It’s time to plan a couple of fun (back to back) weekend trips!

Who’s coming with?!?

First up:

What: The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage festival.

When: Fri April 24- Sun April 26

Why: I can talk for hours about the Big E-Z, The Crescent City!  We’ll start with great food, cocktails and music and go from there.

Where: I have reservations at the Renaissance Pere Marquette Hotel

Who: Everyone who’s Anyone!

What: Loose itinerary:

• Friday - Drinking in the French Quarter (The hurricane was invented here)
• Saturday
  • Catch the bus to the Jazz Fest. 
  • Dinner at Commander’s Palace. (Featured this month as one of Saveur’s “12 restaurants that matter”)
  • More drinking (a Mint Julep to prepare for next weekend, perhaps). 
• Sunday
  • Beignets at Café Du Monde
  • Cocktails to go – Bloody Mary, Mimosa, Screwdriver take your pick.
  • Lunch at Port-of-Call (best Baked Potatoes and Burgers of your life)
  • Cocktails as we walk back to the hotel, off to the airport.

Followed the next weekend by:

What: The Kentucky Derby

When: Race is Sat May 3.  (Probably leaving Friday and returning Saturday)

Why: I just bought a new outfit (anyone know how to tie a bow tie?), and I’ve never been.  Besides who doesn’t love all the ladies in large floppy hats.

Where: I have reservations at the Fairfield Inn Louisville South

Who: Whoever!

What: I’ve never been to Louisville (or a horse race for that matter) but it sounds fun, right?  Some of my friends who are going have been to town many times and assure me it’s loads of fun.