The NOCCA Foundation, in collaboration with the family of Daniel Price, is proud to celebrate the 20th anniversary of “Home for the Holidays” on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at the House of Blues New Orleans, from 6:30 p.m. – midnight. The milestone event features a spectacular lineup of New Orleans legends, including Irma Thomas, Rebirth Brass Band, Kermit Ruffins, John Boutte, DJ Raj Smoove, Flagboy Giz, and Emcee Gralen Banks. Tickets are available now, starting at $79.50, at www.NOCCAFoundation.org/holiday.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the NOCCA Foundation’s Daniel Price Memorial Fund for Aspiring Artists, created in honor of NOCCA alum Daniel Price (Visual Arts, 1993). Since its inception, “Home for the Holidays” has raised over $500,000 to support NOCCA’s talented students, providing scholarships and essential resources.

The Daniel Price Memorial Fund was established in the wake of Daniel Price’s untimely death at the age of 28, when he died protecting his wife from an attacker in San Francisco. The fund is part of NOCCA’s Student Support Program, which offers critical support to young artists in the form of training, supplies, and college scholarships.

“Home for the Holidays was dreamed up by the Price family 20 years ago as a way to turn a profound tragedy into a celebration of Daniel’s life and a legacy of support for NOCCA’s young artists,” said Adonis Rose, executive director of the NOCCA Foundation. “We’re excited to continue honoring Daniel’s legacy and further support our mission of investing in young artists and developing programs that encourage educational excellence and artistic innovation.”

The evening will kick off with a patron party, where Gold and Silver-level patrons will enjoy live performances by Irma Thomas and John Boutte, two of New Orleans’ most beloved artists. The exclusive event includes a buffet dinner, open bar and a silent auction filled with artwork, experiences and other special items. Patrons will also have access to the Parish Room, which offers an open bar throughout the night.

Silver Patron tickets are available for $170, while Gold Patron tickets are $290, with the Gold tier offering reserved seating in the House of Blues loge. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, especially at the Gold level, so early purchases are recommended.

At 8 p.m., the main event begins with an all-star concert lineup featuring Kermit Ruffins, Rebirth Brass Band, DJ Raj Smoove, Flagboy Giz, and surprise guests. Gralen Banks will serve as the event’s emcee, ensuring a lively and entertaining night.

Founded in 1973, the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA) is Louisiana’s premier arts conservatory for high school students, offering programs in disciplines such as Classical Music, Creative Writing, Culinary Arts, Dance, Drama, Jazz, Visual Arts, and more. Admission is competitive and by audition, with students attending at no cost.

The NOCCA Foundation is the school’s nonprofit partner, supporting NOCCA through a range of programs including the Student Support Program, Artists-in-Residence initiatives, and the capital campaign for the school’s home and expansion. The Foundation also hosts events, classes, and exhibitions that enrich the broader community.

General admission tickets for the concert are $79.50, which includes access to the silent auction and a night of unforgettable performances. Tickets can be purchased online at www.NOCCAFoundation.org/holiday.

 

20th Anniversary of “Home for the Holidays”