Family Friendly Baton Rouge Archives - Baton Rouge Family Fun

Ice Skating on the River – Baton Rouge Family Fun

November 20, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

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 16, 2022

A fun-filled holiday event for all ages, Ice Skating on the River will have 75-minute sessions nearly every day from December 166th until January 3.

Skating lessons for beginners covering basic skating skills will be available from 9:00 AM until 9:45 AM on December 18, 19, 24, 26, and 31.

The lesson is a 20-minute Instructor-led class with the remaining time devoted to practicing skills taught. Skating lesson costs are $20 for one lesson, $50 for three lessons, or $75 for five lessons. To get additional information, please email rivercenterskatinglessons@gmail.com.

What better way to celebrate the holiday season than with Ice Skating on the River? Please join us for a skating session and create winter memories that will last a lifetime.

Tickets will be available online at www.Ticketmaster.com or at the River Center Box Office on River Road soon. For more information, please contact the Raising Cane’s River Center at 225-389-3030.

Ice Skating on the River

WHEN: Friday, December 17, 2022 – January 3rd.

SESSION TIMES*: 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m., 8:00 p.m.

Dec 24 – 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM

Dec 25 – CLOSED

Dec 31 – 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM

Jan 1 – CLOSED

Jan 2 – 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM

WHERE: Raising Cane’s River Center Arena, 275 S River Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70802

ADMISSION: Session ticket prices are $20. This ticket price includes your stake rental.

Paid admission is required for skaters only, spectators do not need tickets.

Tickets are available on Ticketmaster.com or at the River Center Box Office on River Road.

Tickets are only valid for the session you purchase them for.

To place an order for group rate tickets, field trips or birthday parties, please complete the form at the top of the page and someone will be in touch with you within 1-2 business days.

Birthday/ Pizza Parties – $27 per person

Groups of 10-19 – $15 per person

Groups of 20-49 – $14 per person

Groups of 50+ – $13 per person

Learn more on the River Center Website: raisingcanesrivercenter.com/ice-skating-on-the-river

Looking for more festive family fun? Find more a plethora of holiday events to enjoy this season in our 2022 CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE: {GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS}.

The Legacy Brunch with Santa and Jingle & Mingle

November 19, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

The Legacy is back with it’s popular Holiday events in December!! These events are family-friendly and strollers are welcome. However, if you are in need of a parenting break, Jingle & Mingle would make a wonderful Date Night or Moms Night Out! See below to learn more about The Legacy’s holiday events…

The Legacy – 3rd Annual Jingle & Mingle

Join The Legacy for their 3rd Annual Jingle & Mingle Shopping Event!! It is a one-of-a-kind “evening stroll” shopping event just in time for the gift-giving season. There will be a variety of well-known local vendors showcasing their specialty merchandise just for you. This will be the perfect place to shop for all of those hard-to-find items for the upcoming holidays.

Sip, Stroll, and Shop while enjoying live music from Box and Kevin!

WHEN: Friday, December 9th from 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM CST

WHERE: The Legacy at Bonne Esperance 1655 Sherwood Forest Blvd. Baton Rouge, LA 70815

ADMISSION: Free to Shop but grab you a VIP pass, you won’t regret it!

VIP PASS – limited amount will be sold
$20 on Eventbrite – All you can drink wine and all you can eat Hor d’oeuvres
$30 at the door – All you can drink wine and all you can eat Hor d’oeuvres

Bar and Grill will be open.

Free Parking.
Stroller Friendly.

Purchase Tickets on Eventbrite:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brunch-with-santa-tickets

The Legacy – Brunch with Santa

Celebrate the season with The Legacy at their Brunch with Santa. Enjoy a brunch buffet with a very special visit from Santa.

BATON ROUGE BRUNCH WITH SANTA
WHEN: Saturday, December 17th BRUNCH WITH SANTA SESSIONS: 9 AM, 10:30 AM, 12 PM

WHERE: The Legacy at Bonne Esperance 1655 Sherwood Forest Blvd. Baton Rouge, LA 70815

ADMISSION: $5 – $30

Purchase Tickets on Eventbrite:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brunch-with-santa-tickets

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.
Please register all attendees to reserve their seats. Space is limited. All brunch tickets include the brunch buffet and your choice of soft drink, coffee, or juice. Alcohol is not included with your ticket, but can be purchased separately the day of.
This event sells out every year so grab your tickets now!

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS – Christmas in Baton Rouge

November 1, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Grab your cameras and your Christmas cheer, and get ready to enjoy the magic of the season. The Festival of Lights, Baton Rouge’s oldest holiday tradition, transforms the winter sky into a wonderland on December 2nd from 4-8 pm.

Welcome the holidays with half a million sparkling lights on North Boulevard, a 35-foot Christmas tree, a snow village complete with ice skating, and a visit from Santa Claus himself! Watch as the magic lights up before your eyes with a fireworks show and the annual tree lighting ceremony in North Boulevard Town Square.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

Skating begins at 4 PM – Ages 5-10 Only
Snow Village begins at 5 PM – Ages 5-15 Only

Snow in Baton Rouge??? Yep, 10 tons of real snow will be ready and waiting for the kids at Repentance Park! Repentance Park is located between the Old State Capitol and River Center. Enjoy Baton Rouge’s very own Rockefeller Center-style ice skating rink located on the first floor of the River Center Plaza, where festival-goers can stand on the balcony and watch the children skate around the plaza!

HOLIDAY FILM SCREENINGS – 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.

From 5:30 p.m. until 8 p.m., you can enjoy screenings of your favorite holiday classics, such as How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and Frosty the Snowman, at Harley/Vey Theatres.

TREE LIGHTING & FIREWORKS – 6:20pm

Mayor Broome will countdown the City’s Christmas Tree lighting along with half a million sparkling lights on North Boulevard. Experience the magic beneath the 25-foot Christmas tree on North Boulevard and marvel over the elaborate fireworks show on the Mississippi River! While you await the countdown, you can support Louisiana Youth Orchestra by shopping their bake sale, where baked goods, hot chocolate, and popcorn will be available for purchase, or let the kids decorate a personalized ornament to cherish for years to come.

The preferred area for viewing the fireworks will be North Boulevard at Town Square, facing the Christmas Tree and Mississippi River.

BATON ROUGE SANTA – 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.

Santa will assist Mayor Broome to countdown the lighting of Baton Rouge’s Christmas Tree! Afterwards you are invited to the Louisiana Old State Capitol for a special photo-op and other holiday festivities. Louisiana’s Old State Capitol will host their annual “Santa in The Senate” on Friday, Dec. 2nd from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.

Guests of the Old State Capitol will have the opportunity to take their photo with Mr. & Mrs. Claus in the old Senate Chamber and then enjoy a Christmas film in the old House Chamber.

Guests are encouraged to bring their own cameras or cell phone to take pictures. There will be arts and crafts for children to partake in and a special treat upon existing the building.

DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY SPIRIT

Downtown Baton Rouge will be in the holiday spirit with tons of activities going on. Most of the downtown churches and museums participate in the evening by having live nativity scenes, giving away hot chocolate, singing Christmas carols, and much more!

ARTIST VILLAGE

Produced by the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge, this year’s Artists Village at the Festival of Lights will be located in the Rhorer Plaza Lawn. Over ten local artists will be selling handmade crafts to complete your Christmas shopping list. Along with the artists, the festival will include a bake sale, hot chocolate for sale, and multiple food vendors.

Looking for more festive family fun? Find more a plethora of holiday events to enjoy this season in our 2022 CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE: {GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS}.

Creole Christmas + Holiday Fair

November 1, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

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 27th, 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 27, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
ADMISSION: FREE

Looking for more festive family fun? Find more a plethora of holiday events to enjoy this season in our 2022 CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE: {GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS}.

2022 Family Friendly Christmas Events in Baton Rouge and Beyond

November 1, 2022 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.

Thanks to Refinery Counseling Center for sponsoring this year’s Holiday Events Guide.

Refinery Counseling Center was founded in 2022 with a heart to bring mental health counseling to the modern world. Far-removed from the sterile and stigmatized counseling experience, they provide elite boutique counseling services for children, teens, college students, adults, couples and families. Their hope is that your experience at Refinery would be one of excellence.

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!

CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE

Santa Rocks the Rowe

DECEMBER 10TH 5-8 PM

Join us on Saturday, December 10 from 5pm-8pm for Perkins Rowe’s annual Santa Rocks the Rowe event! They’ll have paid photos with Santa, live music, face painting, letters to Santa with Baton Rouge Family Fun, games, and more! This event is free and open to the public.

Baton Rouge Zoo’s ZooLights

NOV. 25 – DEC 30 5:30 PM TO 8PM

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 25 – 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.

Creole Christmas + Holiday Fair

NOVEMBER 27TH 12-5 PM

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 27, 2022 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concerts

DECEMBER 1ST, 3RD, 4TH, 9TH

Chamber Series – Holiday Brass -December 1st
Holiday Brass – Whimsical Alley – December 3rd
Holiday Brass – Houmas House – December 4th
Holiday Brass – Hemingbough – December 9th

2022 Downtown Baton Rouge Festival of Lights

DECEMBER 2ND 4 – 8 PM

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 2nd DEC | 4:00PM – 8:00PM

Sensory Santa

DECEMBER 2ND 6-8 PM

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 2, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

A Rural Life Christmas

DECEMBER 4TH 10- 5 PM

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 0-3 will be admitted at no charge. For everyone else, the cost is $10.00 per person. Admission: $10.00 per person. This event will conclude with a bonfire and a visit from Papa Noel! DATE: Sunday, December 5, 10:00am until 5:30pm

Let it Sneaux Movie in the Park: Perkins Road Community Park

DECEMBER 10TH 1-5 PM

Come and celebrate the holiday season with us! Join us as we celebrate at Let it Sneaux. There will be live entertainment, free photos with Santa, smores, hot chocolate, and so much more! So come out and enjoy a day filled with family fun entertainment. DATE: Friday, Dec 10, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

2022 Cortana Kiwanis Christmas Parade

DECEMBER 10TH 5:30PM

The Annual Cortana Kiwanis Downtown Christmas Parade will roll through Downtown Baton Rouge on December 10th 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 10th at 5:30 pm

Ice Skating on the River

DATES: December 16th – January 3rd

One of our family’s 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 December 16th. A fun-filled holiday event for all ages, Ice Skating on the River will have 75 minute sessions nearly every day.
DATES: December 16th – January 3rd

The Nutcracker: A Tale from the Bayou

DECEMBER 17TH & 18TH 2 PM & 6 PM

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 17-18, 2022 at 2:00 and 6:00 p.m. each day.

36th 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: TBA

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: TBA

Holiday Events Beyond Baton Rouge

Celebration In The Oaks- New Orleans

NOVEMBER 24 – JANUARY 1ST

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 24 – January 1, 2022
(closed December 24th and 31st)

Christmas in the Park (Lafrienere Park)

DECEMBER 2ND – 30TH

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 36th Annual Christmas in the Park will be held nightly at Lafreniere Park beginning on Friday, Dec. 2, -Dec. 30th

NOLA Christmasfest

DECEMBER 21ST – 30TH

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: December 21ST – 30TH

Kenner’s Heritage Park Christmas Village –

TBA

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.

Address: 2015 Fourth Street, Kenner, LA

A Jane Austen Christmas– St. Francisville

TBA

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: TBA

Christmas in the Country St. Francisville

DECEMBER 2, 3, 4

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 2, 3, 4TH

Noel Acadien au Village – Lafayette

DECEMBER 2 – 23

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 2-23, 2021 5:30-9:00

Christmas in the Park. Moncus Park

DECEMBER 16, DECEMBER 17, DECEMBER 18

Christmas in the Park. Moncus Park. 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm. Celebrate the season with a CHRISTMAS event that will have live music, as well as separate activities for kids. Visit the link for a full live music lineup. MoncusPark.org/Christmas.

Christmas in the Park

Friday, December 16 | Saturday, December 17 | Sunday, December 18

Teddy Bear Tea
Saturday, December 17

Mistletoe & Mystery Brunch
Sunday, December 18

Christmas Movies & Caroling
Wednesday, December 21

DATES: December 16, 17, 18, 21

26th Festival of the Bonfires – St. James Parish

DECEMBER 9, 10, 11

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 9, 10, and 11

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 10th

95th Annual Natchitoches Christmas Festival

NOVEMBER 19 -JANUARY 6TH

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.

Knock Knock! Boo’s There? – Halloween Family Fun

October 30, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

On Thursday, Oct. 27th I took my boys to the Knock Knock! Boo’s There? at Knock Knock Children’s Museum. It turned out to be fun Halloween-themed party and adventure for the whole family; and the decorations were on point, prefect for photo ops.

Knock Knock! Boo’s There?

Each area had a different Halloween surprise; there was so much to do, we didn’t get to everything. The usual centers were also open and ready for the children to learn through play.

As we walked around the museum, there were treat stations so the kids could trick or treat as they made their way through activities. They gave out popits and other fun surprises.

Jack did a science experiment in the kitchen area while Jacob cooked up some delicious Halloween foods. The kitchen was decorated so festively and included Halloween menus.

In the Art Garden, the children decorated their very own pumpkins exactly how they wanted. It was hilarious and heart-warming.

The dry ice bubbles were definitely a highlight. Who doesn’t love bubbles?!? We spent a significant amount of time with the bubbles. I may, or may not have, popped a few of my own.

One of my absolute favorite areas was a fortune-telling station. Jack’s card reminded him that we can create our own happiness.

There was a pumpkin village area too but I’m not sure we’ve reached the independent scissor stage yet.

SPOOK-TACULAR ACTIVITIES THROUGHOUT THE MUSEUM INCLUDED:
Art Garden – Pumpkin Painting
Big Back Yard – Bubble and Fog fun for an eerie good time
Crawbaby – Love Your Little Monster
Paws And Claws – Animal Costume Contest
Bubble Playground – Ooey Gooey Smokey Bubbles with Knock Knock’s Mad Scientist
I See Food Cafe – Magical Potions 101 with Julia the Good Witch
Trick or Treating in select Learning Zones
Closing Costume Parade

Overall, a fun time was had by all. We highly recommend this Halloween celebration!

Melanie McHenry

Melanie is a wife, mom, daughter, and friend who loves adventures with her two sons. Originally from Mississippi but fell in love with Louisiana over a decade ago. This was the first place she felt that everyone was able to express themselves artistically.

Melanie enjoys photography, watercolor painting, and creating from nature. Nothing makes her happier than a family cuddle and planning for future adventures.

Boo at the Zoo 2022 – Fall Family Fun

October 28, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Known for exciting days of friendly staff, costumes, animals, and family fun, the Baton Rouge Boo at the Zoo event has quickly become a crowd favorite. Mix in amazing fall weather and the promise of a treat bag and you’re bound to have children coming back. Boo at the Zoo is presented by Hancock Whitney along with some amazing sponsors all focused on creating a fun and safe space for families to enjoy the many animals as well as giving them an opportunity to wear their costumes more than once.

Boo at the Zoo 2022

We arrived at the zoo around 11:30 am and while the parking lot was full it did not take us long to park and walk to the front gate. There were four lines open and the staff members were excited to see so many people steadily coming into the zoo with their costumes. Our family decided to dress up as Toy Story (yes, even the adults) and when we saw the frame for pictures we were hyped! It was so nice that a family took a picture so that we could all be included and of course, we decided to return the favor. After pictures, we embarked on our trip to see the animals and other costumes of those in attendance.

Coy fish, tigers, monkeys, giraffes, and the African Rhino were popular and I was surprised that my nephews wanted to get close to the zoo keepers holding a snake. Who knew they were not afraid like I was, but if they wanted to see I wasn’t going to stop them. Even the Mountain Lions enjoyed seeing all the costumes passing by. It was as if they were posted enjoying the parade of people in attendance.

Along the end of the zoo route were funnel cakes, jambalaya, and a crowd favorite…a dunking booth for anyone who wanted to dunk one of the staff members. They showed great sportsmanship by even allowing a few missed hits to actually come up and press the button to dunk the zookeeper. That area instantly became a hit once seeing her fall into the water. My niece was so tickled watching and I’m sure the splash of water was welcomed as well.

Once the walk around the zoo was over all children under the age of 12 are allowed to pick out a mini pumpkin to take home and are given a goody bag from Hancock Whitney. It was great to allow the kids a chance to actually enjoy and appreciate the animals of the zoo without being so focused on getting treats until the end. This whole experience was great not only for me but for Buzz Lightyear, Woody and Jessie as well. If you have a chance make sure you go this weekend, October 29th and 30th between normal zoo hours to catch this amazing event. You won’t regret it.

Murlonda is a local children’s book author of the Playing with Angels series, books focused on teaching life lessons through sports. She is an avid reader and traveler but her favorite pastime is hanging with her nephews. Born and raised in Baton Rouge, she feels that the best lessons come through situations that are outside of our comfort zones. When not traveling, she can be found watching reality tv, selling her books at popup shops, hanging out with friends/family or reading a good book.

Corn Maze at Burden – What to Know Before You Go

October 28, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

As a family, we have learned so much culturally from our move to America. One of the things I have loved embracing is the holidays here and the traditions surrounding them. Fall is when all the pumpkins come out, and sweater weather and gumbo making is in full swing.

There are specific experiences that each season here offers, and having our children be a part of these new traditions is very exciting. There is something magical in having so many wonderful memory-making traditions and times with your children; so much joy is shared in these moments!

Corn Maze at Burden

Annually we carve pumpkins (well… mostly, my hubby does all the work,) organize Halloween outfits, and go to a pumpkin patch as our ‘must-do’ traditions. We found our favorite pumpkin patch fall fun day at the LSU Botanical gardens, and this year was our third year. Some activities have remained, and new ones have been added, but each time we have come away after a fun day out, soaking up the incredible feeling of fall being in the air and fun being the only thing on the agenda.

Where Is It?

The Corn Maze at Burden is held at the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens in Baton Rouge. The setting is scenic, with the flowers and plants as a backdrop. The farm fall feeling is there in abundance. So if you are looking for a day of fall fun, this is the perfect spot for it in the city.

What Is There To Do At The Corn Maze at Burden

Cornmaze
Parents will appreciate that this Cornmaze is not the longest or most difficult and the patchy spots are perfect for both big and little kids. The characters that are spotted along the way add to the fun.
Spook-tactular Playground
The spider web is back and just as much fun for kids of all ages. Being low to the ground makes it so easy for the little ones to climb on. You may spot a green dragon made of painted tires to climb on and there are two closed slides near the entrance.
Petting Zoo
Animal lovers unite! Bring a couple of dollar notes to buy some food as you enter the area and let your kids feed and pet the goats, cows, and Llamas. A hand washing station is there for your convenience once the kids have had their fill of fun.
Hay Mountain
Climb to the top of a hay mountain and take a photo with the American flag at the top!
Hay Ride
This is my favorite! The hay ride stops for you to hop off and pick satsumas. You can ride or walk a short distance back. Watching the kids pick and eat the juicy satsumas fresh off the trees is priceless. Sunflowers are weather dependent.
Corn Crib – This could be an activity to keep my kids busy for the entire two hours! It’s huge and such sensory fun… lots of digging, jumping, and crawling to be done. Do yourself a favor and dig your feet in too!
Temporary Tattoo Parlor
Let the kids put a tattoo on by themselves!
Picnic area with local food vendors
Freshly popped corn, gelato, or snowballs with drinks and water for sale to quench thirst and curb hunger.
Pumpkin Patch
Choose your perfect pumpkin to take home and decorate and take a photo at the adorable photo op station.

What To Know Before You Go

Offered every Saturday of the month of October in 2-hour time slots
Morning 9-11am, Midday Noon-2pm, Afternoon 2.30- 4.30pm, Night maze on 29 October only at 6-9pm
Buy a $15 ticket per person and free for children 2 and under here: https://lsuagcenterbg.ticketspice.com/corn-maze
Make a toilet stop at the Burden Museum and Gardens Visitor Information office before entering to park.
No pets allowed.
Bring a few dollars in cash for a snack, or some feed for the petting zoo.
Wear comfortable shoes which you don’t mind getting dirty.
Pack water, sunscreen, and hats.

Roz is a wife and mother of two, who loves traveling and experiencing life to the fullest. Raised in Southern Africa, she has lived in the UK, Thailand, and now the USA. She enjoys camping with her family, exploring new places, and sitting by a campfire. When she is not working, you will find her shouting for her kids on the soccer field, jogging with loud music in her ears, or creating art with her kids.

Kids Eat Free Halloween Edition – Baton Rouge & Beyond

October 28, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Trick-or-treaters can get a lot more than free candy this Halloween. A Halloween costume is also the ticket to a smorgasbord of free and cheap meal deals and goodies for kids of all ages at many locations in Baton Rouge and beyond! Plus, who has time to cook dinner on Halloween night? Below you’ll find our list of Kids Eat Free or discounted offers as well as deals on Halloween in Baton Rouge.

As always, we do recommend calling to confirm before you head out to the restaurant of your choice.

Kids Eat Free Halloween Edition

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill

Applebee’s is offering a Kids Eat Free special on Halloween. Families who dine-in at their local Applebee’s restaurant Oct. 31 will receive up to two free kids’ meals with the purchase of each adult entrée. The offer is good for children 12 and younger. They can choose entrees off of the Applebee’s Kids’ Menu, including a side dish, and juice, milk or chocolate milk. You must mention the Halloween offer to your server when ordering. Check with your closest location.

Please call ahead or confirm the offer with your server before ordering.

Ruby Slipper Cafe (3535 Perkins, Baton Rouge)

Kids who dine-in in costumes on Monday 10/31 will receive a free kids entrée and beverage with the purchase of an adult entrée* *1 adult entrée = 2 kids entrees for a solo parent dining with more than one kid.

Chipotle

Chipotle Rewards members in costume who scan their Rewards member ID receive one (1) entrée item for US$6/CAN$7 when ordering in restaurant at participating U.S./Canada locations. Valid only on October 31, 2022 beginning at 3:00 pm local time through restaurant closing; redemption is subject to availability.

iHop

From 10/24- 10/31, kids 12 and under get free Scary Face pancakes from 4pm – 10pm. Dine-in only.

Sonic

Corn dog lovers can enjoy 50-cent dogs-on-a-stick all day on Halloween, Oct. 31.

Krispy Kreme

Any guests that wear their costumes to participating U.S. Krispy Kreme shops will receive a FREE doughnut of choice, while supplies last.

Papa John’s Halloween pizza special

The seasonal Halloween-themed pizza features a large thin crust shaped like a pumpkin and topped/decorated with pepperoni and black olives to make a jack-o-lantern face. Papa John’s Jack-O-Lantern Pizza will be available through October 31, 2021 for $11 at participating locations nationwide.

Wendy’s

When you buy Boo Books in stores, you’ll get 5 coupons for a free Jr. Frosty® for only $1. Proceeds from your purchase are donated to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption to help in its crucial work.

Kids Eat Free in Baton Rouge at These Locations on Monday

Dc’s Grill in Brusly
Kids eat free on Monday

Gatti’s Pizza
Children 12 and under eat free.

Mason’s Grill
Children 10 and under eat free with the purchase of an adult meal. Any kid who makes a “happy plate” gets a free ice cream sundae. One per adult entree. Dine-in only. Drink not included

Pastime
Children 12 and under get a FREE personal cheese or pepperoni pizza with the purchase of an adult pizza.

Rotolo’s
Monday is Family Night at Rotolo’s from 5 pm-9 pm. Kids 12 and under eat for only $2.99 and will LOVE making and eating their own pizza! Parents enjoy 2 for 1 cocktails and extended happy hour.
(Gonzales) – Address: 1402 N Burnside Ave, Gonzales, LA Phone: 647-7499
(Bass Pro location) Bass Pro Blvd, Denham Springs Phone 271-8599
(Watson location) 32334 LA Hwy 16, Ste. A Denham Springs, LA Phone 778-7497

Walk Ons – Gonzales
Kids’ Night 5-9 pm Kids eat free with adult purchase, limit 2 kids per 1 adult.

View our full Kids Eat Free in Baton Rouge Guide

View our Family Friendly Baton Rouge Fall Events Guide

Baton Rouge Trick or Treat Hours – Baton Rouge & Beyond

October 25, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Kids of all ages can’t wait to go trick-or-treating on Halloween, dates are finally coming in… slowly! We will be updating the 2022 TRICK-OR-TREAT Times in Baton Rouge and beyond as they are announced.

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

Baton Rouge Trick or Treat Hours – And beyond!

Trick-or-treat hours in the city limits of Baton Rouge and unincorporated areas of East Baton Rouge are set for 6 – 8 p.m. on Monday, October 31.

{2022 Trick-or-Treat hours subject to change}

East Baton Rouge Parish — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. – Oct. 31
West Baton Rouge Parish — 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. – Oct. 31
Ascension Parish (Prairieville, Gonzales, Sorrento) — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. – Oct. 31
Assumption Parish — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. – Oct. 31
Livingston Parish — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. – Oct. 31st
This includes French Settlement and areas outside of municipal limits within Livingston Parish.
(Town of Livingston will Trick or Treat on the 29th)
Denham Springs and the City of Walker — 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. – Oct. 31
Zachary — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. – Oct. 31.

Halloween Safety Tips from Baton Rouge Police Department:

Never allow children to trick-or-treat without adult supervision.
Always stay in groups.
Use sidewalks and stay out of the street whenever possible.
Wear reflective clothing or bright costumes.
Trick-or-treat only in familiar neighborhoods.
Do not allow children to eat any candy or treats until thoroughly checked by an adult.
Drivers are asked to slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods.
Call the police if any suspicious activity occurs, or if candy is suspected to be tainted.
Residents are urged to hand out only manufactured, sealed candy.

Find more safety tips here: batonrougefamilyfun.com/safe-trick-or-treating

Ice Skating on the River

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

Skating begins at 4 PM – Ages 5-10 Only Snow Village begins at 5 PM – Ages 5-15 Only

HOLIDAY FILM SCREENINGS – 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.

TREE LIGHTING & FIREWORKS – 6:20pm

BATON ROUGE SANTA – 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.

DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY SPIRIT

ARTIST VILLAGE

Creole Christmas + Holiday Fair

CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE

DECEMBER 10TH 5-8 PM

NOV. 25 – DEC 30 5:30 PM TO 8PM

NOVEMBER 27TH 12-5 PM

DECEMBER 1ST, 3RD, 4TH, 9TH

DECEMBER 2ND 4 – 8 PM

DECEMBER 2ND 6-8 PM

DECEMBER 4TH 10- 5 PM

Let it Sneaux Movie in the Park: Perkins Road Community Park

DECEMBER 10TH 1-5 PM

DECEMBER 10TH 5:30PM

DECEMBER 17TH & 18TH 2 PM & 6 PM

36th Annual Christmas in Central Parade

Holiday Events Beyond Baton Rouge

NOVEMBER 24 – JANUARY 1ST

DECEMBER 2ND – 30TH

DECEMBER 21ST – 30TH

TBA

A Jane Austen Christmas– St. Francisville

TBA

DECEMBER 2, 3, 4

DECEMBER 2 – 23

DECEMBER 16, DECEMBER 17, DECEMBER 18

DECEMBER 9, 10, 11

Knock Knock! Boo’s There?

Boo at the Zoo 2022

Corn Maze at Burden

Where Is It?

What Is There To Do At The Corn Maze at Burden

What To Know Before You Go

As always, we do recommend calling to confirm before you head out to the restaurant of your choice.

Kids Eat Free Halloween Edition

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill

iHop

Sonic

Papa John’s Halloween pizza special

Kids Eat Free in Baton Rouge at These Locations on Monday

Baton Rouge Trick or Treat Hours – And beyond!

{2022 Trick-or-Treat hours subject to change}

Halloween Safety Tips from Baton Rouge Police Department:

Here are a few more posts you might find helpful:

Skating begins at 4 PM – Ages 5-10 Only
Snow Village begins at 5 PM – Ages 5-15 Only