New Orleans Entertainment Coalition dba Celebrate Canal

Celebrate Canal is a citizen-led nonprofit coalition dedicated to restoring Canal Street as a vibrant, historic, and cultural hub for New Orleans. By bringing together business owners, property owners, civic leaders, and residents, we are working to reestablish Canal Street as a welcoming destination that drives economic growth and celebrates the spirit of our city.

In just one year, Celebrate Canal has made meaningful progress. Through a series of public events and strategic partnerships, we have engaged thousands of community members and increased local visitation to Canal Street by more than 100,000 people. Our quarterly meetings bring together key stakeholders to collaborate on solutions related to retail, beautification, transportation, and long-term economic development.

With your support on GiveNOLA Day, we can continue this momentum—advancing catalytic projects, expanding programming, and transforming Canal Street into a thriving destination for generations to come.

Testimonials

"Women getting it done. I just really appreciate you all, and I’ve known you for a very long time. I know the level of commitment you bring — when you decide you’re going to do something, you go all in. From that very first meeting, I knew these ladies were serious. Of course, when you started this work there were doubters asking, ‘What are they really going to do?’ But look at where you are now. You’ve put in the work, partnered with City Council, supported the CPC study that’s moving forward, and you’re already delivering on your promises — from showcasing local artists in storefronts to creating family-friendly events that bring people back to Canal Street. For all those who questioned what you would accomplish, you’ve answered with action. You are showing everyone what’s possible, and for that I thank you." -The Honorable Helena Moreno, Mayor of New Orleans 

"Sandra has a unique ability to bring together the people who can truly make a difference. You saw it here today — every aspect of the community, from business and government officials to residents and artists, all having a voice. That inclusiveness is what makes this project unique and special, and it’s the reason I’m so excited about it. Her willingness not to simply tell people what will happen, but to invite them into the decision-making process is remarkable. By asking for opinions, gathering input, and turning the best ideas into action, she’s building something that reflects the whole community. You could see that in the room today — elected officials, the business community, artists, and people from all walks of life contributing to the vision. I believe that the spirit of collaboration will ultimately lead to the success of this project, and I’m excited for what the future will bring." The Honorable Billy Nungesser, Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana

"Thank you to Mrs. Sandra and her team for taking on this project of bringing Canal Street back to its glory years. I want the public to know that you have my commitment — not just as a City Councilmember, but as a resident of this city — to revitalizing Canal Street. I’m reading a book right now about Times Square in New York in the 1990s. It described a place marked by drug use, vagrancy, and crime. But when I recently visited New York, Times Square was the exact opposite: family-friendly, clean, with pristine buildings, entertainment on every corner, and an atmosphere you could be proud of. When I spoke with Ms. Herman, I asked, ‘Why can’t Canal Street be that for us?’ And she said, ‘We will.’ She has my full commitment to doing whatever I can to help make Canal Street our version of Times Square — a vibrant entryway to the French Quarter and the CBD, and a place all of New Orleans can be proud of. So thank you, Ms. Herman, for your vision and your efforts. I look forward to being part of this endeavor moving forward." Freddie King, New Orleans City Councilmember, District C

"I remember our very first meeting when we talked about how the Canal Street would be like a miracle mile. And it should be. It should be. And so your work is going to be transformational. And this is citizen activism, citizen involvement. A citizen-driven program run by amazing women who I just admire so much." Lesli Harris, New Orleans City Councilmember, District B"Working with Celebrate Canal! has been an incredible experience. The energy and excitement that their citizen-led coalition has brought to the revitalization of Canal Street is critical in helping DDD achieve its mission. Their passion for the corridor is evident, and it's clear they play a key role in its transformation." -René C. Pastorek, AICP , Chief Economic Development Officer, Downtown Development District

"The New Orleans Chamber of Commerce is a proud partner of Celebrate Canal St. The collaborative efforts have enhanced the area's vibrancy, cultural appeal, and economic growth." - Sandra Lindquist, President and CEO, New Orleans Chamber of Commerce