It’s October—NOLA Music Month, full of exciting events with festivals galore, and something for all music lovers. Check out our OffBeat Weekly Picks (October 3 – 9).

Out of the Boil: A Climate Change Musical
New Marigny Theatre, October 3- 6, doors t 6 p.m.
This inventive and comedic take on climate change is a live musical experience, written by local librarian Rel Farrar. Directed by Danielle Small, known for her work on Waterworld, the Musical, the production offers pre-apocalyptic humor with live piano performances by Neal Todten, and an ensemble of local musical talent that includes Jade Thanars, Laura Bernas, Mike Marina, Amy DeNisco, Rachel Kim, Pete Wolf, Ratty Scurvics, Billie Little and Meagan Miller; the show mixes environmental activism with New Orleans’ flair. Tickets are available for $30 here.

Fête du Cajun Psychedelia featuring Lost Bayou Ramblers & Honey Island Swamp Band
The Joy Theater, October 3, 8 p.m.
Get ready for a night of unique, psychedelic Cajun music as Lost Bayou Ramblers and Honey Island Swamp Band present “The Dark Side of the Swamp.” These well-known local artists will bring their signature sounds to The Joy Theater, blending traditional Cajun music with an electric, experimental twist. You can learn more or purchase tickets here.

NOLAxNOLA Presents An All-Star Tribute to Stevie Wonder
Tipitina’s, October 3, 8 p.m.
This special tribute to the legendary Stevie Wonder features an all-star lineup, including Irma Thomas, Cyril Neville, Kermit Ruffins and Deacon John. Backed by an 11-piece funk orchestra called The Wonderlove All-Stars, performers will focus on Wonder’s iconic 70s hits. With proceeds benefiting local charities, this event promises an unforgettable night of music celebrating the influence of Stevie Wonder on generations of artists. Learn more or purchase tickets here.

NOLA x NOLA Presents Gal Holiday & The Honky Tonk Revue
NOLA Brewing, October 4, 7 p.m.
For fans of classic country, Gal Holiday & The Honky Tonk Revue will perform live at NOLA Brewing as part of the ongoing NOLAxNOLA series. Known for their high-energy performances, the band will treat attendees to a free show filled with honky-tonk rhythms and soulful vocals, blending traditional country with a uniquely modern flair. You can learn more here.

Gretna Fest, 2014, photo by Stephen Maloney

Gretna Fest
Downtown Gretna, October 4-6
Gretna Fest 2024 promises a great weekend of music, food and culture in the heart of Gretna. The festival features an impressive lineup, headlined by country stars Dierks Bentley and Chase Rice, rock legends Steve Miller Band and Blue Öyster Cult, and funk masters Morris Day & The Time. With performances from a wide range of artists, including The Revivalists, Galactic with Jelly Joseph, Natasha Bedingfield, Junior Marvin & The Legendary Wailers, Kermit Ruffins, Amanda Shaw and Rockin’ Dopsie Jr., the festival will celebrate Louisiana’s rich musical heritage. There will also be food vendors, arts, crafts and family-friendly activities. Learn more here.

National Fried Chicken Festival
New Orleans Lakefront, October 5-6, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
This two-day festival celebrates fried chicken with over 45 restaurants from across the country competing for top honors. In addition to mouth-watering dishes, the event offers live music, cooking demos by celebrity chefs and family-friendly activities. The entertainment lineup features Better Than Ezra, Bun B, Teedra Moses, Cupid, Bonerama, Shamarr Allen, Big Sam’s Funky Nation presented by PNC, Choppa, Hasizzle with TBC, Dwayne Dopsie & The Zydeco Hellraisers and more. Held at the New Orleans Lakefront, festival-goers can enjoy a weekend of great food, entertainment, and a range of VIP options. Learn more here.

Que Pasa Fest
Lafreniere Park, October 5 -6, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Celebrating Hispanic heritage, Que Pasa Fest is a two-day event filled with live music, performances, food and cultural activities. Featuring over 25 food vendors and performances from local and international artists, this family-friendly festival highlights the diversity of Hispanic culture and tradition. The event offers a unique opportunity for the community to come together through music and dance. Learn more about the festival and view the full line-up here.

Dana Ives & Neutral Snap: Fall Fest of Friendship
The Rabbit Hole, October 5, 3:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Hosted at The Rabbit Hole, this fall festival features a lineup of local rock bands, including Hey Thanks, The Kissing Disease and Trigger Therapy. In addition to live performances, attendees can enjoy food pop-ups, vintage clothing booths and tarot readings, creating a festive atmosphere with a touch of DIY spirit. Learn more or purchase tickets here.

Trumpet Mafia meets David Torkanowsky
Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro, October 5, 7:30 p.m.
Renowned New Orleans collective Trumpet Mafia, led by Ashlin Parker, teams up with pianist David Torkanowsky for a night of jazz fusion at Snug Harbor. Known for their innovative blend of jazz and hip-hop, Trumpet Mafia’s performances are always dynamic, and this collaboration promises to be a memorable highlight. You can learn more or purchase tickets here.

People Museum
Marigny Opera House, October 6, 7:30 p.m.
Local pop art icons People Museum return to the stage at Marigny Opera House with their unique genre-blending sound. Drawing from New Orleans’ rich musical traditions and pushing sonic boundaries, the band’s performance will highlight their latest creative work, including music inspired by collaborations with local institutions such as the New Orleans Museum of Art. Tickets are available for general admission and VIP seating. Learn more or purchase your tickets here.

Weekly Picks (October 3 – 9)