There’s plenty to do this Wednesday evening, whether you want to catch some early opera with a few cold ones in the Warehouse District, hang out with service industry folk in the Bywater, or see some Austin rockers playing at One Eyed Jack’s.  On this day in 1848, Louisiana native Zachary Taylor was elected President of the United States. Now, more Wednesday events. 

Today in the Big Easy, dance in Lafayette Square after work, hear local gigs all over the city, or bounce into the late night hours at the Big Top. For those looking for something a little off the beaten path, “Esoterotica,” is at the Allways with original erotic readings from local writers. Happy Birthday to the trumpet player and UNO Alum Nicholas Payton, who makes 39 today. The son of late bassist Walter Payton won a Grammy Award in 1997 for his song “Stardust.” Now, more on what’s happening today in New Orleans.

If you’re looking to relax this Sunday evening after Saturday night’s, Midsummer Mardi Gras, head to the French Market to see performances from the New Orleans Opera. You won’t need your tiny binoculars for the show—it will be a free and casual event at the French Market Fare Stag complete with free food and drink.

August 3, when Yale and Harvard first dueled by boat, marking the first American intercollegiate athletic event (1852), when the National Basketball Association was founded (1949. It's birthdays for Tony Bennett (1926) and  Martha Stewart (1941), and the last day of Lenny Bruce (1966). Make sure you didn't leave your heart in San Francisco. You'll need it for the following: