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Brec’s Baton Rouge Zoolights Making Spirits Bright

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Join BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo for Zoolights (November 29rd through December 30th)! 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. 

Baton Rouge Zoo


 

Baton Rouge Zoolights

Friday, November 29, 2019 – Monday, December 30, 2019

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

Baton Rouge Zoolights displays will include the following:

BREC Baton Rouge Zoolights

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: During each evening, the Safari Post Gift Shop and Flamingo Café will remain open & feature special holiday treats and gift options.

 

BREC Trick and Treat Howl-o-ween Costume Pawty

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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.

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

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Calling all ghosts, goblins, little ghouls and boys…  the Zoo invites participants to Boo at the Zoo, a merry-not-scary trick-or-treating extravaganza. Participants are encouraged to wear their best costumes and visit over 21 treat stations throughout the Zoo. You’ll love to wander through the merry-not-scary Hay Maze and Enchanted Swamp. This is a Baton Rouge family tradition that is not to be missed. Family-friendly activities and experiences during the Halloween season can be hard to find, but we can assure you that a day at Boo at the Zoo will feature fun, education, and plenty of treats! 

Boo at the Zoo

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.

Enchanted Swamp – Located throughout the Otter Cabin and adjacent boardwalks, guests can let their imaginations run wild as they take in the magically decorated scenery that is merry, not scary! Presented by Alfortish Granite and Marble.

Hay Maze – Wander through fun and festive hay maze that’s perfect for all ages! $1 per person and proceeds benefit your Zoo! Presented by McDonald’s.

EdZooCation Station – The Wildlife Safari Amphitheatre is transformed for this event into a hands-on animal extravaganza! Don’t miss the shows at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Between shows they’ll have volunteers and Zoo Educators available for games and more. 

Boo at the Zoo

Upcoming Dates:

Saturday, October 19, 2019
Sunday, October 20, 2019
Saturday, October 26, 2019
Sunday, October 27, 2019

 

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! 

 

Swamp Haunted Hikes – BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

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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

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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

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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

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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)

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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

Extreme Baton Rouge Summer – Extreme Sports with BREC

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As a boy mom, I know first hand how awesome it is that BREC offers a plethora of extreme sports options for families in the Baton Rouge area. Of course, it’s not just for boys… girls, boys, and parents alike can enjoy an Extreme Baton Rouge Summer with BREC’s Extreme Sports! Whether it’s the Velodrome, rock climbing wall, three skate parks, BMX track, air gun range, disc golf courses or mountain bike trails, there is truly something for everyone to stay active while having fun all summer long!

Extreme Baton Rouge Summer

Perkins Road Community Park amenities include a 30,000 square foot concrete skate park, BMX track, a rock climbing wall, a community playground, tennis court, and walking paths. BREC’s BMX track facility hosts birthday parties and weekly races. The Jean Lafitte Air Gun Range houses two field courses and a covered site-in range. BREC’s disc golf courses at Highland Road Community Park, Greenwood Community Park, Flanacher Park, and Scotlandville Park are 18-hole courses.

Extreme Baton Rouge Summer

Skate Parks

Locations

Perkins Road Community Park
7122 Perkins Road
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
The skatepark at Perkins Road Community Park is a 30,000 square foot, concrete skatepark built by California Skateparks and accommodates both skateboards and bicycles as well as scooters, inline skates, and rollerskates.

BREC also offers smaller community modular skateparks. These parks are open free to the public from sunrise to sunset.

Old Hammond Highway Park
8900 Old Hammond Highway
Baton Rouge, LA 70806

Zachary Community Park
20055 Old Scenic Hwy 
Zachary, LA 70791

BMX and Biking

Perkins Road BMX Track

7122 Perkins Road
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

BREC’s BMX Raceway offers USABMX sanctioned races every Sunday evening (weather permitting). The Raceway is also available for Birthday Parties Rentals.

Mountain Biking

Locations

Comite River/Kerry Stamey Trails
8900 Hooper Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70818
Click here for a map of this trail.

Hooper Road Bike Trails
6261 Guynell Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70811
Click here for a map of this trail.

Velodrome

7122 Perkins Road
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

The Velodrome is a 333-meter smooth concrete cycling track and one of only 15 in the United States. Cyclists can reach up to 35 mph during competition. Helmets are required.

Disc Golf

Locations

Flanacher Disc Golf Course (21 holes)
864 Flanacher Road, Zachary, LA 70791

Greenwood Disc Golf Course (18 holes)
13350 Hwy. 19, Baker, LA 70714

Highland Road Disc Golf Course (18 holes)
14024 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70810

Louisiana Healthcare Connections at Scotlandville (18 holes)
I-110 Scotlandville Parkway, Baton Rouge, LA 70813

Rock Wall

Perkins Road Community Park
7122 Perkins Road Baton Rouge, LA 70808

BREC birthday parties at Liberty Lagoon – the coolest place in town!

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Whether you fancy it up or keep it simple, at BREC birthday parties at Liberty Lagoon your child will celebrate the coolest party in town! BREC’s  Liberty Lagoon staff will help make it a fun, hassle-free experience for you too! They have multiple party packages to meet your needs, so consider Liberty Lagoon when you’re planning the big day!

BREC birthday parties at Liberty Lagoon

brec birthday parties

LIBERTY BELL PAVILION

BREC birthday parties

  • $40 for 2 hours ($20 each additional hour if available)
  • $120 for entire day (during normal business hours)
  • All guests MUST have a ticket to enter
  • 30-foot hexagon (blue)
  • Six picnic tables – can seat up to 36 guests
  • Located next to the Splash Pad

PATRIOT PAVILION

BREC birthday parties

  • $40 for 2 hours ($20 each additional hour if available)
  • $120 for entire day (during normal business hours) All guests MUST have a ticket to enter
  • 30-foot hexagon (yellow)
  • Six picnic tables – can seat up to 36 guests
  • Located next to the Water Playground

COLONIAL PAVILION

  • $40 for 2 hours ($20 each additional hour if available)
  • $120 for entire day (during normal business hours) All guests MUST have a ticket to enter
  • 30-foot square (green)
  • Four picnic tables – can seat up to 36 guests
  • Located next to the Colonial Cafe

INDEPENDENCE PAVILION

Liberty Lagoon
  • $60 for 2 hours ($30 each additional hour if available)
  • $180 for entire day (during normal business hours)
  • All guests MUST have a ticket to enter
  • 24-foot by 34-foot rectangle (green)
  • Nine picnic tables – can seat up to 75 guests
  • Located next to the Colonial Cafe

PRESIDENTIAL PAVILION

Liberty Lagoon
  • $60 for 2 hours ($30 each additional hour if available)
  • $180 for entire day (during normal business hours)
  • All guests MUST have a ticket to enter
  • 24-foot by 34-foot rectangle (green)
  • Nine picnic tables – can seat up to 75 guests
  • Located next to the Colonial Cafe II

FREEDOM DECK

Liberty Lagoon
  • $60 for 2 hours ($30 each additional hour if available)
  • $180 for entire day (during normal business hours)
  • All guests MUST have a ticket to enter
  • Eight picnic tables – can seat up to 50 guests
  • Located next to The Shockwave

Pavilion Party Packs

Download Party Packages Form

PARTY PACK 1 – $250
  • 2 hour Rental of Liberty Bell Pavilion, PatriotPavilion, Colonial Pavilion, or 1/2 Presidential Pavilion
  • 2 Pizzas
  • 12 sports drinks
  • 12 general admissions
PARTY PACK 2 – $330
  • All-day Rental of Liberty Bell Pavilion, PatriotPavilion, Colonial Pavilion, or 1/2 Presidential Pavilion
  • 2 Pizzas
  • 12 sports drinks
  • 12 general admissions
PARTY PACK 3 – $400
  • 2 hour Rental of Full Presidential Pavilion, Independence Pavilion, or Freedom Deck
  • 3 Pizzas
  • 20 Sports Drinks
  • 20 General Admissions
PARTY PACK 4 – $525
  • All Day Rental of Full Presidential Pavilion, Independence Pavilion, or Freedom Deck
  • 3 Pizzas
  • 20 Sports Drinks
  • 20 General Admissions

Pizza Types Included:

  • Cheese
  • Pepperoni
  • Sausage
  • Other 1 topping

Additional pizzas can be ordered at discounted price of $15.00

All additional guests over included admissions will be charged full admission prices.

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.