Only New Orleans would throw a 3-weekend event that encourages not washing your clothes and outfit repeating.
If you live in New Orleans or if you have ever visited Louisiana in August, you know first hand that it is hot and humid. Could you imagine living in the south during the summer and not having an air conditioner? Well, there was once a time when air conditioning didn’t exist and New Orleanians were forced to find some way to cool off. White linen was one of their tools to keep them cool. New Orleans has a long history of white linen that was originally brought over from Irish immigrants. People have been wearing white linen since the 19th century. The light color helps reflect the heat and linen is one of the lightest fabrics. The first Whitney White Linen Night in 1994 was inspired by the summer attire traditions along with the city’s want to revitalize the warehouse district.
This year was my first experience at White Linen Night, and I had a blast! I got to meet some artists, stroll in and out of art galleries, and grab a drink while reconnecting with some amazing friends.
As you stroll down Julia Street, you can grab a bite to eat or get an ice cold drink. I tip my hat to whoever decides the drink menu for this event, because each drink was clear. That was especially helpful for me because I am notorious for spilling on myself. Colored drinks do not mix with a white dress.
Like many New Orleans events, the party doesn’t stop when the event is over. My group and I made our way to a bar right off Bourbon Street called Patrick's Bar Vin. I never knew that a bar so close to Bourbon could be so classy! I risked my clean white dress for a nice glass of red wine. Luckily, I had a steady hand that night.
No matter how drunk, dirty, and sweaty you get, make sure you keep all that glory on those white linens for the next weekend. Dirty Linen Night is exactly one week following White Linen Night. It is similar to white linen night, just dirtier. This year it was actually on the same day as the Red Dress Run. We stumbled upon Dirty Linen Night while wearing Red Dresses. Oops.
Guess what, you have the option of doing it all over again at Filthy Linen Night the next weekend. I think the name speaks for itself.
White Linen Night was definitely a fun experience. The best part is that it is open to the public and doesn’t have an entry fee. Just arrive in white clothes, explore some art, and sip on a refreshing cocktail. It supports the warehouse district and keeps traditions alive. I’ll see you again next year, White Linen Night!
