Second Annual NOLA Water Summit and Gala

NOLA Water Summit 2026 unites art, culture, and community to inspire climate action, water justice, and hope for our shared future. NOLA Water Summit 2026: Keep Ya Head Up As New Orleans marks 21 years since Hurricane Katrina and approaches the 100th anniversary of the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927, the NOLA Water Summit 2026 invites our community to imagine a thriving future together. Keep Ya Head Up brings together residents, artists, community leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers, policymakers, and advocates to explore how we can address flooding, climate change, mental health, affordability, and environmental justice while celebrating the culture that makes New Orleans unlike anywhere else. Through interactive workshops, inspiring speakers, community conversations, immersive art experiences, and cultural celebrations, the Summit centers the voices of those most impacted by today's challenges. Designed in partnership with the Brackish Artists Collective, this year's programming blends creativity with action, proving that hope, joy, and community are essential tools for shaping our future. Join us for a one-of-a-kind experience featuring the Water Gala, Dance & Dissent, and opportunities to connect, learn, and help build a healthier, more equitable Gulf Coast. Water Gala and Awards Ceremony Andreas Hoffmann - Founder of Greenlight New Orleans David Waggonner - Founding principal of Waggonner & Ball Keree Blanks: former TWC Team Member and award dedication. Gala dress code is Cocktail and the theme is various shades of blue Featured Artists & Brackish Alumni Artists: Demi Ward Jasmine Mastin paris cian Isa Wunsch Jazzmyne Cry Sarah Franke The Nola Water Summit is co-planned with the Brackish Advisory Committee. Advisory members include: Evan McNulty Alexius Reign yrécha gay Jheneall Jarrell Hamilton Nate Cameron LaVonna Varnardo Felli Maynard Come celebrate our culture. Reimagine our future. Keep Ya Head Up