Christmas Archives - Baton Rouge Family Fun

RACK – Random Acts of Christmas Kindness

December 1, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Tis’ the season to get into the holiday spirit! We are RACKing up Random Acts of Christmas Kindness this season, and we would love for you to join us! We are spreading the joy of the holidays by performing a Random Act of Christmas Kindness each day throughout December. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the true reason for the season… family, togetherness, community, and giving!

The best part of participating in even the smallest act of kindness and/or giving is that generosity and kindness are contagious!

Goodness spurs goodness: A single act can influence dozens more.

Please join us for our 8th Annual RACK! We are showering the Baton Rouge community with Christmas Kindness all month long!

RACK – Random Acts of Christmas Kindness

What is RACK, and how does it work?

It’s a way to infuse holiday spirit in others by performing a Random Act of Christmas Kindness throughout December! Many do a RACK a day for 25 days leading up to Christmas, an advent of sorts. However, we are asking you to join us in doing what you can, when you can, however big, however small. Be creative and lead with your heart! Most importantly, get the whole family involved!

We have created printable RACK cards in different sizes; print and attach them to your RACK. Although there are many ways to offer a RACK, we have put together an extensive list of ideas and a calendar if you want to follow a list of acts.

RACK – Random Acts of Christmas Kindness Ideas:

Rake the yard of a neighbor who can’t rake it themselves.
Bless your garbage collectors with a treat or small gift card for lunch.
Have your children make the mailman or lady a Thank You card or poster with treats taped to it.
Tape coins on vending machines for snacks or sodas. The hospital would be an excellent place for this!
Tape single dollars to items at the dollar store. (plus a dime for tax)
RACK a Red Box by leaving a dollar or two and some popcorn or a candy cane.
Donate items to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank
Pack toiletry or snack bags for Volunteers of America Greater Baton Rouge homeless shelters.
Donate a coat to Pat’s Coats for Kids.
Bake treats and take them to the police station or fire station with thank you cards for their service.
Take a break from texting and mail an actual handwritten letter or card to someone you love.
Send letters or gifts to an assisted living home. Coordinate with your local nursing or retirement home first.
Take Get Well balloons or flowers to the hospital and leave them with a nurse for someone who is alone.
Fill a Good Samaritans Christmas Box
Tape quarters to laundromat machines.
Leave a basket of Christmas gifts on the doorstep of a family in need.
Leave a $5 bill on the pump at a gas station.
Bring treats to your local urgent care office on Christmas Eve.
Cook a meal and deliver it to someone who could use a meal. Someone who is sick, a new family in the neighborhood or at church, a new mom.
Take a person who’s working on Christmas Eve something special.
Drop off books to give to patients at the OLOL Children’s Hospital.
Drop off a coffee and a treat to a busy mom.
Bring a gift to Santa.
‘Ding dong ditch’ your neighbors with fresh-baked goods.
Before paying at the grocery store, buy a gift card, and then turn around and hand it to the person behind you or to the cashier.
Leave an extra big tip at a restaurant.
Donate to the local animal shelter. Contact a local animal shelter to find out what they need. (food, blankets, towels, and food bowls, etc.)
Put something you no longer need on Craigslist’s FREE section.
Fill purses you no longer use with toiletries and fun items for men and donate to your local women’s shelter.
Foster a dog for the local animal shelter.

Rack Tag printables…

Download Medium RACK Cards HERE.

Download Small RACK Cards HERE.

Download XSmall Circle TACK Tags HERE

A RACK Advent calendar can be found here.

More cards and tags can be found here.

It’s our responsibility to discuss gratefulness, generosity, unselfishness and service not just during the holidays but year-round. We are our children’s greatest role models — we should start early to mold our children’s perspectives on the holiday season. May we create such treasured memories of family time and togetherness, and the joy of giving, that our children will hold on to these memories for a lifetime and pass them on to their children.

We wish each of you a blessed Christmas Season full of RACK!

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}.

Brec’s Baton Rouge Zoolights – Making Spirits Bright

November 1, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Join BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo for Zoolights from November 25th through December 30th! This nightly event is presented by Children’s Hospital of New Orleans and features more than 50 illuminated sculptures of animals and traditional holiday displays for the whole family to enjoy.

Again this year, the Zoo will be partnering with The Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank to bring more impact & excitement to Zoolights. Every guest presenting a non-perishable food item 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 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. Last year, 6,933 pounds of food were collected during this drive. The goal is to reach 7,500 pounds this year!

Baton Rouge Zoolights

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

WHEN: November 25 – December 30 – 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:

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.

During each evening, the Safari Post Gift Shop and Flamingo Café will remain open & feature special holiday treats and gift options. On Friday and Saturday nights, representatives from the Children’s Hospital of New Orleans will be on hand with fun activities and gifts for the kids.

Additional ZooLights Information: https://www.brzoo.org/events/special/zoolights/

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}.

225 GIVES – Giving Tuesday – CASA Toy Drive

November 30, 2021 by Tiany Davis

Today is Giving Tuesday #GivingTuesday, a global day of giving that brings people together around the values of service and giving back to others, the perfect time to bring back our Baton Rouge Gives Back series where we highlight local nonprofits. Our local Giving Tuesday effort, 225 Gives, highlights local nonprofit organizations that uplift and strengthen our community. We will highlight some of the organizations taking part in this year’s “225 Gives” on our social media platforms throughout the day. You can also go to 225gives.org to learn more about the participating organizations!

This holiday season and throughout the year, we can make a difference right here at home by giving and volunteering our time. There are over 100 nonprofit organizations to support in the Baton Rouge area. Make it a family effort, go through the list of organizations, and ask the kids who they would like to support and why. There is no better way to teach our children that we value our community and our neighbors than by giving back as a family.

One organization in particular that we are supporting this year and every year is CASA with their annual CASA Toy Drive. Capital Area CASA accepts donations from the community so that volunteers can select gifts for their CASA children to open during the holidays.

What is CASA?

CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate. Capital Area CASA Association serves East Baton Rouge Parish and trains volunteers to advocate for these children. Children need to do more than survive; they need to thrive in the safety and love of a family. CASA volunteers do not provide legal representation, nor do they replace social workers. A CASA volunteer is an independent voice speaking solely for the best interests of the child with the ultimate goal being a safe, permanent home.

CASA volunteers get to know the child and talk with everyone involved in the child’s life to gather facts about the child’s history and current situation. Using this information, the volunteer submits recommendations in a report to the juvenile court judge.

Since most CASA recommendations are accepted by the court, children with CASA volunteers are more likely to find permanent homes and spend less time in foster care. CASA volunteers also ensure that children’s needs are being met while in state custody.

Abused and neglected children will spend this holiday season living in foster care, rather than in a safe and permanent home with a family of their own. This holiday season, you can help bring a smile to a child served by Capital Area CASA Association by donating a new and unwrapped item. Please deliver to the CASA office at 848 Louisiana Avenue by Friday, December 3, 2021. Contact Sarah Tranchina at (225) 379-8598 or email stranchina@casabr.org for more information.

Collectively, we can strive to make a difference in the lives of those in need; our efforts will, in turn, help create a stronger, healthier Baton Rouge for all! So join your neighbors today and become part of a growing tradition of helping and giving. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to learn more about this year’s 225 Gives Baton Rouge participants!

Baton Rouge Holiday & Christmas Events Guide

November 1, 2019 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

The 2022 Baton Rouge Holiday & Christmas Events Guide can be found here!

2022 FAMILY FRIENDLY CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE

Our Baton Rouge Holiday & Christmas Events Guide is our largest guide to date with over 50 events. This list will be updated daily as we learn of new events being hosted in our area. We’re sharing events within a 60 mile radius of Baton Rouge. Whether you’re looking for a Christmas parade, holiday-themed performance, Santa visit, or lights display, there’s the cornucopia of holiday-themed programs and events throughout the season. Be sure to grab for our FREE Christmas Events List Printable so you don’t miss an event! If you have an event or activity to add, please email us!

Cortana Kiwanis Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 14, 2019

Battle of the Bands: 4:00pm

Parade Starts: 5:30pm

The 68th Annual Cortana Kiwanis Downtown Christmas Parade will roll through Downtown Baton Rouge on December 9 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 troups, non-profit organizations, and local businesses in seasonal themes.

ZooLights

November 29 – December 30
Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas
Gates open 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Zoo grounds close at 9 p.m.

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
The beginning of a new tradition

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.

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

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

A Rural Life Christmas

Sunday, December 2
12:30pm until 6:00pm

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 present during this event.

Admission: $10.00 per person. Children 10 years and younger are admitted for free.

This event will conclude with a bonfire and a visit from Papa Noel!

Holiday Skating on the River

The Raising Cane’s River Center will once again magically transform the arena into a “Winter Wonderland” just in time for you to create your holiday memories.

Please join us for a skating session soon and create winter memories that will last a lifetime. Tickets are currently available at the Raising Cane’s River Center box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, and charge by phone at-1-800-745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com. For more information, please contact the Raising Cane’s River Center at 225-389-3030.

Festival of Lights Friday, November 30th, 4:00pm – 9:00pm

Two popular events intertwine for a special holiday Far-Out First Friday combined with the annual Festival of Light’s activities – all rolled into one exciting night! Join 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. Bethlehem Village with a real-life village set in Biblical times where children can craft ornaments and decorations, plus a magical train ride on the Mansion Express at the Old Governor’s Mansion. Visit Santa’s Gift Shoppe and listen to holiday music during an evening of visual, culinary, and performing arts.

A full schedule of Downtown Baton Rouge Christmas Events can be found here!

Louisiana Art & Science Museum

All aboard The Polar Express! Wear your holiday PJs and bring your family and friends to enjoy this beloved holiday movie like never before in the Irene W. Pennington Planetarium, and warm up with complimentary hot chocolate before each show.

This event is included in general admission, $12 for adults and $10 for children (ages 3-12) and seniors (65+). LASM Members are free!

Sponsored by Baton Rouge Coca-Cola Bottling Company

Upcoming Dates:

Saturday, December 7, 2019 at 4:00pm
Sunday, December 8, 2019 at 1:00pm
Saturday, December 14, 2019 at 4:00pm
Saturday, December 21, 2019 at 4:00pm

The Nutcracker: A Tale from the Bayou

December 14 & 15, 2019

The Nutcracker – A Tale from the Bayou, created by Molly Buchmann and Sharon Mathews in 1992, has become one of the most highly-anticipated events of the holiday season. Accompanied by the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra, the production incorporates local landmarks while maintaining the grandeur and integrity of the classic ballet. This lavish production continues to thrill children and adults alike, and snow is always guaranteed!

Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra

BREC Holiday Events

Creole Christmas: Sunday, Dec 1st 1:00 PM – 6:00 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.

See full list of BREC events here.

Reflections of the Season – West Baton Rouge

Drive through the grounds of the West Baton Rouge Conference Center and view the spectacular lights. Take advantage of the FREE shuttle service as there is no parking available on the grounds of the WBR Conference Center during this event; Parking will be at Louis Mouch Multipurpose arena located at 152 Turner Road. You must obtain a wristband at the entrance gate to participate in all the activities. Come inside the conference center to visit the talking reindeer. Walk through the holiday decorated rooms. Enjoy carnival rides for the children or buy those last minute gifts from our crafters. Santa will be here on Friday and Saturday nights only. Take your holiday pictures with Santa and his elves.

HORSE & BUGGY RIDES. Cuddle up in a blanket next to your friends and loved ones and take a ride through the lights in a horse-drawn wagon for $5.00 per person. Bring your family and friends and make West Baton Rouge and “Reflections of the Season” part of your Christmas tradition.

Holiday Events Beyond Baton Rouge

Nottaway’s Christmas Tree Lighting Festival

It’s time for Nottoway’s annual Christmas Bonfire Festival! For just $5 per car, you’ll experience a night filled with music, food, vendors, bonfires, fireworks, Santa and more!

Friday, December 7, | 5-9pm
Bonfires on the Levee
Arts & Crafts Vendors
Food & Concessions
Holiday Music
Christmas Church Choirs
Carolers Roaming the Grounds
Louisiana Vintage Dancers
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
A Visit From SANTA!
Fireworks
Admission is only $5 per car!
Buy your tickets online to avoid the long lines!

Celebration In The Oaks- New Orleans

Celebration in the Oaks season:
Open Nov. 30 through Jan 1, 2019
Closed Christmas Eve
Open Christmas Night
Closed New Year’s Eve
Open hours:
Friday and Saturday 5pm to 11pm
Sunday through Thursday 6pm to 10pm

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.

Family Preview Party – New Orleans

November 18th – Kids get the royal holiday treatment at their own Celebration in the Oaks Preview Party and – bonus! – mom and dad can enjoy this family experience without lifting a finger. Your little ones will feel like the kings and queens of the ball at this fun-filled party.

And special this year at the Celebration in the Oaks Family Party – we’ll have the characters from FROZEN! That’s right, Princess Anna, Queen Elsa, Kristoff and the lovable Olaf. They’ll be walking around and will be ready to take photos with the kids (and those who are kids at heart, too). Don’t forget your camera.

Krewe of Jingle Parade & More! – New Orleans – TBA

New Orleans’ official holiday parade, the “Krewe of Jingle,” will once again delight locals and visitors alike with authentic parade floats, marching bands, stilt walkers, Christmas characters and many more magical surprises!

A Civil War Christmas- – St. Francisville

12/7 • Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville – A Colonial Christmas School Day, 9 – 11:30 a.m. Preregistered students will learn about Christmas traditions in early America. Wassailing, hunting for Christmas dinner, and origins of Christmas traditions are just some of the things students will experience. For more information call 888.677.2838 toll free or 225.635.3739 locally.

12/8 • Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville – A Dickens of a Christmas, 6 – 8 p.m. The plantation comes to life during the holidays, as it shows off its seasonal decorations. Costumed guides accompany the visitor on a trip into the past through the candlelit Oakley House. Take a taste of what´s cooking in the kitchen, or just enjoy the yearly Christmas dance or listen to live period music. For more information call 888.677.2838 toll free or 225.635.3739 locally.

Christmas in the Country St. Francisville

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

Christmas in the Village – Zachary

Come out to the annual Christmas In The Village in the Zachary Historical District! Kickoff the holiday season and join Zachary Mayor David Amrhein as he welcomes everyone to the annual Zachary Christmas In the Village Celebration from 5:45 p.m. to 9 p.m. Dec. 7. The event will take place in the Zachary Historical District, on Virginia Street behind City Hall and this year, expands to the fire station and along Main Street to Lee Street. Bring a camera to take photos while you meet the Whoville characters. Santa will be at the Whoville House at the corner of Virginia and Florida streets.

Noel Acadien au Village – Lafayette

NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 23, 5:30-9:00 pm Nightly (weather permitting)

HALF A MILLION LIGHTS ~ NEW ANIMATED DISPLAYS ~ CARNIVAL RIDES PHOTOS WITH SANTA ~ LIVE NIGHTLY ENTERTAINMENT LOCAL CUISINE ~ HOLIDAY SHOPPING – VIP Parking Available
For more information, click on the drop-down menu on the Noel Acadien au Village tab.
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 displays for our Acadian home porches, lighted holiday displays, live entertainment, carnival rides, local cuisine, photos with Santa, holiday shopping in the Christmas Store and much more!

25th Festival of the Bonfires – St. James Parish

December 14, 15, 16,
Lutcher Park
2545 Louisiana Avenue
Lutcher, LA

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!!

Christmas Past Festival: Old Mandeville

Christmas Past Festival DEc. 8th 10 AM-3 PM in Old Mandeville.

The Christmas Past street festival is packed with over 40 vendors lining Girod Street. The festival will extend from near the Mandeville Trailhead complex and continue down to the lakefront. Keeping with an international season theme, each block will highlight a different region: Germany, England, France, Louisiana, and America. For maps and the program of events, please visit their Christmas Past Festival Facebook Page.

Christmas Under the Stars – Slidell

Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights

This would be another option for a day trip and 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.

See a full list of featured events—> https://www.holidaytrailoflights.com

There will be many fun events that you won’t want to miss taking place, we’ve created a fun Christmas Events List printable for you to print and fill out so you don’t miss a thing!
Baton Rouge Moms Printable

FIND US ON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM for more community info, activities and events!

Thanks to Rapid Urgent Care for sponsoring the Holiday Events Guide.

Baton Rouge Moms: Seven Days of Christmas Giveaways

December 15, 2016 by Tiany Davis

In October Baton Rouge Moms celebrated THREE FANTASTIC YEARS and the celebration continues as we recently reached 20,000 Friends on Facebook and 6,000 Friends on Instagram!! We have grown exponentially over the past three years with each comment, like and share that you have graced us with. We don’t like to refer to our readers as “followers”, you are friends, our sisterhood. THANK YOU for your support, your encouragement, your patience, your advice to fellow moms, and each one of those likes, comments and shares.

We appreciate you all so very much.

What is Baton Rouge Moms?

What is Baton Rouge Moms? This is still our most asked question. Baton Rouge Moms is a hyper-local website, often confused as being a “Mommy Blog”, however, we are so much more! We have a blog, but we are not a blog. Baton Rouge Moms is a resource portal for all things Baton Rouge and family friendly fun. Baton Rouge Moms has many features that help families live and love in Baton Rouge.

Each week in 2017 we will highlight the following sections on Baton Rouge Moms to bring you great local parenting resources…

Baton Rouge Moms Recommend
Ask the Experts
Recipes from local food artisans
Volunteer Opportunities with our 2017 causes
Events and activities
Our highly anticipated Holiday Guides.

It couldn’t be done without the help of this beautiful team of moms, most of whom have been with us since our launch.

GIVEAWAY>>>

To celebrate 20,000 Friends on Facebook we are kicking off 7 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS! Each day we will post a new giveaway on this post and on Facebook! Enter on each days Facebook post and enter here for extra entries.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Congratulations to our winners!!
Megan Daigle Doucet
Patti Mcgrath
Ashley Aguillard Davidson
Tabitha Loudon Douzat
Erica Mautner
Hannah Walker Beckham
Lindsey Mart

EXTRA FUN: Use the hashtag #BRmoms on Instagram in your holiday photos, family photos, daily life photos, photos of the kids or while your out and about in the Baton Rouge area. We will be giving away random Gift Christmas spirit Cards on Instagram to celebrate 6000 Friends through New Year’s Day!!! Let the Christmas spirit gets you as you use one leather handbags to carry your presents or being the present itself!

DAY ONE – The 12 Days of Christmas Kitchen Towel Set and Children’s Book!

A Louisiana Christmas Cookbook and Set of 4 Shatterproof Christmas Wine Glasses!

2017 Planning Kit – (Recollections Spiral Planner, Planning Sticker Book, Washi Tape, Planner bands and Pen and Pencil set.)

Fashionably Functional RFID Leather Bag – 24 Pockets {Valued at $150}

Benefit Cosmetics Makeup Set!!! ($100 Value)

$50 Gift Certificate to SimplyMCreations

Instant Pot IP-DUO60 7-in-1 Multi-Functional Pressure Cooker, 6Qt/1000W

Elf on the Shelf Help is here with “Shhhelf Help”

November 23, 2016 by Tiany Davis

We’ve already started seeing the Elf on the Shelf memes, helping a little Elf entertain through the holidays is hard work. We are busy, especially through the holidays and remembering to move the little Elf at all is a miracle, let alone coming up with creative and imaginative ways to entertain said Elf. A young Shark Tank enthusiast from Mandeville has come up with the perfect solution to make life through the holidays a tad easier with “Shhhelf Help”.

Elf on the Shelf Help

Shhhelf Help will be delivered to your door in an unsuspecting white box that holds 25 days of Elf on the Shelf activities and includes everything you need (Elf not included) to entertain your Elf and the kids!

A note from our Junior Entrepreneurs mom:

My family has enjoyed shark tank for years. My daughter and I discussed the project for a good while when all of a sudden Halloween was upon us. She hired three high school students to help her with assembly and she used a unoccupied suite next to my dental office.

You can check out her Etsy shop and purchase your own “Shhhelf Help” kit here: http://bit.ly/ShhhelfHelp

GIVEAWAY:
We are hosting a two day Flash Giveaway on our Facebook and Instagram pages, enter to win a “Shhhelf Help” kit or make sure you get yours today and buy one before they sell out! http://bit.ly/ShhhelfHelp

Baton Rouge Holiday & Christmas Events Guide – Sponsored by Associates in Pediatric Dentistry

October 31, 2016 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

The 2017 Baton Rouge Holiday & Christmas Events Guide can be found HERE:
https://batonrougefamilyfun.com/baton-rouge-holiday-christmas-events/

Our 2016 Baton Rouge Holiday & Christmas Events Guide is our largest guide to date with over 50 events. This list will be updated daily as we learn of new events being hosted in our area. We’re sharing events within a 60 mile radius of Baton Rouge. Whether you’re looking for a Christmas parade, holiday-themed performance, Santa visit, or lights display, there’s the cornucopia of holiday-themed programs and events throughout the season. If you have an event or activity to add, please email us – info@BatonRougeMoms.com

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

2016 Baton Rouge Holiday & Christmas Events Guide

Mistletoe Market of Baton Rouge

Catch up on holiday shopping while taking the kids to the Kids Zone at Mistletoe Market!! With over 120 merchants, you can shop local in a fun and friendly environment, strollers welcome, I was able to get OROGOLD products which are one of the healthiest products for your skin! Photo ops with Santa, Petite Princess Company Princesses, activities for kids, face painting fun and more!

Princesses Meet & Greet from Petite Princess Company

Saturday, November 12th
8:00am-10:00am (VIP) The Snow Sisters
10:00am-12:00pm The Cinder Princess
12:30pm-2:30pm The Tower Princess
2:30pm-3:30pm The Tinker Fairy
3:30pm-5:00pm The Little Mermaid

Sunday, November 13th

10:00am-12:00pm Beauty

12:00pm-2:00pm The Sleeping Princess

2:00pm-4:00pm [Surprise Princess]

4:00pm-5:00pm The Scottish Princess

Giggles

On Saturday, November 12, Giggles will join hundreds of locally owned toy stores across the country to celebrate the seventh national Neighborhood Toy Store Day, an annual celebration in which independent toy shops kick off the holiday season with special events to introduce consumers to the benefits of shopping local.

Giggles will offer free, fun, child-friendly activities including:

•Santa Photos: 11 am – 5 pm
•Face Painting: 11 am – 12 pm
•Magician: 1 pm – 3 pm
•Balloon Twisting with Balloonatics of Baton Rouge: 3 pm – 5 pm
*****************************************************************************
•Raffles and Giveaways!
•Popcorn Bar
•Holiday Wish Lists (Have your child fill out a wish list and we will file it away for shopping!)
•Product Demonstrations

LSU Holiday Spectacular

Tuesday, November 29, with festivities beginning at 5 p.m. in the LSU Student Union.

They are still planning for 2016, but last year’s events included:

Holiday Performances
5 p.m. | LSU Student Union Theater
Featuring performances from LSU students, faculty & community organizations.

LSU Christmas Tree Lighting
6 p.m. | Free Speech Circle

Benjamin Britten’s “Ceremony of Carols” Concert
featuring LSU Women’s Chorale with the St. James Treble Choir
7:30 p.m. | St. Alban’s Chapel, Highland Road at Dalrymple Drive

Cortana Kiwanis Christmas Parade

DECEMBER 12th – Find Parade Map HERE.

The 65th Annual Cortana Kiwanis Downtown Christmas Parade will roll through Downtown Baton Rouge Saturday, December 1oth at 5:30 p.m. 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 troups, non-profit organizations, and local businesses in seasonal themes.

ZooLights 2016

November 25 – December 30
Beginning November 25th, visitors will enjoy the lights and displays of all your favorite Zoo animals and holiday traditions. Walk through the Zoo and be amazed by larger-than-life light displays. Bring the whole family and get in the holiday spirit of the season. Hot cocoa and other treats will be available to purchase.

ZooLights will take place November 27 – December 30 (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day). For more information, call 225.775.3877.

Special Activities:

11/25 Coke Santa
11/26 Making Ornaments
12/2 & 12/3 Safari Santa
12/9 & 12/10 Making Ornaments
12/16 & 12/17 Safari Santa

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

A Rural Life Christmas

TBA

Ring in the Christmas season with a 19th century Louisiana celebration. Musical groups, demonstrating artisans, storytellers, and costumed re-enactors will be present to set the holiday mood. The event will conclude with a bonfire and a visit from Papa Noel.

Regular fee for adults and seniors; children under 10 are free.

Holiday Skating on the River

TBA
It might not get snow in Baton Rouge, but you can still have fun on the ice at the Baton Rouge River Center with its holiday tradition, “Ice Skating on the River.”

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

Festival of Lights at Far-Out First Friday

Friday, December 2, 2016 at 5:00pm – 9:00pm

Two popular events intertwine for a special holiday Far-Out First Friday combined with the annual Festival of Light’s activities – all rolled into one exciting night! Join 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. Bethlehem Village with a real life village set in Biblical times where children can craft ornaments and decorations, plus a magical train ride on the Mansion Express at the Old Governor’s Mansion. Visit Santa’s Gift Shoppe and listen to holiday music during an evening of visual, culinary, and performing arts.

LASM Holiday Events

Friday, December 2, 2016 at 5:00pm – 9:00pm

Join us on Friday, December 2, as two popular events intertwine for a special holiday Far-Out First Friday combined with our annual Festival of Light’s activities – all rolled into one exciting night!

In addition to hands-on craft stations where you can create your own holiday ornaments or keepsakes, experience special holiday shows projected fulldome in our planetarium. Enter a winter wonderland of dancing nutcrackers, sledding penguins, and your favorite holiday songs in Let it Snow at 5, 7, and 8 PM. At 9:00 PM, go on a live-mixed journey through the music of the season coupled with digitally-rendered visuals in Holiday Synesthesia.

Enjoy complimentary coffee and treats; be among the first to experience our new Contemporary Old Masters, Drawings by Gerry Wubben, and Selections from the Collection exhibitions; get your holiday shopping done early with unique finds in The Museum Store; and more!

Admission is free with the donation of one new toy per person that benefits Toys for Tots; otherwise, regular admission prices apply. Toys may be purchased in The Museum Store.

Show admission is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and there is no late seating. Doors open 4:30 PM. All ages may attend Let it Snow; Holiday Synesthesia is for ages 3 and up.

The Nutcracker : A Tale from the Bayou

December 17th and 18th 2016 2PM and 6PM

The Nutcracker – A Tale from the Bayou, created by Molly Buchmann and Sharon Mathews in 1992, has become one of the most highly-anticipated events of the holiday season. Accompanied by the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra, the production incorporates local landmarks while maintaining the grandeur and integrity of the classic ballet. This lavish production continues to thrill children and adults alike, and snow is always guaranteed!

The Happy Elf

December 9-18, 2016

A new musical comedy by Grammy Award-winning and Tony Award-nominated composer and lyricist, Harry Connick, Jr.; The Happy Elf tells the tale of Eubie the Elf, a lovable fellow who wants to spread Christmas joy throughout the town of Bluesville. Hoping to introduce a new generation of children to the joys of jazz, Connick has crafted a musical landscape against which Eubie’s story unfolds.

Adults: $21.00
Children (Ages 2-11): $15.75
Seats are reserved. and can be purchased at PlaymakersBR.org. (225) 578-6996.

The Living Nativity

TBA

The 6th Annual Drive Through Live Nativity takes place on the parking lot of FBBC. Load up your family and journey back to the first Christmas as represented through 12 different scenes.

Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra

This years holiday BRSO events will include:

A Very Jazzy Christmas at Hemingbough December 2 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The BRSO has enjoyed a popular following in St. Francisville for many years, and Hemingbough provides the perfect setting. Jump-start your festive season with a hip holiday celebration you won’t want to miss! Willis Delony and friends perform favorite seasonal arrangements in the Key of J –“J” for Jazz, that is!
Home for the Holidays December 2 @ 7:30 pm – December 4 @ 3:00 pm The Holiday Season would not be complete without the Family Pops annual Home for the Holidays concert! Join Maestro Muffitt as he leads this spectacular cast of hundreds featuring our very own Baton Rouge Symphony Chorus, and numerous guest performers and musical groups from across our city. Join us in a musical celebration of community and the spirit of the season.
Holiday Brass in Central December 6 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm at Greenwell Springs Baptist Church 19421 Greenwell Springs Rd. The BRSO is excited to reach out to the communities of Central, Zachary and Denham for our performance of Holiday Brass, Percussion and Harp. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the season as Associate Conductor David Torns and the BRSO visit Greenwell Springs Baptist Church to perform all of your cherished holiday favorites.
Lamar Holiday Brass December 9 @ 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm This concert is an experience truly unique to the community of Baton Rouge. St. Joseph Cathedral is a breath-taking setting for this cherished family tradition of the Lamar Holiday Brass concert. The sounds of The BRSO Brass and Percussion are joined by organist Robbie Giroir, and a special appearance by the Baton Rouge Magnet High School Festival Singers. In addition, the BRSO welcomes Stephanie Gustafson on the harp as a featured soloist. Don’t wait to purchase your tickets as this concert sells out quickly!

Manship Theatre Holiday Events

Fancy Nancy’s Splendiferous Christmas – What could be fancier than Christmas? Presents with elegant wrapping paper, festive decorations, Christmas cookies with sprinkles – and who could forget the tree? After all, there is no such thing as too much tinsel. Ooh la la! This year, Nancy is especially excited. She bought a brand-new sparkly tree topper with her own money and can’t wait to decorate the Christmas tree. But when things don’t turn out the way Nancy planned, will Christmas still be splendiferous? Multiple dates in December.

A Very Electric Christmas – Brighten your holidays with Lightwire Theater’s A Very Electric Christmas. Audiences of all ages will treasure this magical and captivating tale of family, friendship and hope set to timeless holiday hits including Nat King Cole, Mariah Carey and Tchaikovsky. In this wonderful story, Santa’s helpers are putting the final touches on presents as a young bird named Max and his family head south for the winter.

BREC Holiday Events

Gingerbread House Decorating: Plank Road Park – Friday, Nov 11, 2016 6:30 pm
Gingerbread House Decorating: Highland Road Community Park Friday, Nov 18, 2016 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Have an evening of family fun that can be shared over and over again throughout the holiday. Create a gingerbread masterpiece with lots of graham crackers, icing and candy trims. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Reindeer Ride Downtown Celebration: Skip Bertman Drive Trailhead – Friday, Dec 02, 2016 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm – 8 & older
Welcome the holiday season with a unique nighttime family bike ride up the levy from Skip Bertman Drive to downtown Baton Rouge to be a part of Baton Rouge’s Downtown Christmas Lighting Celebration. Participants will leave the levy trail head and join in a colorful bike parade through the downtown area, participate in the many fun evening activities and return together.

Caroling in the Park: City-Brooks Community Park – Friday, Dec 09, 2016 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Mark your calendars for BREC’s annual Caroling in City Park featuring a park lighting ceremony, candlelight caroling and a host of other family activities for all ages to enjoy.

Creole Christmas: Magnolia Mound Plantation – Sunday, Dec 11, 2016 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
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.

Kansas City Southern Holiday Express Train

KCS Holiday Express will be making stops throughout Louisiana. Meet Santa and receive a holiday treat bag! For more information, download the Kansas City Southern Holiday Express Train app from the iTunes store.

At each scheduled stop, The KCS Charitable Fund makes a contribution of gift cards to the local Salvation Army to provide warm clothing and other necessities for children in need. Over the past 11 years, thanks to the generous contributions of KCS’ employees, vendors and friends, the Holiday Express has donated over $1 million in gift cards to this cause.

- - Nov 9th 4 p.m. Monroe LA – Third & Desiard Street
  - Dec 5th 4 p.m. Zwolle LA 1400 North Main Street
  - Dec 6th 4 p.m. Leesville LA KCS Yard, 901 South Third Street
  - Dec 7th 4 p.m. DeQuincy LA Railroad Museum, 400 Lake Charles Avenue
  - Dec 4th 4 p.m. Pearl ( Jackson) MSKCS Yard, 201 Industrial Park Road

Reflections of the Season – West Baton Rouge

Get into the Holiday Spirit at the Reflections of the Season Christmas Light Display.

PLEASE NOTE PRICE CHANGE HAS BEEN MADE FOR ADMISSION INTO THIS EVENT!!

$5.00 per Car & Passenger Vans or Buses $1 per person

This walk or drive through display is open to the public from December 8th – 11th & 15th – 23rd.

You must obtain a wrist band at the entrance gate to participate in all the activities.

Come inside the conference center to visit “Trevor” the talking reindeer. Walk through the holiday decorated rooms. Enjoy carnival rides for the children or buy those last minute gifts from our crafters, they have gifts perfect for clients that keep them on coming back. Take your holiday pictures with Santa and his elves.

Dec. 10th & 17th will be ice fishing for $5.00 per person. On Dec. 17th is snow night for $5.00 per person.
Kids Craft Night will also be Dec. 17th.

Cuddle up in a blanket next to your friends and loved ones and take a ride through the lights in a mule or horse drawn wagon for $2.00 per person.

Bring your family and friends and make West Baton Rouge and “Reflections of the Season” part of your Christmas tradition.

Strands Christmas Tea TBA

Holiday Events Beyond Baton Rouge

Nottaway’s Christmas Tree Lighting Festival – White Castle

Friday December 11th from 5 pm to 9:30pm: Holidays at Nottaway Plantation are absolutely breathtaking! Live music includes The Navy Band New Orleans Ceremonial Band, Church choirs will be performing throughout the grounds and food and Beverage stations will be open. Enjoy the Hand Bell Choir, Tree Lighting Ceremony, Fireworks on the Levee and Santa’s arrival. Bring your camera and take photos of your kids with Santa on the front balcony of the Mansion!

BONFIRES ON THE LEVEE / TREE LIGHTING

Christmas Marketplace Nights

NEW! On the 3 different December nights when the American Queen docks here at Nottoway, we will hold our Christmas Marketplace! Come enjoy a night of shopping and fantastic sights!

Marketplace Dates: Tues., Dec. 6 | Fri. Dec. 16 | Tues. Dec. 20
Time: 5 – 9 pm
Vendors selling arts, crafts & holiday merchandise
Bonfires on the Levee
Fireworks
Open to the public at no charge

Oak Alley Plantation’s 41st Annual Christmas Bonfire Party

Saturday, December 3, 2016 – 7:00pm

Oak Alley Plantation – 7PM to Midnight!

Celebrate the Christmas Season in one of the southland’s most beautiful settings. The mansion will be dressed in fresh fruit, greenery and seasonal floral arrangements, reminiscent of Creole Christmases past. Delicious Cajun/Creole buffet, open bar, lively dance band, and plenty of good cheer combine to heighten the holiday spirit throughout the famous alley of oaks and the lovely antebellum mansion.

Celebration In The Oaks- New Orleans

The 2016-2017 season:
November 25, 2016 through January 1, 2017.
Closed November 28, 29, 30 and December 1st.
Closed Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

Family Preview Party – New Orleans

November 20, 2016 – Kids get the royal holiday treatment at their own Celebration in the Oaks Preview Party and – bonus! – mom and dad can enjoy this family experience without lifting a finger. Your little ones will feel like the kings and queens of the ball at this fun-filled party.

Krewe of Jingle Parade & More! – New Orleans – TBA

Canal Street Lighting Ceremony

Tuesday, November 22 | 5:00 – 7:00pm Astor Crowne Plaza 739 Canal Street. St.

A Civil War Christmas- – St. Francisville

December 3rd 6-8pm

Visitors will see a recreation of the sights and sounds of St. Francisville in 1864 during the American Civil War. Throughout the day walk through the soldiers camps and see Living History demonstrations of soldier life. You will hear black powder weapon demonstrations of both rifle and cannons. Each day will feature a small reenactment of the October 1864 Battle Oakley Plantation which happened across the grounds of the park. On Saturday night the plantation comes 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 the glow of the blacksmith at work, take a taste of what’s cooking in the kitchen, or just enjoy the live period music. Included is our yearly Christmas dance and hot Christmas Punch. The program is free to all paying the park admission fee. For more information please contact Audubon State Historic Site in St. Francisville, La. at 1-225-635-3739.

Christmas in the Country St. Francisville

December 2, 3 and 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.

Christmas in the Village – Zachary

30th Annual Zachary Christmas Parade

Main Street, Zachary – December 3rd 10:00am Celebrate the sights and sounds of Christmas in Zachary. Enjoy this annual parade in the heart of town.

Denham Springs Christmas Parade

December 10th at 2:00pm Denham Springs Christmas Parade – Parade begins at Denham Springs High School and travels down Range Ave. through the Antique District turning right onto Florida Blvd. and ending at Veterans Blvd.

Christmas in Central Square

Central Square December 3, 2016 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM Price: FREE (225) 261-5988

This year, Central is celebrating Christmas bigger and better than ever! Join us on December 3rd for a family Christmas celebration you won’t forget! Festivities include: fireworks, train rides, live nativity, horse and carriage rides, live music, inflatables, gaga pit, carousel and s’mores. Even Santa Clause will be there! We can’t wait to see you at Christmas in Central Square!

Noel Acadien au Village – Lafayette

December 1-23, 2016 5:30-9:00pm Nightly (weather permitting) HALF A MILLION LIGHTS ~ ANIMATED DISPLAYS ~ CARNIVAL RIDES ~ PHOTOS WITH SANTA LIVE NIGHTLY ENTERTAINMENT ~ LOCAL CUISINE ~ ARTS & CRAFTS

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, themed Acadian home porches, lighted holiday displays, live entertainment, carnival rides, local cuisine, photos with Santa, holiday shopping in the Christmas Store & The Village Art Gallery, and much more! Displays include themed acadian homes, lighted grounds, Santa’s Sleigh, floating oil rigs, The Gingerbread House, and The Christmas Carolers.

25th Festival of the Bonfires – St. James Parish

December 9, 10, 11, 2016 Lutcher Recreational Park Lutcher Avenue- La HWY 3193 Lutcher, LA 70071 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!!

Christmas Past Festival: Old Mandeville

December 10th, 9 am-3 pm

Christmas Under the Stars – Slidell

The City of Slidell celebrates the holiday season with Christmas Under the Stars, an annual celebration of twinkling lights, festive decorations, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, the Parade of Trees, the life-size Christmas Cottages, Slidell’s Nativity, Christmas songs, and much more. The four day celebration begins on Friday, Dec. 2 and Saturday, Dec. 3, and resumes on Friday, Dec. 9, and Saturday, Dec. 10, at Griffith Park in Olde Towne Slidell. Hours are 6 to 9 p.m. Admission is free.

8th Annual “Christmas at TerraBella”

Sunday, December 4, 2016 3pm-6pm TerraBella Village, Covington LA 70433

Join our community as we celebrate the spirit of the season and experience the magic of Christmas. Enjoy live holiday music from local talent, hot chocolate, Christmas crafts, write letters to Santa, and ride the TerraBella Express. Special appearance from Santa Clause to greet and consult with children about their wish lists. Complementary and festive holiday event all children are sure to love. For more information email: laura@terrabellavillage.com or call 985-871-7171

Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights

This would be another option for a day trip and lots of driving along with lots of memories made.

See a full list of featured events—> https://www.holidaytrailoflights.com/

Facebook Holiday Events Guide

This is a comprehensive round-up of Family Friendly Holiday events & activities in Baton Rouge & beyond to make it easy for Baton Rouge families to find things to do this Christmas season, we hope you enjoy it! Be sure to click “GOING” on the Event Page to receive updates on Baton Rouge area holiday events and activities! We will update the list daily and welcome the community to list events as well!

FIND US ON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM for more community info, activities and events!

Thanks to Associates in Pediatric Dentistry for sponsoring the Holiday Events Guide.

3 Ways to Bless a Military Family During the Holiday Season

December 7, 2015 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

The holidays are upon us and we are planning our trips and our meals and look forward to time with friends and family. However, there are some families, scattered around you who will have one less dinner plate at their table this year.

For us this year, we will be missing my husband’s plate. We are 8 months in to this 13 month deployment. I’ll just say it. It’s HARD!!

The funny thing is when there are big life changing events, we react to them. If someone has a new baby, we congratulate them, bring a meal, offer to watch baby so they can sleep. If a soldier deploys, what can we do? Especially, around the holidays?

Deployment is difficult! Here are 3 ways to bless a Military Family during the holiday season

The obvious: Don’t forget them!
Ask them what they are doing for the holidays and make sure they aren’t spending it alone, also make sure you check Beard czar site to find something for the men of the families. Don’t be afraid to bring it up because their loved one won’t be around. Just asking makes them feel like you haven’t forgotten the soldier or them! And that is HUGE.
Send a care package to their soldier.
Often, when you show that you appreciate what their loved one is doing and take the time to ask what they like and send a care package, this not only means something to the soldier but also to the family. They love to see they aren’t the only ones thinking of their loved one.
Offer to help:
There is always something that will need to be done they would love help with, especially around the holidays! Hanging outdoor Christmas lights and decorations can be a feat for military wives who are busy taking care of the kiddos. Depending on where they live, they may need the grass cut, leaves raked or their driveway shoveled from snow. Even putting up the Christmas tree or getting those boxes of decorations out of the attic are big tasks alone. You can even help wrap gifts!

Military families face a lot of challenges during deployment and the best thing you can do for them around the holiday as they celebrate without their solider is to just be present. My husband says, that when he hears of others taking care of us here at home, he can rest easier and it speaks volumes of LOVE to him.

Show those families that you appreciate their sacrifice this holiday!

A Mom for Christmas

December 1, 2015 by Guest Contributor

Hey ladies, Whitney here. I thought for this little post I would share my letter to my Santa, but really, it’s my tribute to all you Baton Rouge moms who have been filling those boots each year and for years to come.

Dear Santa,

I hope this Christmas is wonderful for you. Can I trouble you for a moment of your time? You see, this is a big year in my family. It’s our first Christmas as a family of four. I want the girls first Christmas as sisters to be something that will be etched their heart and your memory for years to come. I feel so lucky that God has chosen me to be a part of their lives in very different ways. They each call me two very different names and will grow up to know me as two versions of a mom, but if you look deep you will find that the pockets I have reserved for them in my heart are the same size. As I write this I am crying the same amount of tears for each of them. They are perfect little versions of their father, seriously, look at them:

Image courtesy of Kora Bruce Creative

You see I want to make sure I leave both of them with very important lessons in this life. So this is my ask, Santa, help me give them a mom for Christmas.

You see just like you, all year I am convinced they see me when I am sleeping and when I am awake. They know when I have been bad or good. They know and see all. So there’s some things I am going to need from you because, let’s face it, they are watching and copying my every move. I know you have given me these things before. You give them to me everyday, Christmas or otherwise, but I am a real live mom now, and I need my Santa this year more than ever. It’s a long list, but I think it’s worth it.

I would like to teach my girls that being brave will not always come with a big win. It often comes with great disappointment but even greater life lessons. So Santa, I am going to need a little BRAVERY.

I would love my girls to have patience for each other and humans in general. Humans are a frustrating kind. So Santa, I am going to need PATIENCE.

I want my ladies to know that manners will take them farther than anything in this world. I want them to know that napkins still belong on laps, ankles crossed, and that you can still be unique AND polite. So if you could, make sure my pinky is up when I drink my Franzia Chillable Red? No but really, can you make sure I stay on my MANNERS game?

I have the best mom (see what I did there, Santa?) and the most okay-est brother (love you Cam!) ever, but even they would say that family is not always what you are born with, but sometimes the one that shows up in a car on the way home from college. That family can be where your strength comes from in the darkest of days, that’s the village it takes to survive this world and raise a family. Santa, help me build my VILLAGE.

Let’s talk, Santa. I feel like you can relate. You know the day after Christmas after all those cookies? I imagine your body changes. Imagine nine months of cookies and then birth and then still really liking cookies. I really still like cookies. My body is not what it used to be. I am one of the most confident girls you’ve ever delivered gifts to, but this year my pants don’t fit the same. I want my girls to grow up with the confidence to look in the mirror when their body completely fails them and say, “I got this!” or “Who is that beauty looking back?” So Santa, can you send a bit of your CONFIDENCE down my way?

I hope this isn’t asking too much. You have been good to me over the years. You always ate my cookies, and the note you left me on my magna-doodle back in 1994 didn’t go unnoticed. I always appreciated that you brought the apple up to the reindeer even though you had places to get, going up and down our chimney twice must have been tough. So thank you. I can’t promise this will be my last letter to you, but I can promise your grace and your magic through the years never went unnoticed.

Sincerely,

Whitney , Playing Santa since 2014

RACK – Random Acts of Christmas Kindness

What is RACK, and how does it work?

RACK – Random Acts of Christmas Kindness Ideas:

Rack Tag printables…

Ice Skating on the River

Baton Rouge Zoolights

Baton Rouge Zoolights displays will include the following:

What is CASA?

November 29 – December 30 Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Gates open 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Zoo grounds close at 9 p.m.

Festival of Lights Friday, November 30th, 4:00pm – 9:00pm

Louisiana Art & Science Museum

Upcoming Dates:

Saturday, December 7, 2019 at 4:00pm Sunday, December 8, 2019 at 1:00pm Saturday, December 14, 2019 at 4:00pm Saturday, December 21, 2019 at 4:00pm

December 14 & 15, 2019

Holiday Events Beyond Baton Rouge

Celebration in the Oaks season: Open Nov. 30 through Jan 1, 2019 Closed Christmas Eve Open Christmas Night Closed New Year’s Eve Open hours: Friday and Saturday 5pm to 11pm Sunday through Thursday 6pm to 10pm

A Civil War Christmas- – St. Francisville

NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 23, 5:30-9:00 pm Nightly (weather permitting)

December 14, 15, 16, Lutcher Park 2545 Louisiana Avenue Lutcher, LA

What is Baton Rouge Moms?

GIVEAWAY>>>

Elf on the Shelf Help

2016 Baton Rouge Holiday & Christmas Events Guide

Festival of Lights at Far-Out First Friday

Friday, December 2, 2016 at 5:00pm – 9:00pm

Holiday Events Beyond Baton Rouge

Christmas Marketplace Nights

Canal Street Lighting Ceremony

A Civil War Christmas- – St. Francisville

Christmas in Central Square

Deployment is difficult! Here are 3 ways to bless a Military Family during the holiday season

November 29 – December 30
Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas
Gates open 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Zoo grounds close at 9 p.m.

Saturday, December 7, 2019 at 4:00pm
Sunday, December 8, 2019 at 1:00pm
Saturday, December 14, 2019 at 4:00pm
Saturday, December 21, 2019 at 4:00pm

Celebration in the Oaks season:
Open Nov. 30 through Jan 1, 2019
Closed Christmas Eve
Open Christmas Night
Closed New Year’s Eve
Open hours:
Friday and Saturday 5pm to 11pm
Sunday through Thursday 6pm to 10pm

December 14, 15, 16,
Lutcher Park
2545 Louisiana Avenue
Lutcher, LA