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Arts Evening 2023 Postponed Due to Weather

After consulting with several weather sources, speaking with the US National Weather Service New Orleans Louisiana, and talking with many of the bands, artists and Olde Towne business owners, we have made the decision to postpone Arts Evening 2023. This is due to the almost 90% chance of severe thunderstorms (with lightning, wind gusts and possible hail) forecast for Saturday night.
This was not an easy choice to make, and there are many factors to consider. Number one is public safety and our concern for the artists, bands and businesses who will be setting up and preparing for Arts Evening in the middle of a thunderstorm.
The Slidell Big Shot: Zulu 2023 Big Shot Meets Slidell Royalty Mardi Gras Costume Exhibit opening reception will continue as planned on Saturday, April 15, from 5 to 7 p.m. at 2065 Second Street next to Slidell City Hall in Olde Towne. Please join us!
As for the Arts Evening plans, we will shift over all of the artists and bands to White Linen and Lagniappe on Saturday, August 12. Please save the date and we hope that you will be able to join us!
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The New Orleans Mystics with special guest Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr. kick-off spring Bayou Jam concerts

Get ready for another exciting season of great concerts in Heritage Park when the City of Slidell’s popular Bayou Jam fall concert series returns on Saturday, April 22, with a performance by The New Orleans Mystics with special guest Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr. at 5 p.m. Admission is free.
“Bayou Jam concerts are a great way to celebrate as a community,” said Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer. “We invite you to come enjoy a free concert in Heritage Park with your family and friends and start your Saturday night right here in Slidell!”
The schedule for the Bayou Jam Spring Concert Series 2023:
• The New Orleans Mystics with special guest Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr. – Saturday, April 22, 5 p.m.
• Witness – Saturday, April 29, 5 p.m.
• The Sugar Shakers – Saturday, May 6, 5 p.m.
• Northshore Community Orchestra – Saturday, May 13, 5 p.m.
The New Orleans Mystics is a versatile singing group that performs a wide variety of genres, including oldies, Motown, top 40, R&B, disco, jazz, rock and more. They are still true to their original rhythm and blues roots, entertaining crowds numbering in the thousands around the world. Formed in 1972, The New Orleans Mystics wow audiences with their high energy choreography, incredible voices and dazzling outfits. For more information, visit theneworleansmystics.com.
Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr. is a zydeco musician and vocalist from New Orleans. Considered to be the best rub board player in the world, he is a charismatic and electrifying stage performer. His dancing, splits, and audience participation antics make his performance exciting and keep listeners involved and dancing. Dopsie, Jr. has performed around the world and has appeared at the most prestigious music festivals and fairs at home and abroad. For more information, visit rockindopsiejr.com.
Concert‐goers are invited to bring their chairs, blankets, ice chests and picnic baskets to the park to enjoy the free concerts. Concessions will not be sold this season.

The Bayou Jam Concert Series is produced by the City of Slidell Department of Cultural & Public Affairs with the assistance the departments of Parks & Recreation and Public Operations. These Olde Towne Slidell Main Street and Louisiana Cultural District events are sponsored by the City of Slidell’s 2022/2023 Cultural Season Sponsors, including Edge of the Lake Magazine and the Lake 94.7; Plus+ Publications; The Slidell Independent; Slidell Magazine; Slidell Savings Magazine; Slidell Memorial Hospital and Ochsner; Silver Slipper Casino; Councilman Bill and Laura Borchert; Lori’s Art Depot; Purple Armadillo Again; Lowry-Dunham, Case & Vivien Insurance Agency; P. David Carollo, Attorney At Law; CiCi’s Pizza; Mayor Greg Cromer; Old School Eats Food Truck; Roberta’s Cleaners; and Slidell Historical Antique Association.

For more information about this event, please call the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375. For City of Slidell news and events, please visit MySlidell.com and sign up for our e-news updates, and follow us on the “City of Slidell” Facebook page.

In the event of inclement weather, please check the city’s website or Facebook page for the latest information. Cancellation decisions will be made by 1 p.m. on the day of the event.

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Street Closures in Olde Towne on April 15 for Arts Evening

In preparation for Arts Evening on Saturday, April 15, 2023, the City of Slidell is announcing that several streets in Olde Towne Slidell will be closed to traffic during this event.

Streets will be closed on April 15 from 2:00 to 10:00 p.m. Streets affected include areas of First Street, Erlanger Avenue, Second Street, Bouscaren Street, Cousin Street, Carey Street and Robert Street. Access to the U.S. Post Office in Olde Towne will not be obstructed.

Mayor Greg Cromer invites citizens to come view the works of over 50 artists and arts organizations that will be on display at over 30 locations throughout Olde Towne during Arts Evening, plus live entertainment from 8 different bands, antique and boutique shopping, and casual and fine dining at participating locations.

Citizens should not park within the Arts Evening street closure area on Saturday, April 15 from 2 to 10 p.m. For public safety, bollards will be placed throughout Olde Towne and any vehicles left inside the bollards will not be able to leave Olde Towne until 10 p.m. when the bollards are removed.

For more information about Arts Evening, please visit the city’s website at MySlidell.com or call the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375.

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Arts Evening highlights arts, entertainment, shopping and dining in Olde Towne Slidell

UPDATE:

After consulting with several weather sources, speaking with the US National Weather Service New Orleans Louisiana, and talking with many of the bands, artists and Olde Towne business owners, we have made the decision to postpone Arts Evening 2023. This is due to the almost 90% chance of severe thunderstorms (with lightning, wind gusts and possible hail) forecast for Saturday night.
This was not an easy choice to make, and there are many factors to consider. Number one is public safety and our concern for the artists, bands and businesses who will be setting up and preparing for Arts Evening in the middle of a thunderstorm.
The Slidell Big Shot: Zulu 2023 Big Shot Meets Slidell Royalty Mardi Gras Costume Exhibit opening reception will continue as planned on Saturday, April 15, from 5 to 7 p.m. at 2065 Second Street next to Slidell City Hall in Olde Towne. Please join us!
As for the Arts Evening plans, we will shift over all of the artists and bands to White Linen and Lagniappe on Saturday, August 12. Please save the date and we hope that you will be able to join us!
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Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer invites you to join the City Slidell for the 29th annual Arts Evening on Saturday, April 15, from 5 to 9 p.m. in Olde Towne Slidell.
One of the largest cultural festivals on the Northshore, Arts Evening features over 50 artists displaying their works at over 30 locations in Olde Towne Slidell. In addition to the artwork, there will be live entertainment; antique, boutique and unique shopping; fine and casual dining and surprises on every corner of Olde Towne. Admission is free.
“Arts Evening is one of Olde Towne’s biggest nights, and I invite you to bring your family and friends to Olde Towne and join us for a great night of art and entertainment in Slidell,” said Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer. “I would like to thank all of the Olde Towne restaurants and businesses who participate during this event.”
The festivities kick-off at 5 p.m. with the opening of the “Slidell’s Big Shot: Zulu Big Shot 2023 Meets Slidell Royalty” Mardi Gras costume exhibit at 2065 Second Street, next to Slidell City Hall. The exhibit will feature costumes worn by Terrance McGuire, the 2023 Zulu Big Shot and a Slidell resident, and Zulu memorabilia. Mardi Gras costumes worn by Slidell Mardi Gras royalty will also be on display.
Artists will be displaying their works at many locations throughout Olde Towne:
  • Borchert Law at Notting Hill: John Paul Duet, Elsa Baker, Barbara Shaw, Len Heatherly, and Solange Ledwith with Swamp Girl Glass
  • Dellsperger Studio: Connor Carollo
  • Green Oaks Apothecary: Eva Eaton, Amanda Douglas with Amanda Douglas Designs, Tristen Rolling with Swamp Sprouts, Jessica Moody, Jordan Smith, Jessica Little, Jena Smith Pendarvis, David Guastella with David Guastella Art, Nancy Gaines with Backyard Pottery, Mandi Jackson with Henna By Mandi, Ty Anderson, Crimzen Hart with CrimZen, Sharon Winstine with Bayou Rose Designs, Amber Ryan, Brittany & Maleigh Ballard with Bee & Lee, Stephanie Caranna with Indigo Graffiti Designs, Anita Van-Scooter Westmoland with Rock Candy, Tee Cee with Cultivating Culture, and Ashley Faciane with Heal.th.eory
  • Heidelberg’s Bar: Frankie Muller, David Schmit
  • Lowry-Dunham, Case & Vivien: Oksana Fogg, Nell Landry, Amelia Mimms, Martin Needom, Katie Case, Charlotte Collins, Colleen Marquis, and William Blackwell
  • Olde Towne Hatchet House: Tiffany Neal
  • Roots, Plants & Coffee: Deborah Thompson and Pete Karzenzia
  • Slidell City Hall Community Meeting Room: Andree’ Maduell, Kevin Walgamotte,  Jerry Speer
  • Slidell Cultural Center at City Hall: Salad Days Juried Exhibition of Student Art
There will be plenty of live entertainment throughout Olde Towne Slidell:
  • 8Track from 5 to 7 p.m. at Slidell City Hall
  • Band of Brothers from 5 to 9 p.m. at the corner of Cousin and First streets
  • Missi and Ray (from Witness) from 7 to 9 p.m. at the corner of Erlanger and First streets
  • Northshore Community Orchestra Jazz Ensemble from 5 to 7 p.m. on First Street by Green Oaks Apothecary
  • Ozone Music Songwriters Showcase from 5 to 9 p.m. at the corner of Robert and First streets
  • Sara, Jim and Jeff from 5 to 7 p.m. on First Street by Pontchartrain Investment Management
  • Uke Box Hereauxs from 5 to 7 p.m. on First Street by Dellsperger Studio
Food and drinks will be available for purchase at many of Olde Towne’s finest establishments, including
  • Bistro 55
  • Brass Monkey
  • Deanasco’s
  • Electric Avenue
  • Heidelbergs
  • K.Y.s
  • The Maple Room
  • Old Town Soda Shop
  • Olde Towne Hatchet House
  • Olde Towne Pizza
  • Restaurant Cotè
  • Roots Plants and Coffee
  • Tacos and Beer
  • Whiskey and Ashe
For more information about Arts Evening, call the department of Cultural Affairs at (985) 646-4375 or visit MySlidell.com. A digital brochure with more information will be posted several days before the event.
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City offices closed April 7 in observance of Easter holiday

Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer and the members of the Slidell City Council would like to wish everyone a Happy Easter!

In observance of the Easter holiday, city offices will be closed on Friday, April 7. for Good Friday and will reopen during regular hours on Monday, April 10, 2023.

Essential personnel will remain on duty, should an emergency arise. If Slidell residents experience problems with their water or sewer service, they should call the City Services 24-hour emergency hotline at (985) 643-6140.

 

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‘Slidell’s Big Shot: Zulu Big Shot 2023 Meets Slidell Royalty’ Mardi Gras Costume Exhibit opens April 15 during Arts Evening

The City of Slidell is honored to host “Slidell’s Big Shot: Zulu Big Shot 2023 Meets Slidell Royalty” a Mardi Gras costume exhibit featuring Zulu Big Shot 2023 Terrance McGuire’s Zulu Big Shot costume. His wife Hyacinth’s costume will also be on display, along with other Zulu memorabilia.

The Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club was formed in 1909 and the Krewe is known for their colorful floats and elaborate costumes. Their signature throw, hand-painted coconuts, are highly sought after each year. Zulu’s Big Shot character was created in the 1930’s by member Paul E. Johnson. The role of the Big Shot is to one-up the King, by throwing more elaborate parties and wearing flashy clothing. The Big Shot is second only to the King.

Mardi Gras costumes worn by Slidell Mardi Gras royalty will also be on display. The costumes are on loan from the Slidell Mardi Gras Museum, from the collection of museum curator Bonnie Vanney.

“Terrance is the first Zulu Big Shot from Slidell and we are honored to have the opportunity to display his costume in the City of Slidell,” said Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer. “I would like to thank Terrance and his family, Bonnie Vanney and the Slidell Mardi Gras Museum, and the staff of the Dept. of Cultural & Public Affairs for putting together this exhibit for our citizens.”

The opening ceremony will be held at 5 p.m. in conjunction with the City of Slidell’s 29th annual Arts Evening, a large art block party featuring artists, live entertainment, fine and casual dining and unique shopping opportunities in Olde Towne Slidell. Both events take place on Saturday, April 15, 5 to 9 p.m. Admission is free.

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UPDATE: Boil Water Advisory lifted for Palm Lake, Camellia Dr. and Bonfouca Dr. areas

3/25/23, 10 AM UPDATE: The Boil Water Notice has been lifted.



Due to a contractor boring through a 10 inch water main line on the corner of Pontchartrain and Front Street yesterday, the following areas of Slidell are under a Boil Water Advisory:

  • Palm Lake
  • Camellia Drive
  • Bonfouca Drive and all side streets

All affected areas have been notified by the City of Slidell. The boil water advisory will be in effect until the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals analyzes all the water samples. It usually takes several days. Everyone will be notified once the Boil Water Advisory has been lifted.

For more information on what to do during a Boil Water Advisory: https://foodsafety.ces.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/CDC-What-to-Do-During-a-Boil-Water-Advisory-3.pdf
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Salad Days Student Art Exhibit now on display at City Hall

Salad Days are here again!

After a few years off due to the pandemic, the Salad Days Juried Exhibition of Student Art returned this year with an opening reception and award presentation on Friday, March 10. The 32nd annual exhibit, featuring the works of St. Tammany Parish students from kindergarten to 12th grade, is currently on display in the George Dunbar Gallery Gallery at the Slidell Cultural Center at City Hall.

“We are incredibly blessed to have so many talented students here in St. Tammany Parish and I would like to congratulate all the Salad Days artists,” said Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer. “I invite everyone to come to City Hall and see these amazing works of art.”

This year’s juror is Victoria Allen, an editorial illustrator, artist and art teacher. A former Salad Days student, Allen started painting when she was young and had work accepted into local and regional exhibits. Her more recent work has been showcased, recognized, and received awards in numerous exhibitions and competitions both statewide and nationally. Allen graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BFA in Illustration from Savannah College of Art and Design, and then worked in New York City as an illustrator with Imaginary Forces. In 2020, she received her Master’s in Mass Communication and Certificate in Strategic Communications from Louisiana State University. She now works as a Social Media & Creative Strategist for TILT advertising agency in Baton Rouge and is also an Adjunct Professor of Visual Communication at LSU Manship.

Salad Days entries are divided into four age categories. First, Second, Third and Honorable Mentions are awarded in each category.

Category A (5 – 8 years old)

  • 1st Place – Laura Chin, Flamingo
  • 2nd Place – Matthew Landry, Blue Jay
  • 3rd Place – Jack Tomasich, Monet of Flowers
  • Honorable Mention – Dru Chagnard, The Lost Alligator
  • Honorable Mention – Laura Chin, Springtime Bears

Category B (9 – 11 years old)

  • 1st Place – Ashley Mannin0, Blue and Me
  • 2nd Place – Owen Davenport, The Wolf and the Starry Night
  • 3rd Place – Aaliyah Atamanyuk, Pretty in Pink
  • Honorable Mention – Albert Bernard Jr., The Prince of Rails
  • Honorable Mention – Dylan Landry, Bruce the Moose
  • Participating artists – Joseph Bordes, Amelia Chin, Rhyan Higginbottom, Morgan Roberts, and Olivia Yi

Category C (12 – 14 years old)

  • 1st Place – Hana Wall, To See Clearly
  • 2nd Place – Hana Wall, Cursing Imagination
  • 3rd Place – Max Stark, Tiger
  • Honorable Mention – Melanie Clapp, Dog
  • Honorable Mention – Cambrie Roger, A Glimpse of Peace
  • Participating artist – Camille Hicks

Category D (15- 18 years old)

  • 1st Place – Zoe Boudreaux, Fishy Business
  • 2nd Place – Abigail Gumpert, Misery Loves Company
  • 3rd Place – Connor Carollo, Chess with Grandpa
  • Honorable Mention – Kaiden McKleroy, Apres la nuit
  • Honorable Mention – Ella Steele, Serendipity
  • Participating artists – Kate Marks, Nhi Nguyen, Alexis Cierra St. Romain, Rylie Richards, and Isabella Vindell

The Slidell Cultural Center is located at 2055 Second Street, on the first floor of Slidell City Hall. Gallery Hours are Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 12 to 4 p.m. Gallery viewings are by appointment only by calling the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375. Same day appointments are available. Admission is free.

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St. Patrick’s Day Parade is Sunday, March 12 – Olde Towne Street Closures Announced

In preparation for the Olde Towne Merchant Association’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade at 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 12, several streets in the Olde Towne area will start closing at 6:00 a.m.

For public safety, any vehicle that is left parked along the parade route after 6 a.m. on Sunday, March 12, will be towed at the owners expense.

This includes sections of:

  • Bouscaren St.
  • First St.
  • Erlanger Ave.
  • Fremaux Ave.
  • Teddy Ave.
  • Front St.
  • Carey St.
  • Cousin St.
  • Robert St.
  • Brakefield St.
  • Guzman St.
  • Bryan St.
  • Cleveland Ave.
  • Bilten Ave.
  • Mayfield Ave.
  • Old Spanish Trail
  • Lee St.
  • College St.
  • William Tell St.
  • Ciruti St.

Please refer to the parade route map to see the affected streets.

The Slidell Police Department will begin closing down streets along the parade route to vehicular traffic at a later time. Please do not congregate in the streets until all the streets are closed.

 

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Olde Towne Streets closed March 18 for Elite Fishing Block Party

In preparation for the Elite Fishing Weigh-in event and Block Party on Saturday, March 18, several streets in Olde Towne Slidell will start closing at 8:00 a.m. This includes sections of Bouscaren, First and Cousin streets.

The City of Slidell is happy to partner with Elite Fishing Series, Louisiana Northshore and Olde Towne Slidell Main Street for this event on Saturday, March 18, from 10 am to 6 pm. Admission is free.

Once bollards are in place, any vehicle that is inside the perimeter will not be able to exit Olde Towne until after 6 p.m., when the bollards are removed. Once bollards are in place, no vehicles will be able to enter or leave the closed off areas in Olde Towne.

For more information about this event, please visit https://eliteredfishseries.com/tour-stop-2/

 

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