The Super Bowl momentum continues into the Spring and beyond with exciting programming at the French Quarter’s most welcoming historic house museum, located at 1113 Chartres Street.
Renowned scholar Dr. Kim Vaz-Deville will offer a talk on the History of the Baby Dolls, Wednesday, February 19, at 6 p.m. The Baby Dolls, an all-Black women’s Mardi Gras tradition, have a unique and powerful story in the city’s celebration of Carnival. This event will explore the historical and cultural significance of the Baby Dolls, shedding light on how Black women have shaped Mardi Gras in New Orleans for over a century. Tickets: $5 for BK House members, $10 for non-members at www.bkhouse.org. Doors open at 5:30, light refreshments served.
Following the Barkus Parade, T Marie & Bayou Juju will be featured in a lively Courtyard Concert Sunday, February 23, at 6 pm. This is a BYOD (Bring Your Own Dog) event! The band plays traditional and original Louisiana music, blending Cajun, Creole, Country, New Orleans, Swamp Pop and Zydeco. This concert will provide a relaxed atmosphere for owners with well-behaved dogs to continue the Mardi Gras festivities. Tickets: $25 for BK House members, $30 for non-members at www.bkhouse.org. Light refreshments served, but guests are encouraged to bring their favorite beverages. Dogs must remain on leash in the courtyard and a liability disclaimer will be required when making reservations.
The Historic BK House & Gardens highlights its Italian heritage with a series of celebrations, including the annual St. Joseph’s Altar, honoring the Patron Saint of Sicily March 20-21. Once home to the Corrado Giacona Family from the 1890s to 1925, BK House embraces this sacred Sicilian tradition which has been celebrated in the French Quarter since Sicilian immigrants began arriving in the city in the late 19th century. Following a private blessing, the altar will officially open at 11 am on the 19 and remain available for viewing March 20-21 from 10 am – 3 pm. Each visitor will be given a traditional prayer card, an Italian cookie, blessed bread, and a lucky bean. In preparation for the altar, advanced culinary and financial contributions are welcome. Contact
[email protected] for donation details.
On March 19, there will be an Italian Wine & Food Pairing featuring Sicilian wines, curated by Nina Tramuta, Director of Fine Wines for Southern Glazer’s Louisiana from 6-8 pm. Delicious culinary accompaniments will be provided by Chef Glen Hogh, formerly of Vega Tapas Cafe. Tickets are $65 for BK Members and $75 for non-members. Doors will open at 5:30. While not officially blessed and open for viewing, attendees will have the opportunity to preview the uniquely Sicilian St. Joseph’s Altar at the event.
The cultural celebration continues Sunday, March 23, with an Italian-inspired Courtyard Concert Bon Operatit! at 6 pm. The popular local troupe has presented show-stopping performances since 2009 and will dazzle attendees with a mix of operatic and classic Italian songs. Tickets: $25 for BK House members, $30 for non-members at www.bkhouse.org. Doors open at 5:30. Light refreshments served but guests may bring their own favorite beverages.
Future springtime events at BK House will include the return of the Rhythm & Roses Concert Series in the Parterre Garden, a much-acclaimed French Quarter Kaleidoscopepresentati
on, and a new Dining Through Time seated dinner in May.
Details about upcoming BK House events and membership
information are available at
www.bkhouse.org for those who want to support the Museum and take advantage of future programming discounts
