Also this week

The Pelican House hosts its second-ever Third of July BBQ Thursday at 6 p.m. The event features a best dressed contest, food and drink specials and more. RSVP and get more information.

Jay Ducote is celebrating the launch of his Jay D’s Louisiana Barbecue Sauce this week. On the Fourth of July, he’ll participate in Frankie’s Dawg House’s third annual hot dog eating contest at noon. Ducote will also sell bottles of the sauce 8 a.m.-noon Saturday inside the Main Street Market during the Red Stick Farmers Market. For more information, visit biteandbooze.com.

On the road: The 20th anniversary of Essence Festival kicks off Thursday at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans. The event features performances from Prince, Nas, Mary J. Blige, The Roots and many more. Get more information here.