NOLA Pickleball Fest, Red Dress Run, Dirty Linen Night among things to do this weekend Aug. 11 - 13

NEW ORLEANS (NOLA WEEKEND) - This week marks the start of Saints preseason, and there’s something for everyone going on around town. Here’s a list of events happening in New Orleans and the surrounding areas this weekend from Aug. 11 to Aug. 13.

NOLA Pickleball Fest

The inaugural NOLA Pickleball Fest, launched by Drew Brees, combines one of the fastest-growing sports with a festival at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center from Thursday, Aug. 10 to Sunday, Aug. 13. Organizers say the fest will have 25 tournament courts with divisions for men, women and mixed doubles. Along with pickleball play, there’s live music, food and other festivities. The event also features some celebrity matches, including one scheduled between Brees and tennis legend John McEnroe. For more information, visit the website.

Red Dress Run

The New Orleans Red Dress Run, the popular summertime charity run, returns on Saturday, Aug. 12. A sea of red dresses will fill the streets of the Bywater, Marigny and French Quarter for the two-mile trek hosted by the New Orleans Hash House Harriers. Festivities start at Crescent Park, and gates open at 9 a.m. The post-run festival starts at 11:30 a.m., with food vendors and live music. Registration for the event is $65. The annual summertime tradition also helps raise money for small local non-profits. More information on the Red Dress Run can be found on the Hash House Harriers’ website.

Dirty Linen Night

Dirty Linen Night, the art block party along Royal Street, celebrates 20 years when it returns on Saturday, Aug. 12. Organizers say 2023 is their biggest year yet and features more than 60 participating galleries and shops along the 200 to 1100 blocks of Royal Street. Traditionally, Dirty Linen Night follows a week behind White Linen Night, with the idea of being a cooler, funkier art party. You can stroll along Royal Street and visit the exhibits for free. However, you’ll need a $20 wristband for cocktails, beer, wine and water. The event runs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Visit the website for more details.

WYLD and Funny Summer Finale: The Comedy Jam

Comedian Mo’nique headlines the WYLD and Funny Summer Finale: The Comedy Jam at the Saenger Theatre on Saturday, Aug. 12. The star also brings along some friends for more comic relief, including Nephew Tommy, Tony Roberts, Dominique and Kier “Junior” Spates. The show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale at saengernola.com, ticketmaster.com or the Saenger Theatre box office.

New Orleans Saints vs. Kansas City Chiefs

Football season is back with the New Orleans Saints facing defending Super Bowl champions Kansas City Chiefs in the preseason home opener at the Caesars Superdome on Sunday, Aug. 13. Kick-off is at noon. If you’re not heading to the game, FOX 8 is your home to watch the Saints.