CRAIG JACKSON’S VIEW FROM THE BLOCK: Let The Good Times Roll!

August 31, 2023
Posted by Barrett-Jackson

Craig Jackson – Chairman/Chief Executive Officer

One of the highlights of the Barrett-Jackson auctions that make them so special is their celebrated locations. Scottsdale, Palm Beach and Las Vegas have all been incredible destination cities for our events. Now, this September, Barrett-Jackson is geared up for an exciting addition to our roster: New Orleans, Louisiana! This world-renowned city is filled with entertainment, incredible cuisine and top-level accommodations.

The decision to hold an auction in New Orleans was fueled by the feedback from our consignors, bidders, VIPs and guests. We understood and took it to heart when you said you wanted auctions in places with a fantastic atmosphere, and New Orleans delivers.

The first time I visited this vibrant city, I was instantly captivated by its unique appeal. The streets are alive with a distinct blend of French, Canadian, Caribbean and Spanish-style architecture, and the energy is infectious. New Orleans is a culinary melting pot, with its famous Creole and Cajun cuisines blending French, Spanish, West African and Native American influences. As you explore the city’s distinct neighborhoods, you’ll discover why it’s also a music-lover’s paradise. Talented jazz and blues musicians are everywhere – from the streets to the many clubs and concert venues.

New Orleans is no stranger to hosting major events, either – the city’s infrastructure was designed to hold large events like our auction. From the annual Mardi Gras celebration to the legendary New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, this city knows how to throw a party! And let’s not forget the 10 Super Bowls, nine Men’s and Women’s NCAA Final Four events, college football national championship games and the iconic Sugar Bowl the city has hosted since 1935 – the list goes on and on.

No matter what city we are in, the venue itself is of utmost importance. This auction will be held at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, which stands as the sixth-largest convention facility in the entire nation. One of the things that drew us to this venue is that it has the largest exhibit hall in the United States, with over one million square feet all enclosed under one roof and on a single level. This will allow us to have ample space to showcase the hundreds of beautiful collector vehicles that will be a part of our auction, each selling with No Reserve.

Our host hotel, the Hilton New Orleans Riverside, is just down the street, providing our guests with the perfect starting point for exploring the city. One of our partner hotels, the Four Seasons, is just a little further down Convention Center Boulevard and offers breathtaking views of the city, Mississippi River and beyond. Both hotels and the convention center are less than one mile from the Port of New Orleans and the renowned French Quarter, where you can experience the buzz of Bourbon Street and visit the historic Jackson Square. Within easy reach are the attractive Garden District, the Central Business District and more.

The motto in New Orleans is “Laissez les bon temps rouler,” which translates to “Let the good times roll” – and it’s something we will be fully embracing, from the moment the Opening Night Party held at River City Venues at Mardi Gras World kicks off until the last car crosses the auction block on Saturday night. You asked for a party, and we are set to deliver!

I am thrilled and honored to have you join us for this exciting addition to our auction schedule. This year’s Barrett-Jackson auction in New Orleans promises to be an incredible celebration of all things automotive and all things fun. Let’s roll into the Crescent City and make memories, Barrett-Jackson style!

— CRAIG JACKSON

With Craig at the helm, the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company is celebrating over 50 successful years in the collector car hobby. He is an avid car collector, award-winning restorer and racing enthusiast.