Baton Rouge Family Fun

The premiere digital resource for families in Baton Rouge & Beyond

You are here: Home / Archives for BREC

Free Swimming Lessons in Baton Rouge this Summer with BREC

by

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

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

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

Free Swim Lessons

Free Swimming Lessons in Baton Rouge

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

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

REGISTRATION IS FULL!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are some startling facts on drowning!

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

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

Source: http://usapoolsla.com

International Astronomy Day – Highland Road Park Observatory

by

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! 

International Astronomy Day

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.

Brec’s Baton Rouge Zoolights – Making Spirits Bright

by

Join BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo for Zoolights (Friday, November 27 – Wednesday, December 30)! Baton Rouge Zoolights festive mile-long trail through the Zoo in the evening boasts more than 50 illuminated sculptures of animals and traditional holiday displays for the whole family to enjoy. 

Baton Rouge Zoolights

This year, 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. Regular admission prices are $5 for adults/teens, $4 for senior citizens, $3 for children (2-12 years old), and $3 for Friends of the Zoo members. These amounts will be cut in half when a non-perishable food item is presented at the time of entry & all food donations will go directly to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. Learn more at www.brzoo.org. 

Zoo Lights


 

Baton Rouge Zoolights

Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

Admissions 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​

Prices will be reduced by 50% when guests present non-perishable food items to be donated to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. 

ZOOLIGHTS IS:

  • A mile-long trail through the Zoo
  • More than 50 illuminated display sculptures of animals and traditional holiday displays
  • A festive family activity, adding to the quality of life for residents throughout the region.

Baton Rouge Zoolights displays will include the following:

BREC Baton Rouge Zoolights

LIGHTED DISPLAYS WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

ILLUMINATED SCULPTURES: Visitors will find illuminated sculptures representing animals and traditional symbols of the holidays.

GIANT SPECTACULARS: Larger-than-life displays capture the imagination of children of all ages. These displays may include: Flamingos, Giraffes, Lions, Tigers, Gorillas, Rhinos, Elephants, Alligators, Giant Santa, Giant Snowmen, Holiday Trains, Santa in Sleigh pulled by Giant Reindeer and Toy Soldiers. Displays can be up to 30 ft. tall!

ANIMATED SPECTACULARS: Animated displays add additional entertainment value to our event. The use of high-wattage, computer-controlled displays will provide exciting animation to displays.

VISITOR AMENITIES: Safari Photo Booth Seasonal Specials from the Flamingo Cafe Safari Post Gift Shop

Boo at the Zoo – Halloween Fun at BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo

by

Calling all ghosts, goblins, little ghouls and boys…  on October 17th, 18th, 24th, and 25th, BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo is thrilled to be able to host their most popular family event of the year – Boo at the Zoo! This year’s event will be a little bit different than in the past. For safety purposes, pre-prepared treat bags will be available for children to pick-up upon exiting the Zoo. They are still encouraging creative & fun costumes for all guests to create a merry-not-scary experience!

There will be traditional fall-themed photo opportunities & they’ll be providing fun and festive enrichments to their animal friends during the day. While this year’s event will be a little different, it promises to keep this family tradition special for all ages! 

Boo at the Zoo

This year at Boo at the Zoo

Regular Zoo admission applies and admission is free for Friends of the Zoo Members. Admission gates open 9:30am – 4:00pm. Grounds close at 5 pm.

Due to COVID-19 Safeguards, we will be pre-packaging treat bags for all children ages 12 and under to collect upon exiting their adventure at the Zoo.

We encourage costumes, as always, and protective face masks for guests.

While this year’s event will be a little bit different, we promise to keep this family tradition special.

There will be traditional photo ops throughout the Zoo with Fall and Halloween themed structures.

As well, we will be providing fun and festive enrichments to our animal friends throughout the day.

It’s sure to be a good time for all ages! 

Upcoming Dates:

Saturday, October 17, 2020
Sunday, October 18, 2020
Saturday, October 24, 2020
Sunday, October 25, 2020

Boo at the Zoo

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How old do you have to be to trick-or-treat?

A: Treats are for children under the age of 12.

Q: Is parking free?

A: Parking is free, but the parking lot often fills up for Boo at the Zoo. Deputies will assist in directing traffic but please “bear” with them. Cars will be permitted to enter as soon as spots become available. It’s best to get there early!

Q: Is your event scary?

A: Boo at the Zoo is a merry, not scary Halloween event. The Hay Maze & other attractions are not scary and are suitable for young children.

Q: Can we bring our own snacks and beverages?

A: Outside snacks and beverages are not allowed inside the Zoo, but feel free to enjoy your Zoo favorites at the Flamingo Cafe, or try out the Food Court with everything from quesadillas and fried pickles to funnel cakes and smoothies! 

You won’t want to miss this day of family fun! 

Boo at the Zoo

Learn more at the BREC Baton Rouge Zoo website and follow the Baton Rouge Zoo Facebook page for updates! 

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

BREC Trick and Treat Howl-o-ween Costume Pawty

by

UPDATE: This event has been moved to the recreation center Kathy Drive Park due to expected weather conditions. 

Bring the dog and the entire family to this dog-friendly BREC Trick or Treat event. Local pet organizations will be in attendance distributing valuable information, candy for the kiddos and treats for the dogs. Dress up your dog for the Best Costume Contest as well! The contest will promptly begin at 7 p.m.! 

BREC Trick or Treat

BREC Trick-or-Treat Dog Pawty

WHERE: Recreation center Kathy Drive Park due to expected weather conditions. 1801 Kathy Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70816

WHEN: Friday, October 25th 6pm – 9pm The contest will promptly begin at 7 p.m.

Swamp Haunted Hikes – BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

by

The Baton Rouge Holloween events haves started and Swamp Haunted Hikes at BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center is one of our favorites! Our kids had a great time last year, it’s an evening chock-full of activities and not-so-scary Halloween fun! Check out our short video from last year below! 

 Swamp Haunted Hikes – BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

Baton Rouge Haunted HikesBluebonnet Swamp’s Haunted Hikes are designed especially for children, but all ages enjoy the spooktacular excitement of these Halloween-themed evenings. Event admission is through the education building where crafts and storytelling are just around the corner. Venture outside to find a way through the Haunted Maze to get to the carnival games for more fun and prizes. Be on the lookout for our silly-swampy costumed characters as they have some great treasures to share! Inside the nature center, the kooky-spooky adventures continue with the Animal Morgue, Wings of Hope Wildlife Sanctuary in the Bat Cave, the Creepy Cavern, and face-painting. 
Swamp Haunted Hikes
Costumed characters lurk throughout the site ready to share “kooky treasures” with all the attending little witches, fairies, hobgoblins, and heroes. Don’t be afraid of the dark! At night, head into the woods to get some treats and learn about snakes, insects, rats, and other “creepy critters” at educational stations along the Haunted Hike Trail. No scare tactics are used during this program as we strive to create cheerful-not-fearful experiences for our younger participants. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Costumes are welcome and flashlights are recommended. Food vendors will be on-site during the event. Join us for a howling good time!

WHERE: BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center
WHEN: Oct. 11 + 18 + 25 – Doors open at 6 p.m., trail opens at dark.
COST: $6 per person 

We hope to see you there!

 
Disclosure: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who 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. 

 

BREC Fall Tennis – Kids, Juniors & Homeschool Programs

by

While tennis might not be as popular as sports like baseball or football, it remains a great option for young athletes. As a parent trying to decide which sports will benefit your children the most, be sure to consider tennis as an option. Enrolling your child in tennis will not only expose them to a great sport now but could also lead to a lifelong passion for this popular game. BREC Fall Tennis lessons are the perfect way to introduce your child to the sport that many call the sport of a lifetime! Be sure to check out our Top 10 Developmental Benefits of BREC Tennis For Kids! 

BREC Fall Tennis

BREC Fall Tennis

BREC’s Tennis Department manages five major tennis centers, each housing its own pro shop that offers tennis resale merchandise, equipment rentals, refreshments and a full staff that manages court reservations and fees. The five major tennis centers provide a number of programs to the community, including tennis instruction, school athletic programs, youth, and adult league play and tournaments. Facilities are available for rental to organizations for tournaments, workshops, and high school league practice. There are also 85 neighborhood tennis courts located at recreation centers throughout East Baton Rouge Parish where patrons can play tennis at no charge.

BREC Fall Tenis

BREC Fall Tennis

After School Jr. Tennis Program

(Ages 8-16) A four-week program for beginners to introduce and reinforce fundamental tennis techniques. Every Monday and Wednesday, Oct. 16-Nov. 11, from 4-5 p.m. $40 per person for one day per week; $65 per person for two days per week. Registration Deadline: Friday, Oct. 11. Instructor: Jeremiah Casson.

Pee Wee Tennis Program

(Ages 3-6) A six-week program that introduces the game of tennis to younger children. Help your child develop motor skills, hand-eye coordination, overall athleticism, and fundamental tennis strokes. Fun is guaranteed! Thursdays, Oct. 24-Dec. 5 (no class Nov. 28), from 1:30-2:15 p.m. $50 per person. Registration Deadline: Friday, Oct. 18. Instructor: Jeremiah Casson.

Home-School Tennis Program

(Ages 6-17) A six-week program designed especially for home-schooled children. Participants will learn about the game of tennis in a fun learning environment. Program includes drills, games, and tennis knowledge. Thursdays, Oct. 24-Dec. 5 (no class Nov. 28), from 1:30-3 p.m. $60 per person. Registration Deadline: Friday, Oct. 18. Instructor: Ray Anders.

Junior Programming

All levels is provided by tennis pro, Chase LeBlanc, during October. For more information, contact Chase LeBlanc at 225-337-2575 or chaseman1984@gmail.com.

FREE ONE YEAR JUNIOR MEMBERSHIP FOR KIDS 10 AND UNDER
Kids 10 and under, new to the USTA, can receive a free one-year junior membership – a $20 value!
Must use source code FYFE for this offer.  Offer expires December 31, 2019.
Click here for registration form.

Disclosure: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who 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. 

 

Fall Fun with Art programs at BREC: Eek A Boo & Holiday Camp

by

BREC Art provides a wide range of programs for the youngest artists to grow their skills and make the most of their interests. Artistic exploration is among the best ways for kids to build confidence in expressing themselves, learn to solve problems and think critically. BREC provides a comfortable place where the next great artist can begin to unleash their creative energy. Let your little ones enjoy some fall Fun with the following Art programs at BREC: 

Fall Fun with Art programs at BREC

BREC Fall Art

Little Picassos

An introduction to the fun aspects of art. Young artists will experience their first encounters with art – using paint, oil pastels, watercolor and mixed media.

WHEN: Sept. 4 + 11 + 18 + 25
WHERE: Highland Road Community Park
AGES: 5-7
Cost – $30

Eek A Boo

In this holiday workshop we will create a BOOTIFUL 3-dimensional house! Participants will learn the basics of collage and simple construction and will leave with a piece of art that will celebrate family Halloweens for years to come!

WHEN: Saturday, Oct 26, 2019 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
WHERE: Milton J. Womack Park
AGES: 8-12
COST: $15 / $10 each for two+ registered at the same time

Clay Creations

A basic hand-building class for beginners. Artist Terry Kennedy will introduce basic clay hand-building techniques and students will create several finished fired pieces over the four class periods.

WHEN: Oct. 1 + 8 + 15 + 22
WHERE: Webb Park
AGES: 15+
COST:  $100

Beginning Watercolor

In this two-hour class participants will learn the basics of watercolor painting. Topics of investigation include color hues and intensities, graded washes and types of brush strokes. The end result will be a graceful and smooth composition.

WHEN: Saturday, Oct 12, 2019 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
WHERE: Milton J. Womack
AGES: 15+
COST: $60

WINTER HOLIDAY ART CAMP

Enjoy a flurry of cool art projects as we investigate the elements and principles of art.
Dec. 26 + 27 / Jan. 2 + 3
8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Ages: 7-11
$96 EBR Parish resident / $115 out-of-parish residents.

 

Disclosure: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who 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. 

Brew at the Zoo – Food Tasting, Beer Tasting, Live Music & More

by

Friends of the Baton Rouge Zoo is hosting its sixth annual Brew at the Zoo on Friday, October 4 and it promises to be the best one yet! As summer temperatures wane and the leaves begin to change colors, guests (21 and older only) are invited to the Zoo for an evening of food tasting, beer tasting, live music and more. Sample dozens of craft beers and munch on pub favorites, or show off your “safari chic” style while listening to the sound of live music. 

Brew at the Zoo

Friday, October 4, 2019
7PM to 10PM – General Admission
6pm to 10pm – VIP

There will be 200 total VIP tickets available at $100 each & when they’re gone, they’re gone.

Brew at the Zoo VIP experience includes: 

  • An hour early access to the event

  • Skip the lines at express check-in

  • Access to the VIP Tent

  • Specialty food and drinks

  • VIP only air-conditioned bathrooms

Brew at the Zoo

Photo: Baton Rouge Zoo

The animals will be more involved this year! The Baton Rouge Zoo will have even more of their animal ambassadors on hand throughout the night to greet you and be a part of this magical night. After all, it’s BREW at the “Zoo” and they want you to walk away with an experience like no other!

This year’s event will also have new eateries with scrumptious tastings to satisfy your every craving! Brew at the Zoo is sure to sell out, be sure to grab your tickets now for an evening of food sampling, beer tasting, live music & much more. Learn more and purchase tickets at brzoobrew.org

Disclosure: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who 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. 

BREC Tennis Tournament: 10 and Under Tennis (Ages 6-10)

by

Do you have a tennis player in your family between the ages of 6 and 10? Help your child advance their tennis game and sign them up for the upcoming BREC Tennis Tournament  (Ages 6-10) Saturday, Aug. 24, from 8:30 a.m.-noon. This tournament features a singles round-robin format with a division for boys and girls: ages 8 and younger on a 36-ft. court with a maximum 23-inch racquet (red ball); ages 10 and younger on a 60-ft. court with a maximum 25-inch racquet (orange ball); and ages 10 and younger on a 78-ft. court with a maximum 29-inch racquet.

Free snacks and awards for players.

Registration Deadline: Wednesday, Aug. 21.

BREC Tennis Tournament

Top 10 Developmental Benefits of BREC Tennis For Kids

  • Bone Strength. Playing tennis regularly strengthens the bones of young players and has been proven to help prevent osteoporosis later on in life. Thus the reason why Tennis is often called the sport of a lifetime.
  • Hand-Eye Coordination. 
  • Aerobic and Cardiovascular Exercise. 
  • Speed.
  • Flexibility. 
  • Gross Motor Coordination. 
  • Fine Motor Coordination. 
  • Agility.

Click here for registration form and more information. Online registration is available at register.brec.org