Baton Rouge Zoo Family Zoo Run Run

October 13, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Whether you are a turtle or a hare there is fun for all to be had at the Baton Rouge Zoo’s 16th annual Family Zoo Run Run on Saturday, November 13th, 2021. Run like a cheetah to the 16th annual Zoo Run Run 2-Mile Race and ½ Mile Kids’ Fun Run presented by Ochsner! At the run, enjoy the scenery as you scamper, trot or gallop your way through BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo. All proceeds from the race support your Baton Rouge Zoo and international cheetah conservation efforts. Again this year, all participants earn a medal! After the race, participants are invited to join the Zoo for food, refreshments, and an award ceremony.

REGISTER HERE!

Baton Rouge Zoo Family Zoo Run Run

Where else do you get to run alongside cheetahs, elephants, monkeys, and more?

Race Day

Race day registration will be located at the front entrance of the Zoo. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Baton Rouge, take Exit 8A off of I-110 North and turn right onto Highway 19. Continue to the second stop light and turn right onto Thomas Road. The Zoo entrance is one mile on the left.

On-Site Registration Begins 6:30am

Kids 1/2 Mile Fun Run Begins 7:30am

2 Mile Race Begins 8:15am

Chip Timing

Only 2-Mile runners will be timed. Your RFID timing chip will be attached to your race bib.

Race T-Shirts

Only participants who are pre-registered by October 22nd are guaranteed a Zoo Run Run t-shirt in thier size on Race Day.

Entry Fees*

Adult/Teen Registration

Pre-registration (by Nov 13): $30
Race Day Registration: $35

Child Registration (ages 12 and under)

Pre-registration: $17
Race Day Registration: $22

REGISTER HERE!

For more Family Zoo Run Run information check out: BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo Website

For questions or to volunteer, please call (225) 775-3877 or email info@brzoo.org.

Flock on down and join the herd for a great event for competitive and casual runners, walkers, and families alike, all for a great cause. We hope to see you there!

Halloween in Baton Rouge – Things to Do

October 7, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Halloween in Baton Rouge – there is never a shortage of Halloween activities in the Red Stick. From Haunted houses to Merry Not so Scary events to festivals, there is something for everyone. 13th Gate, one of the nation’s most revered haunted houses, resides in Baton Rouge, as does one of the most eclectic festivals: the Fifolet Halloween Festival and Parade. If that isn’t enough, there’s a fun run, costume ball, and Creepy Night Hike too. The perfect activity for your Halloween season can be found many times over in Baton Rouge.

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 that we have missed, please let us know! This post will be updated as new events are listed; check back for more Baton Rouge Family Fun!

Thanks to our Guide Sponsor, The Joint Chiropractic!
Current Special: Includes an exam, adjustment, and consultation for ONLY $29 ($39 Value)
WALK-IN to Arlington Creek, Siegen Lane, or the newest location at Juban Rd., Denham Springs anytime!!

Halloween in Baton Rouge – Things to do

Night Maze at Burden

The sun goes down and the family fun cranks up at The Night Maze at Burden. Tickets are limited so grab yours before they’re gone! Don’t stay home this Halloween! Night Maze has made its’ way back to the Botanic Gardens for another evening of family fun. Grab your costumes, glow sticks, and flashlights and make your way over to enjoy the family-friendly Night Maze. Your ticket includes entry into the night maze, bonfire, hay mountain, corn crib, games, and a live concert from one of our talented local bands. S’mores and other concessions available for purchase.

Date(s):	October 30th
Start time:	6:00 PM
End time:	9:00 PM
Location:	LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden 4560 Essen Ln Baton Rouge, LA 70809

CHEEKY MONKEY’S Halloween House

A Not-So-Scary Haunted House geared for all the little ghouls and goblins! Bring the kiddos for a fun family-friendly event full of just enough spookiness for our littles ones to enjoy! Their imaginations will take care of the rest!

Date(s):	Wednesday (10/27) 4-7pm Thursday (10/28) 4-7pm Friday (10/29) 4-8pm Saturday (10/30) 1-8pm Sunday (10/31) 1-6pm
Start time:	See Above
End time:	See Above
Location:	11111 Park Place Drive, Suite A Baton Rouge, LA 70818

Boo at the Zoo

BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo invites participants to Boo at the Zoo, a merry-not-scary trick-or-treating extravaganza Oct. 16-17 and 23-24 from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. (grounds close at 5 p.m.) Participants should wear their best costumes and enjoy a day at the Zoo to celebrate fall in Louisiana. This year, instead of treat stations, we will have various animal enrichments for guest viewing and each child in attendance (ages 12 and under) will receive a pre-filled treat bag as they exit the Zoo. For more information, visit brzoo.org.

Date(s):	October 16th, 17th, 23rd and 24th
Start time:	9:30 AM
End time:	4:00 PM
Location:	Baton Rouge Zoo 3601 Thomas Rd Baton Rouge, LA 70807

Bluebonnet Swamp Haunted Hikes

Bluebonnet Swamp presents Haunted Hikes on Oct. 8, 15, and 22 with games and entertainment beginning at 6 p.m. and the trails opening at dark. These events are designed especially for younger children. This program is an alternative to the commercial haunted houses, which are geared more toward teenagers and adults. Participants learn about snakes, insects, rats, and other “creepy critters” as they stop at educational stations along the trail. Track down costumed characters to receive “treasures” then trek through the Swamp Graveyard to our Education Building for Carnival Games and Spooky Storytime. No scare tactics are used during this program, and participants are welcome to come in costume if they choose. All participants should bring a flashlight and because this program runs at night, an adult must accompany all children. The fee is $6 per person and free for those age 2 and younger. For more information, call 225-757-8905 or email swampevents@brec.org.

Date(s):	Oct. 8, 15, & 22
Start time:	6:00
End time:
Location:	Bluebonnet Swamp

Spooky Spectrum

As darkness falls, so does the spookiness. Come visit – if you dare – as Highland Road Park Observatory celebrates Spooky Spectrum, its annual family-friendly tribute to the bizarre and freakish, on Oct. 16 from 6-10 p.m. We’ll delve into the eerie side of astronomy, physics, and aeronautics. Be warned, we want to make you think! For more information, call 225-768-9948 or visit brec.org/observatory.

Date(s):	October 16th
Start time:	6:00 PM
End time:	10:00 PM
Location:	Highland Road Park Observatory

BREC Jack-Eaux-Lanterns

Bring the whole family and join us at Jack-Eaux-Lanterns from 4:30-6:30 p.m. on Oct. 25 at Zachary Community Park and on Oct. 27 at Greenwood Community Park. Activities will include pumpkin carving and painting. For more information, email monica.porras@brec.org.

Date(s):	October 25th & October 27th
Start time:	4:30 PM
End time:	6:30 PM
Location:	Oct. 25 at Zachary Community Park Oct. 27 at Greenwood Community Park

Pumpkin Paddle Parade

Get into the Halloween spirit with our Pumpkin Paddle Parade, an exciting competition of “float” decorating on Oct. 28 from 5:30-7 p.m. at Milford Wampold Memorial Park! You design and decorate a canoe in Halloween décor and then parade in front of our judges for the chance to win fabulous prizes! The fee is $10 per kayak or stand-up paddleboard. To register, visit webtrac.brec.org or email outdooradventure@brec.org for more information.

Date(s):	October 28th
Start time:	5:30 PM
End time:	7:00 PM
Location:	Milford Wampold Memorial Park

Hooper Halloween Trail Run

Happy Halloween racers! Join us out at the haunted Hooper Trails for a trail race that is simply too spooky to miss! Racers can choose to participate in the 1-mile Fun Run or the approximately 5-mile Competitor’s Loop. Prizes will be awarded to the top finishers in the 4-mile Competitor’s Loop. Participants must register prior to Sept. 13 for a free race t-shirt. Participants over the age of 21 will be provided two drink tickets to be used after the race. Costume contest to follow race.

Date(s):	October 9th
Start time:	8:00 AM
End time:	1:00 PM
Location:	Hooper Road Park 6261 Guynell Road Baton Rouge, LA 70811

Full Moon Fete + Trunk & Treat

Get your costumes ready! Come out and enjoy an evening filled with family fun and entertainment as BREC, Ochsner Health, and the BREC Foundation host Full Moon Fete + Trunk & Treat at Forest Community Park on Oct. 29 at 4 p.m. You don’t want to miss this SPOOKendous event featuring movies, live music (Peyton Falgoust Band), a Trunk & Treat Trail, character visits, giveaways, and more! Ochsner Health will also Covid-19 vaccinations during this event. Donations will benefit recreation programs supported by the BREC Foundation. In addition, Participants may donate 5 canned goods at this event for entry into a special prize drawing. For more information, email recreationevents@brec.org or visit brec.org/fullmoonfete.

Date(s):	October 29th
Start time:	4:00 PM
End time:
Location:	Forest Community Park

2021 Fifolet Flip Flop Parade

Join us for our signature Flip Flop Parade! This year’s theme is “Monster Mash-Up!” We want to see you take two things and mash them together to make something else or come up with a great pun!

Krewes and local businesses or community organizations will have a large area to set up a Halloween themed display or performance. Families in cars will then drive by the displays and the first 1,000 children will receive a large FREE candy bag at the end.

***Dress in costume and please bring non-perishable food donations for the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank.***

Date(s):	October 30th
Start time:	8:00 PM
End time:
Location:	BREC’s North Sherwood Forest Community Park, Shenandoah, United States

Main Event – Halloween Monster Bash

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!

Date(s):	October 31st
Start time:	11:00 AM
End time:	3:00 PM
Location:	6401 Bluebonnet Boulevard Suite #660 Baton Rouge, LA 70836

If you’re looking for adult-only haunts… Widely regarded as one of the top haunted houses in the Country, The 13th Gate, located in Baton Rouge, is the Ultimate Haunted House.

Visit the Baton Rouge Family Fun 2021 Baton Rouge Family Fun Fall Events Guide for a full list of fall fun in Baton Rouge and beyond.

Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch – What to Expect

September 28, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

The weather has been perfect 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! We put on some festive outfits and made the quick 50-minute drive to Hammond.

I do want to preface this by saying during these COVID times, the crowds were much heavier than we expected (but then again, it was 60 degrees and not a cloud in the sky on a Louisiana Saturday). There wasn’t a mask mandate since the farm is acres upon acres but nonetheless.

Entrance is free for adults and children are $8 which includes a pumpkin for each child to bring home.

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 TONS of picture opportunities like sitting on haystacks decorated for fall, 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
Pedal Tractors
Hay Maze
Milk a Cow
Roll Down the Hill
Catch Mrs. Heather telling how pumpkins grow
Merry go round
Play Horse Shoes
Weigh & Measure your pumpkin
Paint a pumpkin (weekend only)

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.

In any pre-COVID times, we would have taken our daughter to do a lot of the age-appropriate activities, but we distanced ourselves from many of the crowded activities and did things like the corn maze, walking around the property, and, of course, playing with the pumpkins.

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 long afternoon of fun.

Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch is open 7 days a week 9am-5pm until 11/7/21!!

WHEN: September 26 – November 8
WHERE: 31458 La 43 Hwy, Albany, LA 70711. Phone: 225-567-3493
SESSION TIMES:
Daily 9:00am – 5:00pm
ADMISSION: Kids (newborn & up): $8 per child Adults: Free – Cash Only

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 Lucy (1) 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.

Visit the Baton Rouge Family Fun 2021 Baton Rouge Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze Guide for a full list of fall fun in Baton Rouge and beyond.

STRONG Research Study – Pennington Biomedical

September 27, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Ever wonder what your body is using for energy? Is it carbs or is it fats? Researchers at Pennington Biomedical are trying to learn more about energy balance in girls. This research will help us develop new nutrition programs to support girls when they are exercising. If your child is between the ages of 13 to 17, she may qualify to join this important research study!

The STRONG research study aims to understand how girls use different fuels in their body (carbs and fat) to provide energy for different levels of activity. This research is important for understanding how to best refuel the body when it uses up energy.

STRONG participants and parents will attend an initial screening visit at Pennington Biomedical to learn about the study, take part in physical tests, and receive a wearable device to track physical activity, which will be used for 7 days at a time and returned at a later visit.

Participants will have two additional visits to Pennington Biomedical at least one week apart and stay overnight for 24 hours in the metabolic chamber each time. The metabolic chamber is a room with a special ventilation system that measures breathing and energy use. This room is like a bedroom with a window, bed, desk, TV, and phone. There is an Xbox to watch movies or play games, in addition to coloring books, puzzles, and other activities. Girls can also bring their own devices (e.g., phone, laptop) to keep busy. On one of the two days, they will exercise.

To qualify, participants in this study should:

Be female ages 13 – 17
Have a BMI greater than or equal to the 85th percentile and less than the 95th percentile [calculate your child’s BMI percentile here.]
Have had their first period.

Participation will last approximately 2 months and compensation of up to $350 is offered for the completion of this study.

Parents, if you are interested in your child participating in the STRONG study and want to see if your child qualifies, you can click here to screen online, call 225-763-2612, or email pebl@pbrc.edu.

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

Hurricane Ida Relief: How to Help and Get Help for Louisiana Victims

September 5, 2021 by Tiany Davis

The people of Southwest Louisiana know how to take care of themselves, and each other. Once in a while, though, hurricanes and floods require them to reach out for a little help to recover. Local and national volunteers and aid groups are providing resources, food, shelter, and more to those who have been affected by Hurricane Ida and its aftermath. We’ve put together a list of Hurricane Ida Relief organizations directly helping those impacted by the storm.

Hurricane Ida Relief – How You Can Help or Get Help:

Local Relief

Baton Rouge Food Bank With community support, we have served the hungry in our 11 parish service areas for more than 30 years. The food bank needs volunteers to help with mobile distribution, sorting, and packing. Register here. If you are in need of food, please visit the Hurricane Ida Mobile Distributions Locations.

Three O’clock Project Three O’clock Project is coming to Baton Rouge, East Jefferson, and Belle Chasse to distribute FREE shelf-stable meals for any child 18 and under. Each box will contain 7 days of healthy supper and snacks. Please visit their Facebook page for details and DONATE if you are able!

Bethany Church: Bethany is focusing our finances and manpower on feeding thousands of displaced people and helping to muck out flooded homes and churches. They are partnering with organizations to make efforts more efficient.

BREC With school out, BREC is starting free emergency camps for children in East Baton Rouge Parish. You can register at brec.org/emergencycamp.

The Church in Livingston Parish (26490 S. Frost Rd.) has been giving out food boxes and serving hot meals while supplies last. The Church is located on the corner of Highway 63 and Highway 42 in Livingston.

True Light Baptist Church (3836 North Street) has been handing out supplies.

Baton Rouge Area Foundation Relief Organizations in Louisiana are pretty good at taking care of our people. Once in a while, though, storms like Hurricane Ida stretch their resources. Your one contribution to the Foundation’s Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund will help many organizations provide water and food, medicines and shelter to people across South Louisiana.

Second Harvest Food Bank – Feeding South Louisiana: Serves South Louisiana, has prepared more than 3,500 disaster-readiness food boxes with items like rehydration drinks and nutrition bars, as well as bottled water. It also maintains cooking equipment that can be transported to heat prepared meals. Donations of bottled water and cleaning supplies are welcome. Volunteers can apply to help, but donating money is the most efficient way to assist the aid effort.

Volunteer Louisiana is asking for donations and volunteers to aid in Hurricane Ida’s recovery efforts. Find donations opportunities here and volunteer opportunities here. Volunteer Louisiana also works with other non-profit agencies to help in recovery efforts.

Culture Aid NOLA has set up an impromptu cooking hub at the Howlin’ Wolf nightclub in New Orleans using thawing food from the freezers of restaurants experiencing power outages. The meals will be distributed to people in need, said Julie Pfeffer, a director. It needs volunteers, trucks, and takeaway containers.

All Hands and Hearts prepared for Ida by stationing its disaster assessment and response team in Beaumont, Texas. Its volunteers will enter areas affected by the storm when they can, meeting initial needs that will probably include chain-saw work to clear debris and trees, roof tarping, mucking and gutting flooded houses, and sanitizing homes with mold contamination.

Bayou Community Foundation works with local partners in Terrebonne Parish, Lafourche Parish, and Grand Isle in coastal southeast Louisiana. It has set up an Ida relief fund.

FEMA FEMA is providing many different types of help to Hurricane Ida survivors. Different types of assistance may be activated as we work with our state partners to identify needs. One of the available forms of assistance right now is Critical Needs Assistance, which can provide a one-time award of up to $500 to eligible survivors. Housing assistance is also available to eligible survivors.

To be eligible, survivors need to be residents of a parish that was included in the federal disaster declaration, and need to first apply for assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov, through the FEMA app, or by calling (800) 621-3362.

Learn more about FEMA assistance for housing and other needs and what to expect after applying for assistance.

National Organizations

The Salvation Army: Your donation helps keep The Salvation Army on the front lines, buying meals, drinks, snacks, and other critical commodities desperately needed by survivors and rescue workers. For more information, visit www.disaster.salvationarmyusa.org. Or if you or someone you know needs to talk, please call our emotional & spiritual care hotline at 1-844-458-HOPE (4673).

Catholic Charities USA: Your support helps people through the immediate aftermath and continues helping them as they work through the long process of recovery. 100% of donations go to relief efforts through this link.

Save The Children: Save the Children invests in childhood – every day, in times of crisis, and for our future. In the United States and around the world, we give children a healthy start, the opportunity to learn, and protection from harm. By transforming children’s lives now, we change the course of their future and ours.

Southern Baptist Disaster Relief – Meets the urgent needs of communities in crisis, from serving food to volunteers in rebuilding communities.

Direct Relief USA: Direct Relief offers prescription drugs and other medical supplies to those who need them in emergency situations and works with clinics and primary care doctors to ensure that people are able to get what they need when they need it.

Samaritan’s Purse : Samaritan’s Purse is deploying staff members and one of our Samaritan’s Purse U.S. Disaster Relief units to Lake Charles, Louisiana, in the aftermath of Hurricane Laura.

We will continue updating this list daily as we receive news of more ways to help and assist the victims of Hurricane Ida. If you know of resources, aid, or distribution sites, please contact us with more info.

Baton Rouge Storm Preparedness: Sandbags, Checklists & Resources

August 25, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

A category 2 or 3 hurricane is expected to make landfall late Sunday or early Monday. While it’s not time to panic, it is time to prepare. Residents are urged to have an emergency plan in place. Having been through hurricanes Andrew, Katrina, Rita, Issac, and the Great Flood of 2016, natural disasters are something we have become accustomed to preparing for. For those unsure of where to start, our handy guide will walk you through your preparations – Baton Rouge Storm Preparedness resources can also be found below.

We will update this post as more information becomes available.

Baton Rouge Storm Preparedness Useful Links

Baton Rouge Sandbag locations:

Residents are urged to bring their own shovels to fill the sandbags.

EAST BATON ROUGE

BREC Airline Highway Fairgrounds, 16072 Airline Hwy
BREC Alsen Park, 601 Old Rafe Mayer Road
BREC Cadillac Street, 6117 Cadillac Street
BREC Doyles Bayou Park, 7801 Port Hudson-Pride Road
BREC Flannery Road Park, 801 S Flannery Road
BREC Harley-Vey at Gardere Park, 1702 Gardere Lane
BREC Lovett Road Park, 13443 Lovett Road (Due to construction, sand has been moved to the back parking lot)
BREC Memorial Stadium, 1702 Foss Street

West Baton Rouge Parish

William & Lee Park, 1631 Louisiana Ave., Port Allen
Rivault Park, 900 South Jefferson Ave., Port Allen
Alexander Park, 250 Elaine St., Brusly
Erwinville Park, 5110 Rougon Rd, Port Allen
Myhand Park, 8201 Laws Rd, Addis
South Winterville Water Tower
Lobdell Fire Station, 2937 Lafiton Ln, Port Allen
Addis Fire Station, 6875 Hwy 1, Addis

ASCENSION PARISH

Prairieville Fire Department, 14517 LA-73, Prairieville
Paula Park, LA 933, Galvez
5th Ward Fire Department, 39110 LA-22, Darrow
Butch Gore Memorial Park, 14550 Harry Savoy Rd., St. Amant
Ascension Parish Fire Protection District No. 1, 13192 Airline Hwy., Gonzales
Stevens Park, 4323 Cannon Road, Gonzales
Jackie Robinson Memorial Park, 35638 Coco Road, Geismar

Stay informed! For more information, contact MOHSEP at (225) 389-2100, follow Red Stick Ready (@RedStickReady) on Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter, and download the Red Stick Ready mobile application – free on Apple and Android devices by searching “Red Stick Ready”. Residents are urged to bring their own shovels to fill the sandbags. Real-time information about the locations can also be found at: http://gis.brla.gov/emergency

School Closings:

Any school closures will be updated as more information is available.

List of Flood-Prone Baton Rouge Streets

Attempting to pass through the barricades once they have placed across the street is a traffic violation that will be enforced. Try to prepare for heavy rain, possible flooding, and power outages. Avoid driving if possible. Call (225) 389-2000 for non-emergency issues or 311 for high water, power outage, and downed trees in your area.

Louisiana Emergency Preparedness Guide

This Louisiana Emergency Preparedness Guide is an excellent, comprehensive resource! From identifying the most likely risks to providing sheltering information, evacuation routes, listing supplies to identifying special needs, and more. This Guide should be YOUR Guide to personal planning and business planning.

Top 10 Emergency Preparedness Apps

Red Stick Ready (iOS) The East Baton Rouge Parish Mayor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness strives to provide critical information to the citizens of East Baton Rouge Parish to help them prepare for, respond to and recover from all emergency situations. The got to resource for Baton Rouge Storm Preparedness.
iMapWeather Radio (iOS) this is by far my favorite app but it does cost $9.99. You will receive critical voice and text alerts on threatening weather events. Your iPhone will “wake up” and also “follow you” with alerts wherever you go. Listen to local weather forecasts while you are on the move. Enjoy the power of an NOAA Weather Radio, with all the convenience and precision of a smartphone. Winner of MediaPost’s Appy Award in the weather category.

Hurricane Tracker –(iOS) $2.99 offers detailed storm maps, Hurricane Center info, threat level maps, audio/video forecast updates, real-time feeds and push alerts.

Hurricane — (iOS) FREE American Red Cross for both Android or iOS is a newer, totally free addition to Android’s growing hurricane-tracking stable, but it’s more than just a tracker — this app lets you “monitor conditions in your area or throughout the storm track, prepare your family and home, find help and let others know you are safe even if the power is out.

FEMA Install the FEMA App, available for Apple, Android, and Blackberry mobile devices.

StopDisaster- $1.99 If you can’t stop the calamity, you can stop it from turning into a disaster if you are organized. The app provides a handy series of items you’ll need on hand for various emergencies – floods, earthquakes, high winds etc.

Phone Aid – $1.99 CPR is one of the things not covered by most basic preparedness courses (it’s standalone training) this app offers a series of slideshows that will help jog your memory if you’ve done CPR training and, if not, provides some first aid measures to do while you wait for emergency services.

Disaster Alert – (Andriod) – Disaster Alert (by PDC) – Current global disaster info on an interactive map Disaster Alert (by PDC), Active Hazards on an interactive map and in a list as they are occurring around the globe. Additional hazard information can be viewed and shared.

Preparation Before the Storm:

— Use hurricane shutters or board up windows and doors with 5/8 inch plywood.
— Bring outside items in if they could be picked up by the wind.
— Clear gutters of debris.
— Reinforce the garage door.
— Turn the refrigerator to its coldest setting in case power goes off. Use a cooler to keep from opening the doors on the freezer or refrigerator.
— Fill a bathtub with water.
— Get full tank of gas in one car.
— Go over the evacuation plan with the family, and learn alternate routes to safety.
— Learn the location of the nearest shelter or nearest pet-friendly shelter.
— Evacuate if ordered and stick to marked evacuation routes, if possible.
— Store important documents — passports, Social Security cards, birth certificates, deeds — in a watertight container.
— Have a current inventory of household property.
— Leave a note to say where you are going.
— Unplug small appliances and electronics before you leave.
— If possible, turn off the electricity, gas, and water for residence.

Emergency Preparedness list:

— A three-day supply of water, one gallon per person per day.
— Three days of food, with suggested items including canned meats, canned or dried fruits, canned vegetables, canned juice, peanut butter, jelly, salt-free crackers, energy/protein bars, trail mix/nuts, dry cereal, cookies, or other comfort food.
— A can opener.
— Flashlight(s).
— A battery-powered radio, preferably a weather radio.
— Extra batteries.
— A first aid kit, including latex gloves; sterile dressings; soap/cleaning agent; antibiotic ointment; burn ointment; adhesive bandages in small, medium and large sizes; eyewash; a thermometer; aspirin/pain reliever; anti-diarrhea tablets; antacids; laxatives; small scissors; tweezers; petroleum jelly, having the best inversion table for back pain is also a plus and it will help a lot with any pain emergencies.
— A small fire extinguisher.
— A seven-day supply of medications.
— Vitamins.
— A multipurpose tool, with pliers and a screwdriver.
— Cell phones and chargers.
— Contact information for the family.
— A sleeping bag for each person.
— Extra cash.
— A silver foil emergency blanket.
— A map of the area.
— Baby supplies.
— Pet supplies.
— Wet wipes.
— A camera (to document storm damage).
— Insect repellent.
— Rain gear.
— Tools and supplies for securing your home.
— Plastic sheeting.
— Duct tape.
— Dust masks.
— An extra set of house keys.
— An extra set of car keys.
— An emergency ladder to evacuate the second floor.
— Household bleach.
— Paper cups, plates, and paper towels.
— Activities for children.
— Charcoal and matches, if you have a portable grill. But only use it outside.

Recover

Wait until an area is declared safe before returning home.
Remember that recovering from a disaster is usually a gradual process.

Sources: Redstick Ready, American Red Cross, Federal Emergency Management Agency, NHC – Baton Rouge Storm Preparedness

Baton Rouge Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze Guide

August 24, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

While this year may look different, there is still much to look forward to… we get a taste of cooler days, pumpkins, cute costumes, and a few fun events. We have compiled our list of fun fall pumpkin patches & corn mazes! Don’t miss our favorite spots around the Red Stick to find your perfect pumpkin, create some fall family memories, and take a hayride or two. As with previous years, we have included events and activities taking place in Baton Rouge and beyond.

This post will be updated as new events are listed; check back for more Baton Rouge Family Fun!

While every effort has been made to ensure this information is accurate, we encourage you to contact the patch directly to verify that all details are correct and have not changed. If you have information on a Pumpkin Patch or corn maze that we missed, please let us know!

Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze Guide

AgCenter Botanic Gardens Corn Maze

Corn Maze Saturday

A 2-HOUR Corn Maze experience will allow you to traverse the maze, meander through the sunflower fields, ride a hayride and pick satsumas with the ones you love. Other activities include climbing the hay mountain, petting farm with Goula Paradise Farm, make your way through the mini hay maze, take a pic’ and pick-a-pumpkin in the pumpkin patch, and more!

WHEN: October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

WHERE: Burden Museum & Gardens 4560 Essen Lane

SESSION TIMES:
Morning: 10 a.m. – noon
Midday: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Afternoon: 3 – 5 p.m.

ADMISSION: $15 per person and free for children two and younger. This year’s tickets are pre-sale only and will not be offered at the gate. All ages must have a ticket to enter. Tickets are limited.

Visit the Botanic Gardens website for ticketing and more info! www.lsu.edu/botanic-gardens/events/cornmaze.php

Jefferson United Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch

Family fun in a safe environment. The Pumpkin Patch is the largest mission project at JUMC – there will also be photos ops for the family. All net proceeds are distributed to local missions, plus help fund the youth mission trip. Last year they were able to donate thousands of dollars – all because of the volunteers willing to work the patch. Plus, with the Kick-Off event, new people can experience JUMC.

WHEN: Starts October 8th

WHERE: 10328 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 Back of Lot.

SESSION TIMES:
Weekdays 11 AM TO 6 pm
Saturday 9 AM TO 6 pm
Sunday 12 PM TO 6 PM

ADMISSION: Free – pay for your pumpkin

Pop-up Pink Pumpkin Patch at Baton Rouge General

The pop-up pink pumpkin patch is coming! Visit Baton Rouge General Medical Center to get your free pumpkin – one per person – while pumpkins last! Two locations this year… and be sure to get your #Protectyourpumpkins T-shirt!!

WHEN : TBA

WHERE: Mid City Campus 3600 Florida Blvd. and Bluebonnet Campus 8585 Picardy Ave.

COST: Entry and pumpkins are free. “Protect your pumpkins” T-shirts will be available for purchase. Proceeds go toward Pennington Cancer Center.

Hallow Jack’s Pumpkin Patch

This quaint, secret patch is getting set up and is now open to the public! Located off of Magnolia Beach in Denham, it’s the perfect spot for a fall photo backdrop. It’s not a pumpkin patch per se, but it’s everything you want in a “pumpkin patch.” Adorable photo ops, great quality in fancy pumpkins, carving tools, seasonal flowers, festive T-shirts, and fall decor.

🎃 WHERE: 6834 Magnolia Bridge Road Denham Springs, LA 70726

🎃 HOURS: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm

Ascension Parish

NewSong Church Pumpkin Patch & Fall Festival

The NewSong On Old Perkins Road Road Road Community Church pumpkin patch, at the corner of Old Perkins and Bluff Road in Prairieville, will be open Monday, October 4th through Saturday, October 31st.

Pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, as well as various types of gourds from the Navajo Tribe in Northern New Mexico, will be available for purchase.

Jellies and salsas from the United Methodist Children’s Home will be for sale.

There will be a photo booth and other photo opportunities around the patch (no paid photography!).

Free hayrides are available on the weekends.

Morning field trips for area schools include storytime, hayrides, crafts, and pie-sized pumpkins. All proceeds go to church missions.

NewSong will also host a FREE Fall Festival on Saturday, October 30th, from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm. Live music, hayrides, delicious food, face painting, inflatables, games, crafts, and more.

WHEN: Monday, October 4th through Saturday, October 31st.

WHERE: 18465 Old Perkins Rd, Prairieville, LA 70769

SESSION TIMES:
Monday – Friday Hours are 2 pm – 6 pm
Saturdays – 10am – 6pm
Sundays – 12pm – 6pm

ADMISSION: Free – pay for your pumpkin

Livingston Parish

Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin and Strawberry Patch

See our full review of Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch and what to expect.

Pick a Pumpkin from the field – Activities include zipline, Jumping Pillow, Tunnel Slide, Face Painting, Duck Racing, Pedal Tractors, See Cotton, Growing, Hay Maze Milk a Cow Roll Down the Hill Catch Mrs. Heather telling how pumpkins grow Merry go round Play Horse Shoes Nature Trail Lots of places to take pictures Weigh & Measure your pumpkin, Bring a Picnic Lunch, Paint a pumpkin (weekends only)

WHEN: September 26 – November 8

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

SESSION TIMES:
Daily 9:00am – 5:00pm

ADMISSION: Kids (newborn & up): $8 per child Adults: Free – Cash Only

Faith Crossing UMC Pumpkin Patch

TBA

East Feliciana Parish

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch

Barn Hill Preserve’s pumpkin patch will be going on every weekend in October! Guests will participate in fun Fall related activities and get to experience the beauty of the preserve. They will have activities ranging from animal shows, hayrides, and mini animal encounters to picking pumpkins out of the patch.

WHEN: Every Saturday/Sunday from Oct 2nd to Nov 21st

WHERE: Barn Hill Preserve 11342 LA-955, Ethel, LA 70730 – 225-286-3003

SESSION TIMES:
Saturday’s & Sunday’s 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

ADMISSION: $16 per person at the door.

St. Helena Parish

Cajun Country Corn

Cajun Country Corn has been farming food and fiber for over 30 years. They started their corn maze in 2000 and have been doing it ever since. In addition to the regular maze, they open up a portion of the maze on Friday and Saturday nights for haunting. Other spooky attractions include the haunted trail, board maze, and zombie paintball. You can also enjoy the pumpkin blaster, corn cannon, and other farm attractions while you are there. Pine Grove, LA – 7 Acres
Haunted Nights in October

WHEN: TBA

WHERE: The maze is located 1 mile east of 42360 (Napa Auto) in Pine Grove and five miles west of 35999 (Bear Creek Western Store) in Montpelier, LA

SESSION TIMES:
Friday 5 PM – 11 PM (with haunting beginning at dusk dark)
Saturday 9 AM-11 PM (with haunting beginning at dusk dark)
Sunday 11 AM-6 PM

After November 8th, our hours of operation will be
Saturday 9 AM-9 PM
Sunday 11 AM-6 PM

ADMISSION: Click here for full details on packages and pricing

Beauregard Parish

CM Farms

Pumpkins, 40+ attractions, a 12-acre maze, farm animals and so much more are awaiting your visit! Includes a corn maze, jumping pillow, photo ops, animal barrel train, wagon rides, dirt mountain slide, animal barn, tasty eats, and rubber duck races. CM Farms has something special planned for each weekend.

WHEN: Opening October 2, 2021

WHERE: 252 CM Farms Road, Dry Creek, LA 70637 (337) 328-8916 – About 2.5 hours from Baton Rouge

SESSION TIMES:
Saturdays in October 10 am-8 pm
Saturdays in November 10 am-7 pm
Sundays 12-6 pm

ADMISSION: Ages 3+ $18.95

Baton Rouge Family Fun will always bring you the best in Family Friendly events in Baton Rouge and beyond. This post will be updated as new events are listed; check back for more Baton Rouge Family Fun!

EBRP LIBRARY’S SUMMER READING PROGRAM

June 2, 2021 by Tiany Davis

Make plans to join in the fun during the 2021 EBRP LIBRARY’S SUMMER READING PROGRAM. The East Baton Rouge Parish Library hosts reading challenges for babies, kids, teens, and adults.

EBRP LIBRARY’S SUMMER READING PROGRAM

THE EBRP LIBRARY’S SUMMER READING PROGRAM GOES DIGITAL!

There’s Something for Everyone with the Online Summer Reading Program

The East Baton Rouge Parish Library’s 2021 Summer Reading Program, Tails, and Tales, began Tuesday, June 1, and will run through Sunday, August 15. In addition, they are continuing their online summer reading program!

Powered by Beanstack, the new program hosting software has four Summer Reading Challenges for all ages, as well as tons of online programming family fun with the Virtual Programming Challenge! Just read and complete activities to earn virtual badges. Each challenge has both a reading/logging element, as well as an activity factor. The rules, requirements, badges, and incentives vary based on the age group. Sign up at your local library location or online at https://ebrpl.beanstack.org. There’s even a mobile app!

Baton Rouge Kids – Ages 0 – 11

There are two fun-filled programs for children based on their ages and reading levels: Li’l Ones, ages 0-5, and Young Readers, for ages 5-11. For Li’l Ones, children can earn up to 30 reading badges and complete up to 24 activity badges. Young Readers can earn up to 75 reading badges by completing timed reading sessions and collect up to 50 activity badges! In addition, both Children’s Challenges can earn up to five entries into weekly drawings. Completion packets will include a choice of two free book bags, a free book, and coupons from area vendors while supplies last.

Baton Rouge Teens – 6-12th Grades

The Teen Challenge, designed for grades 6 through 12, allows readers to earn up to 105 reading badges by completing timed reading sessions and complete seven quests (combined activities) to earn activity badges! Challenge yourself to collect all 112 badges this summer! Earn up to 22 entries into the weekly drawings for each of the milestone badges! Teen completion packets will include a free backpack with a surprise inside.

Baton Rouge Adults – 18 and Up

Adults, you haven’t been left out!! The Adult Challenge, for ages 18 and up, still requires reading a minimum of three books to earn completion, but you can also keep reading and logging as in the past “paper” years. There are 27 activity badges designed to have you explore the website and enjoy all our wonderful community has to offer.

Sign up at https://ebrpl.beanstack.org, or through your local branch library. Adults will receive a small prize for signing up. Once you have completed your first log, it can be redeemed for a tote bag and a voucher for $3 off your fines! Want to keep reading? You can participate up to three times, and each completed log enters your name in a drawing for a grand prize at the end of the summer.

ONLINE SUMMER READING/2

At the end of the summer, grand prize winners will receive prizes donated by area merchants and the Patrons of the Public Library. Start by registering yourself or a member(s) of your family. You’ll be able to sign up either through the link on the website, the FREE mobile app, or by speaking with a staff member.

To sign up for the Summer Reading Program, visit your local library location, or go online to https://ebrpl.beanstack.org. For more information about the Summer Reading Program, call the Main Library Children’s Room at (225) 231-3760. For more information about the Library and any of its free resources, call (225) 231-3750, or visit us online at www.ebrpl.com.

Baton Rouge Splash Pad Parks & Pools

June 2, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Baton Rouge Splash Pad Parks & Pools have reopened, and along with that come special guidelines to help protect visitors and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Good to Know Before You Go: Please be sure to call before heading out, times change, parks close, so many variables can affect your outing.

Thanks to our sponsor, The Joint Chiropractic!
From everyday life and beyond, chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic
can help your family find relief from back pain, neck pain, migraines, and more.

Image Credit: BREC Parks

Liberty Lagoon
111 Lobdell Ave
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
(225)-923-3202

Liberty Lagoon promotes a safe family-oriented atmosphere. All groups must have at least one (1) adult for every six (6) children under the age of 12 years old.
The facility will be cleared the last 15 minutes of each session. Make sure to check out their new hours and park rules before getting to the park!

Tickets can be purchased at LibertyLagoon.com

Highland Road Community Park
14024 Highland Road
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
144.04 Acres – This park is located in the southeastern part of East Baton Rouge Parish. Highland Road Community Park serves a larger geographic area than a neighborhood park and is designed to engage the entire family for a whole day. Higher levels of maintenance, security, and recreational opportunities are offered at community parks. It is very popular because of all the features the park has to offer and for the scenic landscape.

Greenwood Community Park
13350 Hwy, 19
Baker, LA 70714
At BREC’s Greenwood Community Park, you can not only enjoy a splash pad, includes a golf course, a community playground, tennis courts, Raising Cane’s Dog Park and ExxonMobil Cypress Bayou Lake Trail. You can also fish, kayak or canoe in the 18-acre lake at the park.

City-Brooks Community Park
1515 Dalrymple Drive
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
154.53 Acres – This park is located in the southwestern part of East Baton Rouge Parish by LSU. City-Brooks Community Park serves a larger geographic area than a neighborhood park and is designed to engage the entire family for a whole day, includes a splash pad. City-Brooks Community Park splash pad can be activated with a green push button on the three foot brown pole next to the spray feature area at the edge of the brick near the landscaping.

Forest Community Park
13900 South Harrell’s Ferry Road
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
BREC’s Forest Community Park’s splash pad can be operated from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. all summer long. Be sure to also enjoy Forest Community Park’s trails, playground, Raising Cane’s Dog Park and bank fishing. Forest CommunityPark splash pad can be activated with a green push button on the three-foot light blue pole located in the splash pad spray area.

Jackson Community Park
12250 Sullivan Road
Central, LA 70818
This park is located in Central, on Sullivan Road between Hooper Road and Joor Road.

North Sherwood Forest Community Park
3140 N. Sherwood Forest Drive
Baton Rouge, LA 70814
This park is located in the northern part of East Baton Rouge Parish before you reach the City of Central. North Sherwood Forest Community Park serves a larger geographic area than a neighborhood park and is designed to engage the entire family for a whole day. Higher levels of maintenance, security, and recreational opportunities are offered at community parks. The site is on the old Federal Sharp Station Depot used during World War II. Over the years, the federal government has released the land at different times to BREC for use as a park. Today, some of the land is still owned and managed by the federal government.

Zachary Community Park
20055 Old Scenic Hwy
Zachary, LA 70791

BREC Pools

City-Brooks and Anna T. Jordan Community Pools open Tuesday-Sunday at a 50% capacity in sessions to allow for sanitizing. Session 1 – noon-2 p.m.
Session 2 – 3-5 p.m.
All guests 18 years of age and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18 who must remain inside the facility during the time of use.

Brooks Pool – This park is located in the southwestern part of East Baton Rouge Parish by LSU. City-Brooks Community Park serves a larger geographic area than a neighborhood park and is designed to engage the entire family for a whole day. Higher levels of maintenance, security, and recreational opportunities are offered at community parks, the best part is that they use Professional locksmith to secure their facilities.

Anna T. Jordan Pool – Anna T. Jordan Community Park serves a larger geographic area than a neighborhood park and is designed to engage the entire family for a whole day. Higher levels of maintenance, security, and recreational opportunities are offered at community parks.

Beyond Baton Rouge

Oak Grove Community Park – Prairieville
Located at Hwy 42 and Hwy 73in Prairieville, this splash park offers visitors a chance to enjoy splash fountains and a recreational park and playground with Beach Volleyball.

Jambalaya Park – Gonzales

Max # of patrons inside the facility at any time will be 50 persons.
All children under 15 years old must be accompanied by a parent/guardian who is at least 18 years old.
The pool will open 2 sessions per day, 11am – 2pm & 3pm – 6pm. Patrons will be able to purchase a session pass for $5 per person, which is usable only for 1 session. (You can’t use the same pass for the morning and afternoon session).
We will have a 1 hour cleaning period between 2pm and 3pm, and all patrons will be required to leave the facility with all of their belongings. Our staff will sanitize touchpoints during this time.
The splash park and spray features will remain closed, per Governor’s order.
In-water activities that could reasonably result in physical contact or less than 6 feet of distancing between patrons who live in different households shall not be allowed.
We are unable to offer season passes, party rentals, or groups larger than 10 people.
No adult over 18 years old may accompany more than 5 children under 15 years old to the pool.

Denham Springs North ParK Aqua Pards – Denham Springs
The largest of the parks in the Denham park system with over 110 acres and is the site for athletic programs operated by the parks department. The park’s multi-purpose Fitness & Aquatics Facility has a fitness center, indoor swimming pool and the Aqua Pards splash park.
Click one of the Categories below for more INFO:

Restrictions
Rules & Regulations

Summer Fun in Baton Rouge and Beyond

Free Swimming Lessons in Baton Rouge this Summer with BREC

June 1, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

The extremely popular Free Swimming Lessons in Baton Rouge are back this summer at BREC! Kids ages 5 to 12 have the opportunity to learn to swim like a fish and take on a skill that will serve them for a lifetime! Registration for session two is coming up on June 15. Mark your calendars and get your kiddo ready to dive into summer!

BREC, SELA Aquatics, and the American Red Cross are pleased to offer FREE swimming lessons for the 2021 season as part of the Centennial Campaign. SELA Aquatics employees will teach free lessons using the Red Cross Learn-to-Swim Program.

Registration is being done on a first-come, first-served basis. All sessions will be capped to ensure the health and safety of program participants + proper instructor: student ratios.

Free Swimming Lessons in Baton Rouge

Session One (June 8 – 18 @ Anna T Jordan)

Registration opens online on or before June 1 at 5pm.
Ages 5-12
- 5 to 8 Year Olds from 5:45pm – 6:15pm
- 9 to 12 Year Olds from 6:30pm – 7:00pm
Note: All lessons will take place at ATJ Pool

REGISTRATION IS FULL!

Session Two (June 20 – July 2 @ City Books Pool)

Registration opens online starting June 15
Ages 5-12
- 5 to 8 Year Olds from 5:45pm – 6:15pm
- 9 to 12 Year Olds from 6:30pm – 7:00pm
Note: All lessons will take place at Brooks (City Park) Pool

Session Three (July 6 – 16 @ Anna T Jordan Pool)

Registrations will only be collected in person at ATJ during regular hours starting June 15, and online starting June 22 (if spots are available)
Ages 5-12
- 5 to 8 Year Olds from 5:45pm – 6:15pm
- 9 to 12 Year Olds from 6:30pm – 7:00pm
Note: All lessons will take place at ATJ Pool

Session Four (July 20 – July 30 @ City Brooks Pool)

- Registrations will only be collected in person at Brooks Pool during regular hours starting June 22, and online starting June 29 (if spots are available)
- Ages 5-12
  - 5 to 8 Year Olds from 5:45pm – 6:15pm
  - 9 to 12 Year Olds from 6:30pm – 7:00pm
- Note: All lessons will take place at Brooks (City Park) Pool

To register and for more information on swim lesson sessions and dates visit brec.org/aquatics

Join in – learn to swim. It could save your life!

Here are some startling facts on drowning!

- - Child drowning is a silent death. There’s no splashing to alert anyone that the child is in trouble.
  - 58 percent of parents do not consider drowning a threat to their children. (Resource ISR)
  - Drowning is the leading cause of death for infants and young children between the ages of 1-4 (CDC)
  - Drowning is the second-leading cause of unintentional injury deaths in children aged 1-14 years (CDC)
  - The majority of children who survive (92% percent) are discovered within two minutes following submersion. (Branche 1999)
  - Rates of fatal drowning for minorities are notably higher among these populations in certain age groups. The fatal drowning rate of African American children is 20% higher than that of Caucasian children in the same age range. (CDC)
  - 19 percent of drowning deaths involving children occur in public pools with certified lifeguards present.
  - Nearly 80% of people who die from drowning are males.
  - Drowning can happen quickly and quietly anywhere there is water and even in the presence of lifeguards.
  - Many adults and children report that they can’t swim. Research has shown that participation in formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning among children aged 1 to 4 years.

Source: http://usapoolsla.com

Baton Rouge Zoo Family Zoo Run Run

Where else do you get to run alongside cheetahs, elephants, monkeys, and more?

Race Day

Chip Timing

Race T-Shirts

Entry Fees*

Adult/Teen Registration

Child Registration (ages 12 and under)

Halloween in Baton Rouge – Things to do

Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch Activities:

To qualify, participants in this study should:

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

Hurricane Ida Relief – How You Can Help or Get Help:

Local Relief

National Organizations

Baton Rouge Storm Preparedness Useful Links

Baton Rouge Sandbag locations:

Residents are urged to bring their own shovels to fill the sandbags.

EAST BATON ROUGE

West Baton Rouge Parish

ASCENSION PARISH

School Closings:

List of Flood-Prone Baton Rouge Streets

Louisiana Emergency Preparedness Guide

Top 10 Emergency Preparedness Apps

Preparation Before the Storm:

Emergency Preparedness list:

Recover

Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze Guide

Corn Maze Saturday

Pop-up Pink Pumpkin Patch at Baton Rouge General

Ascension Parish

Livingston Parish

East Feliciana Parish

St. Helena Parish

Beauregard Parish

EBRP LIBRARY’S SUMMER READING PROGRAM

Baton Rouge Kids – Ages 0 – 11

Baton Rouge Teens – 6-12th Grades

Baton Rouge Adults – 18 and Up

ONLINE SUMMER READING/2

More 2021 Summer Reading Programs

BREC Pools

Beyond Baton Rouge

Free Swimming Lessons in Baton Rouge

To register and for more information on swim lesson sessions and dates visit brec.org/aquatics

Here are some startling facts on drowning!

Many adults and children report that they can’t swim. Research has shown that participation in formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning among children aged 1 to 4 years.