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National Guard deploying to New Orleans nears

Ashley Hamilton

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The holiday spirit is still in full swing as we wind down 2025.

With big events like the New Year’s Eve celebration and the Allstate Sugar Bowl approaching, all signs point to the 350 Louisiana National Guard troops making their presence known soon.


Previously, Homeland Security Director Collin Arnold emphasized that this will be a huge backup for local law enforcement.

“The overwhelming presence of the amount of law enforcement, National Guard, and others that will be there is going to be a very large deterrent,” Arnold said.

Tourists walking along Bourbon Street, taking in the sights, said that because of the Bourbon Street terror attack, they’re sure everyone welcomes additional security measures.

“Well, we’ll have a lot of safety. And I feel safe now. You know, knowing that the streets are safe and the National Guard is here to help,” a tourist said.

As of now, we do not know the exact locations where the National Guard soldiers will be placed around the city.

In years past, normal years, you always saw them in the French Quarter.

Co-owner of The Little Easy Bar, Blerta Pira, believed the troops bring an added sense of security.

“You want to be able to not have to watch your back every second. When you’re out with your children, it’s going to be great. We still stand here at The Little Easy. So, just knowing that we have protection for the people that come buy tickets from us makes us feel good too,” Pira said.

And since the soldiers are staying longer because of President Donald Trump’s order, things are also looking good for Carnival.

“No one’s going to be on guard. It’s going to be calm, and it’s just going to be a fun time. I think it’s the southern hospitality thing, but we bring the best people out here, and I think their mood changes. I’m so excited. And you know, Mardi Gras is earlier this year. I’m ecstatic and nervous at the same time,” Pira said.

With New Year’s Eve festivities days away, city officials announced the entertainment celebrations will be relocated to Woldenberg Park, near the Audubon Aquarium.

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