Frequently Asked Questions

1.) Can I still register?

Online pre-registration closes at noon Eastern on Monday, but on-site registration is available throughout the convention at the check-in desk. Pre-registering saves time and allows you to have more time to make new connections and hone your skills.

2.) How do I get to the convention hotel?

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, MSY (approximately 25 minutes)
– The InterContinental New Orleans partners with a local shuttle service to transport you to the hotel from the airport. There is a fee associated with the shuttle, approximately $25 each way. Learn more about your rate and make your reservation here.
– Lyft and Uber estimate that a fare from the airport to the hotel will cost approximately $35, depending on the day and time.

Parking at the InterContinental
– Valet parking is available at the InterContinental with rates starting at $47 per vehicle. NLGJA does not validate parking. Self-parking is available at several nearby lots. More information about parking in New Orleans can be found here.

3.) What do I wear to the convention?

New Orleans is going to be hot and humid. Unlike many other conventions, we like to keep things “business, but not stuffy.” Come dressed ready to learn and network in a casual atmosphere. We want attendees to be comfortable in the heat, but swimwear, tank tops and flip flops are best left for the pool. If you’re planning on exploring the Career & Community Expo, it’d be a good idea to dress to impress for that event.

4.) Are there opportunities to advance my career at the convention?

NLGJA’s National Convention Career & Community Expo on August 30 is a signature part of the convention experience. The expo gives attendees the opportunity to connect with leaders and professionals from a wide range of broadcast, print, online and independent communication outlets, along with companies and organizations committed to fair and accurate coverage of the LGBTQ community. For those looking for a new job, the expo is the best place to get your resume in front of the right people. Additionally, NLGJA is offering attendees the chance to have their resume, social media accounts or audio/video reels critiqued by an expert. Our branding masters will offer constructive criticism to help attendees make their professional materials the best that they can be. Sign up for a critique slot here.

5.) What is there to do in New Orleans when I’m not enjoying all that the convention has to offer?

Is that even a real question? New Orleans is one of the greatest cities in the world, particularly for lovers of music and food. New Orleans native and actor Bryan Batt has compiled a guide to the city just for NLGJA members! You may have spotted Batt in the “Tales of the City” reboot – or riding the New Orleans float in NYC’s World Pride Parade. But the Crescent City native, a fixture on stage, screen and TV, may be best known for his role as Sal Romano, the closeted Sterling Cooper art director on AMC’s “Mad Men.” Now he’s at work as writer/performer of the autobiographical “Dear Mr. Williams,” which poignantly (and hilariously) weaves his growing up with the New Orleans life, real and imagined, of Tennessee Williams. Check out his recommendations for food and fun here.