In New Orleans, Mondays are more than just the start of the workweek—they are steeped in a rich tradition that brings families and friends together around one simple but iconic dish: red beans and rice. Red Beans & Blue Mondays on NOLA WiLD Radio is a celebration of this time-honored tradition, combining the warmth of family, the comfort of food, and the soul-soothing sound of blues and New Orleans rhythm.


The Tradition of Red Beans and Rice


For generations, Monday has been synonymous with slow-cooked red beans and rice in New Orleans. Historically, Monday was laundry day, and the women of the house would set a pot of red beans to simmer while they went about their chores. This dish—simple, hearty, and flavorful—was more than a meal; it was a chance to bring everyone together, including neighbors and even the homeless, to share in the abundance of a large pot.


As time went on, this humble tradition became a symbol of togetherness, a way for families and communities to bond over good food and great conversation. Today, Red Beans & Blue Mondays is more than just a local custom—it’s an invitation for families across the country to revive the spirit of togetherness, no matter where they live. Whether you’re in New Jersey, New York, California, Texas, Florida, or right here in New Orleans, we want to bring back the magic of families gathered around the table.

Rich, creamy, and thick red beans topped with Italian sausage. (grilled pork chops & veal cutlets are standard in NOLA)


The Show: Red Beans & Blue Mondays

Our radio show takes place every Monday, divided into two parts: the preparation show from 11 AM to 1 PM, and the main show from 4 PM to 7 PM. We’ve designed this experience to enhance your entire day, offering the sounds, stories, and recipes that make Mondays a celebration.


11 AM – 1 PM: Preparation & Tradition

This segment is all about getting ready. From learning the rich history behind the tradition of red beans and rice to discovering new recipes and cooking tips, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know. Each week, we’ll feature guest chefs, New Orleans personalities, and local storytellers who share their take on this beloved dish.


We’ll also highlight family secrets and time-tested techniques—whether it’s the perfect seasoning or that special ingredient passed down through generations. You can submit your recipes, tips, or stories through our online community gallery, where we’ll feature them for others to enjoy.

Want to see how it’s done? Check out our how-to videos, where chefs will walk you through the process step-by-step. It’s the perfect way to bring the flavor of New Orleans right into your home, no matter where you are.

4 PM – 7 PM: Red Beans & Blue Mondays


As the aroma of red beans fills your kitchen, tune in for the main event. From 4 PM to 7 PM, we’ll fill your home with the sounds of blues, soul, and classic New Orleans R&B. This is the time to unwind and enjoy the company of family or friends, with music curated to set the perfect mood. Whether you're cooking for two or hosting a family gathering, Red Beans & Blue Mondays will keep you in the groove.


Throughout the show, we’ll encourage you to engage with us online. Share photos of family gatherings, cooking setups, or dinner tables using our hashtags and community page. This isn’t just a radio show; it’s a shared experience—a way to connect with others who are keeping this tradition alive.

Playlists & Offline Interaction


To make sure your Red Beans & Blue Mondays experience lasts beyond the radio, we’re sending out exclusive playlists to "BiG CHiEF ANNUAL WiLD PASS" subscribers each Monday morning. These playlists will include music to enjoy while you cook, eat, and unwind, so you can stay connected with the show even when you're offline.

To get the most out of your listening experience, NOLA WiLD members may want to consider signing up for a premium membership with Spotify or Apple Music, which will give you a commercial-free experience. But don’t worry—if you’re not ready to go premium, you can still enjoy the playlists with free accounts through Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, and SoundCloud. It’s all about creating the perfect vibe for your Monday tradition.

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Of course, you can tune into NOLA WiLD RADIO for the "Red Beans & Blue Mondays" show from 4 PM to 7 PM.

Community Spotlight: The Family Table


At the heart of Red Beans & Blue Mondays is a desire to bring people together, and we want to hear your stories. Our Family Table spotlight encourages you to share how you and your loved ones celebrate family traditions. Whether it’s red beans and rice or a different meal that holds special meaning in your home, we want to showcase how food brings families and friends closer—no matter where they are in the world.


You can submit your stories, photos, and recipes, which will be featured on our website. This is a celebration of community, connection, and the simple joys of sharing a meal.

A Taste of NOLA


Of course, it wouldn’t be a New Orleans tradition without a little lagniappe. Red Beans & Blue Mondays will regularly highlight the best of New Orleans' culinary scene, featuring local restaurants, chefs, and food brands that celebrate the flavors of our city. If you’re planning to visit during Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, or any other NOLA event, our show and blog will serve as a guide for must-try spots to get your fix of authentic Creole and Cajun cuisine.


But the spirit of Red Beans & Blue Mondays isn’t just limited to those in New Orleans. It’s about inviting people everywhere to embrace a shared tradition that fosters love, unity, and, most importantly, family.

Don't forget the Cornbread!

Cornbread with Honey infused with hot sauce!


Join the Tradition

We’re excited to kick off this journey and invite you to be a part of it. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to start a new family tradition, Red Beans & Blue Mondays is here to bring joy, music, and delicious food into your home every Monday.

Sign up for our email list to get access to weekly playlists, exclusive recipes, and more. Let’s come together—one pot of red beans at a time.

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