Families can spend the night at the WWII Museum (aka D-Day Museum) in downtown New Orleans on July 9, 2011.

The overnight museum adventure includes war games, a USO-style show, and other activities.  An evening snack and light breakfast are also included. 

The special overnight event starts at 7 pm  and ends the next morning at 7:30 am.  The event is for families with children ages 7-12 years old.  One adult per three kids is required.  Advance registration is also required. $55 per person.

It's the start of an extra long Independence Day weekend for lots of people. Many are leaving town for a vacation or enjoying a local staycation.  

There are lots of 4th of July events in New Orleans including firework displays, free concerts, a baseball game, riverboat cruises, and more.  Or you could have a tradition picnic in park or check out the other attactions in the best New Orleans parks.

 The big New Orleans fireworks extravaganza is Go 4th on the River, a fireworks duel between barges on the Mississippi.  There are many spots to watch this fireworks show on both sides of the river and on the river itself.  The patriotic music choregraphed with the fireworks will be broadcast via radio and the internet.

If you can't wait  til the 4th, the free Uncle Sam Jam celebrates independence one day early on Sunday, July 3 with music, fireworks and more.  And this is also Essence Festival  weekend in New Orleans, with a full line up of concerts including Usher, Fantasia, and Mary J. Blige, seminars, and other events, July 1-3, 2011.

So "go 4th" and have fun!

-U.S. Goverment photograph of original Declaration of Independence

If you are looking for a very happy hour (or two)  this afternoon (June 30, 2011), stop by Ralph's on the Park, 900 City Park Ave., right across from City Park in mid-city. 

You can "sip and socialize" from 6 - 8 pm at a bargain price AND painlessly benefit the Louisiana SPCA with each sip.

Speciality cocktails will be just $5;  Only $2 for Abita Amber beer in the bottle; And and $5-10 tasting menu items will also be avilable.  That's a deal you can't pass up at Ralph's on the Park, one of the fine Brennan restaurants. This event is for people only; no pets please.

The Patchwork Players have presented  fun  experiences  for New Orleans  kids during the summertime for years.  This year they are putting on the story of Aladdin and the Magic Lamp.   Kids in the audience are recruited to play some of the characters.   The plays are held at the Rogers Memorial Chapel at Tulane University.  Only $8 admission.  Get the schedule or make  reservations, which are encouraged.