If you’re planning on ringing in the new year in the French Quarter, there are things you need to know before you go, especially in light of what happened just after we rang in the start of this year. The French Quarter Enhanced Security Zone is re-established, encompassing an area bound by Canal, Royal, St. Ann and Dauphine streets. State Police Trooper Danny Berrincha says when entering that area, the best rule of thumb is to bring as few items with you as possible.
If you’re planning on popping off fireworks tonight, use some common sense to prevent the celebration from turning to disaster. Ken Pastorick with the Office of the State Fire Marshal says never put dry fireworks debris in garbage cans – embers can ignite and start a fire; and if that can is next to your house, you can burn your house down.
Cut 8 (06) “…the garbage can.”
If you make a fool of yourself ringing in the new year to the point that your significant other tells you to take a hike, do it! You can take a hike in a state park for free tomorrow or Friday, so you can begin the year by connecting with the outdoors. State Parks Assistant Secretary Brandon Burris says you can visit the Louisiana State Parks First Day Hikes webpage for a full listing of events and to plan your First Day Hike.
Cut 11 (07) “…more advanced hikes.”
Another thing you can do tomorrow to ring in the new year is to take in the Sugar Bowl. Georgia and Ole Miss kick things off in the Superdome at seven. If you want to go and still need a ticket, be prepared to fork over some serious coin – tickets on the secondary market start at around 175 dollars. The winner advances to the Fiesta Bowl in Glendale, Arizona, against the winner of tonight’s Cotton Bowl between Miami and Ohio State.