Vendredi

On August 18, 1999, New Orleans rapper Juvenile, (Terius Gray), received the Single of the Year award for his hit, “Ha,” at the first annual Source Hip-Hop Music Awards. Today in the Big Easy, celebrate Julia Child’s Birthday at Maple St. Book Shop, followed by a book signing with a group of famous basketball players. If you’re downtown, beat the heat with a frozen cocktail at Daiquiri Fest on St. Claude. Tonight, watch Kermit Ruffins Battle Irvin Mayfield at “Love Sessions,” or catch weekly gigs from some of the city’s favorite acts.

Ostrich and Camel Racing (Fair Grounds Race Course, 4pm)

If you haven’t heard already, the Fair Grounds are bringing ostriches and camels into the mix for the first year in a row. Admission to the track is $10 today, and free for kids ages five and under. Come out for the races as well as for the Tales and Ales beer tasting.  

Daiquiri Fest (4000 St. Claude Ave., 3-9pm)

Come down to enjoy New Orleans’ official frozen adult beverage, prepared by some of the city’s finest mixologists. Beat the heat all day long on St. Claude.

Happy Birthday, Julia Child! (Maple St. Book Shop, 11:30am)

Following Child’s 100th birthday celebration (with food, of course), Maple St. welcomes James “Dukes” Donaldson, Spencer Haywood, Stephen Bardo, and Mark Johnson to sign autographs of their books from 1-3pm. More information    on the shop's website.

Love Sessions (Irvin Mayfield’s Jazz Playhouse, 8pm)

Come out and see trumpet legends Irvin Mayfield and Kermit Ruffins battle each other in the name of local charities. Continuing every night this week.