New Orleans celebrated its 300th Anniversary last year, but the festivities are still ongoing in 2019, which will be full of exciting new developments and uniquely New Orleans events.
"New Orleans is known for its rich history and traditions, but new developments are constantly propelling the city forward," said Olivia Celata, advertising manager for New Orleans and Company. "In 2019, we are welcoming a new airport, culinary institute, cocktail museum and more. Come visit to see what's new in New Orleans."
One of the most exciting new developments for visitors is sure to be the new culinary institute.
"The New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute (NOCHI) officially launched its inaugural culinary class in January 2019," said Celata. "A range of enthusiast classes will be offered to locals and visitors alike for those passionate about food, wine and cocktails and those looking to improve their skills."
Visitors should definitely bring their appetites when traveling to New Orleans. The city is home to some of the world's top chefs and cuisine.
"Founded by the French, the city of New Orleans boasts some of the finest French restaurants in the world," noted Celata. "Steps from the French Quarter, French Brasserie Couvant recently opened in the Eliza Jane Hotel, serving simple brasserie fare with relevant renditions of iconic French dishes. The restaurant also features a six-seat raw bar."
The Big Easy is also welcoming a new airport terminal, adding convenience to arriving and departing the city. The Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is on track to open the new 972,000-square-foot facility on May 15, 2019.
"This new, world-class terminal complex will completely replace the current facility," said Celata.
The $1 billion project includes in-line baggage screening, a consolidated security checkpoint to three concourses and 35 gates, and a 2,200-car parking garage. Food and beverage concessions and retail stores will feature a mix of local brands representative of Louisiana and New Orleans as well as national brands that appeal to both the local and visiting passengers, including Shake Shack, Cafe du Monde and Emeril's Table, Celata said.
In addition to a new, high-tech airport terminal, unique new properties, as well as restored historic hotels, will welcome guests this year, including Hotel Peter & Paul, a boutique hotel and event space that occupies a schoolhouse, church, convent and rectory.
"The architecture and design are deeply connected to its past. Whether you're a guest of the hotel or not, stop by The Elysian Bar within Hotel Peter & Paul for savory small plates influenced by Southern staples and craft cocktails," said Celata.
Travelers can also stay at the new Higgins Hotel & Conference Center in fall of 2019, which will open by The National World War II Museum.
"This luxury hotel, located on the museum's campus in the Arts/Warehouse District, will feature 230 guestrooms, conference and event space, restaurants and a rooftop bar," Celata explained.
New activities will also be available to visitors, starting with the relocated Louisiana Children's Museum, which is moving to New Orleans City Park in the late summer. The building is Silver LEED certified and has indoor and outdoor environmental elements, including sensory and edible gardens, a floating classroom and a restored interpretive wetlands area.
"The Louisiana Children's Museum has also partnered with a local restaurant group, Dickie Brennan & Co., for an onsite full-service cafe, Acorn," said Celata.
Children will surely be enthralled by the updated museum, but adults have not been forgotten. Opening in the fall is Sazerac House, which explores the spirited culture of the Big Easy. The building stands proudly at the corner of Canal and Magazine and is just a short stroll from the original 1850s era Sazerac Coffeehouse.
"Discover the methods used in distilling Sazerac Rye Whiskey, take part in handcrafting world famous Peychaud's Bitters, learn about the enchanting tale of rum, and master the art of making America's original cocktail-the Sazerac," said Celata.
While major celebrations for the 300th anniversary of the city have passed, that doesn't mean the festive spirit has left the city. Far from it.
"There are more than 130 festivals to enjoy in New Orleans," said Celata. "On average, that's a festival every 3 days. Celebrate everything from oysters to literary legends to art galleries to blues music. Mardi Gras is our most talked about celebration, but every spring, French Quarter Fest and New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival bring hundreds of thousands of visitors and locals to the festival grounds. There is never a bad time to visit New Orleans."
This year is a special milestone for one of the city's most popular festivals. The 50th annual New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival will take place April 25-28, and the following weekend, May 2-5, 2019. Headliners of the 2019 festival include Dave Matthews Band, Katy Perry, Santana, Pitbull, Van Morrison, Al Green, Jimmy Buffet and many more.
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