With the New Year’s holiday upon us, the French Quarter Enhanced Security Zone has been re-established. Andrew Greenstein reports.
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For a fifth consecutive year, Louisiana will have a float in the Tournament of Roses New Year’s Day parade in Pasadena, California. Jeff Palermo has the story
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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.
Berrincha says visitors staying in hotels on Bourbon Street should use the entrances on Royal Street or Dauphine Street if possible.
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With the exception of emergency purposes, vehicles are prohibited from entering the zone – essentially Bourbon Street and one block in either direction. Glade Bilby, the president of The French Quarter Citizens, says he agrees with that move.
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Bilby says in light of what happened at the outset of this year, New Orleans has no other option but to take extra precautions and significantly beef up security to give visitors peace of mind.
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As the clock ticks towards midnight, some people will be celebrating the end of 2025 and the beginning of 2026 by popping fireworks. If you’re among them, there are things you need to know to stay safe. Ken Pastorick with the Office of the State Fire Marshal says when shooting fireworks, make sure you’re in an open area.
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Pastorick 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.
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Pastorick says kids should never handle fireworks. Some adults may give kids sparklers instead; Pastorick says that’s a bad idea too.
Pastorick says the best things to give kids are glow sticks.
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Louisiana State Parks wants residents to take a hike! Assistant Secretary for Louisiana State Parks, Brandon Burris, says there will be free admission to State Parks on New Year’s Day and January 2nd so people can begin the new year with a hike to connect with the outdoors…
Burris says for a full listing of events and to plan your First Day Hike, visit the Louisiana State Parks First Day Hikes webpage…
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Burris says First Day Hikes are a great way to get moving and enjoy the beautiful landscapes at State Parks…