“Who dat say dey gonna beat ‘dem Saints?” NO ONE!! What a game! Congratulations Saints and Drew Brees. You are my heroes, and the heroes for a city that really needs them right now.
Darling readers,
It has been a very relaxing week that included viewing the lighting of the Christmas trees at the Astor Plaza Hotel, Canal Street and the Fulton Street decorations, and then a fabulous Thanksgiving dinner at the lovely home of the Hoddinotts in English Turn. I want to thank them for opening their home and offering the company of their family to my brother and I for such as special occasion. That is what Thanksgiving is all about it: Sharing.
Darlings, this month I do not want to be anyplace but my beloved New Orleans for the holidays. Throughout December, Christmas New Orleans Style ushers in a holiday season with feasts, finery and fun. This month-long festival celebrates our unique culture and heritage with varied programs and special events. Around town discover incredible feasts, entertainment, events, family activities, and shopping you cannot find anywhere else! Brilliant lights and festive gatherings transform New Orleans into a holiday paradise. Locals and visitors can enjoy candlelight caroling in Jackson Square, visit City Park where Celebration in the Oaks brings over two million lights and whimsical figures to the park's ancient groves, and an assortment of other festive activities all month long throughout the city.
Here are just a few of those festive activities this month:
REVEILLON DINNERS Reveillon, an adaptation of a traditional Creole holiday dining custom, will be celebrated nightly during the Christmas season in 36 restaurants throughout the city. Menus combine ageless Creole cuisine with more contemporary New Orleans dishes, and the spirit of the past remains. In fact, four of the Reveillon restaurants – Antoine’s, Commander’s Palace, Galatoire’s and Tujague’s – are more than 100 years old! Reveillon menus are only offered once a year, during December, and guests can enjoy the authentic taste of New Orleans during Christmas New Orleans Style.
CATHEDRAL CONCERTS
December 1, 2, 3,6,8, 9, 10,13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 20, and 21 Throughout the month of December, jazz musicians, gospel choirs, classical ensembles and other New Orleans musical groups herald in the season with concerts in one of the country’s most historic churches, St. Louis Cathedral, in the heart of the French Quarter on Jackson Square. This year’s concerts take place at 6:00 p.m. and are free and open to the public. Check out http://www.neworleansonline.com/christmas/ for more complete information.
Also throughout December, Christmas New Orleans Style offers up a series of free cooking demonstrations by some of the finest chefs from New Orleans’ most beloved restaurants, thanks to French Quarter Festivals, Inc, in partnership with New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation. The chefs’ favorite holiday recipes at free cooking demonstrations and samplings are guaranteed to spice up the holidays. The Chef’s Holiday Cooking Demonstrations take place at Le Petit Theatre, on weekdays at 1:30 p.m. and last about 45 minutes.
Here’s what’s also going on this week:
December 1-6
THE COLOR PURPLE Broadway Across America presents Oprah Winfrey's production of “The Color Purple” at the MahaliaJacksonTheatre for the Performing Arts. Not to be missed. I will be there for opening night.
Tuesday, December 1 LIGHTING OF THE WALDORF WONDERLAND LOBBY
A New Orleans tradition returns December 1 and continues through January 3, 2010, in time for the start of the holiday season at The Roosevelt New Orleans. The grand hotel lights its beloved decorated lobby, newly named the Waldorf Wonderland at The Roosevelt, for the first time in five years.
Guests are invited to attend the lighting of the lobby on Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. This year, the grand lobby will be transformed into a canopy of white birch branches and thousands of twinkling lights. The lobby also will be lined with Christmas trees decorated with bows and ornaments, poinsettias and other holiday-themed displays. The event, which is free and open to the public, will feature a live performance by Benny Grunch and the Bunch. Tuesday, December 1 John Mahoney Big Band - Christmas CD Release Concert The John Mahoney Big Band, directed by John Mahoney, professor of jazz at Loyola University New Orleans, will host a release party for its newly recorded Christmas album, "Christmas Joy." The Christmas CD release party takes place at 7:30 p.m., in Roussel Hall, located in the Communications/Music Complex, on Loyola's main campus. The concert is free and open to the public.
Tuesday, December 1 World’s Aids Day From 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., there will be a World’s AIDS Day event called HAMP (HIV Awareness Music Project) at the Howling Wolf benefiting NOLA HIV agencies. The HAMP project was created by Tulane Physician Dr. Mark Alan Dery to promote HIV awareness and empowerment. Dr. Dery is an HIV Physician. Performers include Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Kermit Ruffins, Soul Rebels and the Rebirth Brass Band. Other performers include Fleur De Tease Burlesque Revue, 5th Ward Weebie, Dee-1 The Show and more. There will also be a silent auction.
Wednesday, December 2 Yuletide Celebration
A spectacular night of popular holiday favorites, food and fun! Pre-concert music will start at 6:30 and feature the St. Louis Cathedral Boys Choir and the Choirs from St. Clement of Rome and Mt.Carmel. PontchartrainCenter, Hall A, 4545 Williams Blvd, Kenner.
December 1-March 14, 2010 “Dreams Come True: Art of the Classic Fairy Tales from the Walt Disney Studio” at New Orleans Museum of Art New Orleans Museum of Art's Dreams Come True showcases original artwork from legendary Disney animated films, including Snow White, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast, and will feature a children's section celebrating Disney's connections with jazz music and the Crescent City. The artworks, on loan from the Walt Disney Studio Animation Research Library, are accompanied by film clips to demonstrate how individual sketches and paintings lead to a finished celluloid masterpiece. Organized by the Walt Disney Animation Research Library and the New Orleans Museum of Art, this once-in-a-lifetime exhibition, which cannot be seen anywhere else, is set to coincide with the premier of Disney's upcoming animated feature, The Princess and the Frog, set in New Orleans during the 1920s Jazz Age.
Thursday, December 3-Saturday, December 5
New Orleans Songwriters Festival
Do you have what it takes to write the next Christmas classic song? Or the next Country Music Awards winner? Your chance to find out comes this week as the Second Annual New Orleans Songwriters Festival (SongFest) takes center stage. With an Open Mic Thursday night and various sessions over the next two days at the Howlin’ Wolf and Tipitina’s Uptown, attendees will get songwriting tips from the pros and a chance to perform their original compositions. Celebrity songwriters in attendance will include Allen Toussaint, J.D. Souther, Don Schlitz, Dennis Matkosky, Greg Barnhill and some twenty other songwriters, including festival organizer and executive producer Bud Tower. The Open Mic and some of the other sessions are free; others are a cover charge. For more information on this year’s SongFest click on http://www.nosongfest.com/.
December 3-10
IRVIN BERLIN'S “WHITE CHRISTMAS” AT LE PETITE THEATRE Come make a new holiday tradition with Irving Berlin’s beloved musical “White Christmas,” a show the whole family will love. The dazzling score features well known standards including “Blue Skies,” “I Love A Piano,” “How Deep Is the Ocean” and the perennial favorite, “White Christmas.” Directed by: Brandt Blocker, starring: Kasey Marino, Rich Arnold, Ashley Lemmler and Julie Tolivar and a cast of twenty plus other talented performers. 616 St. Peter St. 504-522-2081
Thursday, December 3
ROYAL SONESTA LIGHTING OF THE BALCONIES The Royal Sonesta Hotel has rescheduledtheir official holiday kick-off event to this Thursday evening, December 3. The Fourth Annual "Lighting of the Balconies" ceremony will begin at 6 p.m. on Thursday evening, when the Xavier University Gospel Choir presents a special holiday concert staged street-side in front of the hotel's main entrance at 300 Bourbon Street. In traditional New Orleans' style, the Treme Brass Band will lead a Second Line Parade down Bourbon Street to the Royal Sonesta's main staging area. Special guests joining the Second Line include members of the Official New Orleans Saints Cheerleading Team, the Saintsations and Saints' Mascot, "Gumbo." For the kids, Santa will take a break from his busy schedule to take part in the festivities. Joining Santa will be a beloved new holiday character, the "Royal Teddy Bear." A few surprises are in store, so mark your calendars now and plan to attend a special holiday event that your entire family will enjoy.
In the spirit of giving back, the Royal Sonesta Hotel has once again partnered with Children's Hospital in New Orleans. Two young patients from the hospital will experience the thrill of turning on the switch for thousands of holiday lights that will illuminate the hotel's massive wrought iron balconies. On hand to assist the kids with this special task, for the second year in a row, will be #78 of the New Orleans Saints, offensive tackle, Jon Stinchcomb who will be accompanied by his lovely wife, Ali. This heartwarming special event is free and open to the public and all are invited to join in the fun!
December 3-5
Just in Time for Christmas! Three Great Authors Octavia Book Store.
Thursday Dec. 3, 6:00 PM John Besh- "MY NEW ORLEANS _ A COOKBOOK"
Booksigning, Discussion & Cookbook Club meeting
John Besh returns for a book siging and the monthly cookbook club meeting. Bite by bite John Besh brings us New Orleans cooking like we've never tasted before. It's the perfect blend of contemporary French techniques with indigenous Southern Louisiana products and know-how.
Saturday Dec. 5, Sally Forman-"HOW THEY DID IT?" Discussion & Booksigning 11:00 AM
Many of the names in this book are synonymous with New Orleans' past and present, and others are sure to be a part of its future. These are the profiles of 70 entrepreneurs who invented, pioneered, innovated or created paradigm shifts within their fields, revealing the early obstacles they encountered as they built and capitalized on their ideas to build ground-breaking businesses.
George Rodrigue - December 5 at 1:00 PM
Discussion & Booksigning of "ARE A BLUE DOG'S FRIEND?"
Join in welcoming George Rodrige back to the book shop.
A companion to the popular "Why Is Blue Dog Blue?," this latest picture book celebrates friendship in all its shapes and sizes. Through a series of call-and-response questions, readers are introduced to the funny, strange, loyal, and unique qualities that make friendships come alive.
Saturday, December 5
Houmas House Plantation Hosting the Baton Rouge Symphony Houmas House Plantation & Gardens and the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra invite you to Celebrate the Sounds of the Season with the Christmas Brass and Percussion. Performing under the majestic alley of oaks, the Baton Rouge Symphony will feature its Christmas brass and Percussion. 4:30-6 p.m. Adult tickets: $25.00; child tickets: $10.00 This event is sponsored by Houmas House Plantation and Gardens and Julio and Debra Dumas. To purchase tickets online, visit www.BRSO.org
December 5-13
JPAS’ “BEAUTY AND THE BEAST” BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! This family favorite returns as the Jefferson Performing Arts Society Presents Disney's “Beauty and the Beast” at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center, 400 Phlox Street in Metairie. Performances Saturday at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday Matinee at 2 p.m.
Saturday, December 5 Chef Duke Foundation for Kids
Come celebrate the Christmas spirit of giving With Chef Duke at Café Giovanni. Music by Santa the DJ Man, with hits from the ‘70’s to today. Performances by many great local performers. Wine tasting of Trinchero and many more. Open well bar and hors d’oeuvres.7:30-till.117 Decatur Street. $75 per person with a $20 new unwrapped toy (no stuffed animals please). Tickets available at the door or call ahead-table reservations available. Validated parking at the Marriott. Attire-Dress to impress.www.cafegiovanni.com
December 5 -January 9,2010
“THE LANGUAGE OF FLOWERS"
A Group Invitational Exhibition at Garden District Gallery,1332 Washington Avenue. Opening Reception to meet the artists Dec. 5 from 6-8 p.m. The show will feature the works of eighteen artists from New Orleans, the Gulf South, and as far away as China. For more information, call 504-891-3032 or visit www.gardendistrictgallery.com. Saturday, December 5 WHOLE FOODS’ “TASTE OF THE HOLIDAYS” Whole Foods Market Arabella Station, 5600 Magazine Street, (504) 899-9119 and Whole Foods Market Veterans, 3420 Veterans Blvd., (504) 888-8225. 1-3 p.m. Free! The Veterans and Arabella Station stores invite the community to join them for a complimentary "Taste of the Holidays". The flavor filled afternoon will feature holiday entrees, seasonal sides, holiday cheeses, exclusive holiday chocolates and fresh baked desserts. In addition, the Lagniappe String Quartet will perform live at Veterans.
Sunday, December 6 You're Invited...To a Party that will Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with Pastry Chef and New Orleans Native David Guas Celebrating the Newly Published Dam GoodSweet from 4-6 pm At the Southern Food and Beverage Museum
David Guas celebrates the release of DamGoodSweet with an exclusive party at the Southern Food and Beverage Museum featuring desserts from the book, sparkling wine, and hors d' oeuvres. The party is free with museum admission or purchase of DamGoodSweet in the SoFAB store. Meet David Guas, satisfy your sweet tooth, and get your book signed
Sunday, December 6
NOCTURNE VII featuring Pianist Peter Serkin AT The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans Nocturne is the Musical Arts Society of New Orleans' Annual Fundraiser. This Gala Event has become one of the most anticipated evenings of the year. The evening includes a champagne reception, salon recital by a world-renowned pianist Peter Serkin, and a fabulous dinner at the Ritz-Carlton at 7 p.m. Contact Judy at 899-4826.7 p.m.
Sunday, December 6
FABULOUS FASHIONS OF THE FORTIES FUNDRAISER The House of Broel Foundation in its presentation of the Fabulous Fashions of the Forties Fundraiser is joyously celebrating the remarkable life and memory of a cherished friend of Bonnie Broel's, the recently departed Carolyn (Dee) Fittere and will benefit the deceased's favorite charities. The evening will offer an array of tantalizing food and spirits, an intriguing Silent Auction, not to mention terrific entertainment! The Patron Party, from 6-7 p.m., the music of local favorite Phil Melancon. The Gala, from 7-10 p.m. has the renowned Jerry Embree Band to enhance dancing and frolicking in gaiety. The Swing Dancers and the dazzling Suzaune Yee McKamey will perform along with many others. Suggested attire of that glamorous era. For more information, please call 504-494-2220 or 504-522-2220.
Sunday, December 6 Beds to Read Inn Tour historic homes along Esplanade Ridge sponsored by the Bed and Breakfast Inns of New Orleans from 1-5 p.m. Tickets $20.Proceeds benefit the Literacy Alliance of Greater New Orleans. Visit www.literacygno.org or www.bbnola.com http://www.bbnola..com/.
Sunday, December 6 FLEUR DE TEASE 'HOLIDAY SHOW" 8-11:55 p.m. at One Eyed Jacks in the French Quarter on St. Louis Street. In addition to our classic group routines, the show have a few new numbers up our sleeve! Two shows (8 & 10) tickets: $15 general admission,$20 reserved seating To buy tickets or for any additional info please contact Laurie at 504-319-8917 or lmailto:laurieherbert@gmail.com
Sunday, December 6
TRINITY ARTIST SERIES
Trinity Artist Series presents the award winning McDonogh 35 Gospel Choir (50 singers)
at 5 p.m. Directed by Veronica Downs-Dorsey. She is the music department head at McDonogh 35 High School and Music Director of St. Peter Claver Church in New Orleans. The choir is a two-time Big Easy Award winning choir (Best Gospel ChoirMcDonogh 35 Gospel Choir has been in existence for 37 years.).1329 Jackson Avenue.
Monday, December 7
GALATOIRE'S HOLIDAY AUCTION
Reserve your paddles now for Galatoire's Restaurant, which will host its annual holiday auction, in which patrons bid on table seatings for December 18, the Friday lunch before Christmas. The event will benefit St. AugustineChurch and the Chaîne Foundation. The night will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a reception featuring hors d'oeuvres by Executive Chef Brian Landry and champagne compliments of Veuve Cliquot. Auctioneer Ruthie Winston will take the floor at 6:30 p.m.
Since 2006, Galatoire's has hosted seven auctions, raising nearly $475,000 for local charities. The restaurant will celebrate 105 years of business in 2010.
Bidding will begin at $150 per seat for dining on the first floor, with tables offered in seatings of 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12. Purchased tables are non-transferable, with seating beginning at 11:30 a.m. on December 18. The purchase price will guarantee only the table; all other costs (food, drink and gratuity) will be additional. All donations will be fully tax deductible, and patrons will be presented with documentation from each charity. Pre-registration for the auction is required. . Contact Christi Gaudet, 504-525-2021 or cgaudet@galatoires.com, to reserve a paddle.
And here’s a few things happening next week:
Wednesday, December 9
ROUND TABLE LUNCHEON The monthly Round Table Luncheon hosted by Margarita Bergen will take place on Wednesday, December 9 at noon at Begue's of the Royal Sonesta Hotel.
The festive luncheon will feature a Champagne Tasting led by Lisa Tull of Republic Beverage; Lorin Gaudin, " the Food Goddess" who will discuss the new trends in food and restaurants; book signing and discussion by John Magill of his book "Christmas in New Orleans written by him and Peggy Scott Laborde,and Liz Sprang (assistant director of Southern Animal Foundation) will be there to speak about SAF and sell calendars.. Entertainment by Suzaune Yee McKamey. Ladies and gentlemen are encouraged to dress festive and bring their camera to take photos of the hotel's beautiful hallway. Sitting is limited. The three-course gourmet luncheon is only $35 and includes complimentary parking and wines to compliment the food. For reservation: Noel Scallan at 504-553-2220 nscallan@royalsonestano.com
Wednesday, December 9
A BUBBLY AFFAIR FROM CHAMPAGNE TO PROSECCO Sample over 25 sparkling wines from top producers from around the world, plus an array of tasty desserts. 6-8 pm.Fair Grounds Clubhouse, 4th floor.Tickets are $25 per person and are available at Dorignac's FoodCenter(if still available, tickets will be sold at the door)1751 Gentilly Blvd (lots of free parking!)Must be 21 years old to attend
Thursday, December 10
TALES OF THE TODDY
Cocktails created by local Mixologists “And a Bottle of Rum: A History of the New World in Ten Cocktails” author Wayne Curtis. 5:30-8:30 p.m.W Hotel, 333 Poydras Street.
Purchase Tickets at www.TalesoftheCocktail.com.Tickets for $10.00
Thursday, December 10
PhotoGALA
A benefit for New Orleans Photo Alliance @ New Orleans Museum of Art. Indulge in great food and drink, dance to the tunes of the Panorama Jazz Band, enjoy the lovely performances of Fleur de Tease, bid on some amazing contemporary photography, and feel good about the fact that all this fun is supporting the mission and future programming of the New Orleans Photo Alliance. 7 p.m. New Orleans Museum of Art 1 Collins Diboll Circle, City Park.(504) 658-4100 phone
Have a great week!
Margarita Bergen,
Tel/ Cell 504-495-9181 Fax/504-940-6201
“Who dat say dey gonna beat ‘dem Saints?” NO ONE!! What a game! Congratulations Saints and Drew Brees. You are my heroes, and the heroes for a city that really needs them right now. 
