Acclaimed interior designer Caroline Gidiere will headline the Preservation Resource Center’s Design Luncheon on Nov. 5, 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. at Audubon Tea Room (6500 Magazine St.). She will discuss her work and debut book, “Interiors For A Life in Good Taste.”
Known for modern takes on classic design, her award-winning interiors have been featured in Veranda (which named her as one of six “2021 Next Legends”), Luxe, Southern Living and more. prc.org, @prcnola
Dunbar’s World
George Dunbar (1927–2024), a New Orleans native, shaped Southern abstract art with bold geometric forms and vibrant use of colors inspired by Louisiana landscapes. His work has been celebrated worldwide, including a 2016 retrospective at the New Orleans Museum of Art. Callan Contemporary (518 Julia St.) is showcasing his work from his estate, opening Nov. 1 and on view through Dec. 20.
callancontemporary.com, @callancontemporary
Knight Life
Chess lovers of all ages are invited to Historic New Orleans Collection Chess Club’s fourth annual Chess Fest on Nov. 1, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Enjoy chess-themed arts and crafts, beginner crash courses and DIY chessboards. Step onto a life-sized chessboard and join the Best-Dressed Chess Costume Contest. Test your skills in a chess puzzle competition, compete in a fast chess tournament and watch short films about HNOC’s Chess Club and the history of chess in New Orleans. Free admission; registration required.
The event is at the Tate Etienne and Prevost (TEP) Center, 5909 St. Claude Ave., hnoc.org/events/chess-fest-2025, @visit_hnoc
Bennaroo Beats
Are you ready to Bennaroo Fest? This first-ever music festival for Ben Franklin High School is Nov. 9, 4 p.m.–8 p.m. at The Broadside (600 N. Broad Ave.).
Hosted by the Friends of Franklin, the festival shines a spotlight on student and professional bands — including The Iguanas, Rich Collins with members of the Creole String Beans, Sarah Quintana, Anais St. John, Beverly Hills Polo Club, School of Rock and NOLA Sweetie Pies. The event celebrates Franklin’s community by supporting its music programs and the student travel fund. VIP patrons enjoy an earlier show, 3 p.m.-4 p.m. with Delfeayo Marsalis and Carl LaCoste’s Jazz Ensemble.
Americana Nights
Join Americana pioneer Robbie Fulks for a rare New Orleans performance on Nov. 5 at Marigny Studios (535 Marigny St.). A two-time Grammy nominee, Fulks blends traditional country, folk and roots music with witty, often ironic lyrics and sharp storytelling. The listening-room style show also features Loose Cattle’s Michael Cerveris and Kimberly Kaye. Advance tickets strongly recommended; doors open 6:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m.
