Festival New Orleans set for London
Tuesday, 30 September 2008 12:00 AM
Airport passenger with luggage
The unmistakable sounds, sights, tastes and styles of New Orleans are set to descend on London later this year, with the O2 becoming home to Festival New Orleans.
Coinciding with the New Orleans Saints' official NFL game against the San Diego Chargers at Wembley, London is preparing for one of the largest ever celebrations of New Orleans music and culture outside of Louisiana and the USA.
A city steeped in history, New Orleans is famed around the world for the wealth and diversity of its cultural heritage. 'The Big Easy' has a deserved reputation as a party town, where the residents and visitors know how to have a good time and let their hair down.
"We learned from our research that potential visitors to Louisiana, especially our international friends, wanted more information about what there is to see and do in the state and they especially want to know what Louisiana locals do for fun," said Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana Mitch Landrieu.
"We listened and we are bringing Louisiana's unique culture to London with the largest showcase of Louisiana sports, food, music and arts ever seen outside of the borders of the United States."
The event takes place at the O2 in London between October 24th and 25th.
The undercover event will also feature Louisiana food demonstrations, the Mardi Gras Indians and a host of authentic New Orleans attractions, including a recreation of the French Quarter's famous Bourbon Street.
Chris O'Toole
