music of a particular region. This year the magazine, in conjunction with the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, is celebrating Louisiana. The magazine feels that its readers are interested in helping preserve and learn about New Orleans' singular world famous traditions.
Events
Some of the Smithsonian-sponsored events taking place are Breakfast on the Bayou, a family breakfast held in the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas. The point? Learn why our vanishing wetlands are vital to the ecosystem, and get a look the white alligator.
Saturday Arts Market of New Orleans
Walking Tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1--This is New Orleans' oldest cemetery still in existence, founded in 1789. Visit the tombs of Homer Plessy (the plaintiff in the landmark 1896 Supreme Court case, Plessy vs. Ferguson), Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, Bernard de Marigny (this French Creole playboy brought the French game of craps to the United States, and the Barbarin Family (a New Orleans jazz dynasty), among many others. This cemetery is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is an Official Project of Save America's Treasures.
The Royal Street Art Tour will take you to the art galleries and antiques stores along this famous street, introducing you to the gallery owners to help you learn about the art and artists they represent. The tour begins with a 45-minute cocktail reception at an historic Royal Street residence.
Making Music History: Gospel at St. Louis Cathedral-- Smithsonian expert Dr. Anthony Brown will host this gospel music performance by Shades of Praise. This performance celbrates New Orleans' contributions to black sacred music--think Mahalia Jackson.
Creole Wild West Mardi Gras Indians Song and Dance--The Creole Wild West Mardi Gras Indians, wearing their fabulous and rarely seen costumes, will perform their signature brand of New Orleans accented music and dance. The performance takes place Sunday at the Contemporary Arts Center.
Tipitina's will host musicologist Dr. Anthony Brown from the Smithsonian, who will take you on a musical journey from Congo Square all the way to contemporary jazz. While you enjoy the music, learn some of the history of the genres, including R&B, blues, rock 'n' roll and more. In the house will be Big Sam's Funky Nation. The program also includes a musical history of the Mardi Gras Indians.
Check out a special performance by The Mahotella Queens, and David Batiste & the Gladiators at The Sugar Mill, Sunday at 3:00.
Some events require advance tickets. Find out more at the magazine's website.
