Fireworks, Festivals In New Orleans Turn Independence Day InTo A Season For 2014

Fireworks Fireworks and festivals have been characteristic time Fourth of July in New Orleans, where Independence Day is more than one season. In 2014, however, the party gets a new twist with a surprising amount of patriotically themed theater, including offers of Jefferson Performing Arts Society in Westwego (where a performance July 3 will include a BBQ dinner) for Rivertown Theaters the Performing Arts in Kenner (with Victory Belles), The Swan in Abita Springs (children's show), and Shadowbox Theatre in New Orleans (a spectacle of burlesque).

While the Essence Music Festival (with headliners such as Prince, Lionel Richie and Erykah Badu) and fourth in the river Go dueling barges fireworks are signature events holiday in New Orleans, there are plenty of other entertainment options.

Trinity Episcopal Church, 1329 Jackson Ave The three-hour program, followed by a reception, will feature an honor guard; a procession of veterans and members of early American societies with their flags; plus music from the Marine Corps Band New Orleans, jazz pianist Ellis Marsalis, trombonist Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra, organist / pianist Albinas Prizgintas, and more, June 29 at 15:00 Tickets: Free.

Essence Music Festival 2014 Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, 900 Convention Center Blvd. Has Essence Fest empowerment seminars with nationally recognized speakers, entertainment, market, book fair with author signings, food, art African American, cultural activities and debates, May 3-6. 2014 poster for major concert stage in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome features Prince, Lionel Richie, Mary J. Blige, Jill Scott, Charlie Wilson, Erykah Badu and Ledisi. The Empowerment Experience stage opens 3-5 July at 9 am July 6 at 8 am Admission: Free for daytime activities. Concerts of the late admission (varies).

Essence Festival Day Family Woldenberg Park. The Essence Music Festival has a party with food, music and activities for the whole family. Carla Ferrell hosts the event, with performances by Erica Campbell, Cupid, Full Force, the Nigel Hall Band, Rapper's Delight, Waterseed, Wayna, and more, July 3, 11 am-7 pm Admission: Free.