The New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund (NOTCF), a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the city’s cultural economy and promoting tourism, is set to host its third annual NOTCF Honors Gala on Saturday, January 11, 2025. The event will take place at the iconic Mardi Gras World at the River District from 7 p.m. to midnight.
This year’s gala promises to be an immersive celebration of New Orleans’ vibrant culture, showcasing the city’s rich artistic heritage. Mardi Gras World, known for its festive atmosphere, will provide an immersive setting complete with dinner, live performances, curated artist lounges and an exclusive patron party. The event serves as a major fundraising initiative for NOTCF, supporting its mission to sustain and promote the unique cultural fabric that is essential to New Orleans’ local economy.
“The NOTCF Honors Gala was established to appreciate and uplift the cultural artists of New Orleans. Our goal is to sustain the city’s unique culture that is integral to our local economy,” says Lisa Alexis, NOTCF President and CEO. “We aim to offer a unique and celebratory atmosphere while fostering growth and positive impact in our travel and tourism sectors,” added Alexis.
The 2025 gala will also recognize outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to New Orleans’ cultural landscape. The honorees for this year include:
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Big Chief Monk Boudreaux
- Emerging Artist Award: Troy Sawyer
- Established Artists:
- Culinary Arts: Vance Vaucresson
- Design: Queen Tahj
- Entertainment: Aria Mason
- Literary Arts and Humanities: Sunni Patterson
- Preservation: Darryl Reeves
- Visual Arts and Crafts: Big Chief Victor Harris
Barry Kern, Mardi Gras World Owner, commented, “Mardi Gras in New Orleans is one of the oldest and largest cultural attractions in the world. The NOTCF is a key partner in the continued success of the annual Carnival season. I’m excited to be involved as a past honoree and look forward to continuing the work that this organization does to enhance and preserve our culture.”
The NOTCF Honors Gala is expected to draw a wide range of attendees, from cultural icons to business leaders, all coming together to celebrate and support the city’s cultural heritage.
To view sponsorship packages or purchase tickets, visit Eventbrite.com. For more information about the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund, visit www.notcf.com.
