Add Row

Add Element

UPDATE

Add Element

Home
Happenings
New Orleans Business Spotlight

January 05.2026

2 Minutes Read

Get Ready for the 4th Annual Chess Fest in New Orleans: A Must-Visit Event for All Ages!

New Orleans Chess Fest 2025 outdoor community gathering in courtyard.

Celebrating Chess: A Fest of Learning and Fun

Get ready, chess lovers! The 4th Annual Chess Fest is set to take place on November 1, 2025, at the Tate, Etienne, Prevost (TEP) Center in New Orleans. This vibrant event is designed for participants of all ages and skill levels, making it a fantastic opportunity for family fun and community engagement.

Engaging Activities for All Ages

Chess Fest offers a variety of activities that cater to everyone’s interests. From DIY chessboard crafting and tackling chess puzzle games to participating in a fast-chess tournament, there’s something for everyone. The event kicks off at 10 a.m. and features family-friendly activities that include arts and crafts related to chess. Visitors can also take a chess crash course for beginners, making it an excellent opportunity for newcomers to learn the ropes of this timeless game.

Human Chess: A Unique Experience

One of the highlights of this year's Chess Fest is the life-sized human chess game where volunteers will become chess pieces on a giant board. This engaging spectacle is not only entertaining but also educational, as it demonstrates chess strategies in an imaginative format. Plus, attendees can showcase their creativity in the Best-Dressed Chess Costume Contest, with prizes for the most innovative outfits!

Chess Competitions That Challenge Your Mind

As the clock strikes noon, mind-bending challenges await! Participants can test their skills in a chess puzzle competition, blending strategy with history. Using an interactive chess history map, players will earn points through tactical prowess and knowledge of local chess lore. Following this, the five-round fast chess tournament, directed by the Downriver Chess Club, promises to ignite competitive spirits!

Captivating Screenings and Discussions

To round off the event, attendees can enjoy film screenings, including short films about New Orleans' chess history. Moderated discussions featuring local chess community voices will delve into the stories behind the films. Baylee Badawy, founder of the Chess Cave, will guide these conversations, ensuring an enriching experience for all.

Join the Festivities!

Admission to the Chess Fest is free of charge, but attendees are encouraged to register ahead of time at hnoc.org. Mark your calendars for this event, promising not just a love for chess but valuable lessons intertwined with fun. It’s a gathering that embodies community spirit and cultural appreciation in heartwarming New Orleans style!

If you enjoyed this story, why not stay connected? Join New Orleans Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive local information!

New Orleans Events

2 Views

Write A Comment

Related Posts All Posts

12.26.2025

Exploring the Magic of Cinéma Louisiane at the 2025 New Orleans Film Festival

Update Discover New Orleans’ Cinematic Brilliance Every year, the New Orleans Film Festival (NOFF) transcends the ordinary, pulling together both budding and established filmmakers for a week-long love letter to cinema. This year, from October 23-27, film lovers are invited to revel in over 150 stunning films, showcasing creativity that ranges from lavish productions to heartfelt indie stories. Among these, the Cinéma Louisiane segment shines brightly, celebrating local talent and narratives born from our rich culture. Spotlighting Louisiana Cinema The festival highlights are not just about numbers; they reflect New Orleans’ unique spirit, attracting filmmakers from across the Crescent City and beyond. Among this year's standout features is Michalopoulos – The Art Of Celebration, a documentary that dives deep into the vibrant artistic landscape of New Orleans through the lens of local artist James Michalopoulos. His colorful expression not only brings the city’s essence to life but also underscores the importance of community patronage in preserving our cultural narrative. Equally compelling is the documentary Shelby, which encapsulates a man’s solitary life in the swamps just beyond Lake Pontchartrain. Directed by Daniel Fiore, this portrayal captures the juxtaposition of wild nature and human longing. However, the film’s reliance on AI-generated visuals raises questions about authenticity and artistic integrity, leaving audiences pondering whether technology enhances or detracts from storytelling. What Makes This Festival Unique? The New Orleans Film Festival is distinguished not only for its eclectic film selection but also for its commitment to inclusivity. With over 50% of films helmed by women and filmmakers of color, it truly serves as a platform for diverse voices. This recognition is pivotal, especially in modern cinema, which often overlooks unique perspectives. NOFF is more than just screenings; it's a hub for discussions and networking opportunities for aspiring filmmakers. Tulane University's Digital Media Practices program, for example, boasts an impressive showing this year, with works from students and faculty that underline the educational institution’s burgeoning role in the local arts scene, further enriching the festival’s narrative tapestry. The Festival Experience Attending NOFF is an immersive experience. Imagine gathering with fellow cinephiles at historic venues like the Contemporary Arts Center, while enjoying delectable local cuisine and cocktails. With engaging talkbacks with filmmakers post-screening, attendees can delve into the creative processes behind the films, providing valuable insights that transcend the screen. Highlighting community engagement, this festival collaborates with over 50 local nonprofits, ensuring that tickets are accessible to residents of all ages, fostering a shared appreciation for cinema as an art form. Such efforts solidify New Orleans as not just a backdrop but as a character in its own right, infused with rhythm and life. Join The Celebration! As the New Orleans Film Festival approaches, the excitement builds. Whether you're a resident hungry for local stories or a visitor eager to experience New Orleans culture, this festival promises to deliver. From showcasing groundbreaking films to engaging dialogues with creators, there’s something for everyone at NOFF. If you enjoyed this story, why not stay connected? Join New Orleans Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive local information.

11.16.2025

Join the Magic of Middle-earth at An Evening with the Hobbits in New Orleans

Update New Orleans Welcomes the Icons of Middle-earthAs fans of the enchanting world of J.R.R. Tolkien gear up for the anticipated 25th anniversary celebration, the Crescent City is set to become the epicenter of Hobbit fandom. In 2026, Sean Astin, Billy Boyd, Dominic Monaghan, and Elijah Wood will grace the stage at An Evening with the Hobbits: In Celebration of 25 Years, a vibrant mashup of storytelling, humor, and heartfelt reflections that promises to be more than just a panel. This dynamic event will take place during FAN EXPO New Orleans on January 10, 2026, making it a must-visit for local residents and Tolkien enthusiasts alike.What to Expect at An Evening with the HobbitsAttendees can look forward to an unforgettable evening filled with personal anecdotes, behind-the-scenes stories from the set, and new surprises that reveal the enduring friendships formed on location in New Zealand. Andrew Moyes of FAN EXPO HQ summarizes it perfectly: “The joy they bring to audiences is unmatched.” As the stars reminisce about their adventures, fans will be treated to a variety show experience that captures the magical atmosphere of their time spent as beloved characters.A Visual Feast for New Orleans FansNew Orleans is no stranger to celebratory gatherings. The city's rich culture, culinary delights, and energetic nightlife create a festive backdrop for this special event. Fan gatherings like this highlight the community’s love for film and pop culture, alongside New Orleans’ unique flair for entertainment. From the historic architecture to the bustling music scene, fans can indulge in all that the city offers before and after they share laughs with the Hobbits.Exclusive Access and Experiences AwaitTickets for this splendid evening will go on sale starting October 22 at 10 a.m. CT, and with VIP packages available, fans can elevate their experience with special photo ops and autograph sessions. This celebration of friendship and nostalgia is expected to sell out quicker than a pint at the Green Dragon Inn, making early booking essential. Merchandise and collectibles exclusive to the event will also be available, ensuring fans leave with more than just memories.Why This Reunion MattersAs the 25th anniversary approaches, Elijah Wood has expressed the surreal nature of celebrating such a significant milestone. “It’s abstract, but it keeps the story alive and fresh,” he reflects, emphasizing the ongoing connection fostered between cast and fans through events like this.Join the excitement of this momentous occasion in New Orleans, a city that thrives on vibrant interactions and artistic expressions. Whether you’re a dedicated follower of Tolkien or simply curious about the event, FAN EXPO New Orleans promises a night filled with laughs, storytelling, and new memories. If you enjoyed this story, why not stay connected? Join New Orleans Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive local information!

10.27.2025

Empowerment Through Art: Screening ‘Leading Ladies of Hurricane Katrina’ at The Broad

Update Filmmaking for Change: The Story Behind "Leading Ladies of Hurricane Katrina"On Sunday, October 19, 2025, the Broad Theater in New Orleans will host a free screening of Royd Anderson's compelling documentary, Leading Ladies of Hurricane Katrina. This 29-minute film brings to light the incredible stories of four women who played vital roles in Louisiana’s recovery after one of the most devastating hurricanes in U.S. history. Attendees will not only view the film but will also have the opportunity to engage with Anderson and two of the featured women—Sandy Rosenthal and Jeannie Tidy—during a Q&A session.Katrina, which struck on August 29, 2005, was not just a natural disaster but a social catastrophe that claimed nearly 1,400 lives and left a staggering $201 billion damage in its wake. It’s crucial to remember that amidst the chaos and destruction, courageous leaders emerged from the shadows, particularly women, who often go unrecognized in the narratives of such disasters.A Lesson in Resilience: The Women Who LedThe documentary zeroes in on leaders like former Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco, Sandy Rosenthal, who founded Levees.org, Jeannie Tidy of Community Visions Unlimited, and LiLi Stahler-Murphy, creator of the Ground Zero Hurricane Museum. Anderson emphasizes the significance of documenting these stories, as they reflect not just individual bravery but collective resilience. "These women stepped forward in unimaginable circumstances to serve, guide, and rebuild," he said.This exploration of women's leadership speaks to a broader cultural theme, empowering future generations to learn from their experiences and rise to challenges, even ones far less dramatic than disaster recovery.Join the Conversation: Why This Screening MattersAttending the screening is more than just watching a film; it’s an invitation to participate in a vital community dialogue. After the screening, those present will have the chance to engage in discussions that include reflections on the film and insights from the filmmakers and prominent community leaders. This event is a reminder of how personal stories are crucial to understanding the fabric of our community.Making Art Accessible: How to AttendSecuring a seat for this free event is easy, but necessary. Reservations can be made at levees.org, ensuring that everyone gets a chance to contribute to this meaningful conversation. With limited seating available, it's advisable to reserve your place well in advance.As you make plans to attend, consider the impact of engagement with local arts and culture. Events like this aren’t just pastimes; they are historical moments that shape our understanding of the world around us and inspire future leaders.