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National Hunting and Fishing Day

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National Hunting and Fishing Day is back!

Join the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries for a FREE event that will include fun and informative exhibits on LDWF’s research and conservation efforts, as well as shooting and fishing demonstrations, and many other exhibits related to outdoor adventures!

This event is held nationwide on the fourth Saturday of every September to recognize generations of sportsmen and women for their contributions to conservation. LDWF is hosting four events in Louisiana on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023.
This FREE event will feature:
Youth fishing tournament
Live animals
Canoeing
Air-rifles
Skeet shooting
Archery
Free food and drinks
Door prizes
Face painting and more!

WHERE:
Waddill Wildlife Refuge
4142 N Flannery Rd Baton Rouge, LA 70814

WHEN:
Saturday, September 23th 8 AM – 1 PM

Visit the official event page for more info: https://fb.me/e/1nTsx7Tj4

NewSong Church Pumpkin Patch – Prairieville

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The NewSong Church Pumpkin Patch, at the corner of Old Perkins and Bluff Road in Prairieville, has announced its opening on September 25th,  better than ever, with NEW Activities for the 2023 pumpkin patch. This is one of our favorite family pumpkin patches; it’s close to home, making it convenient, never too busy, and always great for photo ops with the family.

NewSong Church Pumpkin Patch Activities

  • Pumpkins of all shapes and sizes and various types of gourds from the Navajo Tribe in Northern New Mexico will be available for purchase.
  • There will be a photo booth and other photo opportunities around the patch (no paid photography!)
  • Several pieces of vintage playground equipment
  • Giant tractor tire sandbox
  • Swings
  • Horseshoes
  • Giant hopscotch
  • Cornhole
  • Giant Adirondack chair
Morning field trips for area schools include storytime, hayrides, crafts, and pie-sized pumpkins.
NewSong will also host a FREE Fall Festival on Saturday, October 28th, from 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm. Live music, hayrides, food, face painting, inflatables, games, crafts, and more.

PHOTOS

They have a team who has decorated awesome photo ops for you.

Please feel free to bring your kiddos and your phone to take pictures.

Due to liability issues, NO PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS ARE ALLOWED at any time.

WHEN:
September 25th through Saturday, October 31st.

WHERE:
18465 Old Perkins Rd, Prairieville, LA 70769

SESSION TIMES:
Monday – Friday 9am – 6 pm
Saturdays – 9am – 6pm
Sundays – 12pm – 6pm

ADMISSION:
Free – pay for your pumpkin

Boo at the Zoo – Halloween Fun at BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo

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Get ready to unleash the Halloween spirit! On October 21-22 and 28-29, BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo is thrilled to present its spooktacular annual event – Boo at the Zoo! This beloved family tradition is back and better than ever, promising a ghoulishly good time for all ages.

Step into a world of enchantment as the Baton Rouge Zoo transforms into a Halloween wonderland. Whether you’re a ghost, goblin, or a little ghoul, this event is tailor-made for family fun.

This year at Baton Rouge Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo

  • Hand-painted fall and Halloween-themed photo ops throughout the Zoo
  • Festive animal enrichments
  • Ed-Zoo-Cation Station
  • AAZK Dunk Booth for Conservation
  • Children’s Entertainment at the Capital One Pavilion
  • Mini-Pumpkin Patch, provided by Capital City Produce
  • Halloween Goodie Bags at the end of your visit

It’s sure to be a good time for all ages!

Refreshments:

Food will be available for purchase at the Flamingo Cafe and Food Court at the Capital One Pavilion, provided by Rice and Roux and The Funnel Factory.

Upcoming Dates:

Saturday, October 21
Sunday, October 22
Saturday, October 28
Sunday, October 29

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Is parking free?

A: Parking is free, but the parking lot often fills up for Boo at the Zoo. Deputies will assist in directing traffic but please “bear” with them. Cars will be permitted to enter as soon as spots become available. It’s best to get there early!

Q: Is your event scary?

A: Boo at the Zoo is a merry, not scary, Halloween event. The Hay Maze & other attractions are not scary and are suitable for young children.

Q: Can we bring our own snacks and beverages?

A: Outside snacks and beverages are not allowed inside the Zoo, but feel free to enjoy your Zoo favorites at the Flamingo Cafe, or try out the Food Court with everything from quesadillas and fried pickles to funnel cakes and smoothies! 

So, mark your calendars for October 21-22 and 28-29, and don your favorite Halloween costume. Boo at the Zoo is an event you won’t want to miss.

Learn more at the BREC Baton Rouge Zoo website, and follow the Baton Rouge Zoo Facebook page for updates!

Louisiana Wildfires: How to Help

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Numerous Louisiana wildfires are currently raging across the state; the enormity of this crisis is evident in the heartbreaking scenes unfolding in Beauregard, Vernon, and Sabine Parishes in Southwest Louisiana.

Dozens of homes lie in ruins, multiple firefighters have sustained injuries and mandatory evacuation mandates continue to be enforced. More than 30,000 acres have burned since local fire departments, volunteers, and the National Guard started battling the fires Tuesday morning.

Louisiana Wildfires: How to Help

United Way of Southwest Louisiana has launched a Fire Relief Fund to support individuals and families. 100% of the proceeds are directed to distributing relief funds according to the community’s most urgent needs and assisting firefighters with needs. Donations can be made at unitedwayswla.org/fireswla or by texting FIRESWLA to 40403.

The Evangeline Parish Sheriff’s Office is doing a drive for the following items for the Beauregard Parish Firefighters: Water, pop-up canopy tents, and high-velocity fans.

If you are interested in giving please bring donations to 415 W. Cotton St., Ville Platte. Donations can be made 24/7 by Aug. 30. Every little bit will be greatly appreciated. Please feel free to call 337-363-2161 with any questions.

Dewith Carrier State Representative District 32 is collecting donations of Liquid IV Hydration packets to distribute to first responders and volunteers in Beauregard Parish. If you can help, contact the district office at 318-335-0206, and arrangements will be made to pick up the donations.

New Step Outreach, DeRidder, is making and distributing snack kits for first responders. Contact the organization for more information, 337-226-5602.

Water, Gatorade, and non-perishable snacks for first responders can be dropped off at the Westside Fire Station in DeRidder, 102 Wilson Street. Firefighters will get it to the areas in need. This is to limit the traffic in and around the response area.

Shelters

The American Red Cross has set up a shelter at United Methodist at 406 W. Shirley St. in DeRidder. Cots are available.  Dry Creek Baptist Camp, Highway 113, is also open for shelter.  The Beauregard Parish Fair Grounds are also open for equipment, RVs, and campers. To access, use the north gate by the baseball fields.

How to track wildfires burning across the state. 

To track the wildfires in Louisiana, click here.

Louisiana Wildfire Resources and Information

https://dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/louisiana-wildfires-resources

Photo credit: Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office and Louisiana State Police.

The Hope Shop Expands and Opens New Location on Government St

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The Hope Shop, operated by Hands Producing Hope, is thrilled to announce the opening of its new location on Government Street, marking an exciting chapter of growth and expansion. The move brings an expanded retail space, doubling the store’s capacity to showcase an even broader range of fair trade and handmade items that empower communities and support sustainable practices.

Formerly nestled behind Circa 1857, The Hope Shop’s new address is now 3115 Government Street, conveniently located beside DIY Disco and adjacent to Elsies Plate and Pie. This strategic positioning ensures that The Hope Shop remains a focal point of the thriving Baton Rouge community, offering patrons easy access to its unique collection of impactful products.

The Hope Shop

As the sole fair trade store in Baton Rouge, The Hope Shop takes immense pride in its commitment to supporting ethical and sustainable craftsmanship from its local and global partners. Shoppers can explore an extensive array of goods, including curated home decor, exquisite jewelry, luxurious bath and body products, eco-friendly paper goods, charming children’s items, and stylish apparel. Every purchase at The Hope Shop has a positive impact, as customers contribute to the betterment of artisans’ lives and the environment.

“We are thrilled to unveil our new location on Government Street, which not only allows us to double our retail space but also strengthens our connection to the Baton Rouge community,” said Rebecca Gardner, Founder of The Hope Shop and Hands Producing Hope. “With an enriched collection of fair trade and sustainable products, we are excited to continue our mission of uplifting artisans and promoting ethical consumer choices.”

The Hope Shop Expands and Opens New Location on Government St

The Hope Shop’s grand opening celebration is scheduled for Saturday, August 19, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The event promises an immersive shopping experience, exclusive promotions, product samples, giveaways, and an opportunity for patrons to engage with the passionate team behind the store’s success. Following the grand opening, regular store hours will be Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Sunday, 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

The Hope Shop

This expansion represents The Hope Shop’s unwavering dedication to supporting artisans around the world and offering Baton Rouge residents a meaningful and uplifting shopping experience. As the store embarks on this new journey, it invites the community to join in the celebration and explore the beauty of fair trade and sustainable living.

🤝 Fair Trade
🌳 Sustainable
♻️ Zero Waste
✅ Ethical
👚 Second Hand

For more information about The Hope Shop and its offerings, please visit www.handsproducinghope.org or contact rebecca@handsproducinghope.org.

About The Hope Shop:

The Hope Shop, operated by local nonprofit Hands Producing Hope, is Baton Rouge’s premier fair trade store, committed to empowering artisans and promoting sustainable living. Many goods in the shop are crafted by the women in Hands Producing Hope’s programs (located in Baton Rouge, Costa Rica, and Rwanda) and all the other brands they carry follow fair trade principles and many are sustainably made as well. With an expanded retail space on Government Street, The Hope Shop offers an exquisite collection of fair trade and handmade items, spanning home decor, jewelry, bath and body goods, paper goods, children’s items, and apparel. Every purchase at The Hope Shop makes a positive difference by supporting artisans and fostering a more ethical and sustainable world. Customers can also shop all their goods online at handsproducinghope.org.

Things to Do in Baton Rouge this Weekend {August 18th – August 20th }

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The Baton Rouge Family-Friendly Weekend Guide is your comprehensive source for the top events and activities taking place in Baton Rouge this weekend. Discover a wealth of family-friendly options available in Baton Rouge and beyond, ensuring that quality time with your loved ones is never in short supply!

Events are subject to change, be sure to check events are as scheduled before heading out.

Things To Do in Baton Rouge This Weekend

Nature Night Hike and Campfire: Forest
Friday, August 18th  7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
BREC’s Forest Community ParkJoin us on a Friday night for a great way to say hello to summer! The program will include a night hike learning about local ecology and nocturnal animals and will include activities and games. Come enjoy this great way to get the family out after the daytime heat. Preregistration is required, and spaces are limited. Children must be registered and accompanied by a registered adult.

 

5th Annual Sweet Baton Rouge® Ultimate Tailgate
Saturday, August 19th – 12 PM – 5 PM
Perkins Rowe

Sweet Baton Rouge® is thrilled to announce the return of our highly anticipated 5th Annual Ultimate Tailgate, taking place on August 19th from 12PM to 5PM at Perkins Rowe. This year, we are bringing the event back to where it all began, as the Ultimate Tailgate’s inaugural market was held at Perkins Rowe 2019. We can’t wait to celebrate this milestone with you!
We will have 2 Domestic 1 Import playing all of your favorite tailgate tunes. Baton Rouge Family Fun is joining us with a table for kids to kraft while attending Ultimate Tailgate.
At the Ultimate Tailgate and all past local events Sweet Baton Rouge® host, we have always prioritized creating a strong local Louisiana community, providing a platform for others to support and shop local goods. Our gameday themed market showcases a wide range of locally made goods, local boutiques, and much more. By participating as a vendor, you will not only gain exposure for your business but also contribute to the growth and success of the local business community. If you’re a boutique or local vendor, apply here.
Not only will we have amazing vendors, but this event will have its second Corn Hole Tournament & our First Annual Jambalaya cook-off.

 

Oath Bayou Bash
Saturday, August 19th, 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
10305 Blackwater Road, Central, LA 70714

Fun for the whole family! Water Slides, Jump Houses, Face Painting, Sno Balls, Ice Cream Trucks, DJ Music, Cornhole Tournament, and more!

 

Wonders of Wildlife
Saturday, August, 19th 9:00 am – 4:00 pm 
BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

Join BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center as they explore the wonders of urban wildlife and learn how we can all get along.
️ Educational presentations
Games
Live animals
Trail activities
Crafts and more!
Did you find a baby bird or injured animal? Worried about the snakes in your backyard and how to keep raccoons out of your garbage can? Need some tips on how your pets and the wildlife in your backyard can coexist? Find out the answers to these questions and more!
Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center
August 19th, 9 AM – 4 PM
️Ages: 3-17 / $4; Ages: 18+ / $5
Learn more:
Contact Information
sguidry@brec.org
Price: Ages: 3-17 / $4; Ages: 18+ / $5

 

FIELD TRIP TO THE MOON LEGO
Saturday, August 19, 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Main Library Children’s Storytime Area

Join the Main Library at Goodwood to read Field Trip to the Moon by John Hare, then build LEGO creations inspired by the book. Registration is required, and space is limited. Sorry, no groups.

 

Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch 2023

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The summer weather has been HOT, and everyone is ready for cooler days. As temps start to decline a tad, it’s the perfect time for outdoor family fun, and Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch is the perfect way to kick off the Fall season.

Some of you, like me, may have seen tons of families pick strawberries on this farm back in the spring and have been wanting to check it out! Here’s a glimpse at a previous trip and what you can expect this year.

Mrs. Heather's Pumpkin Patch

Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch 2023

Admission for adults with children is free, and for children are $10 per child, which includes activities and a pumpkin for each child to bring home. Adults without children will also have a great time, and tickets are $10 per adult without a child.

Mrs. Heather's Pumpkin Patch

The farm has almost every activity you can think of, and for an older child, I imagine you could spend hours there. There was a giant jumping pillow, many varieties of swings, hopscotch, a corn maze, tunnel slides, zip-lining, seesaws, face painting, and pumpkin painting.

There were also plenty of photo opportunities… on haystacks decorated for fall, and cutouts throughout the property.

Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch Activities:

  • Pick a Pumpkin from the field
  • Zip line
  • Jumping Pillow
  • Tunnel Slide
  • Face Painting
  • Duck Racing
  • Hay Maze
  • Pony Hop
  • Play in our fun Corn Maze
  • Spider Web
  • Nursery Rhymes
  • Bean Bag Game
  • Seesaws
  • Learn about bees
  • Milk a Cow
  • Roll Down the Hill
  • Learn how pumpkins grow
  • Merry go round
  • Visit with cartoon characters
  • Hopscotch
  • Indian Tee Pee
  • Nature Trail
  • Lots of places to take pictures
  • Weigh & Measure your pumpkin
  • Bring a Picnic Lunch
  • Pictures with Spookley
  • Paint a pumpkin (weekend only)

Mrs. Heather's Pumpkin Patch

I have seen pictures and talked to some friends who visited Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch on a weekday, and it was incomparable in crowd size. It looked like they had the farm to themselves! I think if we went back, I would plan for a weekday.

Since our daughter is on the younger side and couldn’t do all of the activities, we stayed for about two hours which was plenty for her. If I had older children, I would suggest packing drinks, snacks, and even lunch. We saw some families having picnics on the property, and it seems as though you are allowed to bring in ice chests, wagons, chairs, etc, for a full day of fun.

Mrs. Heather's Pumpkin Patch

Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch is open 7 days a week!

WHEN:
September 23– November 5, 2023

WHERE:
31458 La 43 Hwy, Albany, LA 70711. Phone: 225-567-3493

Directions: From I-55 take exit 32 then left toward Wardline Rd, drive 2 miles then turn right onto Lee Hughes Rd, drive 0.9 mile then turn left onto Lee’s Ln.

SESSION TIMES:
Daily 9:00am – 4:00pm

ADMISSION:

  • Kids (newborn & up): $10 per child CASH ONLY
  • Adults with children/child free
  • Adults without kids: $10

Put on some festive outfits and make the quick 50-minute drive to Hammond when Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch opens on September 24th! 

Christy was born and raised in Mandeville, came to LSU to study PR, and after meeting her husband and finding a job she has stayed in Baton Rouge ever since! She’s a stay-at-home-working-mom to two girls who she loves watching grow and learn each day. In her free time, Christy, her husband Harold, and Lucy enjoy being outside, trying new restaurants, traveling, and finding any excuse to decorate the house, cook, and have friends over.  

ALDI – 10 Tips to Know Before You Go

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Hey, Baton Rouge shoppers! Get ready to experience the fantastic world of savings and quality as a brand-new Aldi store opens its doors in our area.

Not just one, but a total of THREE new ALDI stores are on the horizon! These stores will be conveniently situated in Central, Inniswold, and Baton Rouge. Mark your calendars for the grand opening of the Central store on Thursday, August 31st. You’ll find this new ALDI at 10015 Sullivan Road.

Whether you’re a seasoned Aldi shopper or new to the game, we’ve got the ultimate guide of top 10 tips to ensure your family shopping experience is a breeze. 🎉

ALDI – 10 Tips to Know Before You Go

  1. Bring Your Own Bags: Aldi is all about efficiency and sustainability. Make sure to bring your reusable bags to save both money and the environment. Don’t worry if you forget – you can purchase bags at the store too.
  2. Grab a Quarter: Aldi’s shopping carts require a quarter deposit, but don’t worry; you’ll get it back when you return the cart. It’s a clever way to keep their carts organized and minimize costs, which in turn keeps prices low for you!
  3. Check the Weekly Specials: Aldi’s weekly specials are unbeatable. Keep an eye out for the “Aldi Finds” aisle for limited-time deals on everything from kitchen gadgets to seasonal treats.
  4. Private Label Gems: Aldi is known for its private-label products that are both affordable and high-quality. Don’t hesitate to try their store brands – you might be surprised at the savings and taste!

  5. Check out the Fan Favorites items online: Make sure to visit ALDI’s website and explore the Fan Favorites section before you head out for your shopping. Keep an eye out for these items in the store as well – they’re easy to spot with the heart-shaped logo!

  6. Fresh Produce Picks: Aldi’s produce section offers a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Look out for their “Produce Picks of the Week” – these are specially priced and in-season items.
  7. Double Guarantee: Aldi offers a Double Guarantee – if you’re unsatisfied with a product, they’ll replace it and refund your money. No questions asked!
  8. Explore the Aisles: Aldi is more than just groceries. Explore their non-food sections for home goods, seasonal items, and even clothing at incredible prices.
  9. Organic and Gluten-Free Options: If you’re looking for organic, gluten-free, or other specialized products, Aldi has a wide range available. Look for the labels to find products that fit your dietary preferences.
  10. Save on Snacks: Aldi’s snack aisle is a treasure trove of affordable treats for kids and adults alike. Stock up on snacks without breaking the bank.
  11. *Bonus tip: Do your shopping on Wednesday mornings. That’s when their shelves are restocked. You’re welcome!

With these 10 tips in your shopping arsenal, you’ll be prepared to make the most out of your family’s trips to the new Aldi in Central or future Baton Rouge stores. Get ready to fill your cart with amazing deals and quality products! Happy shopping, Baton Rouge families! 🛒🥦🍞

Capital Renaissance International School (CRIS)

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Capital Renaissance International School is kicking off its second year and enrolling students (6 weeks – 5th grade) for the 2023-2024 school year. Capital Renaissance International School (CRIS) is the only school in Baton Rouge to offer full language immersion learning in up to three languages: Spanish, French, and Chinese. Their unique curriculum ensures that children are linguistically, academically, and culturally prepared to succeed globally.  At CRIS, students learn about the world without ever having to leave Louisiana! 

Capital Renaissance International School

Creating A Diverse Community of Learners

Multiple language acquisition by immersion is the foundation of the CRIS education model.  In addition to immersing students in language and literacy, the educational program at CRIS integrates and emphasizes STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). The founders envisioned this model as a primary means of encouraging global awareness and creating a diverse community of learners. Students are taught a full curriculum in up to three additional languages in all core STEAM subjects.

Perusing the CRIS Instagram page and witnessing the breadth of knowledge children acquire in not just one but three languages is impressive!

🌎 The benefits of Language Immersion for Children! 📚🗣️

1. Bilingual Proficiency from the Start: Language immersion schools provide an unparalleled opportunity for children to become fluent in a second language at an early age. Students naturally acquire language skills through constant exposure and interaction, achieving native or near-native proficiency effortlessly.

2. Cognitive Benefits: Research shows that bilingual children often demonstrate enhanced cognitive abilities, including better problem-solving skills, multitasking capabilities, and higher levels of creativity. Immersion education encourages their brains to adapt and process information in multiple ways, resulting in well-rounded intellectual development.

3. Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity: Language and culture are intricately intertwined. By immersing children in a different language, they gain insight into various cultures, traditions, and ways of thinking. This fosters empathy, understanding, and a broader worldview to serve them well in an increasingly diverse global society.

4. Improved Academic Performance: Language immersion students often excel academically. The skills they acquire, such as enhanced memory and adaptability, contribute to success across subjects. Moreover, the discipline and dedication required for language acquisition transfer to other areas of learning.

5. Early Global Competence: In today’s interconnected world, being globally competent is a prized skill. Language immersion equips children with the tools to communicate with people from diverse backgrounds, making them effective global citizens and future leaders.

6. Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: Learning a new language requires deciphering context, interpreting cues, and making sense of unfamiliar situations – all of which sharpen a child’s analytical and problem-solving skills. These skills can be applied in countless real-world scenarios.

7. Long-lasting Language Retention: Language immersion builds a strong foundation for language retention. Since children learn languages in a natural, integrated way, they’re more likely to retain those skills into adulthood, ensuring a lifelong asset.

8. Boosted Self-confidence: Mastering a second language empowers children, boosting their self-esteem and confidence. They become more willing to take risks and step out of their comfort zones, traits that are essential for personal and professional growth.

9. Competitive Advantage: As your child grows, their bilingual skills become valuable in the job market. Employers often seek individuals with language proficiency, and being bilingual can open doors to exciting career opportunities.

10. Lifelong Love for Learning: Language immersion schools foster a love for learning by making education an engaging and immersive experience. Children are encouraged to be curious, ask questions, and explore, creating a lifelong passion for acquiring knowledge.

In a rapidly changing world, the benefits of language immersion schools extend far beyond language acquisition. They prepare children to thrive in a diverse, interconnected, and globalized society, equipping them with skills and perspectives that will serve them well throughout their lives. Give your child the gift of language and culture! 🌍📖🌟

Capital Renaissance International School (CRIS) is located at 10420 Baringer Foreman Road in Baton Rouge

Learn more: https://www.crisbr.org

Follow Capital Renaissance International School (CRIS) online on Facebook and Instagram.

Louisiana Renaissance Festival – Know Before You Go

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The Louisiana Renaissance Festival is back for 2023 and Theme Weekends have been announced! Every autumn, the Louisiana Renaissance Festival creates the English “Village of Albright,” with more than 600 artisans, entertainers, and educational demonstrations welcoming you to the best parts of the 16th century.

Albright has a magical ambiance: an adventurous, exciting, and romantic atmosphere. Choose from dozens of professional performers, more than 50 shows, and a plethora of demonstrations every day on a dozen stages. Search a hundred booths for unique handmade creations.

2023 Dates

NOV: 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26

DEC: 2, 3, 9 & 10

(Rain or Shine)

Louisiana Renaissance Festival Themes Weekends

Let this year’s themes inspire you for 6 weekends of adventure at the Louisiana Renaissance Festival!
Nov. 4 & 5: Romance & Masquerade — Romance is always celebrated at the RenFest, but on our opening weekend, it takes center stage! Add a little mystery, if you choose, by donning a mask that hides (or reveals!) your inner self.
Nov. 11 & 12: Viking — Get in touch with your inner barbarian and join the clamoring hordes of merrymakers on our second weekend. Fighting and pillaging are not allowed, but expect some good-natured berserking.
Nov. 18 & 19: Celtic — Celts were found all over Europe (even Spain and France), but most people think of Scotland, Ireland, and Wales. Expect to see lots of kilts, some woad, and maybe even a leprechaun or two!
Nov. 24, 25, & 26: Myths & Magic — Set your imagination free! Legendary beings, cosplayers, and time travelers flock to our village on this fantastic 3-day weekend that includes the Friday after Thanksgiving. We can’t wait to see who you are!
Dec. 2 & 3: Pirates — Batten down the hatches and polish your peg leg; the village will be invaded by buccaneers and scallywags! Be sure to join this happy melee — a Jolly Roger time will be had by all!
Dec. 9 & 10: Fireworks — We end the season with a bang! Spend your day seeing your favorite shows and people, and making last-minute holiday purchases (we have the perfect gift for everyone on your list!); after sundown, spread a blanket and watch one of the best private fireworks shows in the region!

My family visited last year, here are some tips we think you should know before you go:

Louisiana Renaissance Festival – Know Before You Go

  • Remember to get cash before you go. Many vendors can take a card, but it’s hit and miss. There are ATMs, but there are fees to them. Plus, cash can be helpful for budgeting as well!
  • Be ready to wait in line. The lines for food ranged from a handful of patrons to dozens deep, and nearly all the interactive activities had decent lines at all times. If you have impatient littles, this is something you’ll want to plan for.
  • The mead hits hard. Mead is a historic honey wine that can be purchased at the adult tavern near the glass blowing demo. But fair warning: it’s like a Medieval Hand Grenade and WILL sneak up on you…not that I would know…
  • If you like a vendor, take their card! Even if you don’t end up buying something from them, you can still support them with a social media like, follow, and share!

Louisiana Renaissance Festival - Know Before You Go

  • There is a handful of rides, but they’re all period-accurate. No Ferris wheels or roller coasters here, but the rides that ARE there are lots of fun! There’s a sea monster boat that rocks forward and back, pony rides, and whatever this wind-up Maypole contraption is called:
  • Check the website for the daily schedule. Like music festivals, there are several shows going on at different stages all day, and you’ll want to plan your day a bit to avoid missing anything you’re interested in (our favorites were jousting and the glass blowing!). 

Credit: Louisiana Renaissance Festival

  • Wear comfortable shoes. And while you’re at it, wear shoes that can be washed/wiped down. You’ll spend the vast majority of your day walking around a dusty dirt path that turns to a muddy dirt path if it rains.
  • Check the website for each weekend’s theme. For example, our weekend was Heroes and Pirates Weekend; the costumes were amazing! Other themes include Celtic Weekend, Time Travelers Weekend, and Romance Weekend.
  • Dress up! Or don’t. There’s no pressure to dress in period-accurate costume, and conversely, no outfit is unwelcome.  We saw faeries, queens, knights, anime characters, pirates, jesters, comic book characters…but there were plenty of festival-goers not in costume. 
WHERE:
Fairgrounds:
46468 River Rd, Hammond LA, 70401

Visit their website at https://www.larf2023.org to learn more. 

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.