New Orleans is home to some of the most exciting national events such as the Super Bowl, NCAA Final Four, NBA All-Star Game, and Essence Festival. This week, New Orleans hosts WWE WrestleMania XXX in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Visitors from all of the United States, and of all ages, will be flocking to our great city for the big anniversary celebration of the WWE’s WrestleMania. As a local criminal defense lawyer, I’m here to give you the ins and outs of WrestleMania XXX week and what to be on the lookout for in New Orleans.
What to Expect WrestleMania XXX Week in the Big Easy
Not unlike other big events that take place in the Crescent City, there are usually a number of smaller events and activities around town leading up to the main event. Wrestlemania XXX is no different and has a great line-up ready for visitors to New Orleans as well as residents of Louisiana to enjoy. Whether you are visiting New Orleans for the first time, are a long-time resident or are making the trek as part of a frequent visitor, you will be sure to find something unique to take part in. Here is a short schedule of events leading up to Wrestlemania XXX:
- WrestleMania Axxess: This is the WWE’s interactive fan festival that will take place at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center from Thursday, April 3rd through Sunday, April 6th. WWE Universe with have access to some of their favorite WWE stars through some interactive fan games and autograph signings. You could even catch a live match! WWE fans of all ages will have a great time at WrestleMania Axxess.
- WWE Hall of Fame Induction: Held at the Smoothie King Center on Saturday, April 5th, you will not want to miss some of the legendary WWE (and WWF) wrestlers and characters including Mr. T, Ultimate Warrior, Jake “The Snake” Roberts, Lita, Paul Bearer, Carlos Colon, and Razor Ramon.
- Stay for Monday Night RAW at the Smoothie King Center on Monday, April 7th to catch your weekly dose of RAW. Superstars that will be at this week’s RAW include John Cena, Randy Orton, Batista, Sheamus, Daniel Bryan, Big Show, Alberto Del Rio, The Wyatt Family, Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, Kane, Triple H, Big E, Billy Gunn and Road Dogg.
Staying Safe When Visiting the French Quarter
If you are coming to the Big Easy to have a good time and party, there are some guidelines that you should follow in order to stay both safe and keep yourself from getting arrested. I’m not saying that you are likely to get arrested, but I have seen many visitors to our city come here for a good time, have a great time, and forget about safety in general. These things happen. Some things to keep in mind:
- Yes, you can drink alcohol in public if you are 21+. If you are caught drinking on the streets and you are under 21 years old, then you could and most likely be charged with a Minor in Possession. If you are over 21 years old, and choose to drink alcohol in public, make sure you are not drinking out of a glass container.
- Don’t drink and drive. It is still illegal to drink and drive in New Orleans and Louisiana and you can also seriously injure yourself or someone else. Call a taxi cab, take the street car, or walk in well-lit areas.
- Do not use, buy or carry illegal drugs (or illegal prescriptions) with you anywhere in New Orleans. Especially do not expect to bring any narcotics into the Superdome or the Smoothie King Center.
- Do not follow anyone you do not know anywhere. New Orleans can have some dangerous sections that are not very developed and probably shouldn’t be wandered about. Stick to well-lit streets. If you are hanging out on Bourbon Street or in the Marigny, stick to where you see a lot of people or you know your destination. If you plan to venture outside these sections to check out other parts of New Orleans, always be aware of your surroundings.
- Obey law enforcement. New Orleans Police Department is present around the city, especially when large national events come to town. They understand that visitors come to New Orleans to have a great time, let loose and party with friends and family. If you are acting responsibly, you will have no troubles. If you are approached by the NOPD, listen to them and adhere to what they ask you. Do not resist arrest. And, always remember, if you are arrested in New Orleans, you have the right to remain silent so you do not have to answer any questions that are asked of you because anything you say can and will be used against you in court.
Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer if You Are Arrested in New Orleans
If you or someone you know has been arrested in New Orleans for public intoxication, lewd conduct, Minor in Possession, open container law, or even arrested on a DWI charge while visiting for WrestleMania XXX, make sure to call a trustworthy and experienced criminal defense attorney that will help you make the most of your trip without too much stress, sleepless nights or interruptions to your plans. Crescent City Law Firm is available nights, weekends and can meet you off site. You can reach them at (504) 264-9492 or by e-mail here. Stay safe this week in New Orleans!
