How to Celebrate Black History Month in New Orleans

New Orleans has one of the richest and most unique histories of any city in America. The history of New Orleans and the history of its African-American population are inseparable, as the food, culture and art that defines New Orleans have been shaped indelibly by African Americans. Whether you're a citizen of New Orleans who wants to learn more about the past or an out-of-state visitor planning a trip, the city boasts numerous fun and educational ways to celebrate the accomplishments of African Americans during Black History Month.

Instructions

1. Tour the historic Xavier University of Louisiana. This private liberal arts college is the only historically black Roman Catholic institution in the entire country. Many distinguished African-American business leaders graduated from Xavier, and Pope John Paul II once used Xavier to host a meeting of all the country's Catholic colleges.

2. See historical Preservation Hall in the heart of the French Quarter. Preservation Hall was converted to a concert venue in the 1960s as a way to expose struggling jazz musicians to larger audiences. The building itself was built in 1750, and has survived the Great New Orleans Fire of 1788, the War of 1812 and Hurricane Katrina.

3. Celebrate Black History Month by visiting the New Orleans African-American Museum. Situated in the picturesque Treme neighborhood, the oldest black community still alive in America, the museum features a wide range of historical artifacts from the Congo. African textiles, musical instruments and works of art help to illuminate the African roots of our country's black population.

4. Listen to live Dixieland Jazz at Donna's, a world-famous destination for authentic New Orleans jazz and home-cooked BBQ. Donna's has been featured in countless local and national publications, including "Rolling Stone" and the "New York Times."

5. Explore the rich history of New Orleans jazz with a visit to the Louisiana State Museum's jazz collection. The exhibit features musical instruments, photos, films and classic recordings of music made famous by pioneering African-American artists. The museum, located in neighboring Baton Rouge, is only a short drive from New Orleans.

Tips & Warnings

• The effects of Hurricane Katrina are still felt throughout New Orleans. Make sure to call ahead before planning a trip to New Orleans to celebrate Black History Month. Check to see that all roadways are operational and that public transportation routes haven't been altered. Call tourists destinations to see whether their hours of operation have changed.

• In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans has seen a predictable increase in crime. Take all necessary precautions when traveling through New Orleans, especially at night.