OUR VIBE
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Who we are, how we howl —
this isn’t your average origin story.
LEGENDARY PERFORMANCE & EVENT VENUE SINCE 1988
Where the Beat Never Stops — and the Story Never Ends
Tucked deep in the soul of New Orleans’ Warehouse District, The Howlin’ Wolf and The Den are more than venues — they’re stages steeped in music history. Since day one, we’ve been a launchpad for legends, a local hangout with heart, and a home for unforgettable nights.
With a warm mahogany bar (said to have been owned by gangster Al Capone), laid-back vibes, and bold pub fare, this iconic concert hall delivers sound, soul, and a whole lotta groove.
🎷 The Howlin’ Wolf & The Den:
A Home for New Orleans Music
Founded in 1988, The Howlin’ Wolf quickly established itself as a cornerstone of New Orleans' vibrant live music scene. Named after the legendary bluesman Chester "Howlin’ Wolf" Burnett, the venue embodies the raw soul and grit of southern blues, funk, and rock.
Over the decades, The Howlin’ Wolf has played host to a who's-who of legendary performers, including The Foo Fighters, Dr. John, Galactic, The Roots, and Trombone Shorty, while also giving space to local favorites and up-and-coming talent. It's become a staple venue during major events like Jazz Fest and Mardi Gras, drawing locals and tourists alike for unforgettable late-night sets.
Attached to the main venue is The Den — a more intimate space that has earned its own reputation as a hotbed of creativity and culture. The Den regularly features smaller acts, local showcases, art markets, and comedy nights, serving as a launchpad for rising artists and a gathering spot for the community. With its cozy vibe and eclectic programming, The Den complements the larger, high-energy shows of the main room.
Together, The Howlin’ Wolf and The Den reflect the eclectic, electric spirit of New Orleans — where music lives on every corner and creativity knows no bounds. Whether it’s brass bands, funk, soul, or indie rock, these venues remain beating hearts of the Crescent City’s nightlife.
AS SEEN ON:
MEET HOWIE KAPLAN, MAN OF MANY TALENTS
Kaplan Named First Director of Office of Nighttime Economy
Howie Kaplan, celebrating his multifaceted impact on New Orleans’ music, nightlife, and cultural landscape, takes on the role of "Night Mayor" in 2022.
HOWIE KAPLAN, OWNER
In 2022, multi-talented New Orleanian Howie Kaplan—owner of The Howlin’ Wolf, talent manager, and devoted philanthropist—was appointed the first director of the city’s newly established Office of Nighttime Economy.
Renowned for championing local music, managing acts like the Rebirth Brass Band, and mobilizing to feed the city when Hurricane Ida left residents
without power, Kaplan brought decades of cultural leadership and community service to the role.
As director, he worked to bridge the gap between government and nightlife stakeholders, advocating for musicians, venues, and hospitality workers to ensure New Orleans’ nightlife not only survived but thrived.
Discover more about Howie's philanthropy and cultural impact in the following articles.
THE HISTORY OF THE HOWLIN' WOLF
ORIGINS & TIMELINE OF THE WOLF
Since its founding in 1988, The Howlin’ Wolf has evolved from a Metairie suburban bar into a beloved New Orleans music institution. Now located in the Warehouse District, it has hosted a diverse lineup—from brass bands and rock legends to surprise Jazz Fest sets.
After Hurricane Katrina hit, owner Howie Kaplan relocated and expanded the venue, adding The Den, an intimate side stage for comedy nights, cabaret, drag, and underground events. Today, both spaces stand as cultural hubs—venues where local talent flourishes, community events happen, and the soul of New Orleans nightlife beats strongest.
