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Family Friendly Mardi Gras Guide – Baton Rouge and Beyond

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Contrary to popular belief, Mardi Gras can be a Family Friendly Mardi Gras, especially in Baton Rouge and surrounding areas. The festival seems like it was made for children, with creative floats, costumes and masks, bold colors, and joyous music. Not to mention, the beads, doubloons and other treats thrown to the crowds from the floats are a child’s delight. Sadly, due to COVID, this year’s parades have been canceled but there’s still plenty of Mardi Gras goodness to be had! Below you’ll find a round up of our most popular Mardi Gras themes posts. 

Family Friendly Mardi Gras

Family Friendly Mardi Gras Parades Canceled for 2021

Family Friendly Mardi Gras

Your guide to King Cakes in Baton Rouge & BeyondFamily Friendly Mardi Gras

Top 5 Baton Rouge King Cakes

Your guide to King Chakes in Baton Rouge

More Mardi Gras Articles: 

Gluten Free King Cake Recipe – Baton Rouge Family Fun

Easy Boudin King Cake – Mardi Gras Recipe (Video)

Shannon’s Sugah Shack – Mardi Gras Family Pack Giveaway

Holly Clegg’s Kid-Friendly Easy Mardi Gras King Cake Recipe

 

Shannon’s Sugah Shack – Mardi Gras Family Pack Giveaway

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Bienvenue to a brand new Baton Rouge petite boulangerie, Shannon’s Sugah Shack! Shannon is a scratch-made, home cook that has been selling baked goods solely to friends family (and their businesses) since 1984. After much encouragement, support, and a little coaxing from family and friends, she finally launched her petite boulangerie!

Shannon’s Sugah Shack

Specializing in decorative cookies, cupcakes, decadent cookies, cocoa bombs, southern desserts, and cakes, you can trust Shannon with your future baking needs. You can message her with any questions or orders on her Facebook page here. 

Shannon’s Sugah Shack

To kick off her new business and introduce herself to the community, Shannon wanted to partner with us to host a Mardi Gras Family Pack giveaway of her specialty Mardi Gas cookies and cocoa bombs! 

Shannon’s Sugah Shack Mardi Gras Family Pack Giveaway

Shannon’s Sugah Shack

To Enter: Simply fill out the Rafflecopter Widget form below. Remember to comment on Facebook OR Instagram!

Other: Entrants must be 18 years or older at the time of entering the giveaway. Entrants must be local. The winner will be selected at random and notified via the email that was submitted or via social media. Winner must respond within 48 hours to claim their prize, or another winner will be chosen. Giveaway ends January 22nd at 11:59 pm (CST)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Be sure to check out Baton Rouge Family Fun’s 2021 King Cake Guide here! 

Disclosure: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who sponsored it compensated BRFF via a cash payment, gift, or giveaway. Opinions expressed herein are that of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of the sponsor. 

2021 King Cake Guide – Baton Rouge and Beyond

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King Cake truly is the demise of many New Year’s resolutions, but how can we resist this buttery danish pastry, sweetened with dusted sugar, icing, and a plethora of flavored fillings? Not us! Here’s a list of numerous places to get King Cakes in Baton Rouge and a plethora of flavors to choose from… traditional, cream cheese, chocolate, praline, strawberry, apple, raspberry to bacon, boudin, and maple! Below we’ve listed over 20 places to get your King Cake fix in Baton Rouge and beyond. 

King Cakes in Baton Rouge

King Cakes in Baton Rouge and Beyond:

  1. Alexander’s – 18111 Highland Market Drive – Phone: 615-7800
  2. Ambrosia Bakery – 8546 Siegen Lane – Phone: 763-6489
  3. Another Piece of Cake Bakery – 1001 Blanchard St Brusly, LA 70719
  4. Baums – Florida Blvd Location 8046 Florida Blvd. Phone: 927-0760 – Perkins Road Location 10550 Perkins Rd. Phone: 767-4838
  5. Brew Ha Ha – 711 Jefferson Hwy Suite 2-A – Phone: 923-1923
  6. Cake Jewels – King Cake Balls – Phone: 337-0253
  7. Calandro’s – Government Street: 383-7815 • Perkins Road: 767-6659
  8. Claudus King Cake – Harahan, LA (504) 521-6683
  9. Dawn’s Sweet Tooth – 13623 Hooper Rd Ste A Central, Louisiana (225) 261-0090
  10. District Donuts – 7415 Corporate Blvd #900, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 
  11. Dong Phuong — These king cakes were so popular last year, you were lucky if you got your hands on one. 14207 Chef Menteur Hwy, New Orleans, LA 70129 504-254-1568
  12. Eat Fit King Cake — Those looking to stick to their healthy new year’s resolutions will appreciate the Eat Fit King Cake, a mini 11-oz bundt-style king cake that’s gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free, sugar-free, low-carb, and even Keto-approved. They can be found at Alexander’s Highland Market
  13. Gambino’s– 8646 Goodwood Blvd – Phone: 928-7000
  14. Gourmet Girls– 3025 Perkins Rd – Phone: 252-0999
  15. Harvest – 12513 Highway 73 (3.55 mi) Geismar, Louisiana 70734 (225) 673-6504
  16.  Haydel’s Bakery – 4037 Jefferson Hwy New Orleans, LA 70121 (504) 837-0190
  17. Hi Nabor Supermarket – Available at all three locations
  18. 11826 Coursey Blvd – Phone: 293-8115
  19. Maxwell’s Market – Three Locations – (225) 766-9150
  20. Nanette Mayhall Phone: 343-4530.
  21. Navarre’s Famous King Cakes – 31545 Highway 22 Springfield, Louisiana (225) 294-3438
  22. Oak Point Fresh Market – Watson and Central locations King Cakes in Baton Rouge
  23. Ralphs– 15013 Hwy 44 Gonzales – 622-4044 – 6431 Hwy 44 (Pelican Point) Gonzales – 473-1004
  24. Randazzos– You can get your Baton Rouge Randazzo’s at Carnival Mart off Florida BLVD and at Capital City Crawfish! King Cakes in Baton Rouge
  25. Rouses – Many locations (225) 448-0050
  26. Strands Cafe– 226 LAUREL ST.- Phone: 344-5346
  27. Sweetime Bakery – 13711 Coursey Blvd, Ste A Baton Rouge, LA 70817 – (225) 615-8005
  28. Thee Heavenly Donut– 17732 Highland Rd – 753.7711 5830 –  S. Sherwood Forest Blvd. – 368.0090
  29. Tredici Bakery – 5078 Capital Heights Ave Baton Rouge, LA 70806 – (225) 448-5216
  30. Whole Foods Market – 7529 Corporate Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 – (225) 218-0452

These are not the only places to find King Cake in the Baton Rouge area but this is a great start! If we have missed one of your favorites, please let us know.

More posts your might find interesting: 

Gluten Free King Cake Recipe – Baton Rouge Family Fun

Easy Boudin King Cake – Mardi Gras Recipe (Video)

Safe to Eat Cookie Dough – Eggless – Sponsored by Party Time

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The aroma of homemade Christmas cookies baking in the oven is one of the most glorious smells during the holiday season. In our home, there is not a more highly-anticipated (and delicious) Christmas task than baking cookies. With cookies comes cookie dough and kids and adults alike can’t seem to bake cookies without trying the raw dough. A few years ago a friend introduced me to a delicious, egg-less cookie dough recipe that is completely safe to eat raw! Find the full recipe below! 

safe to eat cookie dough

You can use this recipe for cookie-cutter cookies, Santa whiskers, chocolate chip cookies,  thumbprints, just about any recipe that calls for shortbread or sugar cookies. Of course, to bake the ultimate Christmas cookies, you also need cookie cutters and all the decorating fixings!  

Cookie cutters are timeless, and there’s a reason—they work. They save your sanity because mama doesn’t have time for freehand, the stainless steel will last for years, and they’re easy to clean! For a plethora of cookie-cutter options be sure to check out Party Time at Bluebonnet and Airline! When it comes to baking and gifting they have you covered with a wide variety of candy, sprinkles, icing and gifting containers! Take care of your holiday baking, candy making and decorating in one stop!

safe to eat cookie dough

Are your holiday decorations, plates, and napkins a little less than fa-la-la-la-fabulous, no worries, Party Time is where you’ll find everything that’s merry and bright! Buy two get one free Christmas plates and napkins until this Saturday and 40% off all ribbon until this Sunday!

safe to eat cookie dough

Safe to Eat Cookie Dough

This simple sugar cookie dough recipe is especially good for families with children that have an egg allergy because the recipe is eggless!

Safe to Eat Sugar Cookie Dough
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Ingredients
  1. 1 1/4 cups butter, softened (2 1/2 sticks)
  2. 1 cup sugar
  3. 4 teaspoons milk
  4. 2 teaspoons pure vanilla
  5. 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, preferably with an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar together until fluffy. Add milk and vanilla, beat again and scrape bowl. With mixer on low speed, add flour one cup at a time and beat after each addition. Shape into logs approximately 2" in diameter. Roll the logs in parchment paper or plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  2. When ready to bake, preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or a silpat liner and give them a light spray with vegetable shortening. Unwrap logs and slice into 1/4" thick slices or roll out to cut out shapes. Place cookies on prepared cookie sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until very light brown and the sides are slightly firm.
  3. Remove from oven and let cool 5 minutes before transferring cookies to a wire rack. Cool completely before storing in air tight containers.
Notes
  1. This recipe is perfect to make with the kiddos; after the dough has been chilled it makes great cookie cutter cookies for decorating. These cookies will keep well in an airtight container, making them a great homemade gift.
Baton Rouge Family Fun https://batonrougefamilyfun.com/
Disclosure: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who sponsored it compensated BRM via a cash payment, gift, or giveaway. Opinions expressed herein are that of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of the sponsor. 

Christmas Lights in Baton Rouge & Beyond – 2020

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One of our favorite family traditions is taking an evening car ride in search of the best Christmas Lights in Baton Rouge & Beyond. Now more than ever, we are in need of safe Christmas fun, and perusing lights is at the top of our list!  From the houses with thousands of synchronized dancing lights to the simple and elegant, we appreciate the time it takes to share the beauty of their Christmas lights with the community. 

Many of you have asked us where to go to see the best Christmas lights in Baton Rouge and surrounding areas and we are working to create a list for you. If you know of a light display not on this list, we want to know! I’m sure they would love to share their Christmas cheer with more of the community.
 
Thanks to Associates in Pediatric Dentistry for sponsoring this year’s Holiday Lights Guide.PARENTS AND SIBLINGS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME IN OUR CLINIC AREA.

 

Christmas Lights in Baton Rouge & Beyond 

ZooLights 2020

Christmas Lights in Baton Rouge

November 27 – December 30

Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
Admission gates open 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Zoo grounds close at 9 p.m.

Admission: Adults/Teens: $5, Seniors: $4, Ages 2-12: $3, Friends of the Zoo Members: $3 per person​

The Zoo is partnering with The Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank again this year! Every guest presenting a non-perishable food item during the hours of Zoolights, will receive a 50% discount from the regular admission price. All food donations will go directly to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. In 2019, nearly 4,000 pounds of food were collected during this drive.

Holiday Lights at Baton Rouge General

The lights are lit! This year we’ve implemented new guidelines to keep families safe while still spreading joy including masks requirements, limited capacity (you may have to wait a few minutes in line), no food or drinks and hand sanitizer stations throughout.

While they won’t be hosting weekly family nights with Santa, snow and food trucks this year because they draw such large crowds, you can still enjoy the lights nightly from 5:30 – 10:00 p.m. until December 31. #BRGLights 

 

Baton Rouge Christmas lights stretch across five neighboring homes!

Szewc light display is located at 13514 Rendale Ave in Brookhollow Glen subdivision – off Perkins Road. 

 

Chuck’s Christmas Lights
Cottingham Ct
Baton Rouge, LA 70817

 

 

Messenger’s Christmas Land
9481 Prince Charles, Denham Springs

The story of the Messenger’s Christmas Land starts over 50 years ago with Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Messenger Jr. and their 9 kids. With just a few lights and home made animated scenes, word quickly spread about the unusual display for the public. The original location was at the Messenger’s home in Red Oaks, Baton Rouge and then relocated in 1992 to Plantation Estates, Denham Springs where Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Messenger III took over for the next 21 years. Now, going on 53 years, this family tradition can still be visited at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy Messenger off Prince Charles Street, Denham Springs. With lights everywhere, home made animated scenes, a timeline, and even the north pole, the display continues to open every Christmas season to all of the public with no charge. Come stop by and be apart of this 53 year Christmas tradition. 

Messenger's Christmas Land

 

The Willows Winter Wonderland
The Willows subdivision
1457 Weeping Willow Drive in
Denham Springs

No annual Christmas display walkthrough due to COVID. They will however continue to decorate the front yard and do welcome everyone to drive by.

 

Wilson Christmas Lights
9615 Sagefield Dr Central City, LA 70818

This is a stay in your vehicle to watch the show, just tune your radio to 96.7 FM to listen to the music. If you enjoy the show please tell all of your family and friends. We enjoy spreading Christmas joy doing this for you.

Below you will find the show hours:
Sunday 5:30pm – 10:00pm
Monday 5:30pm – 10:00pm
Tuesday 5:30pm – 10:00pm
Wednesday 5:30pm – 10:00pm
Thursday 5:30pm – 10:00pm
Friday 5:30pm – 10:00pm
Saturday 5:30pm – 10:00 pm
 

Brannon Daisey Denham Springs 

Families can catch this fun Christmas light show every day starting at 5:30 p.m.
You can also listen to the light show music live from your car by tuning in to 105.9FM. 
26225 Cottonwood Court in Denham Springs

 

Lighting up Zachary

Celebrate Christmas with a colorful light show and music!
This year, our donations are for a local non-profit:
http://www.nomadsandnobles.com/donate-1/
1136 Eagle Dr Zachary, LA 70791

The Griswold’s of Oak Place
34819 Oak Place Drive, Denham Springs, LA 70706

Christmas Lights in Baton Rouge & Beyond – 2020

 

 

The Davis’ Magical Christmas Land
26658 John L Ln Denham Springs, LA 70726

The Christmas Display is open nightly (weather permitting) for walk through visitors. Weekends will feature a Hot Cocoa Bar and visits from Santa on December 11th, 18th and 20th!!
 
 

Christmas lights at The Stroud’s
Plantation Ave, Denham Springs

Old Dutchtown Christmas Light Show
13124 Mill Grove Dr. Gonzales LA 70737

Christmas Lights in Baton Rouge
 
 
Set to music with dazzling lights. Runs nightly from 6 to 9 starting December 1st through New Years Day (weather permitting). 

Sevario Family Light Show
13378 Lonnie Wascom Drive
Walker, LA 70785

🚨Light show will begin December 5th running from 5:30-10PM 🚨
Listen to the lights – 90.1 FM
 

Reflections of the Season – West Baton Rouge

THE WESTSIDE CHRISTMAS FEST HAS BEEN CANCELLED FOR 2020.  HOWEVER THERE WILL BE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS ON DISPLAY ON WESTPORT AND OFFICE PARK DRIVE. UP NIGHTLY FROM DECEMBER 4-31.

PLANS TO RESUME REFLECTIONS OF THE SEASON IN DECEMBER 2021.

More Christmas Light Display Recommendations:

  • Hundred Oaks and Arlington
  • 5735 Antioch Blvd
  • Woodridge Subdivision off Pecou Lane – Many Lit Houses
  • The Garden District
  • Elliot Rd. – Home lights synced to music
  • Southwind & Wyndy in Parkview off of Stumberg

West Baton Rouge 

  • Molaison St in Addis
  • Emily Drive in Brusly

Central

  • 9615 Sagefield Dr.
  • 14003 Triple B Rd.
  • 15901 Chanove Ave.
  • Zoar Baptist Church 
  •  

Ascension

  • Oak Alley Subdivision, Giesmer
  • Fields Ct. Off 44 near the Dollar General, Prairieville
  • 13255 Old Dutchtown Ave, Gonzales, LA Multipls homes with lights and music. 
  • Most of the subdivisions along Bluff Rd

🎄 Download your own Christmas Lights Scavenger Hunt HERE for some extra Family fun! 

Thanks to Associates in Pediatric Dentistry for sponsoring this year’s Holiday Lights Guide.PARENTS AND SIBLINGS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME IN OUR CLINIC AREA.

 

 

 

RACK – Random Acts of Christmas Kindness

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Tis’ the season to get into the holiday spirit! We are RACKing up Random Acts of Christmas Kindness this season and we would love for you to join us! We are spreading the joy of the holidays by performing a Random Act of Christmas Kindness each day throughout the month of December. This is the perfect way to enjoy the true reason for the season… family, togetherness, community, and giving!

The best part of taking part in even the smallest act of kindness and or giving is that generosity and kindness are contagious!

Goodness spurs goodness: A single act can influence dozens more.

Please join us for our 6th Annual RACK! We are showering the Baton Rouge community with Christmas Kindness all month long!

RACK – Random Acts of Christmas Kindness

What is RACK and how does it work?

 It’s a way to infuse holiday spirit in others by performing a Random Act of Christmas Kindness throughout the month of December! Many do a RACK a day for 25 days leading up to Christmas, an advent of sorts. However, we are asking you to join us in doing what you can, when you can, however big, however small. Be creative and lead with your heart! Most importantly, get the whole family involved!

We have created printable RACK cards in different sizes, simply print and attach them to your RACK.  There are many ways to offer a RACK, we have put together an extensive list of ideas as well as a calendar if you want to follow a list of acts.

RACK – Random Acts of Christmas Kindness Ideas:

  1. Rake the yard of a neighbor who isn’t able to rake it themselves.  
  2. Make Christmas special for girls and boys…DONATE to Sylvia’s Toys!
  3. Bless your garbage collectors with a treat or small gift card for lunch.
  4. Have your children make the mailman or lady a Thank You card or poster with treats taped to it.
  5. Tape coins on vending machines for snacks, or sodas. The hospital would be a great place for this!
  6. Tape single dollars to items at the dollar store. (plus a dime for tax)
  7. RACK a Red Box by leaving a dollar or two and some popcorn or a candy cane.
  8. Donate items to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank
  9. Pack toiletry or snack bags for Volunteers of America Greater Baton Rouge homeless shelters.
  10. Donate a coat to Pat’s Coats for Kids.
  11. Bake treats and take them to the police station and or fire station with thank you cards for their service. 
  12. Take a break from texting and e-mail. Mail an actual handwritten letter or card to someone you love. Just because.
  13. Send letters or gifts to an assisted living home. Coordinate with your local nursing or retirement home first.
  14. Take get well balloons or flowers to the hospital and leave them with a nurse for someone who is alone.
  15. Fill a Good Samaritans Christmas Box
  16. Tape quarters to laundromat machines.
  17. Leave a basket of Christmas gifts on the doorstep of a family in need.
  18. Leave a $5 bill on the pump at a gas station.
  19. Bring treats to your local urgent care office on Christmas Eve.
  20. Cook a meal and deliver it to someone who could use a meal. Someone who is sick, a new family in the neighborhood or at church, a new mom.
  21. Take a person who’s working on Christmas Eve something special.
  22. Drop off books to give to patients at the OLOL Children’s Hospital.
  23. Drop off a coffee and a treat to a busy mom.
  24. Bring a gift to Santa.
  25. ‘Ding dong ditch’ your neighbors with fresh-baked goods.
  26. Before paying at the grocery store, buy a gift card, and then turn around and hand it to the person behind you or to the cashier.
  27. Leave an extra big tip at a restaurant.
  28. Donate to the local animal shelter. Contact a local animal shelter to find out what they need. (food, blankets, towels, and food bowls, etc.)
  29. Put something you no longer need on Craigslist’s FREE section.
  30. Fill purses you no longer use with toiletries and fun items for men and donate to your local womans shelter. 

Rack Tag printables…

RACK CardsDownload Medium RACK Cards HERE.

RACK Christmas TagDownload Small RACK Cards HERE.

Small RACK CircleDownload XSmall Circle TACK Tags HERE

 

 A RACK Advent calendar can be found here.

 More cards and tags can be found here.

It’s our responsibility to discuss gratefulness, generosity, unselfishness and service not just during the holidays but year-round. We are our children’s greatest role models — we should start early to mold our children’s perspectives on the holiday season. May we create such treasured memories of family time and togetherness, and the joy of giving, that our children will hold on to these memories for a lifetime and pass them on to their own children.

If we missed a great RACK idea, please leave it in the comments below!

Wishing each of you a blessed Christmas Season full of RACK!

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Brec’s Baton Rouge Zoolights – Making Spirits Bright

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Join BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo for Zoolights (Friday, November 27 – Wednesday, December 30)! Baton Rouge Zoolights festive mile-long trail through the Zoo in the evening boasts more than 50 illuminated sculptures of animals and traditional holiday displays for the whole family to enjoy. 

Baton Rouge Zoolights

This year, the Zoo is partnering with The Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank to bring more impact & excitement to Zoolights. Every guest presenting non-perishable food items (minimum of one per person) during the hours of Zoolights will receive a 50% discount from the regular admission price. Regular admission prices are $5 for adults/teens, $4 for senior citizens, $3 for children (2-12 years old), and $3 for Friends of the Zoo members. These amounts will be cut in half when a non-perishable food item is presented at the time of entry & all food donations will go directly to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. Learn more at www.brzoo.org. 

Zoo Lights


 

Baton Rouge Zoolights

Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

Admissions gates open 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Zoo grounds close at 9 p.m.

Admission:

Adults/Teens: $5
Seniors: $4
Ages 2-12: $3
Friends of the Zoo Members: $3 per person​

Prices will be reduced by 50% when guests present non-perishable food items to be donated to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. 

ZOOLIGHTS IS:

  • A mile-long trail through the Zoo
  • More than 50 illuminated display sculptures of animals and traditional holiday displays
  • A festive family activity, adding to the quality of life for residents throughout the region.

Baton Rouge Zoolights displays will include the following:

BREC Baton Rouge Zoolights

LIGHTED DISPLAYS WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

ILLUMINATED SCULPTURES: Visitors will find illuminated sculptures representing animals and traditional symbols of the holidays.

GIANT SPECTACULARS: Larger-than-life displays capture the imagination of children of all ages. These displays may include: Flamingos, Giraffes, Lions, Tigers, Gorillas, Rhinos, Elephants, Alligators, Giant Santa, Giant Snowmen, Holiday Trains, Santa in Sleigh pulled by Giant Reindeer and Toy Soldiers. Displays can be up to 30 ft. tall!

ANIMATED SPECTACULARS: Animated displays add additional entertainment value to our event. The use of high-wattage, computer-controlled displays will provide exciting animation to displays.

VISITOR AMENITIES: Safari Photo Booth Seasonal Specials from the Flamingo Cafe Safari Post Gift Shop

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch: Know Before You Go

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The weather last weekend was too glorious to stay indoors, so my family and I made the drive over to Barn Hill Preserve to check out their annual Pumpkin Patch. We had a great time and definitely plan to make it a fall tradition.

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch

The pumpkin patch is open from 9:00-4:00 every Saturday and Sunday in October and November. Entry is $15 per person, but there was so much to do that I felt the price was justified. The ticket price includes 1 small pumpkin picked from the pumpkin patch. There were animal encounters, a corn pit, pumpkin painting, trick-or-treating, hayrides, corn maze, archery, games, kangaroo walkabout, and lots of other activities. 

Add-on encounters with a two-toed sloth, spectacled owl, and anteater are not included in door price and are $10 per activity, per person

Barn Hill Preserve

We arrived around 10:30 am and it only took us about 15 minutes to park and pay. There was a bit of a line but it moved quite efficiently. Upon getting to the front, I was pleasantly surprised to find they take both cash and card options, as I was unable to get a firm answer to this question on their website or social media before arriving. 

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch

We started the day by practicing our archery, then enjoyed zoo-like enclosures featuring a lynx and a pair of very friendly otters. After that, we found our way to the Kangaroo Walkabout, which we unanimously agreed was the highlight of our trip. Kids and adults alike delighted in getting up close with baby goats, kangaroos, and even a giraffe!

We even got to feed the baby goats, which was such a sweet experience.

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch

We then walked down a rocky path to the actual pumpkin patch, which had its ups and downs. From afar, it was beautiful. Between the stunningly perfect weather providing a cloudless blue sky, to the lovely bright greens and oranges of the pumpkins, it made for gorgeous photos. Up close, it was a bit less perfect; we were frequently side-stepping gooey smashed pumpkins and large ant piles. That said, everyone found their perfect pumpkin. There were picnic tables set up where we could have painted them, the thought of even semi-wet paint entering my vehicle was enough for me to veto that activity.

Eating at Barn Hill Preserve

On-site food options limited, but the preserve does permit outside food and drink. We weren’t sure what to expect, so we brought a picnic lunch. It was perfect and there were multiple options for seating. If picnics aren’t your jam, they offer hamburgers and cheeseburgers for $5 each. There was also a mobile bar on site serving coffee, tea, soft drinks, and mocktails, as well as a selection of sweet treats.

Barn Hill Preserve

There were a few things I didn’t love, like the only bathrooms being two portapotties at the entrance. I don’t know about your kids but mine are horrified by the things, which caused us to make an early departure. There wasn’t any direction as to where to find things, like the animal show we got lucky and stumbled upon or the corn maze we never did locate. A map or signage would have been hugely helpful. Lastly, though the crowds weren’t bad, people tended to bunch up around activities and it was difficult to social distance at times. More and more people arrived as the day went by, so my suggestion would be to arrive first thing on a Sunday morning to avoid the bigger crowd.

Barn Hill Preserve

Overall, my family had a great time at Barn Hill Preserve’s pumpkin patch! Our highlights were the Kangaroo Walkabout, the otters, and all the great photo ops. I’m looking forward to going again next year and having an even better time now that we have this experience under our belts! If you’ve been before, what advice would you give families who are planning to go for the first time? Join the conversation on our Facebook page. 

Baton Rouge Family Fun

Christy is a Northshore native who in 2018, was dragged kicking and screaming to Denham Springs. After a short period of adjustment, she’s learned to love her new home and enjoys exploring all the Baton Rouge area has to offer. A working mother of two, she balances her free time between hanging out with her family, writing, and baking for her home business, The Little Things Cakes.

 

Visit our Family Friendly Baton Rouge Fall Events Guide for a full list of fall fun in Baton Rouge and beyond. 

Best and Worst Halloween Candy Options for Children’s Teeth

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All kids (and some parents) want to load up on all the Halloween candy they can get. Why even have the “Trick” in “Trick or Treat”?! Right?

As a pediatric dentist, I obviously don’t want your kids to eat too many sweets. Although I love seeing their smiling faces, I don’t want to find new cavities or an unglued crown that came out when they were eating a Laffy Taffy! Moderation is key here.  I would say don’t deprive your kids of candy. After all, that’s what Halloween is all about! But my advice is to go through all the candy together with your kids and choose 2-3 pieces they can have that day. Then stash the rest away out of sight.

Best and Worst Halloween Candy

Best and Worst Halloween Candy Options for Children’s Teeth

The best types of candy for your child’s teeth are dark chocolates or sugar-free hard candies. Dark chocolates have antioxidants and are crunchy and dissolve quickly in the mouth. This means your child’s teeth will be exposed to sugar for less time.

Types of candy to avoid are hard candies that remain in the mouth for longer periods of time (i.e. lollipops) because these expose your child’s teeth to sugar over longer periods of time and have an increased chance of causing tooth decay. Similar to hard candy, caramels and gummies will stay in the mouth longer and also tend to stick to our teeth’s biting surface, creating a perfect environment for cavities to form. Sour candies have increased acidity and can cause tooth enamel to break down more quickly.

Healthy Halloween Treats

Another great idea is to give kids fun, but healthy (SHH!) Halloween treats.  I love Pinterest for ideas and found a great site with Halloween snacks for kids. Check it out here: http://www.cleanandscentsible.com/2013/09/heathy-halloween-food-ideas.html

Halloween doesn’t have to be a dentist’s nightmare. As long as candy is eaten in moderation and you supplement that candy with some fun, healthier alternatives, your kids can enjoy Halloween and still have a healthy smile!

For more information on children’s oral health or if you have any questions, please visit www.ascensionsmiles.com or call us at (225) 402-4118.

2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS | Halloween Events

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Kids of all ages can’t wait to go trick-or-treating on Halloween and we finally have your 2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS and guidelines plus Halloween events happening in Baton Rouge and beyond! Because 2020 feels like a long episode of The Twilight Zone, many have been wondering what trick-or-treating will look like this year. Traditional Halloween activities are fun, but some can increase the risk of getting or spreading COVID-19. 

“East Baton Rouge Parish is on the right path to slowing the spread of the coronavirus, and we must work together to ensure we continue on this path,” said Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome in a statement. 

Make trick-or-treating safer

  • Avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters.
  • Give out treats outdoors, if possible.
  • Set up a station with individually bagged treats for kids to take.
  • Wash hands before handling treats.
  • Wear a mask.

While every effort has been made to ensure this information is accurate, we encourage you to verify that all details are correct and have not changed. If you have information on a Trunk-or-Treat that we missed, please let us know!

2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS – Baton Rouge and Beyond

2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS

All businesses and events hosted in EBR Parish for Halloween are required to follow Phase 3 guidelines that are currently in place:

  • General businesses are limited to 75% occupancy, with social distancing required
  • Social gatherings are limited to 50% capacity with a max of 250 people, with social distancing required
  • Outdoor crowd sizes are limited to 50% capacity of the outdoor space with up to 250 people, with social distancing required

Trick-or-treat hours in the city limits of Baton Rouge and unincorporated areas of East Baton Rouge are set for 6 – 8 p.m. on Saturday, October 31. Those who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or who have been exposed to someone who tested positive should not participate in any Halloween activities and should call their doctor.

{2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS SUBJECT TO CHANGE}

2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS What time is trick or treating in East Baton Rouge Parish — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 31
2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS What time is trick or treating in West Baton Rouge Parish — 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 31
2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS What time is trick or treating in Ascension Parish? — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 31
2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS What time is trick or treating in Livingston Parish — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.  Oct. 31
Halloween events near me What time is trick or treating in Pointe Coupee Parish — 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 31
Unincorporated areas throughout Pointe Coupee Parish will allow trick-or-treating from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Oct. 31

The City of New Roads and Village of Morganza set trick-or-treat hours from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Oct. 31

Trunk or Treats and Halloween Events

Trunk or Treats and Halloween events will be listed as they become available.

Main Event Baton Rouge

Join Main Event in Baton Rouge for a Family Friendly Halloween. This Spooktacular & Safe event features costume contests, pre-packaged goodie bags of treats and crafts for the kids, and activities for all ages!

Come dressed in your favorite family-friendly costume to participate in our Costume Contest at 3pm. The Judges’ Favorite from each category – Most Original, HAHAlloween, Scariest, Cutest – will win Free Laser Tag for a Year!

RSVP HERE!

Learn more about how we celebrate safely here: Main Event Safety

Boo at the Zoo

WHEN: 
Saturday, October 17, 2020
Sunday, October 18, 2020
Saturday, October 24, 2020
Sunday, October 25, 2020

WHERE: Baton Rouge Zoo

Calling all ghosts, goblins, little ghouls, and boys…  on October 17th, 18th, 24th, and 25th, BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo is thrilled to be able to host their most popular family event of the year – Boo at the Zoo! This year’s event will be a little bit different than in the past. For safety purposes, pre-prepared treat bags will be available for children to pick-up upon exiting the Zoo. They are still encouraging creative & fun costumes for all guests to create a merry-not-scary experience!

Halloween events near me

 

Haunted Hootenannies

Visit Blue Bonnet swamp in-person or online for two exciting weekends of Haunted Hootenannies! Visit on Saturdays for some wicked daytime fun like exploring the Animal Morgue and the wonderful Wall of Weird display or during the extended evening hours for a walk through the trail when all the nocturnal creatures are just coming out to play.

On Fridays, join via Zoom for exciting animal presentations led by nature experts like Dr. Nathan Lord from the Louisiana State Arthropod Museum talking about creepy crawlies and Leslie Lattimore from Wings of Hope Wildlife Rehabilitation with owls and other birds of prey!

They’ll also be giving away treat bags throughout the entire month of October! Although things might look a little differently than our usual Halloween events, we hope to see you all for some spooky but safe fun this Halloween!
Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center
Oct. 16 + 17 + 23 + 24

Jack-Eaux-Lanterns

Bring the whole family and join BREC for a special pumpkin carving and painting event. Registration Fee includes pumpkin
Zachary Community Park
Oct. 28
5-7 p.m.

Pumpkin Paddle Parade

Get into the Halloween spirit at the Pumpkin Paddle Parade, an exciting competition of “float” decorating! You design and decorate a canoe, kayak or paddleboard in Halloween décor, and then parade in front of our judges for the chance to win fabulous prizes!
Milford Wampold Memorial Park
Oct. 29
5:30-7:30 p.m.

Full Moon Fete: Movie in the Park

Get your costumes ready! Come out and enjoy a day filled with family-friendly entertainment as BREC hosts Full Moon Fete – Movie in the Park. This all-day event will feature 5 popular Halloween themed movies the entire family will enjoy.

This event includes a DRIVE THRU TRICK OR TREAT TRAIL (one hour prior to the start of the movie), CHARACTER VISITS, FOOD VENDORS, MUSIC, GIVE-A-WAYS, a COSTUME CONTEST and MORE!

Drive-in slots (limited) or walk-up.
This event is free and open to all ages.
MOVIES & SHOWTIMES
– Hotel Transylvania (PG) (2012) / 10 a.m.
– The Addams Family (PG) (2019) / 1 p.m.
– Goosebumps (PG) (2015) / 3:15 p.m.
– Ghostbusters (PG) (1984) / 5:30 p.m.
– Dracula (NR) (1931) / 7:45 p.m.
Trick or Treat Trail
9-9:45 a.m.
noon-12:45 p.m.
Please be prepared to observe social distancing regulations for the safety and security of all patrons.
Airline Highway Park
Oct. 31
10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Family-Friendly Halloween Drive-In Movies – Lamar Dixon Expo Center

2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS

Lamar-Dixon Expo Center has taken the cinematic experience to an entirely new level. From childhood nostalgia and classic films to recent releases, Live stream tailgating events, live music, and much more. 

Movies on the Mississippi will have classic snacks & drinks at concessions: popcorn, soft drinks, bottled water, snack packs, candy plus food trucks. They respectfully ask that you do not bring in any outside food or drinks in order to help support local Food Trucks and vendors that have been greatly affected by events being canceled due to COVID. 

APSO presents “Boo and the Badge” Trunk-or-treat style due to COVID-19 – Donaldsonville 

The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office will have two trunk-or-treat events on Halloween night that will take place at the Gonzales Courthouse parking lot in Gonzales and the Hickley M. Waguespack Center in Donaldsonville. Both events will be a drive-thru style due to covid-19.

This event is free to the public and will begin at 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in both locations.

Deputies will hand out candy during the event, alongside other community partner vendors.

In addition to the fun, attendees will be able to view some of the department’s vehicles, and other sheriff’s office equipment from their vehicles.

First United Methodist Church of Gonzales Trunk-or-Treat

WHEN: OCTOBER 25, 2020 AT 4 PM CDT – 6 PM CDT
WHERE: First United Methodist Church of Gonzales 224 W Constitution St, Gonzales, Louisiana 70737

An evening of fellowship and ‘trunk or treating’!  October 25th from 4-6 for annual trunk or treat. We will be spreading things out more and trying to maintain safe social distances. Waivers will be required before families can enter. 

Trunk or Treat

 
Family and Youth Service Center Trunk or Treat
October 29th, come decorate your cars to pass out candy or bring your kids in family-friendly costumes for trick or treating. For admission, we are asking for $1 donations or a canned good to go towards a Thanksgiving fundraiser. Food and drinks will also be provided. Can’t wait to see you there!
WHEN: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2020 AT 6 PM CDT
WHERE: 1120 Government St, Baton Rouge, LA 70802

 

 

Enjoy this Halloween with your family and friends, Baton Rouge! 

Visit our Family Friendly Baton Rouge Fall Events for a full list of fall fun in Baton Rouge and beyond.