Darlings,
The holiday season is here and I have been enjoying attending the festive soirees to celebrate the season.
I started my week by attending the always spectacular Holiday Display at The Roosevelt New Orleans. The holiday wonderland lobby and decorations is shining with the sights and sounds of the 2014 holiday season, as it has for generations, My darling friend actor Bryan Batt turned on the switch to light up the canopy of white birch branches, thousands of twinkling lights and scores of sparkling Christmas trees.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152373732130870.1073742372.581200869&type=1&l=0820237cd0
On December 3, the Arts Council of New Orleans presented its annual Community Arts Awards at Mardi Gras World. The seven honorees for this year's Community Art Awards were: Arthur Roger, A Studio in the Woods, Hogan Jazz Archive at Tulane, Howard Miller, Jeanne Nathan, Young Men Olympian Junior Benevolent Association, and The Zion Harmonizers.
Each honoree was featured in a video portrait honoring their life and achievements created by local video artists, Kat Sotelo, Sergio Andres Lobo-Navia, Kevin McCaffrey, William Sabourin, Steph Smith, and Chris Haney.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152376013645870.1073742373.581200869&type=1&l=84443fe6d3
That evening, the Royal Sonesta officially kicked off the holidays with the 9th Annual Lighting of the Balconies. With a ceremonial "flip of the switch," two young patients from Children's Hospital experienced the thrill of illuminating the hotel's elaborate wrought-iron balconies with thousands of twinkling lights. The ceremony took place street-side complete with a full lineup of musical performances, and was followed by a delicious reception.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152376040120870.1073742374.581200869&type=1&l=893351f6f7
I also attended the annual reception by the Men and Women of Fashion at the Ritz Carlton to introduce this year impressive list of nominees for the best dressed men and women of 2014. My nominee is dapper dresser Patrick van Hoorebeck, the perennial King of the Krewe of Cork. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152376082255870.1073742375.581200869&type=1&l=0c1370c1d2
Darlings, the annual Ladies Leukemia League's FÊTE DE NÖEL was a huge success. It included a lovely Broadway-themed Fashion Show and a delicious luncheon.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152378250770870.1073742377.581200869&type=1&l=b7d929b2db
On Friday, GW Fins Restaurant was the setting of the annual December Krewe of Cork Luncheon which was indeed very festive. The new poster was unveiled.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152378291075870.1073742378.581200869&type=1&l=31e9f63e54
Glorious weather greeted me this past weekend, as attended a social whirl of holiday soirees that included the annual festive Gambel Communications Holiday Soiree. It was lovely and I saw a lot of mutual friends.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152377597475870.1073742376.581200869&type=1&l=d77fb4df76
I kept going and my next stop was at NOMA where the photographer Emmet Gowin was the Keynote Lecturer and the annual gala of PhotoNOLA. In case you did not know PhotoNOLA is an annual festival of photography in New Orleans, coordinated by the New Orleans Photo Alliance in partnership with galleries, museums and photographers citywide.
I am sad about Saturday's political results. Mary Landrieu will be remembered for her legacy and love for Louisiana, I wish Bill Cassidy good luck as we enter a new political era and we will keep our eyes open to make sure he will try to emulate Mary and make LA a better place to live.
Saturday night was quite a social marathon for me. I started my evening at my darling friend, talented Jeffrey McIlwain, Queen 2015 of Krewe of Cork "Uncork" her reign as Queen at her lovely home in the Marigny. The libations were decadent and the delicious food was prepared by talented Chef Kevin Belton.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152381031570870.1073742379.581200869&type=1&l=c8b39a6357
My next stop was a my darling friend Sammy Steele's Safe Haven for the Arts Gallery where my old-time friend Meg Farris was showing her beautiful jewelry along with artist Mary Moore Soniat's exquisite oils.
My last stop was at the always fun and artsy Arts Against AIDS which had as honorary chairperson, Christian Jules Le Blanc. The event was held at Club XLIV , a gigantic venue at Champions Square. The entertainment that included Anais St. John and Harry Mayronne and others was superb.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152381088640870.1073742380.581200869&type=1&l=48f568fd5c
On Sunday, I saw the spectacular AFRICA UMOJA at the Mahalia Jackson Theatre. I loved it - it so spectacular and high energy that I do not get tire of seeing it. It will be playing until next Saturday so do not miss it.
I concluded my social week last night by attending the Grand Opening Celebration for the new AC Hotel New Orleans Bourbon and Debut of AC Hotels by Marriott Brand in the U.S.AC Hotels by Marriott debuted its first U.S. location on December * in the iconic Cotton Exchange building in New Orleans, located at 221 Carondelet Street. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152384135940870.1073742381.581200869&type=1&l=3eccf626b4
Darlings, this week is going to be another social marathon for me:
Christmas New Orleans Style Concert Series continue early evening shows between Dec. 9 and Dec. 21. All concerts at St. Louis Cathedral begin at 6 p.m., excluding the final show, which takes place Dec. 21, 5:30 p.m.
NOLA Christmas Fest started 5:00-10:00 p.m. Christmas in the District Light Display December 8 at Convention Center Blvd. and Plaza NOLA. ChristmasFest is a two-week indoor festival located in the Great Hall of the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, December 12 -24, providing holiday fun for the whole family. Discover the new My New Orleans Christmas display after a journey through the Great Hall of Trees featuring a stunning collection of more than 50 decorated trees and a Gingerbread House competition benefiting Operation Homefront, an organization supporting local military families.
In Santa's Playland, children of all ages can enjoy the inflatable zone, petting zoo and a host of hands-on crafts and activities. A variety of holiday characters will include special appearances by Mr. Bingle, the Ice Princesses with their favorite Snowman and many more. Skype with Santa's Elves and take a photo with Santa Claus. Two stages will feature performances by Robin Barnes, 610 Stompers, Lena Prima, the Victory Belles, local choirs, cooking demonstrations and puppet shows, just to name a few.
On weekends, the Arts and Craft Market gives visitors the opportunity to shop for holiday gifts. NOLA ChristmasFest will kick off activities with a Children's Lantern Parade on December 12 and a concert by the Imagination Movers on December 13. Parties with the Ice Princess and the Ice Queenare scheduled on December 14, 20, 21, 22, 23 & 24. A Sing-along Pajama Party with Santa takes place on December 22. Other events throughout Christmas in the District include the Harrah's Champagne Stroll on December 5 and the Santa Paws second line dog costume contest on December 14.
The popular New Orleans-based children's group, The Imagination Movers, will perform a special Christmas-themed show at NOLA ChristmasFest at Christmas in the District on Saturday, December 13 at 12:30 pm. Kids will have the opportunity to meet the performers at two special "meet and greets" at 11:00 am and 1:45 pm. The concert and meet and greets will take place in Hall B of the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.
Tuesday And Thursday, Dec. 9 and Dec. 11: Hidden Treasures - Battle Of New Orleans Edition: 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. each night, Old U.S. Mint, 400 Esplanade Ave. Join curators of the Louisiana State Museum in a behind the scenes display of items associated with the Battle of New Orleans. Two sessions on each night of the event. $20 by advance purchase only. (504) 523-3939, www.friendsofthecabildo.org.
"Twelfth Night; or, What You Will" By William Shakespeare Presented by NOMA & The NOLA Project Directed by A.J. Allegra At NOMA's Great Hall One Collins Diboll Circle, New Orleans. Production Dates: December 9, 11, 14, 16, 17, 18, 21 at 7:30 p.m.
The Grill Room Rare Wine Series Present On Wednesday, December 9, 2014,Sparkling Wines at 7:00 pm.
Celebration in the Oaks in New Orleans City Park Friday, continues until Saturday, January 3. Celebration in the Oaks in New Orleans City Park remains one of the most beautiful holiday light exhibits in the country, attracting over 122,000 people in 2010. Walk through the Botanical Garden, Storyland, a children's theme park, and Carousel Gardens, an amusement ride area aglow with holiday magic! Nightly musical entertainment and a full service cafe featuring our famous hot-buttered rum! The Holiday mini train ride through the Park and the antique carousel are a can't-miss during the season
M y darling friend, talented Bianca Del Rio will be performing at the House of Blues on December 13 9pm & Midnight.
Bianca embarks on her "Rolodex of Hate" tour, a mix of typical drag camp, cabaret and stand-up material fans have come to expect from the "Queen of Mean."
On December 9, 11 and 16, at Longue Vue Garden, attendees will experience Chanel's pure parfums while browsing holiday gifts and learning gift wrapping techniques. On December 20, author Bonnie Warren will autograph copies of her latest book, “New Orleans Homes at Christmas,” featuring savory recipes and delightful holiday decorations throughout the Crescent City's finest homes - including Longue Vue which graces the cover! Members receive a 20% discount and nonmembers receive a 10% discount on select purchases during holiday teas! Space is limited and reservations are required.
Trinity Artist series presents
Friday, December 12 @ 7 pm: McDonogh 35 Gospel Choir Christmas Concert directed by Veronica Downs-Dorsey
Saturday, December 13 @ 7 pm: New Orleans Black Chorale's Annual Christmas Concert directed by Dr. John Ware
Sunday, December 14 @ 5 pm: Katalin Lukacs pianist featuring Music by Liszt, Beethoven, Bach-Busoni
The Friends of Saint Alphonsus (FOSA) highly anticipated fourth season of the Fun Under the Frescoes concert series on Wednesday, December 10th. The St. Alphonsus Church, located at 2025 Constance Street in New Orleans, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Shows this season include a celebration of the holidays with the delightful harmonies of the Pfister Sisters on December 10 , the series closes out on March 11 by celebrating the rich history and spirit of St. Alphonsus with an Irish Extravaganza featuring Live Celtic Music and the McTeggart Irish Dancers.
Darlings, put on your calendar that the annual holiday Royal Sonesta Round Table Luncheon will take place on Wednesday, December 17 and will be a spectacular celebration not to be miss Please plan to join us for this special holiday luncheon. The Royal Sonesta’s Round Table Luncheon is $50 inclusive with advance reservations or $55 at the door. Parking is complimentary in the hotel’s parking garage. For reservations, please contact Noel Scallan at 504-553-2220 or email her at nscallan@sonesta.com.
- see details below.
Casell-Bergen Gallery ,1305 Decatur is ready for the holiday and the upcoming Fiesta Navidena on Sunday, December 21, from 3:30 p.m. to 6 :30 p.m. My darling friend Patrick van Hoorebeek is donating a case of champagne to add to the festivities and Jorge Lauriano Jr. of William Grant, will donate some decadent libations so everyone will be ready to celebrate in style and participate in the annual Caroling in the Square . Of course, the mood will be set by The Julio and Cesar Band. I cannot wait. I need to prepare the Latin culinary delights to go with the Fiesta.A Fiesta Navidena at Casell- Bergen Gallery on Sunday\, December 21 can not be ready until we hanged this sign: :
December 10th
The Consulate of Mexico in New Orleans
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