From May 12 through November 11, 1984 New Orleanians enjoyed The Louisiana World Exposition along the Mississippi Riverfront. This six-month local event helped promote the development and creation of a vibrant neighborhood and thriving businesses.

A WORLD’S FAIR TO REMEMBER, WYES-TV/Channel 12’s latest cultural documentary focusing on The Louisiana World Exposition and its legacy, airs Wednesday, November 19, 2003 at 7:00 p.m. & 10:00 p.m.

Filled with wonderful memories, this one-hour documentary spotlights endless amusement in the Amphitheatre; Aquacade; The Jazz and Gospel Tent; Fulton Street, an entertainment strip, The Great Hall, which after the fair became the New Orleans Convention Center; The Water Garden; Kiddie Wash; The Wonderwall, which was a half-mile long and camouflaged power lines, and the nightly fireworks displays.

Since New Orleanians don’t just eat to live, but live to eat -- the fair provided ample venues where fairgoers could dine. The Italian Village served delicious sausages and pizza; The Japanese Pavilion provided many people with their first taste of sushi; Pete Fountain’s Reunion Hall served local cuisine; The German Beer Garden provided lessons in the “chicken dance” and shots of Jagermeister®; Mango freezes and Belgian waffles were also huge favorites.

While the Louisiana World Exposition became the first world's fair to declare bankruptcy, its attractions were popular with locals. The 1984’s World’s Fair had a positive impact on the city of New Orleans, aiding in the creation of the first residential development in the Warehouse District, The Riverwalk shopping center and the Convention Center.  

 A WORLD’S FAIR TO REMEMBER is produced and narrated by Peggy Scott Laborde. Stephen Tyler is the director. The editor is Larry Roussarie. Caissa C. Young is the associate producer. Original music is composed by A. J. Loria and Steve Hill.

Funding is provided by Whitney National Bank and the Producers Circle, a group of viewers dedicated to supporting quality local programming on WYES.  

Contact Aislinn Hinyup, WYES-TV/Channel 12 -
504-587-9464  ahinyup@wyes.org