Today, we’re all living that life of pie … and turkey. Most importantly, we’re just being thankful today. That’s right! It’s the big day to give thanks for the wonderful things and people in our lives. Thanksgiving Day. Do you smell the thanks wafting through the air yet? I can tell you that we’re thankful for all of y’all enjoying what we have brought to the dinner table of your inboxes this year, the side dishes of events and the desserts of your feedback. We’re thankful. Today is no different. We have a cornucopia of things to make your Stretchy Pants Day all the more full. So enjoy the feast and Happy Thanksgiving.

Thankful for New Orleans

So you’re staying in town, and you’re not sure what to do after the big meal? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Because New Orleans and Thanksgiving fit together better than a chicken stuffed inside a duck stuffed inside a turkey (which we invented), there’s plenty to do today! Click here for our guide to Thanksgiving in the city. 

Retail Therapy

Let’s be honest, shopping brings us joy during the holidays. We’ve gotten together a list of local retailers to help you get your gift-giving a special flair. From apparel to self-care and little lagniappe in between, we’ve got you covered. Click here to see our Geaux Local Gift Guide.

Thankful for second chances

For many veterans, leaving their uniforms behind for a “normal” 9-5 is virtually impossible. “I wake up one day and go, ‘What happened?’ I was this very powerful, physical, warrior guy, and all of the sudden, I’m applying to be a cashier at Walmart,” said chef Eric Cook. He and Jack Keen, another local veteran, are stepping up to the plate to help others like them help find work as a civilian. Click here to read how local veterans are helping one another transition into civilian life.

What To Do This Weekend

Fri. Nov. 29, 2019

Audubon Zoo Lights | 6 – 9 p.m. | Audubon Zoo | $15 for non-members, ($3 more at front gate)

For the second year, Audubon Zoo is presenting its holiday light display. There’s an elves workshop, Santa photos, Twinkle Tunnel and a 30-foot endangered species holiday tree!

Celebration in the Oaks | 5-11 p.m. | New Orleans City Park | $10 per person

City Park’s famous oaks are swathed in over a million twinkling lights and breathtaking light displays are scattered throughout 25 acres of the Park, including the Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park.

Sat. Nov. 30, 2019

Miracle on Fulton Street | Hourly “snow” starts at 11 a.m. | Fulton Street | Free

This Christmas lights display features daily “snow” hourly from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., twinkling lights, a 30-ft mega tree and a magical gingerbread display in the Harrah’s Hotel Lobby.

Mannie Fresh + Mainline Brass Band | 10 p.m. | The Maison | Free with RSVP

Ready to party after hitting all the Black Friday sales? Mannie Fresh is hitting the stage with Mainline Brass Band for a free show. Early arrival is encouraged.

Sun. Dec. 1, 2019

Teddy Bear Tea | 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. | The Roosevelt Hotel | $55 for children ages 3-10, $75 for ages 11 and above

One of the New Orleans’ premier holiday events, this fancy but kid-friendly holiday tea includes a presentation of delicious holiday food, specialty teas, and tasty pastries, as well as sparkling wine and mimosas for Mom and Dad.

What Else You Should Know