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Louisiana Children’s Museum to Reopen this Summer

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It’s been over a year since our children have enjoyed some of our most beloved play areas, but they are opening back up little by little. We’re so excited to share that the Louisiana Children’s Museum will be reopening just in time for the summer on Saturday, May 29.

“We are counting down the days until we can gather together and focus on creating joy for children and families within our Museum once again.” said Julia Bland, LCM CEO. “We’ve been busy planning and preparing for expanded play opportunities both indoors and outdoors and programs that will support the unique needs of children and families as our city and state continue to open up.”

Louisiana Children’s Museum

Louisiana Children’s Museum COVID Precautions 

There will be frequent cleaning of high-touch surfaces and exhibit pieces, hand sanitizing stations. The museum will also encourage social distancing and repeated hand washing. Masks will be required for all staff, volunteers, and guests, including children ages eight and older. Masks are strongly encouraged for children ages four and older, according to the news release.

“The LCM is uniquely designed to offer state-of-the-art air and water quality,” Bland said. “For example, the Mississippi River water exhibit was specifically designed to ensure that the water that flows is purified and consumable. Even the cistern-runnel water features outdoors have purified water. These are safeguards that we planned and put in place when designing our state-of-the-art exhibits,” added Bland.

Louisiana Children’s Museum Summer Admission & Memberships 

Advance timed-entry tickets will be required to effectively manage the number of guests. Advance timed-entry tickets will be available beginning Monday, May 17 at 9 a.m. at www.lcm.org/tickets.

Admission to the LCM is $14 per person for adults and children 12 months and older. LCM Family Memberships are also available for purchase and include general admission for a full year of play and exploration.

LCM memberships that were active when the museum closed will automatically be extended. All members will receive their full 12-month value of membership. New membership cards with updated expiration dates will be mailed to members in early May.

Louisiana Children’s Museum Hours

The Museum will open Tuesday – Saturday, 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. throughout the summer.

Strawberry & Blueberry picking near Baton Rouge & Beyond: U-Pick Guide

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Strawberry & Blueberry picking can be a fun, delicious, and educational outing with kids. Nothing compares to picking one’s own food and seeing where our food comes from. In Louisiana, the picking season usually starts earlier than other parts of the country, and we’re blessed to have several options for berry picking near Baton Rouge. 

We’ve listed a number of fruit picking farms below; while some of these Strawberry & Blueberry picking farms are not close, they are within an hour or two and would make a fun day trip with a new city to explore. Time to get some dirt on your hands and fresh fruit in your buckets!

Good to Know Before You Go: Please be sure to call the farm before heading out, so many variables can affect your outing. Berry ripening, Weather, Berry availability, etc.

What to Bring: Prepare for a trip to the farm like you would a day at the park. With very little shade in the berry patches, you’ll want to bring hats and sunscreen. Wear full feet covering shoes, no flip-flops or the sort; those pesky Louisiana ants will get you every time! Bring baby wipes and a change of clothes for the littles; you never know what blueberry shenanigans the kids will get into.

Thanks to our Camp Guide 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.

 

Strawberry & Blueberry picking near Baton Rouge & Beyond

Landry-Poche’ Farms

Last year my family and I had the pleasure of spending time at Landry-Poche’ farms in Holden. It was like taking a step back in time. There’s a fruit stand on site where you can buy bushels of strawberries already picked, or you can pay $12 a bucket and pick your own. We went out to pick our own. My 4-year-old and 2-year-old loved looking for the ripest berries.  There were rows and rows of strawberries to pick from, and it didn’t take long for us to fill our bucket.

Strawberry & Blueberry picking

 The farm also sells breads and jams, and fresh veggies. We munched on the yummy strawberries, and I made strawberry sangria with all the berries we had leftover. It was a great little getaway, and I totally suggest y’all going to check them out and support local farmers.

Strawberry & Blueberry picking

Baton Rouge Family Fun Ambassador – Courtney Cotharn-Lambert

Courtney Cotharn-LambertI am a Design Consultant, Event Planner, and Doula. My hope is to help a mom: plan her baby shower, design her nursery, help her during labor and birth, and lastly help plan the baby’s first Birthday. Find me online at www.courtneyaid.com
“A one stop support shop for all her baby needs.”

Where: Landry-Poché Farm, 29955 Richardson Drive, Holden, LA 70744
When: Open daily from 9-4 for already picked strawberries. Upick begins April 17th and continues every weekend until Mother’s Day.
More info: http://www.landrypochefarm.com/

Mrs. Heather’s Strawberry Farm

Fresh strawberries pick and eat right off the farm! Plenty of other activities and delicious chocolate strawberries for EVERYBODY!

• Learn How A Strawberry Grows
• Pick Your Own Strawberries From the Strawberry Patch – Children actually walk through the Strawberry Patch and pick their own strawberries to take home with them.
• Face and Hand Painting
• Zipline
• Tractor Races
• Picnic Area
• Bouncing Race Horse
• Jumping Pillow
• Birthday Parties

Where: 31458 LA Highway 43, Albany
When: Open every day until Mother’s Day, 9:00 am to 4:30 pm
More info: 567-3493

Blahut Strawberry Farm

Open: April through May,  Monday to Friday from 9 am until 12 pm. Directions: Blahut Farm is located off I-12; exit 32 (Albany-Springfield) three miles south of interstate. Crops are usually available in April, May. Strawberries are placed in gallon, souvenir bucket while picking and will be taken home. Tickfaw State Park is only 5 minutes from Blahut Farm and is perfect for picnicking. 

Where: 24980 Fayard Road, Springfield
When: TBA
More info: 294-5073

Daniel & Anna’s Orchard

Pick-your-own orchard with fruits grown throughout the year. Pick and purchase blueberries, peaches, kumquats, satsumas, persimmons, strawberries, and others. Please call before coming pick to make sure we have fruits available. They will post on their Facebook page when Strawberries are ready for picking!  https://www.facebook.com/DanielAnnasOrchard/

Where: 5116 North Freetown Rd New Iberia, LA 70560
When: TBA
More info: (337) 365-1690

Download the Jazzy Strawberry Coloring & Activity Book and learn more about Louisiana Strawberries here. 

Blueberry picking near Baton Rouge & Beyond

Blueberry picking usually starts in May – We will update this page as new information becomes available. 

 Berry picking in Baton RougePhoto Credit:  Patty Mcgrath @ Blueberry Ridge Orchard

Blueberry Ridge Orchard: Hours of operation are M-Sat- sunrise to sunset. Closed on Sundays. Please bring your own containers to take your berries home. The price for a u-pick is $1.50/lb. 
WHERE: 2199 Holly Ridge Road, Jackson, Louisiana 70748. 
More Info: Online | Facebook |225-603-2935 or leave a message at 225-629-5311. 

Blue Harvest Farms: Blue Harvest Farms is the largest U-Pick Blueberry Farm in St. Tammany parish, located on the Covington/Bush border (Waldheim). Starting in 2020, Blue Harvest Farms will no longer be a public U-pick blueberry farm. They now operate a membership program. They are still U-pick, and they still only grow blueberries, but because the fields have been downsized, they can no longer handle historical BHF crowds.
WHERE: 78495 HWY 21, Bush, LA 70431
More Info: Online | Facebook | blueharvestfarms@gmail.com

EquiTerra Farm: EquiTerra Farm is a certified organic horse-powered farm. We have a goal here on the farm to provide the highest quality food possible to our customers. We believe that a healthy body starts with healthy food. We are currently going through the new LA organic application process; but, we have been organic since we began farming. We provide organic blueberries, figs, blackberries, muscadines, and vegetables. We also have wonderful big brown free-range eggs and free-range broilers. Pick, weigh, and pay!  
WHERE: 12798 Muse Lane, Clinton, LA 70722
More Info:  225-683-8406 | pldavidson@aol.com

Blueberry picking near Baton Rouge

Loblolly Ridge Farm: Located in the northern section of Tangipahoa Parish, Amite, Louisiana. Loblolly Ridge Farm is a U-Pick Blueberry farm. The farm consists of 2 acres of blueberries (approximately 1200 bushes consisting of 6 varieties of hybrid blueberries). The season opens Friday, May 28th, 2021.  Open Friday and Saturday Only 07:00am- 3:00pm. Berries are $10.00 per gallon cash only.
WHERE: 1000 Andrew Bankston Road, Amite, LA 70422
More Info: Online | (985) 748-6843

Shuqualak Farms: Shuqualak Farms is small and inviting, with six acres of blueberries and four acres of blackberries. Open from early June to mid-July; visitors are provided with a 5-quart WHERE: bucket and strap for collecting their harvest. Berries are packaged in freezer-safe bags, and children are given 1-quart take-home buckets.
232 Shuqualak Farms Rd, Frierson, LA
More Info: Online | Facebook | (318) 797-8273

Sunhillow Berry Farm: Locally owned and operated. This farm has been in operation since 1993. We operate on the “honor” system. Come on out and pick your own! Pick, weigh, and pay!  
WHERE: 33510 Magee-Mahner Rd Pearl River, LA
More Info: Online | Facebook | (985) 867-9737

 Strawberry & Blueberry picking

After Strawberry & Blueberry picking – Caring for Berries

Store unwashed berries in containers or gallon-sized zip-top bags layered with paper towels. Refrigerated berries will last about two days. Frozen blueberries can last from season to season or beyond, do not wash berries for the freezer. THEY MUST BE DRY BEFORE FREEZING; you can wash before use. Serve at room temperature after washing with a spray of cool water. Whole berries can be frozen in zip-top freezer bags for jams, smoothies, and homemade ice cream. Add berries to cereal, smoothies, or snacks straight from the refrigerator or freezer. Berries are fat-free, low in calories, and have fiber, vitamin C, and disease-fighting antioxidants. We know you’ll enjoy blueberry picking near Baton Rouge & Beyond!

Baton Rouge Summer Camps

BASIS Baton Rouge Primary – Mid City – Information Session

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As Baton Rouge parents, a lot of your time is spent thinking about the various options at your fingertips for giving your child the very best education possible; it’s what we all want for our children.  We invite you to join BASIS.ed administration & parents for information sessions and parent panel discussions to learn more about BASIS Baton Rouge Primary – Mid City. See below for more details! 

“We teach, it’s fun, it’s hard, it’s all about the future.” BASIS Baton Rouge is redefining education.

BASIS Baton Rouge Primary – Mid City will open in August 2021, joining their sister school BASIS Baton Rouge – Materra to serve East Baton Rouge students. BASIS is dedicated to providing a world-class education to its students. They will serve students in grades K-5. Learn more below and find more information on upcoming virtual tours, info sessions, and parent panels. 

BASIS Baton Rouge Primary

BASIS.ed Virtual Open House

 

 

BASIS Baton Rouge

BASIS Baton Rouge Primary – Mid City Campus Parent Panel

Thursday, March 11th.

Join BASIS at their Parent Panel, where you’ll hear testimonials, stories, and first-hand experiences from parents at BASIS Baton Rouge – Materra Campus. You will also be able to ask experienced staff members questions. This event will be held in-person and via webinar.

 

Meet the Head of School Info Session

Wed, Mar 31, 2021, 6:00 PM CDT

Learn how BASIS Baton Rouge Primary Mid City’s world-class primary program prepares students for success.

At this info session, you’ll have the opportunity to meet Head of School, Rosalind Thompson, preview academic life and social culture at BASIS Baton Rouge Primary Mid City, particularly as a primary student. We’ll address your questions and tell you more about the acclaimed BASIS Charter School Curriculum that builds foundations in language, literacy, civics, history, science, math, movement, engineering and technology, performance arts, visual arts, and music.

This event will be held in-person and virtually. For those that would like to attend in-person, masks and social distancing is required.

BASIS Baton Rouge Primary Virtual Q&A

Wed, Apr 7, 2021, 6:00 PM CDT

Join us at a Q&A where you’ll have the opportunity to meet school leaders, ask questions, and learn more about the BASIS Charter School Curriculum.

This event is will be held online via Microsoft Teams.

This event will be held in-person at our sister school, BASIS Baton Rouge Materra, and virtually via Microsoft Teams. For those that would like to attend in-person, masks and social distancing is required.

Learn more: www.basised.com/baton-rouge-mid-city

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.

Black History Month in Baton Rouge – Community Resources

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Though February is already a busy holiday month with celebrations of both Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras, it is also Black History Month and a time we can really use to educate our children about the great African-American leaders in our community and around the world. This year I want to encourage you to not only teach your kids about black history in America but about everyone from ancient African rulers to modern-day history makers in our own state. Obviously, slavery and the Civil Rights Movement are both key pieces of the story, but there is much more richness and diversity to be told in regards to black history. Below you will find some useful Black History Month in Baton Rouge community resources. 

black-history-month-baton-rouge

Many recommend two different approaches to teach Black History Month. First, beginning with teaching about pre-historic South Africa or early African Kingdoms to show the true depth and beauty of blackness. Or by starting in the present-day and moving backward in time, introducing children to healthy, relevant, modern examples of black leaders before moving through slavery and then back to Africa. 

Clearly, Louisiana has a deep background in regard to slavery and civil rights, and it’s extremely, extremely important that we educate our kids about these periods of our history. Our children need to learn from our past so we do not repeat the same mistakes, and they need to develop honor and respect for the many people who overcame seemingly insurmountable odds and helped make things better.

For example, did you know that the first bus boycott was held right here in Baton Rouge by a group of black citizens fighting the segregated seating system? And what about Ruby Bridges, the first African-American student to attend an all-white public school in the American South, just a few miles below us in New Orleans?

But in addition to those lessons, let’s also include stories of local black artists, inventors, and leaders who have contributed to the greatness of our community and our world. Teach about ancient African rulers who managed thriving economies and cultures like Mana Masu of West Africa. And look at civilizations like the Songhai Empire or Mali Empire.

We can celebrate Harriet Tubman and Martin Luther King, Jr., but let’s also celebrate Booker T. Washington and Justice Thurgood Marshall. Let’s teach about local heroes like Gus Young and also Leonard Julien. Explore lessons on people like Madame C.J. Walker– a daughter of former slaves who went on to become an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and the first female self-made millionaire. 

We can celebrate all that black history can teach us and our children, and carry it on through every other month of the year. To help us, I’ve compiled a list of events and local resources that we can use to both celebrate and educate ourselves and our kids about the richness and diversity of African-American history. This list is not exhaustive, but we hope you find it helpful. If you know of any events or resources not listed below, please email us here! 

http://www.whitneyplantation.comPhoto credit: Whitney Plantation

Black History Month in Baton Rouge – Community Resources:

River Road African-American Museum

The River Road African-American Museum in Donaldsonville offers private, guided tours for individuals and groups. For twenty-two years this hidden gem has served as a resource for the people of our community containing items such as historical documents, books, rare photographs, newspaper ads for runaway slaves, sketches of inventors, and information on politicians, soldiers, artisans, and entrepreneurs. Whether you are a home school mom, in a co-op, a teacher, or church director, this museum is happy to help guide and educate you on local, rural black history of our area for only $10 per person. Appointments for these tours can be scheduled online or by contacting them at lathe@aamuseum.org or by calling 225.474.5553.

Baton Rouge African-American History Museum 

The Odell S. Williams Now and Then Museum of African-American History was founded in 2001 on South Blvd. as an outgrowth of the congregation’s commitment to promote and educate people about the achievements of African- Americans. It features the following exhibits: art work of local black artists, a collection of rural Louisiana artifacts, a collection of inventions, a historic poster collection, and a walking trail that illustrates art and history. Currently, hours vary. Please check the Facebook page for updates! 

Whitney Plantation

The Whitney Plantation has gained media exposure for being the first and only museum on slavery. Originally known as Habitation Haydel, it is located on River Road in Wallace, Louisiana. Your guide will lead you through the historic Antioch Baptist Church built by former slaves, original outbuildings, slave quarters, and the circa 1790 Big House. You will walk through the oldest detached kitchen in Louisiana and learn about the Haydel family and their workforce of over 100 slaves. To purchase tickets in advance, please call the Visitor Center at 225.265.3300 or purchase online. In addition to the tour, their website also offers many articles can be used to educate your kids or students about the slave trade nationally and locally. 

Louisiana Civil Rights Trail

Louisiana Civil Rights Trail honors the Civil Rights Movement and those who fought fearlessly to make rights real in our state.
Through the Louisiana Civil Rights Trail, we respectfully share these amazing stories of pride and courage that is Louisiana’s prominent role in the modern movement.
Inform || Inspire || Invite — that is the goal of the Civil Rights Trail. A Story of Courage. Louisiana’s Civil Rights Story.

The African American Heritage Trail

They blazed many trails. Now retrace their footsteps.
Walk the streets where jazz was born. Learn about America’s first black governor. Hear how enslaved blacks fled the plantations to fight for the Union army. And how one man’s refusal to move from his seat on a train led to a long struggle against segregation and the eventual triumph of the Civil Rights movement. It all happened right here, in a place like no other. Louisiana.

Other ideas include visiting Allendale Plantation Cabins, The Martin Luther King, Jr. monument, and the Port Hudson Battlefield. 

The East BRP Library system has a digital archive full of photographs (with descriptions) pertaining to Black History. Check it out here.

black-history

Black History Month in Baton Rouge Events:

Social Distance Scotland Saturdays for Black History Month Feb 27th 

This Social Distance Scotland Saturdays will begin at 1 pm and end at 4 pm. They plan to have speakers, talent, or special event groups involved to celebrate Black History Month. Located at the Scotlandville Plaza, The Open Market serves as a catalyst for the cultural, historical, and economic growth of the Scotlandville Community. They showcase the very best of the North Baton Rouge area.

If you have any questions please email scotlandsaturdays@gmail.com or visit our website at ssaturdays.com

West Baton Rouge Museum will host several other Black History events including a film series and lunchtime lectures. More information at their website.

The EBRP Library system

LPB is proud to celebrate Black History! 

LPB will bring you a lineup of films and moments, memories and people in Black history that inspire – learn more here. 

 

Suggested Reading Lists:

enhanced-9778-black history month baton rouge

“28 Black Picture Books That Aren’t About Boycotts, Buses or Basketball

“26 Children’s Books That Celebrate Black Heroes”

From Just Read Florida

From Reading Rockets

And check these out, too:
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind
Mama Miti: Wangari Maathai and the Trees of Kenya
Sundiata : An Epic of Old Mali
The Pot of Wisdom: Ananse Stories
Mansa Musa : The Lion of Mali
A Kids Guide to African American History
Sojourner Truth’s Step-Stomp Stride
I am Jackie Robinson
I am Martin Luther King, Jr.
I am Rosa Parks
The Story of Ruby Bridges
Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears: A West African Tale
African Princess: The Amazing Lives of Africa’s Royal Women

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 themed 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 & Beyond

 

Mardi Gras Activity Book – Free Printable 

Mardi Gras Activity Book

 

Top 5 Baton Rouge King Cakes

Your guide to King Chakes in Baton Rouge

 

Floats in the Oaks – Drive-thru Carnival attraction in City Park

Floats in the Oaks

 

Mardi Gras Mask Craft 

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. Shannon’s Sugah Shack – Visit Shannon’s Facebook page to order your King Cake! 
  27. Strands Cafe– 226 LAUREL ST.- Phone: 344-5346
  28. Sweetime Bakery – 13711 Coursey Blvd, Ste A Baton Rouge, LA 70817 – (225) 615-8005
  29. Thee Heavenly Donut– 17732 Highland Rd – 753.7711 5830 –  S. Sherwood Forest Blvd. – 368.0090
  30. Tredici Bakery – 5078 Capital Heights Ave Baton Rouge, LA 70806 – (225) 448-5216
  31. 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)

Hot Chocolate Bombs in Baton Rouge & DIY Recipe

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Hot chocolate bombs are the newest holiday trend this season, and with good reason! Sold out at most big box stores and made viral on TikTok, hot chocolate bombs have become a bit elusive and hard to find online and at stores. Suddenly in high demand, DIY’s are popping up all over social media, and local bakery shops are quickly jumping in to fill the Hot Cocao Bomb needs!  We’ve put together a list of local makers so you can get your Hot Chocolate Bombs in Baton Rouge!

HOT Chocolate BOMBS in Baton rouge

Les Amis Bake Shoppe

 

What are hot chocolate bombs? 

Hot chocolate bombs — or hot cocoa bombs — are spheres of decadent chocolate filled with cocoa mix and lots of mini marshmallows. You pour steaming hot milk over the bomb and watch them melt away, exposing the marshmallows and coca mix inside. (See the video below.)

Where to find hot chocolate bombs in Baton Rouge and beyond. 

 Local bakeries quickly started filling the need with some of them offering special flavors, and of course, some are holiday-themed.

Les Amis Bake Shoppe

Large is individually wrapped, $5ea
Small are boxed in a 4-pack, $15
Pre-order and Walk-ins

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Les Amis Bake Shoppe (@lesamisbakeshoppe)

 

The Ambrosia Bakery

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by The Ambrosia Bakery (@ambrosiabakery)

Brew Ha-Ha! 

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by GabbyBrewHaHaBR (@brewhahabr)

 

Simply Sweetz by Kimberly

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by simplysweetzbykimberly (@simplysweetzbykimberly)

Confectious Delights,LLC

Hot Chocolate Bombs Baton Rouge

Rak of Cookies

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Natishia Thanni-Irvin (@rakofcookies)

DIY Hot Cocoa Bomb Recipe

First, you need to purchase two silicone circular or spherical molds.

Ingredients

  • Melting chocolate/chips of your choice.
  • Hot cocoa mix
  • Mini marshmallows
  • Toppings – crushed candy canes, sprinkles, chocolate drizzle, etc… 

Directions

  1. Melt your chocolate chips by microwaving them in a bowl for 30 seconds, stirring, then continuing to heat at 15-second intervals. 
  2. Spread the chocolate so that it covers the mold with a thin coating of chocolate
  3. Let the chocolate harden in the refrigerator or the freezer if you’re in a hurry. 
  4. Once hardened, fill your mold three-fourths full with your hot cocoa mix and mini marshmallows. 
  5. Cover with the top shell to seal the bombs. (you may need to use some melted chocolate to “seal” your shell.) Add toppings. Place mold in the fridge until the chocolate sets.
  6. Place your hot cocoa bomb in a mug and pour hot milk over the bomb. Stir until completely melted.

More Local Sweet Christmas Treats 

Thee Heavenly Donut

Deep-fried Christmas King Cakes 

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Coco(a) Desserts

DIY Cookie Kit-Decorate your own cookies for Santa
The kit is $20 and includes: 12 vanilla bean sugar cookies, royal icing, and sprinkles.
PICK UP in Baton Rouge

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Hot cocoa bombs and a sweet Christmas treat are sure to add some fun memories to this year’s family traditions. If we missed a local maker, please email us to let us know and we will add them! 

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RACK – Random Acts of Christmas Kindness
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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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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.