Baton Rouge Archives - Baton Rouge Family Fun

Moving with small children – Truths & Tips

July 19, 2021 by Guest Contributor

We just moved to a new (to us) house. The experience of moving with three small children, even just to another neighborhood 5 minutes away, was … okay, real talk here… HARD!!

I’m sorry because some of you are probably thinking about moving and you’re already stressed about it, and now I’m going to tell you how hard it is so you can be even more stressed. I can’t lie to you. I’m a terrible liar. So if you don’t want to know the truth, you should stop right here.

Moving with small children – The Truth

Several of my friends are prepping for a move with children in tow and have asked me, “How was it?” or, “Do you have any tips?” And my answers were, “IT WAS GOD AWFUL,” or even more helpful, “DON’T DO IT.” I later felt guilty for not being more encouraging and answering their questions. Obviously, I managed to live through it (I guess?), so you can, too.

Our latest move was the unfortunate kind where we did everything ourselves with little children underfoot. There were no professionals involved – no cleaning service, no moving company, no licensed therapist to visit me when I was in my darkest hour. No organized planning and packing of neatly labeled boxes. It was all-out mayhem, and it still somewhat is. I didn’t want it to happen that way, of course … and as it was happening, I kept saying out loud, “This is absolute insanity/This is ridiculous/Is this really happening right now?!?!?!?!?!” But, to my dismay, it was indeed happening. The tide couldn’t be turned; I had no choice but to accept it and roll along.

As I write this, I have a two-year-old screaming and tearing his room apart – maybe even ripping the curtains down, who is to say for sure – because I’m making him take a nap in his new room. The thing about moving with kids is that it’s like hitting a reset button. That isn’t always a bad thing, necessarily, because it’s a great opportunity to break old habits and start new ones. However, things like sleep training or potty training aren’t super fun if the “reset” button is hit. Just brace yourself and know it’s going to be hard.

I have greater hopes for you if you are considering a move. Please don’t do as I did. Try to line up the appropriate help ahead of time. Hire a moving company if you have the means. Ship your children as far away from the situation as possible, and definitely make sure that your husband wears proper moving attire before the big day, i.e., not boat shoes.

Let’s say the worst happens, and you find yourself yelling aloud to no one in particular, “WHAT THE %^&@!!!!!!” Just know that you and your family will likely be blocking it all out later anyway. It’s a lot like childbirth that way; no one will remember the gory details. Instead, it will just be a blurry recollection of The Time That We Moved.

See? You’ll be fine.

Moving with small children Tips

Set up the kid’s rooms first. The first night in our new place, the kid’s furniture was arranged, and beds made just like they were at our old house. This seemed to help them feel safe and at home in their new rooms.
Let them help pack and unpack their toys. Then, provide them with boxes of toys to “unpack” when you arrive at the new place to keep them occupied and out of harm’s way.
Stick to the same routines as much as possible. This one is vital for everyone’s sanity. Just force yourself to put down the bubble wrap and do bath time as usual. It will be more than worth it in the end.
If you have a toddler or preschool-age children, let them have a kitchen drawer or a cabinet that is just theirs. For example, my 2-year-old found a cabinet right away that is just the right size for him to hide in. We left it empty so he can get in it whenever he wants, and it seemed to help him make the transition to the new place and claim it as “his” house.
Avoid freaking out in front of your kids. Okay, I seriously failed at this. Fail, fail, fail. But if you can manage to do it, more power to you!

Harlem Globetrotters Ticket Giveaway 2021

July 12, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

The World-Famous Harlem Globetrotters are bringing their newly reimagined Spread Game tour to Raising Cane’s River Center in Baton Rouge, LA, on Friday, August 6th at 7pm. The Spread Game Tour is a basketball event like no other. Ankle-breaking moves, jaw-dropping swag, and rim-rattling dunks are only some of the thrill you can expect from this fully modernized show. Part streetball from the players who defined it, part interactive family entertainment, the new tour will show off the best of the Globetrotters in a dazzling exhibition of talent and game.

Tickets are on sale now and are available through Ticketmaster.com and the Ticketmaster App.

We’ve teamed up with The World-Famous Harlem Globetrotters to host a giveaway for TWO Lucky Families! The Prize packs include a FAMILY FOUR PACK plus MAGIC PASS PRE-SHOW EVENT TICKETS! Enter for a chance to win on our Giveaway widget below.

About Harlem Globetrotters:

This tour introduces new premium fan experiences with unprecedented access and interaction, including celebrity court, passes, meet and greets with players, and in select markets, the #SQUADZONE, where fans have the opportunity to feel like part of the show.

For over 95 years, the Harlem Globetrotters organization has been committed to spreading joy through its unparalleled basketball skill. The Globetrotters have always been global ambassadors of goodwill. Above all, the reimagined team is even more committed to bringing their voice to social justice conversations. They invite communities all over the U.S. to come together and recognize the power of our commonalities and celebrate our differences. The Globetrotters’ mission, to spread the game and bring family entertainment to the world, continues to drive them today.

Harlem Globetrotters- MAGIC PASS PRE-SHOW EVENT

THIS IS A PRE-EVENT PASS and A TICKET TO THE MAIN EVENT IS ALSO REQUIRED.

Before the game, take part in a once-in-a-lifetime experience with your family where you have an opportunity to spend time on the court with the Globetrotters. Enjoy shooting, trying out ball tricks, and getting autographs and photos with the World-Famous Harlem Globetrotters! The unique 30-minute pre-show, “Magic Pass,” will create memories of a lifetime. All customers must have a game ticket AND Magic Pass for entry.

Everyone attending Magic Pass must have a Magic Pass ticket as well as a game ticket.

Harlem Globetrotters GIVEAWAY:

TWO Lucky Families will win a FAMILY FOUR PACK OF TICKETS to the game plus FOUR MAGIC PASS PRE-SHOW EVENT TICKETS

Three ways to enter via the Rafflecopter widget below. Each entry increases your chances!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

More Details:

Harlem Globetrotters
Fri • Aug 06 • 7:00 PM
Raising Canes River Center Arena, Baton Rouge, LA

Please read our Contest Rules!

Disclaimer: This event is subject to last-minute cancellations and changes that might not be reflected in this BatonRougeFamilyFun.com post. Please always confirm with this family-friendly business by calling or clicking.

The Yard Milkshake Bar Baton Rouge – First Look

July 8, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

The Yard Milkshake Bar milkshakes will surely bring us all to the yard this weekend when they open their first Louisiana location in Highland Park Marketplace! The Yard Milkshake has announced a grand opening date of Friday, July 9th at 12:00 pm for their new Baton Rouge location.

The dessert chain is based around a variety of specialty milkshakes and sundaes in collectible Mason jars. Customers can also build their own milkshakes from a long list of ice cream flavors, adding to it their choice of toppings, perhaps even a scoop of edible cookie dough.

We attended The Yard Milkshake Bar’s soft opening to have a first look and try out a few of their signature menu items. Of course, the “Tiger Deaux” is a must-try, our very own Baton Rouge specialty milkshake!

Every shake is Instagram-worthy, social media-perfect for sharing. They are masterpieces and almost too pretty and too fabulous to eat. Almost!

There are 18 specialty milkshakes on the menu. The cost is $15 and includes a souvenir pint glass. Some of the popular ones are:

Unicorn (pictured): Cotton candy ice cream, purple marshmallow drizzle, topped with rainbow whipped cream, cotton candy, a sour rainbow candy strip, sugar cone unicorn horn, and sprinkles
Cookie Monster: Cookie Monster ice cream, topped with whipped cream, chocolate and marshmallow cream drizzle, Cookie Crisp cereal, and a cookie dough sandwich
Mint Green Monster: Mint ice cream, chocolate and marshmallow drizzle, topped with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, crushed Oreo pieces, and a brownie
Cookie Dough Delicious: Cookie Dough ice cream, topped with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, and a scoop of cookie dough

They also have ice cream bowls topped with cupcakes, brownies, waffles, cookies, cookie dough pops, candies, and other treats, as well as traditional scoops of ice cream and edible cookie dough.

Photo Credit: The Yard Milkshake Bar

The Yard Milkshake Bar

Created by husband-and-wife team Logan and Chelsea Green. They both came from families of entrepreneurs and spent their early years working for their parents. In 2011 Chelsea and her mother started their first ice cream shop, Island Ice Cream, which Chelsea still owns today.

If The Yard sounds familiar to some people, that’s because they may have seen it on TV. Founders Logan and Chelsea Green pitched the company on ABC’s “Shark Tank” that aired in November 2019.

They opened in May of 2017 and were blown away by the community’s positive reaction in their hometown of Gulf Shores, AL. They have now expanded to Panama City Beach, FL, Fairhope, AL, Austin, TX, and Louisiana!

COOKIE DOUGH THAT IS ACTUALLY SAFE TO EAT RAW

Do you love digging into the cookie dough before baking it?!?! The Yard Milkshake Bar creates yummy cookie doughs that you don’t have to worry about consuming raw. Eat it at room temperature or cold to satisfy the child within. No need to worry about getting sick from raw eggs again. They don’t have eggs in their dough, and their flour is heat-treated.

We think it’s safe to say that many are excited and ready to welcome The Yard Milkshake Bar to Baton Rouge from the reaction we received from our Facebook share.

The Yard Milkshake Bar $50 GC Giveaway

Three ways to enter!! Enter this giveaway on Facebook and or Instagram and use the widget below for an extra entry! USA only.

The Yard Milkshake Bar is located at
Highland Park Marketplace
Perkins Rd E Baton Rouge, LA 70810

You can connect and drool over their over-the-top shakes on Instagram and Facebook.

30 Things To Do in Baton Rouge & Beyond

June 1, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Summer fun is in full swing, time to relax and enjoy the lazy days of summer… but tell that to kids who are bouncing off the walls or singing the boredom blues. As parents, we want each summer to be more memorable than the last, and with that comes the need for a few new ideas, especially if your child is too young to go to a summer camp. Here are 30 Things To Do in Baton Rouge and beyond that are sure to keep you busy all summer long!

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

30 Things To Do in Baton Rouge & Beyond This Summer

LSU Lakes – Bike, Picnic, Splash Pad – Between feeding the ducks, the great little bike path, the kids’ playground, and a little splash pad behind the art gallery, this is such a fun little day to have with the kiddos.
Baton Rouge Splash Pad Parks & Pools Guide – Visit our Baton Rouge Water Fun Guide to find one of many Baton Rouge Splash Pads, water parks, and or pools!
Tiki Tubing – Just a hop skip and jump away down the Amite. While you’re there, grab some grub at Day’s Smokehouse & Specialty Meats.
Blueberry Picking – There is an abundance of places to do this around the area. The Sooner, the better before they are all picked over. We love to make Blueberry Scones with a Lemon Glaze.
Pottery Painting – Brushfire Studios – This is a quaint little studio in downtown Denham Springs.
Water Balloon Fight – This is a summer classic. Want to make it more fun? Add a little food coloring to the balloons and put the kids in white shirts. Just get ready to hose them down.
Young Chefs Academy – This is one of my oldest’s favorite places. They have summer programs and fun little classes.
Overtones Music Class – I am so excited about this. We are enrolling the oldest in a lesson, and the toddler will start a little class in August.
Blackwater Conservation
Tunica Falls
$1.50 Family Friendly Movies at Perkins Rowe -Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse is back with 8 weeks of kid-approved movies! Enjoy safe and exciting big-screen entertainment for just $1.50 per ticket for each movie. Save even more with $1 OFF deals on kids’ snack packs, large popcorns & large drinks during Summer Movie Clubhouse showtimes.
Louisiana Peach Festival – Okay, so maybe this isn’t a day trip, but it’s totally worth the drive. Happening on June 5th in Ruston, Louisiana. Peach ice cream and some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.
Delcambre Shrimp Festival – While we are on the festival beat, this is totally a day trip. You haven’t gone Cajun till you go Acadiana. A bit later in the summer, this happens August 18th – 22nd. Bring your dancing shoes.
Old State Capitol – While you’re downtown, hit up the Louisiana Art and Science Museum.
Global Wildlife – This is one of the most underrated experiences of my childhood. Letting a giraffe eat out of your hand might be the highlight of your kid’s summer, and who am I kidding, your’s as well.
Myrtles Plantation Tour – My oldest is very into mystery and more. On your way home, do yourself a favor and stop at Chloe’s in Zachary for a snowball.
WWII Museum – I don’t really know that this needs much introduction; it’s a must-do with the older kiddos!
Louisiana Children’s Museum – This is one of my fondest childhood memories.
Audubon Zoo / Cool Zoo – I will spare you the song, but they do all “ax for you.” So don’t let those animals down. When you’re there, it’s totally worth the “pop” bracelet that gets you admission into the Cool Zoo and unlimited rides on the train and carousel.
Audubon Aquarium of America’s & Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium – What kid doesn’t want to touch an urchin and eat crickets.
Write and Illustrate a Children’s Book – Because, after all these big adventures, you will need some time at home.
EBR Library – The East Baton Rouge Parish Library has many little classes and fun projects for all ages. Check out their event calendar and enjoy!
Dinosaur Park Henderson – I have heard amazing things, and this summer, we intend to find out for ourselves.
Livingston Parish Library – Just a little hop next door, and there are so many fun programs for littles to enjoy.
Dig a Garden – There is no greater joy than watching my kiddos play in the dirt. If you need some help, Glad Gardens can build one for you!
Make a Nana recipe from scratch – No box mixes here, just some love, wooden spoons, and old family recipes.
Lemonade Stand – The earliest form of entrepreneurship at its south Louisiana finest.
Barnhill Preserve in Ethel – (sloths…Nuff said) hands-on animal encounters and programs!
Baton Rouge Zoo – One of our favorites to spend a day with the animals and play in the park – you can even feed the pelicans now too!
Cajun Pride Swamp Tour – take a unique and educational journey back to the early days of Louisiana bayou and swamp explorations on this authentic Louisiana swamp eco-tour.
Knock Knock Children’s Museum – this is a full day of fun and good eats at Acorn Cafe!

And be sure to check out our Summer Fun in Baton Rouge Guide for more!

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International Astronomy Day – Highland Road Park Observatory

May 1, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Are your kids interested in anything and everything science? Bring them out to Highland Road Park Observatory for the worldwide celebration of all things astronomy, physics, aeronautics, and the American space program at International Astronomy Day on May 15 from 3-11 p.m. Every year since 2007, Highland Road Park Observatory has proudly taken part in International Astronomy Day, a celebration of all things related to astronomy, physics, aeronautics, and the American space program. Old favorites and new surprises will make this International Astronomy Day a day to remember. Our family has enjoyed this annual event for years, there’s always something new to see and learn! Be sure to bring cash for food and merchandise too!

Saturday, 15 May from 3:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Free admission. For all ages.
Binoculars recommended after 7:30 pm

International Astronomy Day Schedule

3:15 pm to 5:15 pm = VIEWING: Sun? [Front Viewing Pad]

Our parent star (in the constellation Taurus? at this time) is put into focus. For the past few months activity—sunspots and flares—has been increasing, with the most amazing clusters and hedgerows popping up at suprising times. Utilizing a solar telescope we’ll show you an amazing view of the Sun? in hydrogen-alpha light. Any sizable flares or prominences occurring at this time will be easily seen! Distance, ~151.2 million kilometers.

4:00 pm to 9:00 pm = ADVENTURE QUEST [instructions and form at Information Table]

The frantic search game is always an IAD favorite. Gather the points to get the prizes—but should you redeem for small prizes as soon as possible, or get more points for higher level prizes? Will someone get the big prizes before you?

4:30 pm = 20OGS TOURS (session one) [Large Dome]

Patrons (in two fifteen-minute groups) will see the gears and eyepieces and Sky X program for the largest telescope on site, responsible for over forty asteroid discoveries. Patrons will also view a “road map” for the sky. {Limit three people at one time. First signed up, first served.}

4:45 pm to 8:45 pm = VIEWING: Moon [Front Viewing Pad]

During this time our closest celestial companion will be in its waxing crescent phase—illuminated in Gemini?, just west of the rising Beehive Cluster! Personal binoculars recommended. Distance ~395,000 kilometers.

5:30 pm to 6:00 pm = WARNING—COMET? APPROACHING! [Main Floor]

The alert has been sounded! The raw materials of a “dirty snowball” makes one come to life!

6:15 pm to 7:45 pm = SPACE FACES [near Pavilion]

Decorate your face with one of the planets, a comet?, a galaxy or the Sun? or Moon!

7:15 pm to 8:45 pm = MAGNIFICENT MAGNIFICATION [Main Floor]

The Scope-on-a-Rope is in action at this time for visitors to bring small objects—within reason!—to magnify.

8:00 pm to 8:30 pm = TWILIGHT SKY TOUR [Back Viewing Pad]

The Big Dipper, Arcturus and Spica…Sirius, Gemini? and Leo?. The denizens of the mid-spring sky appeal to young and old, and you may learn more about them than you thought you could!

8:15 pm to 9:45 pm = PHYSICAL SCIENCE DEMOS [Main Floor]

A half-dozen stunning demonstrations illustrating a variety of universal science concepts will be indoors for interaction.

8:45 pm to 10:15 pm = VIEWING: MARS? [West Treeline]

The Red Planet is slipping behind the Sun?, not to be seen again until Halloween. Join us for this last programmed Martian viewing.

9:00 pm to 9:10 pm = VISIBLE PASSES: OBJECT B [Back Viewing Pad]

The thing left over six years ago. What is it? We can’t tell you, but at least we can show you! {Predicted magnitude 0.7}.

9:00 pm to 11:00 pm = VIEWING: BEEHIVE CLUSTER [Front Viewing Pad]

This majestic open cluster is of about 1000 Sun?-like and other stars. Many of these stars can be seen from Baton Rouge. Personal binoculars recommended. Distance 577 light-years. Magnitude: 4.0.

9:10 pm to 9:20 pm = VISIBLE PASSES: INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION [Back Viewing Pad]

Human beings have been living and working at this orbiting base since the year 2000! Tonight, we wave hello to some of those brave men and women as we see the ISS soar through the Baton Rouge sky. {Predicted magnitude -2.1}.

9:35 pm to 9:45 pm = VISIBLE PASSES: CHANG ZHENG 2C ROCKET BODY [Back Viewing Pad]

A very reliable launch vehicle for China. There are several in low-Earth? orbit and we’ll see one before it enters the Earth?’s shadow! {Predicted magnitude 1.6}.

10:30 pm to 11:00 pm = VIEWING: Omega Centauri [location to be revealed]

The legendary globular cluster is notoriously elusive from this latitude. It is IAD tradition to attempt a spotting from a savvy vantage point on the grounds, looking through the gaps in the trees. Believe us, it’s worth it! Distance—hold on to your seat—a whopping 18,000 light years. Personal binoculars strongly recommended.

All viewing is weather permitting.

Mother’s Day Brunch Guide 2021 – Baton Rouge Family Fun

May 1, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Give mom a break this Mother’s Day — no cooking, no cleanup, and definitely no dishes — by taking her out to brunch, lunch, or dinner. When it comes to brunch, the Baton Rouge area has many delicious eateries to choose from. Here are a few going above and beyond for Mother’s Day! If we missed a Mother’s Day Brunch spot, please email us so we can add them!

Thanks to our Guide Sponsor, The Joint Chiropractic!
Hey Baton Rouge moms, this week is ALL about YOU and self-care is so important!
Plan a visit to The Joint Chiropractic and ENJOY their MOTHER’S DAY NEW PATIENT SPECIAL!
Includes an exam, adjustment, and consultation for ONLY $29 ($39 Value)
WALK-IN to the Arlington Creek or Siegen Lane location anytime!!

Mother’s Day Brunch Guide

BRQ “Seafood and BBQ Mother’s Day Brunch
Celebrate Mom this Mother’s Day at BRQ! Enjoy all of your favorite brunch items or order from our regular menu. Reserve your table here: https://bit.ly/3gAsUFR

Beausoleil Coastal Cuisine

Beausoleil Coastal is a haven for making memories around our table with fresh seafood, constantly being re-inspired into new and original dishes to love. Reservations available by calling 225 926-1172

Cocha

Fresh, seasonal, locally sourced cuisine with global flavors. Focusing on Fresh, Sustainable, Organic Foods all made from scratch. Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten Free options available. Full bar. Parking Available. Beautiful Patio Seating.

Reservations available by calling 225 615-8826

Crowne Plaza Executive Center Baton Rouge Mother’s Day Brunch
Seating’s on the hour 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
For Reservations Call (225) 925-2244
Visit www.crownebaton.com

Tallulah Crafted Food and Wine Bar
TBA

The Gregory and WATERMARK Baton Rouge
Regular menu available with some mom favorite specials! Sunday at 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM
150 Third Street, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70801
Reservations available by calling 225 408-1800

Houmas House and Gardens
This Mother’s Day join Houmas House for their Annual Mother’s Day Buffet. Make reservations soon as seats are limited. See the menu here: https://fh-sites.imgix.net/…/Mothers-Day-Buffet-2021.pdf. Reservations available by calling 225 473-9380

Sullivan’s Steakhouse
Treat Mom and celebrate Mother’s Day with Sullivan’s. Join Sullivan’s on Sunday, May 9, they’ll be serving their full menu, so treat Mom to a meal she deserves.
Reservations available by calling 225 925-1161

Zea Rotisserie & Bar
Now taking reservations for Mother’s Day at Zea. Featuring $6 Bellinis and Mimosas both Saturday and Sunday all day long. Plus Tito’s Bloody Marys during happy hour from 11am-5pm on Sunday. The rotisserie meat feature is the Slow-Braised Sunday Pot Roast! They taking reservations and family meal pre-orders now! Visit https://zearestaurants.com/mothers-day-special/ for more information.

Stab’s Prime Steak and Seafood
Serving their regular Brunch Menu
Reservations available by calling 225 361-0797

Leola’s Café & Coffee House

Brunch, Live Music & AM Cocktails Leola’s Café & Coffee House!

Reservations available by calling 225 256-7052

The Bullfish Bar+Kitchen

Mother’s Day Brunch

Make your reservations now to celebrate mom! Inside or Outside seating. Reservations available by calling 225-478-1690

Zorba’s Greek Bistro

Mother’s Day Brunch event on Sunday, May 9th from 11am-2pm. Reservations available by calling

225 444-5074

Odom’s Kitchen, LLC

Mother’s Day Brunch – Sunday, May 9th – Includes Bottomless Mimosas, Pre-Fixe Brunch, Drink Specials

MID TAP BR

Tap in for Mother’s Day Brunch on May 9th from 11am-3pm.

*Reservations recommended. Call (225) 663-6800 to reserve your table!

Mother’s Day Special: Chocolate waffle topped with strawberries and house-made whipped cream!

Monjunis Italian Cafe on Jefferson Hwy

OPEN MOTHER’S DAY! Make your reservations now. Brunch and full menu available.

(225) 231-1595

Jones Creek Cafe & Oyster Bar

Join Jones Creek Cafe & Oyster Bar for our delious Brunch items, Endless Champagne, and Bloody Mary’s.

Cafe, Oyster Bar, and Patio dining. Open from 11:00 to 5 pm

Make your reservations now for a great Mothers Day 225 755-3550

Click the image to enter our Mother’s Day Giveaway!!

Giveaway: Mother’s Day Bundle – Baton Rouge Family Fun

April 28, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

With Mother’s Day right around the corner, we wanted to do something special for one lucky local mama, so we partnered with some of our favorite local businesses to put together a Mother’s Day Bundle full of goodies VALUED AT OVER $450. It’s a selection of amazing gifts that any mom would definitely appreciate.

Enter for your chance to win this giveaway using the widget below and learn a little more about our partners and the awesome gifts included!

Mother’s Day Bundle

Mimosa Handcrafted – $100 Gift Card

Mimosa makes wares and wears with story and soul, primarily focusing on handcrafted, locally inspired, and functional jewelry.

They are a husband and wife team armed with two degrees in landscape architecture, two brains spinning with creativity and curiosity, two kids, two dogs, and lots of heart for what they do and why we do it. Follow their work and life @mimosahandcrafted on Instagram!

Chicken Salad Chick (Baton Rouge) – $100 Gift Card

Chicken Salad Chick is THE place for chicken salad lovers to rejoice! They’ve taken this Southern favorite to a whole new level with over twelve flavors! They also offer tasty soups, sides, and desserts in addition to the chicken salad that started it all, and they’re giving away a $100 Gift Card to one lucky mama and her family!!

Shannon’s Sugah Shack – Chantilly Cake & Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Shannon’s Sugah Shack is blessing one mama with a personalized 3 layer 6” Chantilly Cake with strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, mascarpone cream, fresh whipped cream – boxed and bowed for Mother’s Day. Plus, 6-pack of hand-dipped chocolate-covered strawberries! Shannon specializes in decorative cookies, cupcakes, decadent cookies, cocoa bombs, southern desserts, and cakes! You can message her with any questions or orders on her Facebook page.

Meagan Jenkins Flowers –Flowers for Mama Arrangement

Meagan Jenkins brings bespoke, garden-style designs to your weddings and events as well as holidays throughout the year. No two couples, families, or celebrations are alike, and Meagan is passionate about helping your event reflect that uniqueness through custom designs, original color schemes, and personal details.

Celebrate the mamas in your life with a keepsake ceramic planter full of springtime! One of you will get this beautiful bouquet this mother’s Day!! Container and flowers are designer’s choice and will be a colorful mix of high quality, garden-style blooms. There’s still time to send one to your favorite mom; delivery on Saturday, May 8th in Greater Baton Rouge is included. Preorder ends Monday, May 3rd. Order on Meagan’s website: www.meaganjenkinsflowers.com

Sephora Favorites – Vacay All Day Set – Get ready for summer, mamas!!

What it is: A set of Summer-ready faves for the perfect protection, waterproof holy grails, and luxurious lotions and scrubs to help you beat the heat.
What Else You Need to Know: This vacation-ready set includes three full-size, bestselling products from Tarte SEA, NARS, and Dr. Brandt Skincare.

Mother’s Day Bundle Includes:

Mimosa Handcrafter – $100 Gift Card
Chicken Salad Chick (Baton Rouge) – $100 Gift Card
Shannon’s Sugah Shack – Chantilly Cake & Chocolate Covered Strawberries ($ Value
Meagan Jenkins Flowers –Flowers for Mama Arrangement ($75 Value)
Sephora Favorites – Vacay All Day Set ($145 Value)

To enter this giveaway on Facebook and or Instagram and use the Rafflecopter widget below for extra entries! USA only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

2021 King Cake Guide – Baton Rouge and Beyond

January 1, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

King Cake truly is the demise of many New Year’s resolutions, but how can we resist this buttery danish pastry, sweetened with dusted sugar, icing, and a plethora of flavored fillings? Not us! Here’s a list of numerous places to get King Cakes in Baton Rouge and a plethora of flavors to choose from… traditional, cream cheese, chocolate, praline, strawberry, apple, raspberry to bacon, boudin, and maple! Below we’ve listed over 20 places to get your King Cake fix in Baton Rouge and beyond.

King Cakes in Baton Rouge and Beyond:

Alexander’s – 18111 Highland Market Drive – Phone: 615-7800
Ambrosia Bakery – 8546 Siegen Lane – Phone: 763-6489
Another Piece of Cake Bakery – 1001 Blanchard St Brusly, LA 70719
Baums – Florida Blvd Location 8046 Florida Blvd. Phone: 927-0760 – Perkins Road Location 10550 Perkins Rd. Phone: 767-4838
Brew Ha Ha – 711 Jefferson Hwy Suite 2-A – Phone: 923-1923
Cake Jewels – King Cake Balls – Phone: 337-0253
Calandro’s – Government Street: 383-7815 • Perkins Road: 767-6659
Claudus King Cake – Harahan, LA (504) 521-6683
Dawn’s Sweet Tooth – 13623 Hooper Rd Ste A Central, Louisiana (225) 261-0090
District Donuts – 7415 Corporate Blvd #900, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Dong Phuong — These king cakes were so popular last year, you were lucky if you got your hands on one. 14207 Chef Menteur Hwy, New Orleans, LA 70129 504-254-1568
Eat Fit King Cake — Those looking to stick to their healthy new year’s resolutions will appreciate the Eat Fit King Cake, a mini 11-oz bundt-style king cake that’s gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free, sugar-free, low-carb, and even Keto-approved. They can be found at Alexander’s Highland Market
Gambino’s– 8646 Goodwood Blvd – Phone: 928-7000
Gourmet Girls– 3025 Perkins Rd – Phone: 252-0999
Harvest – 12513 Highway 73 (3.55 mi) Geismar, Louisiana 70734 (225) 673-6504
Haydel’s Bakery – 4037 Jefferson Hwy New Orleans, LA 70121 (504) 837-0190
Hi Nabor Supermarket – Available at all three locations
Les Amis Bake Shoppe – 11826 Coursey Blvd – Phone: 293-8115
Maxwell’s Market – Three Locations – (225) 766-9150
Nanette Mayhall Phone: 343-4530.
Navarre’s Famous King Cakes – 31545 Highway 22 Springfield, Louisiana (225) 294-3438
Oak Point Fresh Market – Watson and Central locations
Ralphs– 15013 Hwy 44 Gonzales – 622-4044 – 6431 Hwy 44 (Pelican Point) Gonzales – 473-1004
Randazzos– You can get your Baton Rouge Randazzo’s at Carnival Mart off Florida BLVD and at Capital City Crawfish!
Rouses – Many locations (225) 448-0050
Shannon’s Sugah Shack – Visit Shannon’s Facebook page to order your King Cake!
Strands Cafe– 226 LAUREL ST.- Phone: 344-5346
Sweetime Bakery – 13711 Coursey Blvd, Ste A Baton Rouge, LA 70817 – (225) 615-8005
Thee Heavenly Donut– 17732 Highland Rd – 753.7711 5830 – S. Sherwood Forest Blvd. – 368.0090
Tredici Bakery – 5078 Capital Heights Ave Baton Rouge, LA 70806 – (225) 448-5216
Whole Foods Market – 7529 Corporate Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 – (225) 218-0452

These are not the only places to find King Cake in the Baton Rouge area but this is a great start! If we have missed one of your favorites, please let us know.

Gluten Free King Cake Recipe – Baton Rouge Family Fun

Easy Boudin King Cake – Mardi Gras Recipe (Video)

Hot Chocolate Bombs in Baton Rouge & DIY Recipe

December 14, 2020 by Tiany Davis

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

Les Amis Bake Shoppe

What are hot chocolate bombs?

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

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

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

Les Amis Bake Shoppe

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

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The Ambrosia Bakery

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Brew Ha-Ha!

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Simply Sweetz by Kimberly

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Confectious Delights,LLC

Rak of Cookies

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DIY Hot Cocoa Bomb Recipe

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

Ingredients

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

Directions

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

More Local Sweet Christmas Treats

Thee Heavenly Donut

Deep-fried Christmas King Cakes

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Coco(a) Desserts

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

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

Christmas Lights in Baton Rouge & Beyond – 2020

December 9, 2020 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

One of our favorite family traditions is taking an evening car ride in search of the best Christmas Lights in Baton Rouge & Beyond. Now more than ever, we are in need of safe Christmas fun, and perusing lights is at the top of our list! From the houses with thousands of synchronized dancing lights to the simple and elegant, we appreciate the time it takes to share the beauty of their Christmas lights with the community.

Many of you have asked us where to go to see the best Christmas lights in Baton Rouge and surrounding areas and we are working to create a list for you. If you know of a light display not on this list, we want to know! I’m sure they would love to share their Christmas cheer with more of the community.

Thanks to Associates in Pediatric Dentistry for sponsoring this year’s Holiday Lights Guide.

PARENTS AND SIBLINGS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME IN OUR CLINIC AREA.

Christmas Lights in Baton Rouge & Beyond

ZooLights 2020

November 27 – 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.

Admission: Adults/Teens: $5, Seniors: $4, Ages 2-12: $3, Friends of the Zoo Members: $3 per person

The Zoo is partnering with The Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank again this year! Every guest presenting a non-perishable food item 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. In 2019, nearly 4,000 pounds of food were collected during this drive.

Holiday Lights at Baton Rouge General

The lights are lit! This year we’ve implemented new guidelines to keep families safe while still spreading joy including masks requirements, limited capacity (you may have to wait a few minutes in line), no food or drinks and hand sanitizer stations throughout.

While they won’t be hosting weekly family nights with Santa, snow and food trucks this year because they draw such large crowds, you can still enjoy the lights nightly from 5:30 – 10:00 p.m. until December 31. #BRGLights

Baton Rouge Christmas lights stretch across five neighboring homes!

Szewc light display is located at 13514 Rendale Ave in Brookhollow Glen subdivision – off Perkins Road.

Chuck’s Christmas Lights
Cottingham Ct
Baton Rouge, LA 70817

Messenger’s Christmas Land
9481 Prince Charles, Denham Springs

The story of the Messenger’s Christmas Land starts over 50 years ago with Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Messenger Jr. and their 9 kids. With just a few lights and home made animated scenes, word quickly spread about the unusual display for the public. The original location was at the Messenger’s home in Red Oaks, Baton Rouge and then relocated in 1992 to Plantation Estates, Denham Springs where Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Messenger III took over for the next 21 years. Now, going on 53 years, this family tradition can still be visited at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy Messenger off Prince Charles Street, Denham Springs. With lights everywhere, home made animated scenes, a timeline, and even the north pole, the display continues to open every Christmas season to all of the public with no charge. Come stop by and be apart of this 53 year Christmas tradition.

The Willows Winter Wonderland
The Willows subdivision
1457 Weeping Willow Drive in
Denham Springs

No annual Christmas display walkthrough due to COVID. They will however continue to decorate the front yard and do welcome everyone to drive by.

Wilson Christmas Lights
9615 Sagefield Dr Central City, LA 70818

This is a stay in your vehicle to watch the show, just tune your radio to 96.7 FM to listen to the music. If you enjoy the show please tell all of your family and friends. We enjoy spreading Christmas joy doing this for you.

Below you will find the show hours:

Sunday 5:30pm – 10:00pm

Monday 5:30pm – 10:00pm

Tuesday 5:30pm – 10:00pm

Wednesday 5:30pm – 10:00pm

Thursday 5:30pm – 10:00pm

Friday 5:30pm – 10:00pm

Saturday 5:30pm – 10:00 pm

Brannon Daisey Denham Springs

Families can catch this fun Christmas light show every day starting at 5:30 p.m.
You can also listen to the light show music live from your car by tuning in to 105.9FM.
26225 Cottonwood Court in Denham Springs

Lighting up Zachary

Celebrate Christmas with a colorful light show and music!
This year, our donations are for a local non-profit:
http://www.nomadsandnobles.com/donate-1/
1136 Eagle Dr Zachary, LA 70791

The Griswold’s of Oak Place
34819 Oak Place Drive, Denham Springs, LA 70706

The Davis’ Magical Christmas Land
26658 John L Ln Denham Springs, LA 70726

The Christmas Display is open nightly (weather permitting) for walk through visitors. Weekends will feature a Hot Cocoa Bar and visits from Santa on December 11th, 18th and 20th!!

Christmas lights at The Stroud’s
Plantation Ave, Denham Springs

Old Dutchtown Christmas Light Show
13124 Mill Grove Dr. Gonzales LA 70737

Set to music with dazzling lights. Runs nightly from 6 to 9 starting December 1st through New Years Day (weather permitting).

Sevario Family Light Show
13378 Lonnie Wascom Drive
Walker, LA 70785

Light show will begin December 5th running from 5:30-10PM

Listen to the lights – 90.1 FM

Reflections of the Season – West Baton Rouge

THE WESTSIDE CHRISTMAS FEST HAS BEEN CANCELLED FOR 2020. HOWEVER THERE WILL BE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS ON DISPLAY ON WESTPORT AND OFFICE PARK DRIVE. UP NIGHTLY FROM DECEMBER 4-31.

PLANS TO RESUME REFLECTIONS OF THE SEASON IN DECEMBER 2021.

More Christmas Light Display Recommendations:

Hundred Oaks and Arlington
5735 Antioch Blvd
Woodridge Subdivision off Pecou Lane – Many Lit Houses
The Garden District
Elliot Rd. – Home lights synced to music
Southwind & Wyndy in Parkview off of Stumberg

West Baton Rouge

Molaison St in Addis
Emily Drive in Brusly

Central

9615 Sagefield Dr.
14003 Triple B Rd.
15901 Chanove Ave.
Zoar Baptist Church

Ascension

Oak Alley Subdivision, Giesmer
Fields Ct. Off 44 near the Dollar General, Prairieville
13255 Old Dutchtown Ave, Gonzales, LA Multipls homes with lights and music.
Most of the subdivisions along Bluff Rd

🎄 Download your own Christmas Lights Scavenger Hunt HERE for some extra Family fun!