GREAT PUMPKINS
Pumpkin patches are popping up all over in honor of fall, which officially arrived last month, and Halloween, which is speeding toward us faster than you can say “Boo!” Here’s a list of places where you just might find the perfect pumpkin: THE BATTURE PUMPKIN PATCH: Pumpkins and festivities will be available daily, 11 a.m.-9 p.m., at 25 Walnut St. in New Orleans. www batture.com.
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: The pumpkin patch will be open MondayFriday, 3-7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.8 p.m.; and Sunday, 1-7 p.m., at 5401 S. Claiborne Ave. in New Orleans. fpcno.org/pumpkin-patch
ST.ANDREW’S EPISCOPAL
CHURCH: The pumpkin patch is open Monday-Friday, 3-7 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., at 1031 S. Carrollton Ave. in New
GHOSTS
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Halloween event in the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park at City Park, 1 Palm Drive in New Orleans, will take place Oct. 24 and 25, 8-11 p.m., with unlimited Amusement Park rides and open beer bars. Tickets start at $40. neworleanscitypark.org.
MEMNOCH BALL: The 37th anniversary of the Anne Rice Vampire Lestat Fan Club Ball in honor of Memnoch the Devil will be held Oct. 31, 7-11:30 p.m., at Capital on Baronne, 210 Baronne St. in New Orleans. Live music; open bar. Tickets start at $393.46 via Eventbrite vamplestat.com/.
BOO CARRE HALLOWEEN HAUNT: The free event takes place in Dutch Alley, 900 block of North Peters Street, on Oct. 25, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. The kid-centric event encourages costumes for all ages and will feature live music, activities, a spooky ssecond line and trick-or-treating. www.frenchmarket.org
HALLOWEEN NEW ORLEANS: The LGBTQ community celebrates with three New Orleans events, Oct. 2426. The Parthenon Ball will be held Friday, 7-10 p.m., at Gallier Hall, 545 St. Charles Ave. Olympus After Dark is Saturday, 10 p.m.-3 a.m., at the Fillmore New Orleans, 6 Canal St., with a costume review 10:30-11 p.m Poseidon’s Voyage is Sunday, 1-5 p.m., aboard the Riverboat City of New Orleans, 400 Toulouse St Tickets start at $85. Proceeds benefit Project Lazarus. www.halloweenneworleans.com.
“DRACULA”: New Orleans Ballet Theatre will perform Oliver Halkowich’s ballet based on the Bram Stoker novel Oct. 24-30 at the Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way in New Orleans. The show is suitable for all ages. Curtain is at 8 p.m., and 2 p.m for matinees. Tickets start at $42. www.neworleansballettheatre.com ROCK & ROUGE 2025: The women’s music and food festival will be held Oct. 25-26, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., in Lafayette Square, 500 St. Charles Ave in New Orleans, with music, food, speakers and more. www.therockandrouge.com.
KREWE OF BOO + ROCK & ROUGE PARTY: Krewe Of Boo and Rock & Rouge will host a Halloween costume party with live music on Oct 24, 8 p.m., at the Toulouse Theatre in the French Quarter, 615 Toulouse St. in New Orleans. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Party is at 8-11 p.m. Advance tickets are $25. www. kreweofboo.com.
KREWE OF BOO!: New Orleans’ official Halloween parade rolls Oct. 25, 6:30 p.m., starting at Elysian Fields Avenue and ending on Andrew Higgins Drive. The post-parade costume party, the Monster Mash, will begin at 8 p.m. at Generations Hall, 310 Andrew Higgins Blvd. in New Orleans. Tickets start at $34.44 via Eventbrite. www.kreweofboo.com.
HALLOWEEN BAR CRAWL: The two-day bar crawl will be held Oct. 31-Nov. 1, starting with a required check-in at 4-6 p.m. on Friday and ending with an after party, 1011:59 p.m. on Saturday. Registration starts at $18.41 via Eventbrite Details at www.crawlwith.us/neworleans/halloween. DARK GIFT ALLIANCE — BELLE
an open bar, tarot reading and a raffle. Admission starts at $124.50. Attendees must be 21 and older. www.covenofthearticulate.com.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
SUGAR ROOTS FARM PUMPKIN FEST: The
a.m. to
for the
Orleans. www.standrewsnola.com
ST.AUGUSTINE’S EPISCOPAL
CHURCH: The church’s pumpkin patch, at 3412 Haring Road in Metairie, will be open Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., and SaturdaySunday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. www staugustinesmet.com.
ST BERNARD PARISH CATHOLIC
CHURCH: The pumpkin patch will be held at the church, 2805 Bayou Road, Kenilworth.Times are MondayFriday, 4-6 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.6 p.m.; and Sunday,; noon-6 p.m. Admission is $3. stbernard-stbla.com
ST MARTIN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH: The pumpkin patch will be open Monday-Friday, 3:30-6 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., at 2216 Metairie Road in Metairie. www stmepiscopal.com.
ST. PAUL’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL: The
school, located at 6249 Canal Blvd. in New Orleans, will host a pumpkin patch Monday-Thursday, 3:30-6 p.m.; Friday, 3-6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.6 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. www.stpauls-lakeview.org
ST. MARK’S CHURCH: The pumpkin patch, with weekend activities, will be open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.6 p.m., and Sunday, noon-6 p.m at 3245 Manhattan Blvd. in Harvey stmarksharvey.com/community WOODLAND CHURCH: The pumpkins will be for sale Monday through Friday 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m.-
5 p.m. through Oct. 31.The church is at 5824 Berkley Drive,Algiers. THE GREAT PUMPKIN PATCH: It’s open through Oct. 31, Monday through Friday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m.-7 p.m., at 3412 Haring Road, Metairie.
25, 3-5 p.m., at the library, 160 W Campus Drive in Destrehan. www myscpl.org.
WESTWEGO FARMERS MARKET
TRICK OR TREAT: The event will be held Oct. 25, 5-8 p.m., at the market, 484 Sala Ave. Activities include a DJ, costume contest, food and craft vendors and more. www.visitjeffersonparish.com.
ARSENIC AND OLD LACE TEA
PARTY: LSU doctoral student Amber Jurgensen will discuss the use of poison in classic and young adult literature, including how and why characters poisons and how they help to move the plot to its conclusion, on Oct. 28, 7 p.m., at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon in Metairie. The presentation is free and open to the public. www Jplibrary.net
NERD NIGHT: BETRAYAL! The West Regional Library, 105 Lakewood Drive in Luling, will host an event for middle and high school students on Oct. 29, 5:30-7:30 p.m. “Betrayal at House on the Hill” is a tile game that allows players to lay out the haunted house room by room, tile by tile, creating a new game board every time. Once the haunt begins, one of the characters betrays the rest of the party, and the innocent members of the party must defeat the traitor in their midst before it’s too late. www.myscpl.org.
WITCHES & WARLOCKS MINI SOIREE: The Vieux Carre Commission Foundation will host an evening cloaked in history, mystery and celebration on Oct. 29, 6:30-8:30 p.m., at the Storyville Museum, 1010 Conti St. in New Orleans. Activities include a costume contest with celebrity judges, cocktails, food and exhibits. Tickets are $25 for members, $40 for non-members. www.vccfoundation. org.
takes place
MONSTER MILE RUN: The NORD Halloween run for ages 5-17 will be on Oct. 25, 8:30 a.m., at Lafitte Greenway, 436 Norman C. Francis Parkway in New Orleans. Register via Eventbrite. www.nordc.org.
PUMPKIN PAINT PARTY: The Norco branch of the St. Charles Parish Library will provide paint, brushes and extras for children and accompanying adults, but bring your own pumpkin. The event is Oct. 27, 5:30-7 p.m., at the library’s meeting room, 590 Apple St. in Norco. www myscpl.org.
GHOUL PARTY: The East Regional Library will host a Halloween event for middle and high school students on Oct. 28, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at 160 W Campus Drive in Destrehan. The party includes a scavenger hunt and a screening of the 2002 live action movie “Scooby Doo,” with Freddy Prinze Jr. and Sarah Michelle Gellar www.myscpl.org.
HOCUS POCUS LIFE POTIONS: Middle and high school students can brew their own Life Potion using a tea blending kit while watching “Hocus Pocus,” the 1993 Bette Midler comedy at the St. Rose branch of the St. Charles Parish Library, 90 East Club Drive in St. Rose. The event will be Oct. 30, 4-5:30 p.m. www.myscpl.org.
SPOOKTACULAR CUPCAKE DECO-
RATING: Chefs from the Delgado Culinary and Pastry Arts Department will share their expertise in creating spooky treats on Oct. 25, 11 a.m. to noon, at the Norman Mayer Library, 3001 Gentilly Blvd. in New Orleans. This program is for ages 9-12. Registration is required. neworleans. libnet.info.
BOO CARRE HALLOWEEN HAUNT: The free kid-centric Halloween event in Dutch Alley, 900 block of N. Peters Street, will be Oct. 25, 11 a.m.4 p.m., with live music, a spooky
p.m. on Oct. 26, with a pumpkin patch, live music, clown yoga, pony rides and more at 10701 Willow Drive in Algiers. Tickets, $20.80 adults, $15.60 for kids, include a free pumpkin.
second line and trick-or-treating www.frenchmarket.org.
“THE EVOLUTION OF HORROR TOURS IN NEW ORLEANS”: Randy Bibb, a tour guide and instructor of Delgado Community College’s professional tour guiding program, will trace the rise of the New Orleans horror tour industry on Oct. 25, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., in the first floor meeting room of the Main Library, 219 Loyola Ave. in New Orleans. The presentation is also available via Zoom. https://neworleans.libnet.info/event/14076456.
HALLOWEEN DOUBLE FEATURE:
The Algiers Regional Library will host an afternoon of history, trivia, refreshments and cinema on Oct. 25, 1-4:30 p.m., at 3014 Holiday Drive in New Orleans. The films are the 1962 “Carnival of Souls” and Francis Ford Coppola’s 1963 “Dementia 13.” neworleans.libnet.info.
TRUNK OR TREAT: East Regional Library, in partnership with the Girl Scouts Louisiana East St. Charles Parish Service Unit 216 will hold the family-friendly event on Oct.
TRUNK-OR-TREAT: Nunez Community College, 3710 Paris Road in Chalmette, will host on Oct. 29, 5-7 p.m. The family-friendly activity will have trunks and tables by community members and organizations. Free hot dogs and water will be served while supplies last. DJ Louis Lehr will provide spooky tunes. Nunez faculty and staff will be on hand to assist. Parking will be at Arlene Meraux Elementary School, 4004 Paris Road, north of the Nunez campus, with shuttle buses. www.nunez.edu.
HAUNTED PLANTATIONS: David Laville, co-founder and lead investigator of the New Orleans Ghost Hunters, will discuss the haunted history of Louisiana’s antebellum plantations, on Oct. 30, 7 p.m., at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W Napoleon Ave. in Metairie. Laville will talk about iconic sites, including The Myrtles, Oak Alley, Destrehan, Nottoway, Pitot House and others. www.Jplibrary.net.
HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR: New Orleans Recreation Department will host Halloween events with games, drinks and treats on Oct. 31 at Joe W. Brown Park, 5601 Read Blvd.; Lafitte Greenway, 500 Norman C. Francis Parkway; and Morris X.F Jeff, 2529 General Meyer Ave. All ages are welcome. Costumes are encouraged. www.nordc.org.
CLASSES
SFX MAKEUP TRICKS: A class covering a variety of methods to create fake cuts and bruises with features faux blood and liquid latex will be offered for middle and high school students at the St. Rose branch of the St. Charles Public Library, 90 East Club Drive in St. Rose, on Oct.
STAFF PHOTO BY SCOTT THRELKELD
Mr Floats, right greets paradegoers at last year’s Krewe of Boo! Catch it this year on Oct. 19.
PHOTO BY DAVID NORMAND
Pumpkin patches are a family tradition.
Traci Howerton ANIMAL RESCUE
Separation anxiety is a behavior disorder that causes a dog, and even some cats, to panic at the idea of being apart from their favorite human. It is one of the most common behavior issues seen by veterinarians and trainers, and it can be stressful for both pets and owners. The anxiety often starts the moment the owner leaves and doesn’t let up until they return, whether they are gone five minutes or five hours.
The distress can be so overwhelming that a pet may become destructive, bark or howl endlessly, pace, salivate or even have accidents despite being house-trained.
My dog, Stewie, had a mild case of separation anxiety He was a pacer when I was away, but he wasn’t destructive. After a while, he usually settled down and napped. For many owners, though,
Crowds wait for the ceremonial tapping of the kegs at Deutsches Haus in New Orleans for the opening of Octoberfest.
STAFF FILE PHOTO BY CHRIS
GRANGER
BEER
the behaviors are far more intense and disruptive.
Signs of separation anxiety
Here are a few signs that may point to separation-related distress:
n Does your dog panic when left home alone?
n Do the neighbors report barking, howling or whining when you’re gone?
n Has your pet damaged furniture, doors, blinds or kennels in your absence?
n Does a normally house-trained pet have “accidents” when left alone?
For cats, look for changes like excessive meowing, appetite loss or boycotting of the litterbox when you’re away
Some struggle more than others
There’s no single cause for separation anxiety, but research points to several potential risk factors:
Early-life experiences. Puppies that don’t get enough rest or positive alone-time early on are more prone
to anxiety later in life. Environmental changes. A move, new baby or the loss of a family member, whether animal or human, may trigger anxiety
Routine disruptions. Going back to the office after working from home, or spending more time away, can stress pets used to constant company
Owner stress. Our pets know when we are stressed, and this can make them anxious too.
How you can help
Easing separation anxiety takes patience, consistency and compassion. There’s no one-size-fits-all fix, but these steps may help:
Change routine cues. Pets quickly learn your “leaving” signals: grabbing keys, shoes or your bag. Mix up those cues: Pick up your keys but don’t leave, or put on your coat and then sit down. Over time, those signals lose their emotional punch. Keep departures and arrivals low-key. Big, dramatic hellos and goodbyes can amplify anxiety Keep greetings
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behind the Deutsches House was draped with lights, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere on the back porch and courtyard. Families, couples and groups of friends gathered at picnic tables scattered under the tree and people of all ages were dancing in front of the stage.
Some people dressed in traditional German clothing with men wearing the traditional German lederhosen and suspenders and women wearing the traditional dirndl that includes a low-cut blouse, a pleated skirt and an apron that cinches tight at the waist
The smell of grilled sausage wafting across the festival made me instantly hungry, but first we took a detour through the German language tent for a crash course
We learned “Gemütlichkeit,” which means “good cheer.” It’s a German tongue twister when you don’t speak the language and it’s even more fun to say after a few beers and a schnapps. We also learned “Hallo” (hello), “bier” (beer) and “guten Abend” (good evening), all of which came in handy for the rest of the evening.
The Brats, a seven-piece polka band clad in lederhosen and sunglasses, had the crowd dancing to an eclectic and lively blend of German music as well as songs from Britney Spears and The White Stripes reinterpreted with a driving polka beat.
The “bier” was calling, and numerous booths offered dozens of beers ranging from crisp and light to thick and heavy Most beers are served on draught, and they come by the glass, by the “masskrug” (one-liter beer stein) or by the pitcher One booth offered a modest selection of canned beers and the wine tent offered more than a dozen German wines. We were here for the beer. Not quite ready to commit to an entire liter, I started with a glass of Hofbrau’s Oktoberfest for its full body and well-rounded taste. My wife ordered a Stiegl Radler Grapefauit with a refreshing hint of grapefruit that was neither too tart or too sweet. We toasted
each other and two strangers joined us for another toast with one of them teaching us “Prost!” (cheers). Next mission was to find the source of all these delicious smells wafting through the air
I stepped into the line for a grilled Hungarianwurst on a bun with sauteed onions and peppers and Stephanie chose a hearty German beef stew called Rindergulasch that’s seasoned with onions, paprika and red wine. We found a spot at a table under the oak tree and enjoyed our food with newfound friends that led to several rounds of toasting. (Pro tip: Bring a lightweight folding chair.)
A shot of schnapps sounded like a good idea after a heavy meal. I picked Rumpleminze schnapps for its sharp peppermint kick and Stephanie had a shot of the Berentzen Pear schnapps that tasted like a crisp green pear.
We both opted for the Dunkel dark German lager in a liter-sized souvenir masskrug (beer stein) This beer was medium in body and not as thick as a stout, but it was a commitment to get it down.
After a dance and toast, we bought freshly baked pretzels and a side of beer cheese for dipping before returning to the table where we were greeted by new table mates. That necessitated a new round of toasting.
A giant yellow chicken dressed in green lederhosen and brown suspenders summoned everyone to the dance floor where we proceeded to flap our wings and shake our tail feathers to the chicken dance. The chicken dance starts off slowly and speeds up to a frantic pace before slowing down again. I have no idea how this connects to German culture, but everyone loved it.
We closed out the evening with a big gingerbread cookie that had a nice zap of ginger and spices. We were stuffed, tired and completely full of German culture. Gemütlichkeit (good cheer) was the word for the evening.
For our first Oktoberfest, it was even better than we could have imagined. We’ll be back next year, but next time I’ll wear lederhosen and maybe I’ll dance with the chicken.
calm and matter of fact.
Reward calm behavior Notice when the dog chooses to rest quietly and reward that relaxation with a treat or affection. Provide enrichment. Offer puzzle feeders, chew toys or snuffle mats before leaving to keep the dog busy and relaxed. For cats, window perches and scent-soaked bedding can provide comfort.
Try doggie day care or a pet sitter If training progress is slow, social time or just having a human around may help.
Get professional help if needed. Severe anxiety can cause self-injury or destructive behaviors. Talk to your veterinarian early to choose the right course of action for your pet. It may be training, medication or a combination of solutions. Separation anxiety isn’t a sign of “bad behavior.” It’s a stress response a pet’s panic at being left alone. With understanding, patience and the right tools, most pets can learn to relax when home alone.
Events
Oct.19: Animal Rescue New Orleans will be at the PetSmart Adoption Event, 6851 Veterans Blvd in Metairie from noon to 4 p.m. Meet dogs available for foster or adoption and get information on fostering, adopting and volunteering. All approved adopters will receive a coupon book from PetSmart and a new dog bed from ARNO. For more info, contact adopt@animalrescueneworleans.org.
Traci D. Howerton is the volunteer manager for Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO), a nonprofit, volunteer-based, no-kill shelter For more information on ARNO, visit www.animalrescueneworleans.org
Traci D. Howerton is the volunteer manager for Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO), a nonprofit, volunteer-based, no-kill shelter. For more information on ARNO, visit www.animalrescueneworleans. org.
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GRANDOPENING EVENT
PHOTOS
St. Bernard seniors get their class rings
Staff report
More than 500 members of the Chalmette High senior class of 2026 took part in the school’s recent annual Ring Day on the field of Bobby Nuss Stadium. Activities included the presentation of the colors by the ROTC and singing of the national anthem by the CHS Voices. In addition to recognition of senior class officers and the homecoming court, Maya Dufrene and Lillian Lai were announced as National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists.
SCHOOL NOTES
require testing. www.apply avela.org.
1116
Orleans. It is the
Ave.
Baby Ben’s 40th anniversary celebration. Headlining the evening is the Jordan Family & Friends, with violinist Rachel Jordan, trumpeter Marlon Jordan, bassist David Pulphus, pianist Jordan Baker and drummer Peter Varnado. Admission is $15 per person. Family Packages for four are available for $50. babyben.org.
THE WILLOW SCHOOL: The Willow School will hold a series of open houses to learn more about arts-integrated, inquiry-based approach to education in K-12 Lower School open houses for grades K-4 are Oct. 25, 10 a.m., and Nov. 5, 6 p.m., at the Everett Williams Campus, 7315 Willow St. Middle School open house for grades 5-7 is Oct. 30, 6 p.m., at the Ellis Marsalis Campus, 5625 Loyola St. High School open house for grades 8-12 is Dec. 4, 5-7 p.m., at the Elijah Brimmer Campus, 5624 Freret St. Tours run every 15 minutes 5 p.m. willowschoolnola.org
DISCOVERY SCHOOLS: Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy and Dr John Ochsner Discovery Health Sciences Academy will hold open houses for prospective students and families. The open house for Kenner middle/high grades 5-12 will be Oct. 29, 5:30 p.m., at the Loyola/Vintage Campus 3837 Loyola Drive. The open house for Kenner lower grades PK-4 will be Jan. 21, 2026, 5:30 p.m., at the Maine Campus, 2504 Maine Ave. in Metairie. The open house for Ochsner Discovery grades PK-8 will be Jan. 14, 5:30 p.m., at DJOD 1108 Shrewsbury Road in Jefferson. All Jefferson Parish residents are eligible to apply. Admission is openenrollment and does not
BENJAMIN FRANKLIN HIGH: An admissions open house for interested Orleans Parish residents will be held Oct 30, 5-7 p.m., at the school, 2001 Leon C. Simon Drive in New Orleans. www.bfhsla. org. ST. MARY’S DOMINICAN HIGH: Dominican’s SpendA-Day registration is open to prospective students in grades 5-8. The fall dates are Oct. 28 and 31; and Nov. 4 and 11. Visits are 7:50 a.m. to 3:10 p.m., and guests will meet the students, faculty and staff and experience what it means to be a Dominican student. Registration is required. stmarysdominican.fsenrollment.com.
NEW ORLEANS MILITARY AND MARITIME ACADEMY: Registration is open for open houses for grades 8-12 in the cafeteria, 425 O’Bannon St. in New Orleans. Dates are Nov. 6 and 18 and Jan. 8 and 22, 2026. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with presentations at 6 p.m. Attendance is required to apply for the 202627 school year. Parent(s) or legal guardian(s) must attend. Parent or guardian identification is required at check-in. A printed Spanishlanguage translation will be available. nomma.net/ admissions
ST. MARY’S DOMINICAN: A benefit tennis tournament will be held Nov. 14, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m., at the Privateer Tennis Center at University of New Orleans, 6801 Franklin Ave. Registration is open until Nov. 10, with entry fees at $90 per team, $45 per clinic entry and $30 per spectator. www. stmarysdominican.org.
JOHN F. KENNEDY HIGH REUNION: The 50th reunion of the graduating class of 1976 will be held April 10, 2026. The reunion committee is seeking contact information from class members. Details are available on the JFK Class of ’76 Facebook page cbrylski@aol.com.
Tweens invited to decorate cupcakes
Halloween-style at Saturday morning event
BY JANE LEGROS
Contributing writer
Tweens can get into the Halloween spirit at New Orleans’ Norman Mayer Library, 3001 Gentilly Blvd., at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25, with a “spooktacular” cupcake decorating workshop.
Delgado Culinary Arts Chef Alex Hamman will teach attendees to pipe creepy cobwebs, craft monster faces, and add ghoulishly fun toppings to create cupcakes that are as festive as they are delicious. This program is for ages 9-12. Registration is required. Visit events.nolalibrary.org to sign up.
Also on Oct. 25, classic horror lovers are invited to Algiers Regional Library, 3014 Holiday Drive, at 1 p.m. for “House of Shlock,” a Halloween double feature film showing.
Screening will be “Carnival of Souls,” from 1962, and 1963’s “Dementia 13,” complete with history and trivia in the style of the classic horror hosts. Refreshments will be served.
Also at the Algiers Regional Library, on Oct. 28 cybersecurity expert and LSU professor Dr Golden Richard will host a murder mysterythemed safety workshop, starting at 4:30 p.m., to raise cybersecurity awareness. In this hand-on digital mystery, participants will follow strange clues, uncover hidden files, and sharpen their cybersecurity skills.
Whether you’re tech-savvy, brand new to computers, or just curious, this playful investigation is your chance to learn practical tips, solve a fun case, and leave better prepared to protect your digital space. Registration suggested. Visit events.nolalibrary.org to sign up.
Lawyers in Libraries
The New Orleans Public Library is celebrating Lawyers in Libraries Week with free “ask a lawyer sessions,” at Norman Mayer Library, 3001 Gentilly Blvd., on Oct. 23 from 3-6 p.m. Participants can discuss
legal concerns one-on-one with a local lawyer Advice is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign up begins at 2:50 p.m. and capacity is limited. The clinic does not handle criminal cases. Lawyers in Libraries is presented in partnership with the Louisiana State Bar Association. The library is teaming up with Bike Easy to host a free workshop on biking after dark at the REACH Center on Oct. 23. Attendees will learn how to be safer biking at night through topics like legal requirements; lights, reflectors and high-visibility gear; and strategies for biking when it’s dark or dim. Participants who attend the entire session and bring their own bike will receive a free set of bike lights. The workshop starts at 5 p.m. and lasts about 11/2 hours.
The New Orleans Public Library’s City Archives & Special Collections is celebrating spooky season with “The Evolution of Horror Tours in New Orleans” from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 25 at Main Library, 219 Loyola Ave. The program will be led by Randy Bibb, a seasoned tour guide and instructor of Delgado Community College’s professional tour guiding program. Bibb will trace the rise of New Orleans’ horror tour industry — a phenomenon that blossomed after the success of Anne Rice’s “Interview with a Vampire.”
Participants can attend in person, or tune in virtually via Zoom. Visit nolacityarchives.org for details and online registration.
Jane LeGros is the director of marketing and communications for the New Orleans Public Library
PHOTO BY KRISTIN AUSK VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS Tweens can decorate Halloween cupcakes with culinary instructors from Delgado.
PROVIDED
CHS senior Jackson Nunez, at center, is pictured with CHS alums Brynn Plaiscia, his cousin, at left, and Emma Nunez, his sister, at right.
Zaylee Wolfe walks through the ring arch on stage after receiving her class ring
PROVIDED PHOTO
Peg Phelps of the Friends of Jefferson Public Library places a book into the shelf during a book donation drive at the East Bank Regional Library in Metairie. The Friends will hold its semiannual Big Book Sale from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 24-25 and from noon to 5 p.m. Oct 26 at Kenner’s Pontchartrain Center
KPop Adventure invites teenagers to join a team of demon hunters at Halloween Bash
Attention, teens! Step into a K-pop adventure where you’ll team up as demon hunters, hit the dance floor to your favorite tracks, and take part in an unforgettable night of K-pop fun. The KPOP Hunter’s Halloween Bash for those 8 to 17 years of age only — occurs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 25, at the East Bank Regional Library 4747 W. Napoleon Metairie.
Registration is required and costumes are encouraged but not required. In case of cancellations, attendees must give 24-hour notice to allow others on the waiting list to attend
The event will consist of a K-pop trivia challenge, crafts, face painting, photo cards, a scavenger hunt, a costume contest with prizes, music, karaoke and games. There will be plenty of snacks.
Staff will split the event into two age groups so that everyone can have the best experience. Parents and younger siblings will have their own space with food and fun activities while teens and pre-teens take on the hunt. Parents/ caregivers for kids under age 12 are required to stay on-site at the library. Parents of all ages are welcome to stay Preservationist talks about cemetery work
Cemeteries: Preservationist Emily Ford will present the basics of cemetery material conservation at 7 p.m. Oct. 27 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon, Metairie. Beginning with a discussion of preservation ethics and the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Historic Preservation, Ford will show how these standards apply to monuments, tombs and other cemetery features that families encounter at their own properties. The presentation will conclude with technical do’s and don’ts for caring for cemetery property Ghost hunting: David Laville, co-founder and lead investigator of the New Orleans Ghost Hunters, will discuss the haunted history of Louisiana’s antebellum plantations at 7 p.m. Oct. 30 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon, Metairie. Laville will talk about iconic sites, including The Myrtles, Oak Alley Plantation, Destrehan Plantation, Nottoway Plantation, The Pitot House and many others. Experience the blend of history and hauntings that make Louisiana’s plantations a destination for ghost enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Poison! Amber Jurgensen, a doctoral candidate in English at Louisiana State University will discuss the use of poison in classic and young adult literature at 7 p.m. Oct. 28 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon, Metairie. Collage Club: Express
FESTIVALS
OKTOBERFEST: Deutsches Haus, 1700 Moss St. in New Orleans, hosts food, music and family-friendly events on Bayou St. John Oct. continuing through this weekend, Oct. 24-25, with hours on Friday 4-11 p.m. and Saturday 1-11 p.m. The festival includes German food and drinks, oompah music, a 6K race, children’s activities and more. $10; free for children 12 and under. oktoberfestnola. com.
NEW ORLEANS FILM FESTI-
VAL: The Academy Awardqualifying festival will be held Oct. 23-27 at locations around the city and virtually Oct. 23-Nov. 2. Organized by the New Orleans Film Society, it is a celebration of independent filmmaking showing more than 150 films. The all-access pass is $350. Details at neworleansfilmsociety.org.
your creativity by creating a collage. It happens from 6 p.m to 8 p.m Thursday, Oct. 23, at the Westwego Library, 635 Fourth Street, Westwego. Supplies will be provided, but participants are welcome to bring additional materials or canvases. Comic Book Club: Staff at the Jane O’Brien Chatelain West Bank Regional Library, 2751 Manhattan Blvd Harvey have launched a comic book club for kids ages five to 12 years of age. It meets once a month. The next meeting is from 5:30 p.m to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov 13. (The second Thursday of each month.)
Big Book Sale: The Friends of the Jefferson Public Library will hold its semiannual Big Book Sale from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m Oct. 24-25 and from noon to 5 p.m Oct. 26, at the Pontchartrain Center, Williams Boulevard at Lake Pontchartrain More than 65,000 used books, puzzles, CDs, DVDs and phonograph records will be for sale. Parking and admission are free. Cash and credit and debit cards are accepted (no checks) For more information call the Friends of the Jefferson Public Library at (504) 455-2665 or e-mail friendsjpl@yahoo.com. All proceeds from the sale benefit the Jefferson Parish Libraries. Genealogy: Gwen Kelley, a librarian who specializes in genealogy and who has led genealogy classes at the Jefferson Parish Library for years will lead a series of classes at the Jane O’Brien Chatelain West Bank Regional Library, 2751 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey The classes in November are Nov 13 on researching military records, and Nov 20, on researching immigration records. Novelist: Have you tried the new and improved Novelist? Novelist is an electronic readers’ advisory resource that assists fiction readers in finding new authors and titles. In includes 90,000 full text reviews, over 36,000 subject headings and a complete spectrum of searching options, including searching by title, by author or simply by describing pertinent plot details. The newest version has a new look, is more mobile friendly, and easier to use on one’s phone or tablet But it remains a free e-resource from the Jefferson Parish Library providing patrons with fiction and non-fiction book recommendations for all ages, including book reviews and discussion guides. Look up a book you recently enjoyed to get a list of read-alikes, or search for a description of your ideal book, whether that’s “action-packed adventure with well-developed characters” or “irreverent stories with food-good vibes.
Chris Smith is manager of adult programming at the Jefferson Parish Public Library
NOLA REGGAE FEST: The Jamaican-inspired festival of music, arts and crafts, and food that includes international artists, bands and DJs on two stages will be held Oct. 24-26, 2-8 p.m., at Congo Square, 835 N. Rampart St. in New Orleans. Tickets start at $23.57 via Eventbrite. www neworleans.com.
TREME FALL FEST: The 10th anniversary of the festival will be held Oct. 25, 11 a.m.6 p.m., at the St. Augustine Catholic Church yard and surrounding neighborhood in New Orleans. The free event features local food, arts and crafts, live music and a second line. Entertainment includes Kermit Ruffins and Shamarr Allen. www tremefest.org.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH FEST: Pleasant Zion Missionary Baptist Church’s third free celebration of youth born before and after Hurricane Katrina on Oct. 25, 11 a.m.4 p.m., at 3317 Toledano St. in New Orleans. The event features youth from the NAACP ACT-SO Program (Afro-Academic Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics) and Anthony Bean Community Theater, plus free barbecue, children’s activities, voter registration, health screenings, fitness activities, Gospel groups and the Hoffman Triangle/Central City Churches, spiritual inspiration and prizes. (504) 452-4446 www.pleasantzionmbc.org.
FALL FESTIVAL: Metairie Baptist Church will hold its annual fall festival Oct. 25,10 a.m. to noon, offering candy, snacks, games and inflatables during this event for families with children birth to sixth grade. The church is located at 401 Codifer Blvd. in Metairie. www.metairiebc. org.
DOMINICAN NOLA FESTIVAL: A day of music, educational workshops, food, dance, history and more will be held Oct. 25, 12 noon-8 p.m., on the Patio of the New Orleans Jazz Museum, 400 Esplanade Ave Patrice Fisher and Arpa will perform at 2:40 p.m. www nolajazzmuseum.org.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
TOUR DA PARISH: Registration is open for the 11th noncompetitive bike ride through St. Bernard Parish to take place Oct. 25, starting at 7 a.m. Course options are 10 miles, 15 miles, 30 miles and 51 miles. The ride starts at the Los Islenos Heritage Site, 1345 Bayou Road in St. Bernard and ends there for the End of the World Finish Fest with food, drinks and music. Registration starts at $50 for riders 12 and up. www.stbernardchamber.org/tdp.
STORM SAVINGS: A free session for homeowners is planned to learn how to protect property and cut home insurance costs Oct. 27, 6 p.m., at the Eastbank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. Tips and topics will include how to get a storm survey of a home, the difference between a regular roof and one that is fortified and which grants and tax incentives help cover the cost to storm-proof homes. www JeffParish.gov.
FALL FEST SENIOR CELEBRA-
TION: In partnership with the St. Charles Parish Council on Aging, Prime Time Seniors will host its annual celebration on Oct. 30, 11 a.m.- 2 p.m., at the Edward A. Dufresne Community Center, 274 Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway in Luling. St. Charles Parish adults 55 and older are invited. There will be a costume contest, a 50-50 raffle and door prizes (must be present to win). Costumes are encouraged. RSVP or request transportation, contact the Council on Aging. (985) 7836683.
CULTURE & CONCERTS
TWILIGHT AT LONGUE VUE: The fall season continues through October in Longue Vue House & Gardens’ musical series. The Freudian Slips Oct. 22, and Eight Dice Cloth Oct. 29. Individual concert tickets are $15, and $7.50 for members. All performances start at 5 p.m. at 7 Bamboo Road in New Orleans. longuevue.com.
Les Dames d’Escoffier New Orleans, the fundraiser is in support of the chapter’s Leading from the Heart Awards. Craft cocktails and food are from a lineup of local culinary stars, plus an auction. Tickets are $100, $150 for early-entry patron party at 5:30
THURSDAYS AT TWILIGHT: The 2025 outdoor concert series at the New Orleans Botanical Garden will continue in October, with performances 6-8 p.m. at the Pavilion of the Two Sisters, 1 Victory Ave in New Orleans. Doors open at 5 p.m.; admission is $15 per person. The New Orleans Mystics play on Oct. 23. bit.ly/ TwilightTix_25.
HISPANIC HERITAGE CON-
CERTS: Ecos Latinos, a Hispanic cultural and performing arts series, will sponsor concerts during October that feature Hispanic musicians, dancers and visual artists from Louisiana and visiting artists from Latin America. On Oct. 23, 3 p.m., Buku do Choro will perform at the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. On Oct. 30, 3 p.m., the Felipe Carrera Quartet will perform at the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. www.ecoslatinos.org.
BACK TO THE RIVER: The city of Gretna will host a series of free music concerts on Fridays at 6 p.m. in October at the Amphitheater, Huey P. Long and First streets on the Mississippi River levee in Gretna. Oct. 25 is Typically Booked. www.gretnala.com.
EVENINGS WITH ENRIQUE: The free concert series, held at the Helis Foundation Enrique Alferez Sculpture Garden at New Orleans Botanical Garden City Park, 5 Victory Ave in New Orleans, continues during October on Wednesdays, 5-7 p.m. On Oct. 22, Patrice Fisher and Arpa with Omar Ramirez; and on Oct. 29, Papo y Son Mandao. www thehelisfoundation.org.
FRIENDS OF THE CABILDO
LECTURES: Tickets are on sale for the 2025 series, which continues through Nov. 11, with seven presentations on Louisiana and New Orleans history. Tickets start at $10. friendsofthecabildo.org.
THEATER & PERFORMING ARTS
“GYPSY”: One of Broadway’s classic musicals will be performed Oct. 24-Nov. 9 at Rivertown Theaters of the Performing Arts, 325 Minor St. in Kenner. The curtain goes up on the story of Gypsy Rose Lee and her momma, Rose, at 7:30 p.m. for night performances and 2 p.m. for matinees. Tickets start at $43. www.RivertownTheaters. com.
MOVIES
NEW ORLEANS FILM FESTIVAL
OPENING NIGHT: A newly released documentary, “Michalopoulos: The Art of Celebration,” will be honored as the feature film for the opening night of the annual festival on Oct. 23. Directed by Sean O’Malley and produced by PBS affiliate WLAE, the film will be shown at the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts, 1419 Basin St. at 7 p.m., followed by an after party at Hotel Pompadour, located in the Michalopoulos studio complex at 527 Elysian Fields Ave. Festival passes are on sale for $350. www.nofs. eventive.org.
“THE FANTASTIC MR. FOX”: The family movie on Oct. 25, 2-4 p.m., at Old Metairie Library, 2350 Metairie Road, is the 2009 animated of a wily fox trying to outsmart three mean-spirited farmers and steal their chickens. www jplibrary.net.
BACK TO THE GRETNA DRIVEIN FILM SERIES: The 2025 film series continues Saturday nights in October at the
Gretna Amphitheater, on the batture at Huey P. Long Avenue and 1st Street in Gretna. The Oct. 25 film at 6:30 p.m. features the movie “If.” Costumes are encouraged. Attendees can bring blankets or lawn chairs. Admission is free. Concessions will be available for purchase. www Gretnala.com. LECTURES & PRESENTATIONS
THE EVOLUTION OF HORROR TOURS IN NEW ORLEANS: Randy Bibb, guide and instructor of Delgado Community College’s professional tour guiding program, will trace the rise of New Orleans’s horror tour industry on Oct. 25, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., in the first floor meeting room at the Main Library, 219 Loyola Ave in New Orleans. Registration is required for Zoom attendees. No registration is required for in-person attendance. www.neworleans. libnet.info.
TIPS FOR TOMB AND MONU-
MENT CARE: Cemetery Preservationist Emily Ford will present the basics of cemetery material conservation on Oct. 27, 7 p.m., at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave. in Metairie. This event, which is free of charge and open to the public, occurs as part of the regularly scheduled monthly meeting of the Genealogical Research Society of New Orleans. www.Jplibrary.net.
BOOKS “THE DEAN: MEMOIRS AND MISSIVES”: Sparky Reardon, former dean of students of Ole Miss, will celebrate the release of his first book on Oct. 23, 6 p.m., at the Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. Free; guests are encouraged to RSVP and reserve a copy of the book in advance on Eventbrite. www.gardendistrictbookshop.com.
BIG BOOK SALE: Friends of the Jefferson Public Library will hold their annual fall sale October 24-26 at the Pontchartrain Convention and Civic Center, 4545 Williams Blvd. in Kenner. Doors are open Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday 12 noon-5 p.m.
More than 65,000 used books, CDs, DVDs, puzzles and collectibles will be available for purchase. Cash and credit cards will be accepted. This event is free and open to the public. www.friendsofjeffersonlibrary.org.
“ABSENCE”: Author Issa Quincy will be in conversation with author and poet Karisma Price to discuss his new book, followed by a Q&A and book signings, on Oct. 29, 6 p.m., at the Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. The evening will kick off with a read from the book. The floor will be opened a Q&A, followed by a book signing. The event is free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to RSVP and reserve a copy of the book in advance on Eventbrite. www gardendistrictbookshop.com.
“NEW ORLEANS: A CONCISE HISTORY OF AN EXCEPTIONAL CITY”: Author and historian Charles D. Chamberlain will give a presentation on and sign copies of his new book at Octavia Books, 513 Octavia St. in New Orleans, on Oct. 30, 6-7:30 p.m. www.octaviabooks.com.
FUNDRAISERS/GALAS
HOT DISH 2025: Tickets are on sale for a poolside evening under the stars on Oct. 22, 6:30-9 p.m., at Paradigm Gardens, 1131 S. Rampart St. in New Orleans. Hosted by
GLASS
on Oct. 24, 7-10 p.m., at Latrobe’s, 403 Royal St. A DJ and live performances, open bar, Louisiana delicacies, “Best Dressed” contest, silent auction and prizes, biodegradable glitter and recycled glass art for sale are included. Tickets start at $150 via Eventbrite. Proceeds support increased staffing and programming. www glasshalffull.co.
FETE DU JARDIN: Louisiana Landmarks Society will celebrate their 75th anniversary Oct. 26, 6-8 p.m., at Pitot House and gardens on Bayou St. John, 1440 Moss St. in New Orleans. Tickets start at $125, with patron party tickets available. www.louisianalandmarks.org.
COCKTAILS AND BLUES GALA: Lake Forest Charter School will host its annual fundraiser Nov. 1, 7-10 p.m., at Messina’s at the Terminal, 6001 Stars and Stripes Blvd. in New Orleans. Tickets are on sale at $80 per person. Proceeds will benefit the school’s Outdoor Recreation Complex. www secure.givelively.org. SPARKLE & STYLE – A DAY SOIREE: Tickets are on sale for the fundraising brunch benefitting Dress for Success New Orleans Nov. 2, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., at the home of Tarun and Rupa Jolly, 3 Audubon Place in New Orleans. Tickets include brunch and cocktails and start at $150. www.neworleans.dressforsuccess.org.
HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR:
Chris Smith
LIBRARY LAGNIAPPE
FILE PHOTO BY BRETT DUKE
The Treme Fall Fest in New Orleans is produced by the Historic Faubourg Treme Association to benefit the many cultural destinations found within historic Treme. The event will include live music, arts, crafts and food vendors.
ADVOCATE STAFF PHOTO BY SHAWN FINK
Cyclists take part in the Tour Da Parish, a non-competitive bicycle race with 16- 35- and 59-mile loops. This year’s event will be held Oct. 25
