Local businesses along Lower Decatur Street are coming together on Sunday, May 24 for “Defend Decatur,” a day-long neighborhood event encouraging residents and visitors to support the independently owned bars, restaurants, music venues and shops impacted by ongoing infrastructure work in the area. The construction work is expected to take about five months, and is having a serious impact on the businesses located on Lower Decatur.
Taking place from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. along Lower Decatur Street between Esplanade Avenue and Ursulines Avenue, the grassroots effort will transform participating businesses into a collective showcase of local food, drinks, music, art and culture. Organizers hope the event will create a lively, pedestrian-focused atmosphere centered around supporting the businesses that help define the character of the French Quarter.
The initiative was created by local business owners in partnership with community supporters and is being supported by the City of New Orleans Office of Nighttime Economy, the Office of Economic Development, and New Orleans & Company as part of broader efforts to assist businesses navigating challenges associated with ongoing construction activity in the corridor.
“This is about showing up for the businesses that have been hit hardest,” said Benji Lee, owner of Santos Bar. “These are family-owned spots, neighborhood staples and cultural anchors. They need the community now more than ever.”
Participating businesses will curate their own programming throughout the day, with offerings ranging from live music and DJs to food specials, shopping and neighborhood activations. Organizers encourage attendees to spend the day exploring the corridor and supporting the small businesses that make Lower Decatur a unique part of New Orleans’ cultural landscape.
“As this necessary infrastructure project continues through next September, it is critical that the City and its partners continue to show up for the small business owners on lower Decatur Street who have endured reduced service, staffing cuts, and the loss of economic opportunity as the city’s most profitable events unfolded while being behind a never ending green ‘fence,’” said Michael Ince, director of the New Orleans Office of Nighttime Economy. “As we enter the summer sales slump, we encourage residents and visitors alike to come out and support these independent businesses and the hardworking teams that keep this corridor alive”.
“Defend Decatur” is intended to highlight the importance of supporting local businesses and preserving the cultural and economic vitality of the French Quarter during a difficult period for many operators in the area.
Community members are encouraged to attend throughout the day and follow @defenddecatur on Instagram for updates, participating business announcements and additional event information.
Event Details
When: Sunday, May 24 | 1 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Where: Lower Decatur Street (Esplanade Ave. to Ursulines Ave.)
