Starting Saturday, May 17, Celebrate Canal! invites locals and visitors to explore “Windows on Canal,” a playful new art installation transforming Canal Street into an open-air gallery. The interactive exhibit runs through July 6 and follows Scrim, the famous runaway pup from New Orleans, on a colorful journey through the heart of New Orleans.
Scrim’s story unfolds in a series of enchanting window displays installed at historic businesses and landmarks along Canal Street. At each stop, he meets a new animal friend who helps share the history and culture of the city. The installation, themed Canal Street Menagerie, brings together visual storytelling, local artistry, and an audio journey narrated by New Orleans music legend Ivan Neville.
“Our inaugural installation is a playful and vibrant celebration of the unique spirit and rich history that lives within Canal Street’s legendary buildings,” says Celebrate Canal! Founder and CEO, Sandra Herman. “We’re inviting everyone—all New Orleanians near and far—to embark on a delightful journey of discovery.”
Families can kick off the experience during the free Children’s Scavenger Hunt on Saturday, May 17, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Check-in begins at Canal Place, where children will receive a goodie bag, scavenger hunt supplies, and a map to track Scrim’s route across the installations. Discounted parking is available, and families can register at celebratecanal.com/events.
Celebrate Canal! partnered with Where Y’Art Works, the creative team behind JAMNOLA, to produce the installations. Each artwork features a QR code that unlocks an immersive digital experience complete with building history, artist insights, and Scrim’s narrated tale. The exhibit features original artwork by local artists:
- Monique Lorden at Palace Café
- Courtney “Ceaux” Buckley at Rubensteins
- Bryan Brown at the Sheraton Hotel
- Tyla Maiden at Canal Place
- Breanna Thompson at Ruby Slipper
- Jacq Francois at Saenger Theatre
- Where Y’Art Works at Hyatt Centric French Quarter
Throughout the exhibition, Celebrate Canal! will host public events to keep the momentum going. Highlights include the Progressive Taste of Canal on May 28, an Art & Architecture Tour on June 4, and a fashion show in late June.
By blending art, culture, and storytelling, “Windows on Canal” aims to re-energize one of New Orleans’ most storied streets. With support from local businesses and cultural organizations, including Caesars Entertainment, New Orleans & Co., and the Greater New Orleans Foundation, the project seeks to revive Canal Street as a lively, walkable hub that reflects the city’s unique spirit. For full event details and installation info, visit celebratecanal.com.
