After three days off, the gates are open once again at the Fair Grounds for locals Thursday. Along with rain boots, every good Fest-goer needs some insider information to navigate the second weekend. Click through to view the Cube picks, and peruse NoDef's Fest coverage so far.

Tonight, live outdoor concerts from the Treme to Mid-City, New Orleans’ Second Annual Puppet Festival, and Ogden After Hours. Happy Birthday to Ervin “Vin” Bruce, noted Cajun musician and Lafayette native, born on April 25, 1932. Now, more to do this Thursday. 

Saturday is High Fest, as 20 stages are available for listening pleasure in the French Quarter. Any stroll through the Vieux Carre is sure to tantalize the aural inclinations. Once again, April Siese mines the schedule for a handful of French Quarter Fest gems:

Photos by Ryan Hodgson-Rigsbee

Early Sunday afternoon about a dozen brass bands representing local middle and high schools assembled within sight of the statue of Satchmo's statue in Armstrong Park to compete in the Jazz & Heritage Foundation's Class Got Brass contest.  O. Perry Walker High School took top honors, winning $10k worth of instruments for five minutes' worth of showtime, a rate that would impress even Kermit Ruffins.  

The entrance of Armstrong Park was abuzz with brass this morning as People United for Armstrong Park announced the lineup for Jazz in the Park 2013. Now on its third full season, the free Thursday night series that brings New Orleans music back to its spiritual home in Congo Square is bringing big names to the stage every Thursday from April 18 to June 13. Look out for Glen David Andrews, Big Chief Bo Dollis and the Wild Magnolias, Colin Lake, Flow Tribe, and the Joe Krown Trio, just to name a few. 

Monday is back, but there’s still plenty of live music, fashion, and fun to be had all over the city. On this day in 1864, Michael Hahn became the Federal Governor of Louisiana. Now, more ways to kick off your workweek. 

The weekend is over, but there’s still plenty to do to kick off your workweek. Enjoy comedy, film, live music, and more all over New Orleans. On this day in 1989, former KKK grand wizard David Duke was elected to the Louisiana legislature. Now, more to do this Monday.

Things have quieted down in the Crescent City, so enjoy the moment of calm before Carnival kicks into high gear. From St. Claude to Oak Street, see live music with banjos, ukuleles, and Hammond B3 Organs. On this day in 1824, Louisiana abolished the poll tax with the ratification of the 24th amendment. Now, more to do this Monday.

Tonight, sendoff Hedwig at the Allways, have a pint at the Irish House, or hit up Frenchmen for some jazz, funk, and more. Happy Birthday, Big Freedia! The local bounce legend makes 35 today. Read on for more theater and music to see and hear this Monday.

Tonight, catch a flick on OC Haley, hear a Cajun fiddler and a New Orleans trombonist on Frenchmen, or get funky on Oak Street. Happy 75th Birthday to Grammy winner Art Neville, born December 17, 1937. Now, more Monday events.