NEW ORLEANS – The Young Leadership Council’s (YLC) 2017 Wednesday at the Square (WATS) concert series at Lafayette Square in Downtown New Orleans begins today, Wednesday, March 15, and will run every Wednesday through May 24, from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Kicking off the free 12-week concert series today will be Irma Thomas and Jamal Batiste Band.
WATS is an entirely volunteer led event and YLC's largest annual fundraiser helping to raise funds which directly supports YLC's 15 community service projects, working to improve the quality of life in the New Orleans region.
The Downtown Development District (DDD) is a major sponsor of concert music series in the heart of the Central Business District at St. Charles Avenue across from Gallier Hall. Proceeds from food and drink sales will benefit the Young Leadership Council’s community service projects, designed not only to improve the quality of life in the Greater New Orleans area but also to foster leadership skills in young professionals. Parking is available at metered spots around the downtown area. There are also a number of downtown office buildings that have open parking garages for a fee. In addition, public transportation is encouraged and Bike Easy is providing bike valet service at South Maestri Street near Camp Street.
WATS will sell VIP Backstage Passes with access to a VIP viewing area in front of the stage and backstage to mix and mingle with performers. Only a limited number of VIP Backstage Passes are available and they are priced to sell out.
Outside food and beverages are prohibited. All food and beverage is available for purchase using tickets. Tickets can be purchased at each concert with cash or credit card. Tickets are no longer available for purchase in advance.
For the protection of YLC Wednesday at the Square patrons, all pets must be kept on a leash with a maximum length of 6 feet at all times. Animals exhibiting aggressive behavior are not permitted. Owners are asked to immediately remove an animal that exhibits aggressive behavior. By entering the concert area, owners agree to be solely liable for the actions of their pets.
YLC WATS volunteers will receive a YLC Volunteer T-shirt, food tickets, and a wristband for three beverages while volunteering at Lafayette Square.
2017 Wednesday at the Square Schedule:
March 15 – May 24, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
*Rain Dates: May 31, April 7
March 15
Irma Thomas + Jamal Batiste Band
March 22
Amanda Shaw & The Cute Guys + Daria & The Hip Drops
March 29
Marc Broussard + Kristin Diable & The City
April 5
George Porter Jr. & Runnin' Pardners + RumpelSTEELskin
April 12
Jon Cleary and John Papa Gros
April 19
Big Sam's Funky Nation + Naughty Professor
April 26
Flow Tribe + Robin Barnes
May 2
Christian Scott + The Tipitina's Interns
May 3
Kermit Ruffins and Marcia Ball
May 10
PJ Morton + Andrew Duhon Trio
May 17
Headliner TBA + Mia Borders
May 24
Sweet Crude and Tank and the Bangas
