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Mardi Gras 2022 – Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Parade Schedule

February 1, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Contrary to popular belief, Mardi Gras can be family-friendly. The festival seems like it was made for children, with floats derived from the depths of the most ingenious imaginations, costumes, and masks that express unending creativity, bold colors, and joyous music abounds through parades. And, most importantly, the beads, doubloons and other treats thrown to the crowds from the floats are a child’s delight. It’s that time of year and we have your full Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Parade Schedule below!

Mardi Gras 2022 is Tuesday, March 1

Madri Gras Fun Fact: Rex selected the official Mardi Gras colors in 1872 to honor the visiting Russian Grand Duke Alexis Alexandrovich Romanoff, whose house colors were purple, green and gold.

2022 Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Parade Schedule:

Please check the individual parade organizations’ websites for updated details.

CAAWS MYSTIC KREWE OF MUTTS
Sunday, February Feb. 13 at 2 p.m.

North Boulevard Town Square

Festivities start at 10:00am. There will be Bark in the Park, an EBRP K9 Demo, Dog Costume Contest, Parade, and After Pawty at Raising Cane’s on Third Street! For more details or to register for activities, visit www.caaws.org/registration.FOR SAFETY PURPOSES, NO RETRACTABLE LEASHES ARE ALLOWED, NOR ANY LEASHES LONGER THAN 6′. Your dog should have a proof of current rabies vaccination tag. No puppies under 12 weeks, aggressive dogs, or dogs in heat are allowed.

Krewe of Artemis
Friday, February 18th at 7 PM

The Parade route starts and ends at the Raising Cane’s River Center. The parade rolls throughout Downtown Baton Rouge and passes the State Capitol.

The Krewe of Artemis will roll through the streets of downtown Baton Rouge on Friday, February 18, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. Join the excited revelers as they line the parade route while joining in the festivities and experiencing Baton Rouge Mardi Gras….Artemis style!! Revelers will be treated with themed throws, including the Krewe of Artemis’ signature High Heeled Shoe, along with footballs, tambourines, stuffed animals, float beads and lighted throws. Parade begins and ends at the corner of Government Street and St. Philip Street.

Saturday, February 19

Krewe of Oshun – Noon

Parade will roll along Howell Boulevard. Festival will be held at BREC’s Scotlandville Parkway Conservation Park.

The parade starts on Harding Blvd. at Noon, then heads down Scenic Hwy, then 72nd Ave, and then finishes down Howell Blvd. After the parade, there will be a block party at the ExxonMobil YMCA and a festival with live music, food contests, a “Children’s Village”, vendors, and more!

For more information on the parade and festival, click here.

Krewe of Mystique de la CAPITALE – 2 PM

This family-friendly parade begins and ends at the intersection of River Road and St. Philip Street, next to the Raising Cane’s River Center. The route traverses much of Downtown Baton Rouge.

The Krewe of Mystique de la Capitale welcomes you to the 2022 Mardi Gras Parade as they celebrate 44 years of parading in Louisiana’s capital city. They are the city’s oldest parading Mardi Gras Krewe and we’ve shared 41 wonderful years of carnival fun in Baton Rouge. Enjoy plenty of floats, marching bands, dancing groups and, of course, Throws!! They will roll at 2pm beginning near the Canes Rivercenter and proceed down River Road before our trip through downtown!

Krewe of Orion – 6:30 PM

The Parade route starts at the intersection of St. Phillip Street and River Road and ends at the Raising Cane’s River Center.

The Krewe of Orion’s 23rd annual Mardi Gras parade in downtown Baton Rouge will once again take place on Saturday, February 19, 2022, at 6:30 PM.

Parade goers will be treated to a line of exciting, colorfully-lighted, and tractor-pulled floats. Following the parade theme, “Glad to be Back“, floats will be decorated to depict many items that tend to roll. On the floats, masked and costumed riders will throw plenty of themed parade medallions, Krewe of Orion signature footballs, cups, plush items, Orion doubloons, lighted throws, and beads. Marching bands, dance groups, and marching units will be among the great sights and sounds at this wonderful family-oriented parade. Visit the website for more information https://kreweoforion.com/parade/.

Sunday, February 20

Mid City Gras – 1:00pm

The parade starts at the intersection of 19th Street and North Boulevard and ends at the intersection of North Boulevard and Foster Drive.

A COMMUNITY EVENT IN THE HEART OF MID CITY, BATON ROUGE

Mid City Gras is always the Sunday before the Sunday before Mardi Gras on North Boulevard, a road connecting North and South Baton Rouge.

Friday, February 25th

Krewe of Southdowns – 7 PM

The parade route begins at Glasgow Middle School, across Stanford Avenue to Cherrydale Avenue and ends at Perkins Road.

The Krewe of Southdowns is Baton Rouge’s first, and most unique, family-friendly night Mardi Gras Parade. Join them February 25th 2022, rain or shine, in the Southdowns neighborhood for our 35th annual parade. It’s showtime! For more information, visit our website at www.southdowns.org

Port Allen

Krewe of Good Friends of the Oaks
Sunday, February 27th at 1 PM

The west side’s only nighttime parade. Lighted throws, street parties, family fun! The 37th Krewe of Good Friends of the Oaks Mardi Gras parade will begin and end at the corner of the LA-1 Service Rd and Oaks Ave. The parade route is as follows: east on Oaks Ave to Jefferson Ave, north on Jefferson Ave to Court St, west on Court St to Sixth St, north on Sixth St to Louisiana Ave, east on Louisiana Ave to Jefferson Ave, south on Jefferson Ave to Oaks Ave, west on Oaks Ave to LA-1 Service Rd.

Krewe Denham Springs
Saturday, February 19th at 3:00pm

Begins at DSHS, travels down Range and turns right on Veterans.

Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Festival
Saturday, February 26th 10:00am to 7:00pm

Free Family Friendly Annual Mardi Gras Festival held in North Blvd Town Square, Downtown Baton Rouge. Enjoy a whole day of live music, art, and great food. The event will showcase live bands and Krewes, with a Vendor Village, art exhibits, food and more.

Baton Rouge Family Fun is your Family Friendly Mardi Gras Headquarters!

View our comprehensive Family Friendly Mardi Gras Guide HERE!!

Easy Boudin King Cake – Mardi Gras Recipe (Video)

January 6, 2022 by Guest Contributor

I’m Jennifer Oster, local Baton Rouge Mom and business owner. My husband and I love to cook, and we recently started a YouTube channel to share our passion for cooking with the world! Our specialty is Louisiana/Cajun/local food. This Easy Boudin King Cake is always a hit during Mardi Gras season; it’s stuffed with boudin, pepper jack cheese, and topped with pepper jelly, green onions, and bacon. To save time, this recipe uses pre-made dough! It looks impressive, but it’s a super easy recipe.

Traditionally, boudin (pronounced BOO-DAN, not BOO-DEN) is made with ground pork, rice, onion, green peppers, and Cajun spices and seasonings, left to the boudin creator’s own devices.

I hope you enjoy this savory pastry that marries two Bayou State classics.

Easy Boudin King Cake – Mardi Gras Recipe

Ingredients

2 cans crescent roll dough
1 pound boudin, de-cased and cooked until warm
About 4 ounces (half of a block) pepper jack cheese
4-5Green onions
4-5 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon
Pepper jelly

Instructions

Arrange dough on a greased baking pan in the shape of an oval. Fill the ring with cooked boudin and top with slices of cheese. Roll the sides to form the ring and pinch together. Bake at 375 for 12-20 minutes, until golden brown, then, top with pepper jelly, green onions, bacon, and bake another few minutes until pepper jelly is semi-melted. Serve warm. It can be refrigerated and reheated!

Easy Boudin King Cake – Mardi Gras Recipe

This would be a great recipe to make with kids! If you decide to try your hand at it, please be sure to tag us so we can see your masterpiece! Use the Hashtag #BRFamilyFun and tag us on Facebook and Instagram!

Visit the Oster Adventures YouTube channel for more recipes!

Be sure to check out Baton Rouge Family Fun’s 2022 King Cake Guide here!

Check out our full Mardi Gras Guide for more Mardi Gras Family Fun, King Cake Guides, and more!

Family Friendly Mardi Gras Guide – Baton Rouge and Beyond

January 5, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Contrary to popular belief, Mardi Gras can be a Family Friendly event, 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.

Mardi Gras returns in 2022 and we could not be more excited! Below you’ll find a round-up Family Friendly Mardi Gras resources: Schedules, recipes, crafts and more! Check back often as we update this page throughout the Mardi Gras season.

Family Friendly Mardi Gras Parades

Your guide to King Cakes in Baton Rouge & Beyond

Mardi Gras Activity Book – Free Printable

Top 5 Baton Rouge King Cakes -2022 coming soon!

Mardi Gras Mask Craft

Gluten-Free King Cake Recipe – Baton Rouge Family Fun

Easy Boudin King Cake – Mardi Gras Recipe (Video)

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

Mardi Gras Mask Craft – Free Printable – Baton Rouge Family Fun

January 5, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Mardi Gras is just around the corner. Enjoy this fun DIY Mardi Gras mask craft with the family. Mardi Gras parades may be canceled, but Mardi Gras family fun doesn’t have to be!

From eye-obscuring tie-ons to full-face numbers that resemble a jester’s getup, this is one of the traditions partly inspired by the customs of the Carnival of Venice. In the early days of the festival, masks worn during Mardi Gras allowed wearers to escape society and class constraints. Did you know that Mask use is regulated by Louisiana law? It’s actually illegal to wear them, and one of the few exceptions is for Mardi Gras.

Mardi Gras Mask Craft

Supplies:

Printable Mardi Gras masks
Scissors
Glue
Sequins
Feathers
Paper straws
Instructions:

Print masks on card stock and cut out around the outer edge. Cut out eye holes.
Click here for Mardi Gras Masks Printable

Glue sequins on the front of the mask.

When the glue has dried on the front, glue feathers to the back of one side of the mask and attach a paper straw to the back of the mask as a handle.

Check out our full Mardi Gras Guide for more Mardi Gras Family Fun, King Cake Guides, and more!

Mardi Gras Activity Book – Free Printable – Baton Rouge Family Fun

January 4, 2022 by Tiany Davis

Our Mardi Gras Activity Book has every element that makes Mardi Gras fun: trumpets, music, drums, jester hats, king cake, confetti, masks, and more! These 16 worksheets will help preschoolers, kindergarteners, and beyond develop early learning skills with ABCs, numbers, shapes, fine motor skills, handwriting, educational games, and more.

Mardi Gras Activity Book

Mardi Gras Activity Book – What’s included:

16 Pages

Flashcards / Memory Game
Mardi Gras, I Spy
Trace the Letters
Trace the Numbers
Mardi Gras King Maze Game
Match the shapes
Count and Trace
Mardi Gras Words
Cutting Practice
Trace the Lines
Trace the shapes
Which is Bigger

Get instant access to our Free Mardi Gras Activity Book Printable – 16 pages of Mardi Gras Fun!

Mardi Gras History & Facts

What Is Mardi Gras?

Mardi Gras is a Christian holiday that’s celebrated the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, the day that begins the Christian season called Lent. During this season, which lasts until Easter Sunday, Christians are supposed to give up bad habits or fast from certain foods. Mardi Gras literally means ‘Fat Tuesday’ in French. It is a day (and night) to live it up and enjoy one last day of fun before the discipline of Lent.

History

Originally celebrated in medieval Europe, particularly Italy and France, Mardi Gras was declared a legal holiday in Louisiana in 1875. The first record of a Mardi Gras celebration in the United States is from the early 1700s. Celebrations took place in New Orleans and were more like fancy balls or dances. The carnival atmosphere did not occur until later in the 1700s. The first parades began in the 1800s, and the parade king became a regular symbol of the festivities.

Symbols & Colors

There are many famous symbols that represent this exciting holiday. Many people enjoy a king cake, a sugary dessert that has a plastic baby baked inside. According to tradition, the person who gets the piece of cake with the baby inside will have good luck and prosperity.

The beads in Mardi Gras necklaces are often made in the official Mardi Gras colors of gold, representing power; purple symbolizes justice; and green, which represents faith. You may see people wearing masks in these colors as well.

Why is Early Learning important?

Simply put, a child’s early years lay the foundation for all that is to come. In recent years, researchers have learned that the human brain develops the vast majority of its neurons and is most receptive to learning between birth and three years of age. In fact, the intake of new information is critical to the formation of active neural pathways (Shonkoff & Phillips, 2000).

Early education can play a critical role during this important developmental period. Research linking early intervention to both cognitive and socio-emotional gains has fueled the proliferation of early childhood programs since the early part of the twentieth century. The last four decades, in particular, have produced many new practices and principles for use with young children.

Source: study.com

Check out our full Mardi Gras Guide for more Mardi Gras Family Fun, King Cake Guides, and more!

Creole Christmas + Holiday Fair

November 20, 2021 by Tiany Davis

Are you looking for things to do in Baton Rouge this weekend? Looking to get into the holiday spirit? BREC’s Magnolia Mound Plantation‘s Annual Creole Christmas and Holiday Fair is the perfect way to kick off the Christmas season! This is one of our favorite Christmas traditions; it’s a perfect mixture of Christmas cheer, education, and supporting local makers – there is something for every member of the family to enjoy.

Bundle up the family and join us Sunday, November 28th, from 12-5 at BREC’s Magnolia Mound Plantation to celebrate Christmas with French Creole traditions.

Creole Christmas + Holiday Fair

Magnolia Mound’s popular annual holiday event returns this year. Enjoy the first sounds of the holidays on the historic grounds of Magnolia Mound. Local artisans, musical performances, and traditional craft demonstrations. Be sure to visit the gift shop in the Turner Family Visitor Center for special gift items for family and friends. Friends of Magnolia Mound receive 20% off any item in the gift shop. Admission to Creole Christmas is FREE.

WHERE: Magnolia Mound 2161 Nicholson Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70802
WHEN: Sunday, Nov 28, 2021 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
ADMISSION: FREE

Copeland’s of New Orleans Family Thanksgiving Feast

November 12, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Thanksgiving is a time for families to gather, feast, and enjoy being together. Cheesecake Bistro wants to get you out of the kitchen to enjoy more well-deserved family time this year by offering Copeland’s of New Orleans special Thanksgiving Feast a la carte menu and the convenience of a complete Thanksgiving Feast Family Meal to-go. Copeland’s famous Cajun fried turkey is at the center of the Thanksgiving Feast Menu offerings coming to Cheesecake Bistro this year.

“As a local family company, Cheesecake Bistro understands that giving loved ones a way to get out of the kitchen to spend more precious moments together is priceless,” said Al Copeland, Jr. “We hope that our Copeland’s Thanksgiving Feast Family Meal and individual holiday selections can create a holiday filled with delicious New Orleans classic holiday flavors and time to create new memories while enjoying family moments.”

“Every year our guests ask if they can order Copeland’s of New Orleans Thanksgiving Feast Menu items at Cheesecake Bistro and this year, we are excited to say yes. Our guests can not only spend more time with their families, but they can now add Copeland’s made from scratch New Orleans holiday classics on to their tables,” said Brandon Creel, General Manager, Cheesecake Bistro.

Copeland’s of New Orleans Family Thanksgiving Feast & Meal To-Go

Copeland’s of New Orleans Thanksgiving Feast Menu items coming to Cheesecake Bistro this year are perfect for office celebrations, Friendsgiving, and family gatherings. Pick up pre-orders curbside and enjoy the Pilgrim Platter on Thanksgiving Day in our dining room or to-go.

The Thanksgiving Family Feast Meal ($129), which feeds 6 – 8 people, includes 4 lbs. of Cajun fried turkey breast, a quart of turkey gravy, one dozen buttermilk biscuits, a choice of two of the following sides: mashed sweet potatoes with pecan amaretto cream sauce, butter creamed potatoes, smothered ham and bacon green beans, Cajun corn maque choux, homemade cranberry compote, and cornbread.

All the items on the Thanksgiving Feast Family Meal can be ordered individually, in addition to Louisiana oyster dressing, plus a selection of Copeland’s soups, salads, entrees, sides, and desserts, including Copeland’s signature cheesecake with a variety of toppings, pumpkin bread pudding, and pumpkin pecan cheesecake (while supplies last). Pre-orders begin on October 1st and will be ready for pick up between November 11th – 30th and require 48-hours advanced notice. All meals include reheat instructions.

On Thanksgiving Day Cheesecake Bistro is offering Copeland’s of New Orleans Thanksgiving Pilgrim Platter which includes all the Feast offerings. Adult platters ($18.99) and Children’s platters for ages 12 and under ($9.99), along with select Cheesecake Bistro’s menu items and our new apple caramel cobbler dessert, are available for pickup or dine-in between 11 am-5 pm. Thanksgiving Feast Menu, Thanksgiving Feast Family Meal, and select a la carte Cheesecake Bistro’s catering items are also available with a 48-hour pre-order for pickup between 8 am-4 pm on Thanksgiving Day.

All Thanksgiving offerings may be pre-ordered online at www.CopelandsFeast.com or by visiting our Baton Rouge Cheesecake Bistro location.

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

2021 CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE: {GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS}

November 1, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Christmas in Baton Rouge is our family’s favorite time of year; there are plenty of family-friendly activities for everyone to enjoy! Whether you’re looking for a Christmas parade, holiday-themed performance, Santa visit, ice skating, or lights displays, there’s the cornucopia of holiday-themed programs and Christmas events in the Capital City throughout the season.

When you’re looking for “the best Christmas events near me” for your Christmas in Baton Rouge celebrations, look no further than our CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE: {GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS}!

While every effort has been made to ensure this information is accurate, we encourage you to contact the display directly to verify that all details are correct and have not changed.

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

Thanks to our Christmas Events in Baton Rouge 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!!

CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE

Santa Rocks the Rowe

Join us on Saturday, December 11 from 5pm-8pm for Perkins Rowe’s annual Santa Rocks the Rowe event! They’ll have paid photos with Santa provided by Cherry Hill, live music, face painting, letters to Santa with US, Baton Rouge Family Fun, games, and more! This event is free and open to the public.

From December 2-December 24, bring your family and friends for professional photos with Santa and a chance for children to share their holiday wishes!

Reservations are strongly encouraged with walk-up visits available as space allows throughout the day.

2021 Cortana Kiwanis Christmas Parade

The Annual Cortana Kiwanis Downtown Christmas Parade will roll through Downtown Baton Rouge on December 11th at 5:30 pm. Every year, more than 70,000 people watch the parade live and thousands more enjoy it on television through the holiday season. The Parade is a celebration and a great way to connect with the community. The parade is open to everyone. Typically the parade includes about 80 entries. These entries are a mix of marching bands, celebrities, dance troupes, non-profit organizations, and local businesses in seasonal themes. DATE: December 11th at 5:30 pm

Baton Rouge Zoo’s ZooLights

Zoolights is a mile-long trail through the Zoo with more than 50 illuminated display sculptures of animals and traditional holiday displays. Once again, the Zoo is partnering with The Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank to bring more impact & excitement to Zoolights. Every guest presenting non-perishable food items (minimum of one per person) during the hours of Zoolights, will receive a 50% discount from the regular admission price. All food donations will go directly to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank.
DATES: November 26 – December 30 Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Admission gates open 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Zoo grounds close at 9 p.m.

A Rural Life Christmas

Ring in the Holiday season with a 19th century Louisiana celebration at the LSU Rural Life Museum. Decorations with natural trimmings representative of special times of long ago will be displayed throughout the museum’s grounds. Seasonal activities such a musical groups, demonstrating artisans, open-hearth cooking, storytellers, and costumed re-enactors will be present during this event. A complete list of activities and musical performances will be available soon. Children ages 10 and younger will be admitted at no charge. For everyone else, the cost is $10.00 per person. Admission: $10.00 per person. Children 10 years and younger are admitted for free. This event will conclude with a bonfire and a visit from Papa Noel! DATE: Sunday, December 5, 2021 10:00am until 5:30pm

Ice Skating on the River

One of our family favorite Christmas events in Baton Rouge… The Raising Cane’s River Center will once again magically transform into a “Winter Wonderland” just in time for you to create your holiday memories. Ice Skating on the River is an annual holiday tradition that will kick off on Friday, December 17, 2021. A fun-filled holiday event for all ages, Ice Skating on the River will have 75 minute sessions nearly every day.
DATES: December 17, 2021 to January 3, 2022.

2021 Downtown Baton Rouge Festival of Lights

Enjoy an evening under downtown’s historic oaks to commemorate Baton Rouge’s oldest holiday tradition. Transforming the winter sky into a wonderland, the Mayor will light North Boulevard with half a million sparkling lights. Experience the magic beneath the 35-foot Christmas tree in Town Square. DATE: FRI 03 DEC | 4:00PM – 5:00PM

The Nutcracker: A Tale from the Bayou

Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre’s annual holiday production, The Nutcracker – A Tale from the Bayou is finally returning to the stage in its traditional home, the River Center Theatre of the Performing Arts. It has been three years since the Company has been able to perform on the stage where it feels most comfortable, so our return to live performances on our “home stage” will truly be a celebration! We will again be joined by the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra, so don’t miss this magical celebration of the holiday season, where you’ll be enchanted by the beautiful choreography, fun magic, and lush scenery and sets by Nels Anderson.
DATES: December 18-19, 2021 at 2:00 and 6:00 p.m. each day.

Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concerts

Chamber Series – Holiday Brass -December 2nd
Holiday Brass – Whimsical Alley – December 4th
Holiday Brass – Houmas House – December 5th
Holiday Brass – Hemingbough – December 10th
Holiday Brass – Denham Springs Downtown Train Depot – December 11th
Home for the Holidays – December 12th

Creole Christmas + Holiday Fair

Magnolia Mound Plantation – Creole Christmas is an annual event featuring seasonal decorations in the historic house, traditional songs in French and Spanish sung by local school children, period demonstrations, folk crafts and the annual bonfire to welcome Papa Noel. DATE: Sunday, Nov 28, 2021 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Let It Sneaux Movie in the Park: Ben Burge

Ben Burge Park – Come RING in the holiday with BREC! Meet Santa, make smores, enjoy hot chocolate and play in the SNEAUX. What else do you need? Also, you can enjoy activities prior to the start of the movie. Activities will begin at 6 p.m. and movie will begin at 7 p.m. The first 100 guest will receive a special gift from the North Pole.

Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch (PG) – The Grinch and his loyal dog, Max, live a solitary existence inside a cave on Mount Crumpet. His main source of aggravation comes during Christmastime when his neighbours in Whoville celebrate the holidays with a bang. When the Whos decide to make Christmas bigger and brighter, the disgruntled Grinch realises there is one way to gain peace and quiet. With help from Max, the green grump hatches a scheme to pose as Santa Claus, steal Christmas and silence the Whos’ holiday cheer once and for all.
DATE: Friday, Dec 03, 2021 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Let it Sneaux Movie in the Park: Lovett

Come RING in the holiday with BREC! Meet Santa, make smores, enjoy hot chocolate and play in the SNEAUX. What else do you need? Come enjoy activities prior to the start of the movie. Activities will begin at 6 p.m. and movie will begin at 7 p.m. The first 100 guest will receive a special gift from the North Pole.

Elf (PG) Buddy (Will Ferrell) was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised to adulthood among Santa’s elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn’t fit in, the adult Buddy travels to New York, in full elf uniform, in search of his real father. As it happens, this is Walter Hobbs (James Caan), a cynical businessman. After a DNA test proves this, Walter reluctantly attempts to start a relationship with the childlike Buddy with increasingly chaotic results. DATE: Friday, Dec 17, 2021 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Sensory Santa

North Sherwood Forest Community Park – Drive thru the holidays at BREC’s Selfies with Santa. Each car will receive prepackaged holiday activities, snacks and reindeer food! Santa will also be available to take selfies with you and your family from the safety of your own car. This event is free and open to all ages and abilities. DATE: Friday, Dec 10, 2021 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

35th Annual Christmas in Central Parade

Celebrate Christmas in the City of Central at the 34th Annual Christmas Parade!

From Joor & Hooper to Joor & Lovett
Dates: Saturday Dec 4, 2021 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM CST

Chanukah at the Capitol

Celebrate Hanukkah with a hot latke bar, menorahs, dreidels, and more hosted by Chabad of Baton Rouge. Children can get their faces painted and play festive games and enjoy strolling performers. The event is free to the public at the steps of the State Capitol.
DATE: Sunday, December 5, 4:00pm to 5:30pm 900 North Third Street, Baton Rouge, LA

Holiday Events Beyond Baton Rouge

Celebration In The Oaks- New Orleans

Celebration in the Oaks in City Park is one of the most spectacular holiday lights festivals in the country. This beloved annual celebration is fun for all ages and has become an enduring holiday tradition for families, who come to Celebration in the Oaks to ride the train or carousel every year. Visitors are treated to a wide range of attractions, from light displays to the walkways lined with dozens of Christmas trees decorated by local school groups. Perennial favorites include the two-mile train ride through glittering light exhibits, the animated Cajun night before Christmas display, and of course, New Orleans’ iconic snowman Mr. Bingle. DATES: November 25, 2021 – January 2, 2022
(closed December 24th and 31st)

Christmas in the Park (Lafrienere Park)

Lafreniere Park sparkles for the holidays with millions of twinkling lights and displays! Constructed with over 10 million LED lights, this year’s new exhibit is an interactive Christmas tree. Elaborate decorations, artificial snow, and festive lighted displays illuminate Lafreniere Park and include themes such as Star Wars, Marvel & D.C Comics, Minions, Disney Princesses, a pirate ship and so much more.

The 35th Annual Christmas in the Park will be held nightly at Lafreniere Park beginning on Friday, Dec. 3, 2021, and ending on Thursday, Dec. 30, 2021.

NOLA Christmasfest 2021

NOLA ChristmasFest, a dazzling, family-friendly seasonal event, offers your group the perfect opportunity to get into the holiday spirit, make a little joy, and spread a little cheer. Experience a real indoor ice skating rink, ice slides, carnival rides, Santa and friends, Gingerbread houses, decorated trees and more! Convenient parking nearby. In 2021, this event is open for 12 days (closed on Dec. 23 and 24) with two sessions per day – a morning timed entry and an evening one. Space will be limited for each timeframe so be sure to make your plans early! Tickets go on sale late summer 2021. DATES: Friday, December 17, 2021 – 10:15am to Thursday, December 30, 2021 – 8:15pm

Kenner’s Heritage Park Christmas Village –

CANCELLED – Unfortunately, due to damage caused by Hurricane Ida, Heritage Park will not be having their annual Christmas Village & Light Display this year.
2015 Fourth Street, Kenner, LA

Each year in November and December, the streets and buildings in Rivertown from the railroad tracks to the river are adorned with dazzling lights and displays. The festivities culminate in Kenner’s Heritage Park located at the center of the district and open every day and evening. There, visitors can wander through and view the festival displays, shop local food and craft vendors, find a unique gift, take a photo with Santa or catch a song or dance performance by community churches and school groups. Children revel in the sudsy “snow” that blankets the park throughout the evening and a special holiday-themed musical laser light show plays in the Planetarium theater right across the street. You’re sure to catch some holiday cheer in Rivertown.

Traditionally, the lights and decorations in Rivertown can be enjoyed nightly beginning in late November and running through the month of December.

Vendors, activities, and performances in the Christmas Village are planned every Friday and Saturday evening from 6-9 pm in Kenner’s Heritage Park at 2015 Fourth Street. Admission and parking are free.

Performances, vendors, Santa photos dates, & more will be announced very soon!
Address: 2015 Fourth Street, Kenner, LA

A Jane Austen Christmas– St. Francisville

Travel back to a time to learn about Christmas in the Feliciana’s during the early 1800’s. See the plantation come to life during the Holidays as it shows off its seasonal decorations. Costumed guides accompany the visitor in a trip into the past through the candlelit Oakley House. See what’s cooking in the kitchen, or just enjoy the live period music. Included is our yearly Christmas dance and hot Christmas Punch. For more information please call the park at 1-225-635-3739. DATES: Saturday December 4th 6 pm – 8 pm

Christmas in the Country St. Francisville

Nothing says Christmas to an excited child more than a parade, especially a safe small-town one like St. Francisville’s popular Christmas in the Country parade the first Saturday each December, complete with marching bands and decorated floats, Santa resplendent in his sleigh. Millions of tiny white lights trace soaring Victorian trimwork and grace gallery posts to transform the entire town into a veritable winter wonderland for Christmas in the Country, as special activities throughout the extensive National Register-listed downtown Historic District provide fun for the whole family at this celebration of the season, a joyful alternative to mall madness. View the full schedule of events here. DATES: DECEMBER 3, 4, AND 5, 2021

Noel Acadien au Village – Lafayette

LARC’s Acadian Village hosts its 23 night Christmas festival fundraiser annually in December to benefit LARC, a local 501c(3) non-profit organization benefiting persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Noel Acadien au Village features half-a-million lights, including the fully lit Chapel, NEW ANIMATIONS, lighted holiday displays, live entertainment, carnival rides, local cuisine, photos with Santa, holiday shopping in the Christmas Store and much more! All proceeds directly benefit LARC’s Acadian Village and the residential, vocational, and community supports and services at LARC. DATES: Dec 3-23, 2021 5:30-9:00

Christmas in the Park. Moncus Park

Christmas in the Park. Moncus Park. 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm. Celebrate the season with a 12 night seasonal event that will have live music, as well as six separate activities for kids per night, a Santa Clause visit, selfie stations, a live art installation, local food vendors, and more. Visit the link for a full live music lineup. MoncusPark.org/Christmas. DATES: December 16- 29 –

25th Festival of the Bonfires – St. James Parish

CHRISTMAS ON THE RIVER…CAJUN STYLE! Enjoy great food, live entertainment, crafts, Santa’s Very Merry Forest and carnival rides throughout the weekend. Each night will be highlighted with a single bonfire lighting! Come out and experience a prelude to the famous Christmas Eve Bonfires: A tradition unique to St. James Parish and all the world!! LOCATION: Lutcher Recreational Park Lutcher Avenue- La HWY 3193 Lutcher, LA 70071 DATES: December 10, 11, and 12, 2021

Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights

A weekend trip or long day trip with lots of driving along with lots of memories made.

The Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights has existed for nearly 30 years to enhance the holiday experiences for locals, visitors, and group tours. The trail spans I-20 and I-49 in north Louisiana and incorporates Shreveport-Bossier, Minden, Monroe-West Monroe, Natchitoches, and Alexandria/Pineville.

Festivities generally start in mid-November and run through the New Year. Some of the popular and recurring events include shopping/dining/entertainment at the Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets in Shreveport-Bossier, Fasching Festival in Minden, shopping and dining in Antique Alley in Monroe-West Monroe, Festival of Lights in Natchitoches and the Christmas parades in Alexandria/Pineville.

The Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights can be experienced in one day or a week with each day totally unique and special. The cities are all within driving distance of one another, making the tour a convenient hour-long trip from any one city to its neighboring city. Visitors are encouraged to see the brilliant lights, dine at the local restaurants, dance at the festivals, shop, and play in all of the eight festive cities. DATES: Begins November 20th with Santa’s arrival!

95th Annual Natchitoches Christmas Festival

Named after a Native American tribe, Natchitoches (pronounced Nack-a-tish ) is the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase Territory. Since 1927, they are home to one of the oldest community-based holiday celebrations in the country. Starting as a one-day festival, the Natchitoches Christmas Festival has evolved into a six-week long Christmas Season. The Christmas Season begins on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and concludes on January the 6th, the Epiphany. Over 300,000 lights and 100 plus set pieces are on display every night at dusk. Celebrate the Christmas season in Louisiana’s oldest city. Enjoy our daylong festival filled with music, entertainment, arts and crafts, food vendors, and our famous firework show choreographed to holiday music over Cane River Lake. DATES: November 20th to January 6th

Christmas in the Park – Dark Woods Adventure Park

Dark Woods Adventure Park is pleased to announce the Holiday dates and times for our Dark Woods’ Christmas In The Park special event.

From strolling the woods twinkling with light displays to sitting next to a fire-pit and making s’mores discover what makes Christmas in the Park an environment that is filled with love, family, and a true Christmas spirit that is truly in the heart of Natchitoches Parish. DATES: Open Select Nights November 26th – December 25th

Our Christmas events in Baton Rouge guide will be updated as new events are listed; check back for more Baton Rouge Family Fun! If we’ve missed an event, please email us and we will get it added asap!

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.

The Dinosaur Experience -DINOSAUR JUBILEE SHOW

October 8, 2021 by Tiany Davis

Are you looking for some ROARSOME fun for the whole family? The Dinosaur Jubilee Show, hosted by the local Louisiana-based company The Dinosaur Experience, will present a live show that will entertain and educate.

The Dinosaur Experience -DINOSAUR JUBILEE SHOW

Ranger Martin will bring all of his pre-historic creatures, including T-Rexes Nash, Rocky, Rexi, and Suzy. He will also bring the newest dino addition, Brutus, a Carnotaurus. Attendees can briefly interact with all dinosaurs after the show, as well as taking pictures with their favorite characters. Audience participation is encouraged; come out and have a Dino-mite time!

WHERE:
Kristenwood
14025 Greenwell Springs Road
Greenwell Springs
La 70739

WHEN:
Saturday, November 20th
10:00 am – 11:00am

TICKETS: https://www.thedinosaurexperience.com/dinosaur-jubilee-show

DINOSAUR JUBILEE SHOW GIVEAWAY – Family Four Pack

ONE Lucky Family will win a FAMILY FOUR PACK OF TICKETS!

Three ways to enter via the Rafflecopter widget below, including Facebook and Instagram. Each entry increases your chances!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Dinosaur Birthday Parties

Ranger Martin and the The Dinosaur Experience bring the Dinosaurs to your home! Now for the first time ever you can have T.Rex’s at your child’s party. They can bring both Nash and Rexi to your door for the ultimate dinosaur birthday party! Don’t worry if at first your child is wary, Ranger Martin works hard to win their trust and their dinosaurs are well fed and trained to not scare children (adults on the other hand are fair game).

Don’t delay, book today! As the only company in Louisiana that can offer this service, The Dinosaur Experience gets booked up very quickly.

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.

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!

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!!

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!

Mardi Gras 2022 is Tuesday, March 1

2022 Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Parade Schedule:

North Boulevard Town Square

The Parade route starts and ends at the Raising Cane’s River Center. The parade rolls throughout Downtown Baton Rouge and passes the State Capitol.

Saturday, February 19

Krewe of Oshun – Noon

Parade will roll along Howell Boulevard. Festival will be held at BREC’s Scotlandville Parkway Conservation Park.

This family-friendly parade begins and ends at the intersection of River Road and St. Philip Street, next to the Raising Cane’s River Center. The route traverses much of Downtown Baton Rouge.

The Parade route starts at the intersection of St. Phillip Street and River Road and ends at the Raising Cane’s River Center.

Sunday, February 20

The parade starts at the intersection of 19th Street and North Boulevard and ends at the intersection of North Boulevard and Foster Drive.

A COMMUNITY EVENT IN THE HEART OF MID CITY, BATON ROUGE

Friday, February 25th

The parade route begins at Glasgow Middle School, across Stanford Avenue to Cherrydale Avenue and ends at Perkins Road.

Port Allen

Krewe of Good Friends of the Oaks Sunday, February 27th at 1 PM

Krewe Denham Springs Saturday, February 19th at 3:00pm

Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Festival Saturday, February 26th 10:00am to 7:00pm

Baton Rouge Family Fun is your Family Friendly Mardi Gras Headquarters!

View our comprehensive Family Friendly Mardi Gras Guide HERE!!

Easy Boudin King Cake – Mardi Gras Recipe

Ingredients

Instructions

Be sure to check out Baton Rouge Family Fun’s 2022 King Cake Guide here!

Mardi Gras Mask Craft

Supplies:

Mardi Gras Activity Book

Mardi Gras Activity Book – What’s included:

Get instant access to our Free Mardi Gras Activity Book Printable – 16 pages of Mardi Gras Fun!

Mardi Gras History & Facts

What Is Mardi Gras?

History

Symbols & Colors

Why is Early Learning important?

Creole Christmas + Holiday Fair

Copeland’s of New Orleans Family Thanksgiving Feast & Meal To-Go

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

CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE

35th Annual Christmas in Central Parade

Holiday Events Beyond Baton Rouge

CANCELLED – Unfortunately, due to damage caused by Hurricane Ida, Heritage Park will not be having their annual Christmas Village & Light Display this year. 2015 Fourth Street, Kenner, LA

A Jane Austen Christmas– St. Francisville

The Dinosaur Experience -DINOSAUR JUBILEE SHOW

DINOSAUR JUBILEE SHOW GIVEAWAY – Family Four Pack

ONE Lucky Family will win a FAMILY FOUR PACK OF TICKETS!

Three ways to enter via the Rafflecopter widget below, including Facebook and Instagram. Each entry increases your chances!

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

Krewe of Good Friends of the Oaks
Sunday, February 27th at 1 PM

Krewe Denham Springs
Saturday, February 19th at 3:00pm

Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Festival
Saturday, February 26th 10:00am to 7:00pm

CANCELLED – Unfortunately, due to damage caused by Hurricane Ida, Heritage Park will not be having their annual Christmas Village & Light Display this year.
2015 Fourth Street, Kenner, LA