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Essence Festival of Culture is once again happening soon in New Orleans. This time, with all the star-studded celebrity performances and appearances, it hits different.
Everything You Need To Know About Essence Fest 2024
As always, you can expect tons of delicious food, great entertainment and some career advancement forums and workshops. It’s also one of New Orleans’ top festivals.
Held over Fourth of July weekend at the Caesars Superdome and throughout downtown New Orleans, this multi-day party named for its founder and sponsoring magazine combines high-octane music performances with inspirational speakers and provocative conversations about gender, race, culture, and art.
The popular event brings a slew of big names to New Orleans for large evening performances, intimate lounge shows, and DJ parties. By day, the Empowerment Experience spotlights dozens of speakers on thought-provoking topics such as religion, economics, and education. These are traditionally free.
Dozens of vendors have displays set up in different locations around the Superdome and park areas that are temporarily turned into outdoor markets. You can expect to see a variety of quality fine art and crafts from clothing and jewelry, to collectible paintings and sculptures. All art displays and demonstrations will represent the rich culture developed from all over the African Diaspora.
There is also a pre-party day of service where attendees join leaders from local nonprofits for a day dedicated to supporting New Orleans with a community project.
The Essence Expo Experience includes seminars and workshops on a wide range of topics including beauty and style as well as power and finance. Attendees can participate in live tutorials, free consultations, fashion and makeup presentations, and more.
Essence Festival was started in 1994 as a one-time event to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Essence, a magazine aimed towards African American women. The festival was so well-received, organizers decide to make it an annual event. It has evolved into the nation’s premier showcase for contemporary African American music and culture.
When Is Essence Fest 2024 Taking Place?
Held traditionally the Fourth of July weekend, this year’s Essence Fest will be no different. The event is scheduled to take place July 4-7, 2024.
What Musical Guests Will Be At Essence Fest?
Headliners include Janet Jackson, Charlie Wilson, and Birdman & Friends, who will also honor three decades of Cash Money Millionaires. Stay tuned for more on who’s performing.
Among the performers for Essence Fest this year are:
- Janet Jackson
- Charlie Wilson
- Birdman & Friends
- Usher
- D-Nice
- Victoria Monét
- Tank and The Bangas
- The Roots & Friends
- The Roots & Friends
- Busta Rhymes
- TGT
- SWV
- Ayra Starr
- Frankie Beverly & Maze
- Jacquees
How Much Does Essence Fest Cost?
The general festival admission is free, however it does cost to attend the Experiences.
You will have access to enter the Caesars Superdome, where you will be free to view Mainstage and Super lounge performances. Your ticket guarantees you a designated seat to view Mainstage performances. Super lounge performances are first come, first served. Tickets are required for entry into the Caesars Superdome.
Where To Stay For Essence Fest
New Orleans hotels are quickly filling up for Essence Fest. If you’re looking to book in New Orleans, here are some rates we’re seeing two weeks from the event:
- Bourbon Orleans Hotel — $484 a night
- Holiday Inn Downtown — $585 a night
- Hotel Mazarin — $385 a night
- La Pavillon — $302 a night
- The Roosevelt New Orleans — $502 a night
Final Word
As one of the top festivals in the city, Essence Fest always draws thousand of people to New Orleans, which helps the local economy.
The city draws more than 130 events a year, according to its Chamber of Commerce. Many of these events are conventions, but a good number are festivals as well.
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it’s just about that time of year in New Orleans, when it’s time to boogaloo. The Bayou Boogaloo. features all the things you’d expect at a top New Orleans festival.
You’ll find great food, arts and crafts tents, boat races, and live music and more.
When Is Bayou Boogaloo in New Orleans?
This year, Bayou Boogaloo takes place on May 17-19, 2024.
Where Is the Bayou Boogaloo Held?
The Bayou Boogaloo is held along the banks of the Mississippi River. Because it’s expected to be crowded, you may be able to get in the water for a better view.
Hop on a kayak to make the experience even more enjoyable.
Both Canal Streetcar lines stop on Canal Street at Norman C. Francis Parkway, which is just a short stroll to the foot of Bayou St. John at Lafitte Street. Canal Streetcar: City Park / Museum + Cemeteries Canal Street at Jefferson Davis Parkway.
How much does the Bayou Boogaloo cost? Early bird weekend passes are $20.24.
Bayou Boogaloo Music Lineup:
- GZA and the Phunky Nomads
- Nutty Professor with Chali N2a
- Morning 40 Federation
- Lez Zeppelin
- Afroman
- Quintron and Miss Pussycat
- Suplecs
- IFE and MORE.
See the full music lineup here.
Final Word
Festivals are a way of life in Nola. You can expect to indulge in many foods that New Orleans is known For, including Gumbo, Beignets and more.
Read about things to see and do in New Orleans.
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It’s come down to the two best teams in men’s college basketball. No. 1 UConn seeks to defend its title against the also No. 1 Purdue Boilermakers. If you can’t make it to the game, you may be interested in knowing how to stream Monday night’s head-to-head matchup.
This article will tell you how to watch and stream UConn vs. Perdue game, which decides the national championship.
How to stream the UConn vs. Purdue National Championship Game
The title game is being played at State Farm Stadium. UConn-Purdue will air on TBS, TNT and truTV.
UConn-Purdue will be available to stream on TNTdrama.com, TBS.com and truTV.com. NCAA will also have a running stream on its website here.
- Matchup: (1) UConn vs. (1) Purdue
- Time: 9:20 p.m. ET
- Channels: (TBS/TNT/truTV)Date: Monday, April 8, 2024
- Stream:
- Time: 9:20 p.m. ET
You can stream the game for free on FubuTV, which has a 7-day free trial. You can also steam on Max.
Final Word
UConn plays Purdue this Monday, tipping off at 9:20 p.m. ET. No matter if you watch the game or not, after that you’re going to have to tend to your finances.
If you do so, you can save money on travel, what you pay at the grocery store and other expenses.
Read how to get out of debt right now.
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Mardi Gras is the largest gathering in New Orleans, Louisiana, year in and year out. No doubt, there will be lots of fun and plenty of good food that the city is known for. New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell has brought some good news to the city, announcing that krewes could return to their old routes as long as there is adequate security in place.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about Mardi Gras 2023 in New Orleans.
Mardi Gras: Everything You Need To Know
One of the highlights of Mardi Gras in New Orleans is the elaborate parades organized by various krewes (social organizations). Read our guide on the parade routes.
Each parade features colorful floats, marching bands, and costumed riders throwing beads, toys, and other trinkets to the crowd. Some of the most popular parades include those organized by the Krewe of Endymion, Krewe of Bacchus, and Krewe of Zulu.
How Long Is Mardi Gras 2024?
Mardi Gras in New Orleans lasts for several weeks, with the culmination on Fat Tuesday, which is the day before Ash Wednesday. The entire period leading up to Fat Tuesday is filled with parades, parties, and celebrations, often referred to as the Mardi Gras season or Carnival season. The exact duration can vary slightly from year to year, but it usually spans from early January to the day before Ash Wednesday.
When Is Mardi Gras In New Orleans This Year?
Mardi Gras in New Orleans takes place on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024. That is Fat Tuesday and signals the end of the festive holiday season.
Dressing up in colorful costumes and masks is a big part of the Mardi Gras tradition. Many revelers wear elaborate costumes, masks, and accessories to join in the festive atmosphere
King cakes are a traditional Mardi Gras dessert in New Orleans. These oval-shaped cakes are decorated in the colors of Mardi Gras (purple, green, and gold) and often contain a hidden plastic baby figurine. According to tradition, whoever finds the baby in their slice of cake is responsible for hosting the next party or providing the next king cake.
When Should You Go To New Orleans For Mardi Gras?
Because of the high cost of hotels, it makes sense to book a hotel the weekend before Fat Tuesday. That’s when the majority of visitors come to the city and it’s also when some of the largest parades take place.
Book an affordable hotel in New Orleans.
How Long Does Mardi Gras Last In New Orleans?
Mardi Gras festivities typically last more than one day; they go on for several days. In southern Louisiana, celebrations typically kick off about two weeks before Fat Tuesday. After that is the start of Ash Wednesday (the start of Christiandom’s lent tradition).
What Happens At Mardi Gras In New Orleans?
Mardi Gras in New Orleans is more than just watching parades and throwing beads from a hotel balcony. The event is a celebration of the city’s culture.
You’ll see participants usually dressed in some combination of green, gold and purple along with an assortment of beads. There are also colorful floats that represent many of the city’s krewes, or social clubs.
Along with the parades and music, there will be second-line bands and plenty of parades.
: The French Quarter is the heart of the Mardi Gras festivities in New Orleans. The streets are filled with music, dancing, and revelry, and many bars and restaurants host special events and parties during this time
Why Do They Throw Beads In New Orleans?
You might be intrigued to know why people throw beads in New Orleans. Lore has it that the practice can be traced to early religious festivals that ushered in the tradition of the lent season.
In modern times, the beads have come to symbolize a hospitable gesture that parade participants engage in to reward the crowds.
How To Attend A Mardi Gras Parade
There will be several parades throughout the city for Mardi Gras. The best place to see the parade routes is here.
Final Word
If you plan on visiting the city for New Orleans, you should know that the area you’re staying in is safe.
Mardi Gras can be a crowded and chaotic event, so it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and follow basic safety precautions. Be respectful of other revelers and local residents, and remember that public intoxication and nudity are not tolerated.
Expect to indulge in many foods that New Orleans is known For, including Gumbo, Beignets and more.
Read about things to see and do in New Orleans.
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If you enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, then New Orleans’ farmers markets are the place to be.
I don’t know where you live in the city, but he grocery store shelves have been pretty empty lately. You may be wondering where you can buy local fruits and vegetables from the farmers market in New Orleans.
What Is New Orleans’ Largest Farmers Market?
The largest farmers market in New Orleans is the Crescent City Farmers Market, which sells a number of quality fruits and veggies.
Farmers market food is not only healthy but is usually much safer for you as it doesn’t typically have the chemicals that are included in supermarket food.
Top Farmers Markets In New Orleans
French Markets in New Orleans offer a viable option that is different from many large retail commercial operations which usually have fruits and vegetables with pesticides and chemical fertilizers.
Let’s look at the top farmers markets in the New Orleans area.
Crescent City Farmers Market
2-48 French Market Pl, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 636-6400
Here’s what one customer says about the New Orleans French Market. “As always great Cajun dishes – po boys, red beans, crawfish etouffee – delicious! Great friendly service and French Quarter ambiance make this a must for every trip to New Orleans.”
Uptown Square Farmers Market
200 Broadway St Suite 130, New Orleans, LA 70118 | (504) 861-4488
Here’s what one customer says about Uptown Square Farmers Market. “Great place to have outdoor breakfast on Tuesday. Choose from muffins, burritos, croissants, fresh juices and coffee for just $1 if you bring a container. Then shop from a huge selection of produce from Louisiana and Mississippi farmers. The citrus is juicy and flavourful. Simply mouth watering.”
University Square, 200 Broadway St, New Orleans, LA 70118 | (504) 861-4488
Here’s what one customer says about the Crescent City Farmers Market. “What a great market with great vendors. Totally enjoyed buying yummy items, Fish, tomatoes, zucchini, fresh flowers, Creole tomato’s etc. Home made soups and other foods. My biggest complaint would be I’d like to see more different type of vendors. Love this market!”
Vietnamese Farmers Market
4861 Alcee Fortier Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70129 | (504) 254-0682
Here’s what one customer says about the Vietnamese Farmers Market. “It is a very traditional Vietnamese street market. Much appreciated to local authorities who granted permit to this kind of events.”
Marche Créole
1001 S Broad Ave, New Orleans, LA 70125 | (504) 521-7385
Marche Créole:is a community-based farmers market that sells quality produce for an affordable price. Check them out.
Final Word
New Orleans has a lot of great restaurants, but it’s also important to support local farmers markets. Not only do these small businesses rely on your cash, but they don’t typically take credit cards, although more of them take SNAP and other public benefit vouchers.
When you buy from farmers markets, you support the growing season in your local area. Fresh fruits and vegetables are vital in any metro area, and in New Orleans, it’s no different.
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Branford Marsalis, a musician born in New Orleans, will come back to his hometown to take on the role of artistic director at the Ellis Marsalis Center for Music.
The homecoming is a long time coming for the New Orleans native and son of the city. Marsalis has been seen as a cultural ambassador for jazz music, helping to popularize the genre and bring it to new audiences around the world.
As a member of the Marsalis family, which includes several prominent musicians, Branford has contributed to a musical legacy that has had a significant impact on the world of music.
Branford Marsalis Heads Home To New Orleans
Marsalis takes the reins of a center named after his late father, who served as the artistic director ther from 2012 to April 2020.
Marsalis is a renowned saxophonist, composer, and bandleader who has achieved success in both jazz and classical music. He has released numerous albums both as a solo artist and with his band.
Marsalis has collaborated with a wide range of musicians across various genres, showcasing his versatility and musical adaptability. His collaborations include work with artists such as Sting, Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, and the Grateful Dead, among others.
He has won multiple Grammy Awards over the course of his career, both for his solo work and collaborations. These accolades highlight his skill and artistry as a musician.
Marsalis has been involved in music education and advocacy, promoting the importance of music in education and society. His work in this area includes teaching, workshops, and supporting music education programs.
Final Word
Live music is a part of New Orleans’ culture for sure. from jazz clubs to the city’s diverse bar scene, from historic cocktail bars to trendy craft beer spots. listening to lie music is a popular nighttime activity, especially in areas like the French Quarter and the Warehouse District.
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Believe or not, Charleston, South Carolina is one of the coolest cities you’ll ever visit. Its restaurant scene is on point and its Southern charm is off the charts.
This article will cover some great things to do in Charleston for a weekend or even during the week.
The Coolest Things To Do In Charleston
No matter if you’re taking a road trip or finding cheap fares to flying into Charleston International Airport, the city is very accessible. Its rich history, culture, and natural beauty make it one of the best places in the Southeast to visit.
Here are some cool things to do in Charleston:
Visit the Historic District
Explore the cobblestone streets and historic buildings in Charleston’s Historic District, which is known for its well-preserved architecture and charming atmosphere.
- Visit Historic Homes and Museums: Charleston is home to several historic homes and museums that offer insights into the city’s past. Places like the Nathaniel Russell House, the Aiken-Rhett House, and the Charleston Museum provide glimpses into different aspects of Charleston’s history and culture.
- Stroll along The Battery: The Battery is a historic defensive seawall and promenade that offers beautiful views of Charleston Harbor. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, admire the antebellum mansions, and enjoy the sea breeze.
- Explore the City Market: The Charleston City Market is a historic market stretching four city blocks and featuring a wide range of vendors selling art, crafts, food, and more. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and soak in the local atmosphere.
- Visit Historic Churches: Charleston is home to several historic churches with beautiful architecture and significant historical importance. St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, the Circular Congregational Church, and the French Huguenot Church are just a few examples worth visiting.
Explore the Area’s Geechee Gullah Culture
The Gullah Geechee people traced their history and culture to the descendants of enslaved West and Central Africans who populated the Carolinas and lived off the area’s coastal rice and African cuisine.
There are several historic sites and museums dedicated to preserving and interpreting Gullah Geechee history and culture. These sites often feature exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs that offer a deeper understanding of the Gullah Geechee experience.
Food is an important part of Gullah Geechee culture, featuring dishes that blend African, European, and Native American culinary traditions. Exploring Gullah Geechee cuisine can involve trying traditional dishes at local restaurants or attending cooking demonstrations and workshops.
Tour the Plantations
Charleston is surrounded by beautiful plantations with stunning gardens and historic homes. Popular plantations to visit include:
- Boone Hall Plantation
- Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
- Middleton Place
Chill Out on the Beach
Charleston is located near several beautiful beaches, including Folly Beach and Isle of Palms. Spend a day relaxing on the sand, swimming in the ocean, or enjoying water sports like surfing or kayaking.
Out top three beaches in the Charleston area are:
Folly Beach
Folly Beach is a vibrant beach community known for its laid-back atmosphere, surfing spots, and fishing pier. It’s a popular destination for beachgoers and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars.
Isle of Palms
The Isle of Palms is a family-friendly beach with a wide stretch of sandy shoreline. It’s known for its clean, clear waters and is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities.
Sullivan’s Island
Sullivan’s Island is a quiet and scenic beach destination known for its natural beauty and historic charm. It’s a popular spot for walking, birdwatching, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Explore the Restaurant Scene
Charleston is known for its fantastic food scene, especially its Southern cuisine. Take a food tour, dine at one of the many acclaimed restaurants, or visit the Charleston Farmers Market to sample local produce and artisanal goods.
Some good places to eat in Charleston that we love:
Xiao Bao Biscuit
Xiao Bao Biscuit offers an eclectic menu that blends Asian flavors with Southern ingredients. The restaurant is known for its creative dishes and casual, welcoming atmosphere.
167 Raw
167 Raw is a popular seafood restaurant known for its fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and other seafood dishes. It offers a casual dining experience with a focus on high-quality ingredients.
Leon’s Oyster Shop
Leon’s Oyster Shop is a laid-back restaurant known for its fried chicken, oysters, and other Southern-inspired dishes. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for a casual dining experience.
Visit Fort Sumter
History buffs will enjoy a visit to Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Take a ferry ride to the fort and explore the museum and historic site.
Walk along the Waterfront Park
Waterfront Park is a beautiful waterfront park with scenic views of the Charleston Harbor. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, relax in the shade of the trees, or cool off in the splash fountain.
Don’t want to walk? You can actually enjoy a nice slow ride along the waterfront street as well or even park your vehicle and just sit to enjoy the waves, wind and seagulls.
Shop on King Street
King Street is Charleston’s premier shopping destination, featuring a mix of high-end boutiques, local shops, and art galleries. Spend some time browsing the shops and finding unique souvenirs.
Lower King Street is known for its historic charm and a mix of local shops, art galleries, antique stores, and specialty shops. This area offers a more eclectic shopping experience with a focus on unique finds and local craftsmanship.
The Fashion District on King Street is home to a variety of clothing stores, from trendy boutiques to classic fashion retailers. You can find a wide range of styles and price points in this area.The Design District is known for its home decor and design stores, offering everything from furniture and lighting to home accessories and interior design services.
Visit the South Carolina Aquarium
The South Carolina Aquarium is a fun and educational attraction for visitors of all ages. Explore the exhibits showcasing marine life from the South Carolina coast and beyond.
Enjoy the Arts
Charleston has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues. Check out the local art galleries, catch a performance at the Dock Street Theatre, or attend a live music event.
Final Word
Finally, a guide that offers some real things for the common person to do and enjoy. f you’re interested in antiques and vintage finds, the Antique District on King Street is the place to go. You’ll find antique shops specializing in furniture, art, collectibles, and more.
New Orleans is a foodie paradise, and its festivals are no exception. Each event boasts a distinct culinary identity, from the spicy gumbo and po’boys of French Quarter Fest to the Creole and Cajun delicacies of the Treme Creole Gumbo Festival. Every bite is an explosion of flavor that complements the festive atmosphere.
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The Detroit Lions barely won last week but this week they face another tough test: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Wanna watch the NFL playoffs?
No cable needed! Lions vs. Bucs is a game you can watch — for free. Keep reading.
How To Watch the Detroit Lions, Tampa Bay Bucs Game on TV/Streaming
You can also steam the game for free on FuboTV, which offers a 7-day trial at no charge.
If you live in Detroit or Tampa Bay, you can watch the game on your local TV affiliate via cable TV or TV antenna.
Matchup: Detroit Lions vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Time: Sun, Jan. 21, 2024 at 3 p.m. ET
Location: Ford Field — Detroit, MI
Channel: CBS
Streaming: FuboTV. or Paramount+
Join Amazon Prime – Watch Thousands of Movies & TV Shows Anytime – Start Free Trial Now
Watching the game for free on Fubo’s sports-centric live TV streaming service will give you practically every game during the NFL regular season and playoffs. This includes streaming every game broadcast nationally or on the NFL Network. Fubo also offers 1,000 hours of cloud DVR storage and a seven-day free trial.
Final Word
The way to watch TV is by using the best streaming services for your particular device.
From gridiron battles to binge-worthy comedies, sports is something we all can enjoy, especially on a New Orleans weekend. Catch today’s Wild Card game is just one of many shows you can enjoy, from “Parks and Recreation,” Premier League soccer, and even WWE Wrestlemania.
When it comes to sports and exercise, you should always make time. That’s why AtlantaFi.com wants to help you with your journey. Check out how to make a home gym for cheap and even lose pounds in a hurry.
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The NFL playoffs have some great games on, but one of the most anticipated is the Kansas City Chiefs vs. the Miami Dolphins matchup. If you want to watch it or stream it on your device, keep reading.
No cable needed! Dolphins vs. Chiefs is the NFL’s first streaming-only playoff game – watch every epic touchdown exclusively on Peacock.
But what if you don’t have Peacock? Can you still watch the football game? Yes!
How To Watch the Kansas City Chiefs-Miami Dolphins Game On TV/Streaming
You can also steam the game for free on FuboTV, which offers a 7-day trial at no charge.
If you live in Kansas City or Miami, you can watch the game on your local NBC affiliate via cable TV or TV antenna.
- Matchup: Miami Dolphins and Kansas City Chiefs
- Time: Saturday, Jan. 13, 2024 at 8:00 p.m ET (5:00 p.m. PT)
- Streaming: Peacock
Final Word
From gridiron battles to binge-worthy comedies, sports is something we all can enjoy, especially on a weekend. Catch today’s Wild Card game, hit TV shows like “Parks and Recreation,” Premier League soccer, and even WWE Wrestlemania for just $30 per year (half off!). Don’t miss out, join the Peacock party today!
When it comes to sports and exercise, you should always make time. That’s why AtlantaFi.com wants to help you with your journey. Check out how to make a home gym for cheap and even lose pounds in a hurry.
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The New Orleans Saints ran the ball for 150+ and quarterback Derek Carr passed for over 250 yards as they beat the Atlanta Falcons 48-17 in the Caesar Super Dome on Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024.
The Saints scored 31 straight points after Atlanta failed to score on fourth down at the 2-yard line in the middle of the third quarter.
New Orleans converted on third down to move the ball from its 2 yard line to the 24.
New Orleans took a 14-point lead early in the third quarter, but the Falcons show no signs of quit.
With a 24-17 lead, the Falcons forced a punt and got the ball back with 11 minutes left in the 3rd.
The winner has a chance to make it to the playoffs, if the Tampa Bay Buccaneers lose to the Carolina Panthers.
Desmond Ridder passed for 231 yards at halftime. Derek Carr had 221 yards and three touchdowns with 8 minutes left in the third quarter.
With 2 minutes left in the half, the Saints were on the move thanks to two neutral zone infractions.
On 3rd & 9 inside the 10 yard line, the Falcons go 3 & out.
The Saints are playing the Atlanta Falcons in a must-win to get into the playoffs.
In the first quarter, the Falcons jumped out to a 14-7 lead.
The Saints went for it on fourth and 2 early in the second quarter and converted.
How The Saints Can Make the Playoffs
After Tampa Bay clinched the NFC South title, the Saints need some help to make the playoffs.
The Seattle Seahawks need to lose to the Arizona Cardinals and the Green Bay Packers need to lose to the Chicago Bears.
How To Watch
What: Atlanta Falcons (6-9)vs. New Orleans Saints (8-8)
When: Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024 at 1 p.m. ET
Location: Mercedes Benz Stadium, Atlanta
Final Word
Football is a religion in the South. Want to leave the house? Catch all the Saints games at your favorite local bar.
