FRIDAY / En plein air: It’s finally cooled down in Nola enough that it is a reasonable temperature to spend time enjoying, not simply tolerating, the outdoors. And what better way to celebrate than attending the Historic New Orleans Collection’s first Concerts in the Courtyard of the season. Featuring local musician Paul Soniat, the concert tickets are $10 (free for HNOC members) and include three complimentary beverages. Kick off your weekend with a cool breeze and cool music in the Quarter. 533 Royal St., 6-8 PM, $10/ticket.
Photo booth after a few martinis at Martini Madness, 2011
SATURDAY / Liquor is quicker: Every week writing the event column, I’m astounded and impressed with the city’s ability to turn every fundraiser into an excuse to drink and eat too much. After all, it’s for a good cause. This particular cause du jour is Friends of City Park’s Martini Madness. Held in the Arbor Room at Popp Fountain, the event is a combination of bar/restaurant, dance party, and nature walk. With the $50 ticket including all food and drinks for the evening, there is no deciding vodka or gin, etouffee or gumbo; try it all! City Park, 7-11 PM, $50/ticket.
SATURDAY / Let it brie: St. James Cheese Company on Prytania is known for its artisanal cheeses, fresh menu, and cheese classes. However, this Saturday, they’re pairing up with the Merchant, a sandwich bar and creperie in the CBD, for a mid-morning class featuring cheese, wine, spirits, and coffee cocktails, served with crepes on the side. While it is guaranteed to be delicious, the classes are also informative. They help take the guesswork out of wine pairings, and who doesn’t want to slip little gems like the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (French cheese laws — aren’t you impressed?) into a first date conversation. Merchant, 800 Common St., 10:30 AM, $35/ticket.
SATURDAY / Live Music Blog: Nola Pick of the Week: This week, head over to the lovely Tipitina’s on Napoleon Avenue for a taste of the New York-based five-piece, The Walkmen, for a down right rock-n-roll fiesta. Fresh off their latest album, Heaven, these guys are bringing their heart and soul of wailing vocals, quick, sweet guitars and raunchy drums to all of our eager ears. Tipitina’s, 501 Napoleon Ave., 10 PM, $18 GA.
Anna Shults is associate editor of NolaVie.
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