KENNER, LA – Hudson Group, the largest travel retailer in North America, welcomes Carnival visitors with a festive celebration in New Orleans tradition. From now until Mardi Gras, those arriving or departing from the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport will have the opportunity to experience local culture with variety programming from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. throughout the airport. Travelers can look forward to an appearance from Birdman, the Big Easy Mafia, Mardi Gras Indians, local musicians, DJ's and more.
“We want to give a proper welcome to visitors as soon as they land and a memorable farewell as they depart,” said Carol McElheney, General Manager of Hudson Group's New Orleans operations, said. “In true New Orleans style, we want to highlight the music and culture of the city to leave a lasting impression as travelers return home.”
Today, Wednesday, Feb. 22, the Big Easy Mafia, known as the “Unofficial Official Fan Club of the New Orleans Saints,” will welcome guests for Mardi Gras weekend at Center Stage, located across from Hudson News near Concourse C pre-security. On Thursday, Feb. 23, travelers can expect rapper, record producer and entrepreneur from New Orleans, Birdman, at Center Stage. On Friday, Feb. 24, visitors can experience New Orleans tradition by viewing the Mardi Gras Indians at Center Stage.
The sounds of local jazz musicians will grace travelers in front of the Essence Store in Concourse D on Sunday, Feb. 26. The revelry will come to an end on Wednesday, March 1, as visitors are invited to join in a traditional New Orleans second line to take them home from Center Stage.
All events at Center Stage are pre-security and open to the public. Events within Concourse D are open to travelers with flights in the concourse.