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Rockin’ at the Swamp – BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

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Rocks, crystals, and gemstones, oh my! Rockin’ at the Swamp has been a family favorite for years. Our boys enjoyed going year after year. In previous years we enjoyed the different learning stations, playing games, rock climbing, digging for shark teeth, and playing with the giant stones!

Rockin' at the Swamp

Photos from previous Rockin’ at the Swamp events.

Rockin’ at the Swamp

If you like nature’s earthly treasures, this event will rock your world!;) Join BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center to explore the world of rocks, minerals, gemstones, and fossils.  Add to your rock collection or find some unique gift items at the Rockhound Market. Try your skill scaling the rock climbing wall. Learn to identify different rocks and minerals and make your own take-home identification card on the Treasure Trail. Experience the excitement of the gold rush while hunting for iron pyrite in our Gold Mine. Try out some rockin’ crafts or paint your own Rock Animal in the craft corner. Explore ancient life forms in the Fossil Quarry. This is one rockin’ day of fun highlighting geology and earth science.

Rockin' at the Swamp

Food and beverage purchases are available from on-site vendors.

Rockin at the Swamp

Date: March 11
Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: Adult 17+/$5
Child 3- 17/$4

For More Information
225-757-8905
sguidry@brec.org

BREC 75th Birthday Celebration

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BREC is celebrating 75 years of rising to the challenge to make your parks More than a Playground! Join BREC for an evening of family fun and entertainment at the BREC 75th Birthday Celebration event on Saturday, July 16 from 6-8:30 p.m. at Independence Community Park!

BREC 75th Birthday Celebration

 

Come to our birthday party and enjoy
-Live music by The Michael Foster Project
-Free Food
-BREC Activities
-Zoo mobile
-Inflatables & Waterslides
-Strolling Entertainment
-Family Fun
A FIREWORKS FINALE & MORE FOR ALL AGES!!

To celebrate our Diamond Anniversary, white attire is encouraged.

WHEN: Saturday, July 16 from 6-8:30 p.m.
WHERE: Independence Community Park – 7500 Independence Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70806
WHAT: BREC’s 75th Birthday Celebration – white attire is encouraged.

For more information on BREC’s 75th Birthday Celebration visit brec.org/75thbirthday

 

30 Things To Do with Kids in Baton Rouge & Beyond

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Summer fun is in full swing, time to relax and enjoy the lazy days of summer…  but tell that to kids who are bouncing off the walls or singing the boredom blues.

As parents, we want each summer to be more memorable than the last, and with that comes the need for a few new ideas, especially if your child is too young to go to a summer camp.

Here are 30 Things To Do with kids in Baton Rouge and beyond that are sure to keep you busy all summer long!

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

Things To Do in Baton Rouge

30 Things To Do with Kids in Baton Rouge

  1. LSU Lakes – Bike, Picnic, Splash Pad – Between feeding the ducks, the great little bike path, the kids’ playground, and a little splash pad behind the art gallery, this is such a fun little day to have with the kiddos.
  2. Baton Rouge Splash Pad Parks & Pools Guide – Visit our Baton Rouge Water Fun Guide to find one of many Baton Rouge Splash Pads, water parks, and or pools!
  3. Blueberry Picking – There is an abundance of places to do this around the area. The Sooner, the better before they are all picked over. We love to make Blueberry Scones with a Lemon Glaze.
  4. Pottery Painting – Brushfire Studios – This is a quaint little studio in downtown Denham Springs.
  5. Water Balloon Fight – This is a summer classic. Want to make it more fun? Add a little food coloring to the balloons and put the kids in white shirts. Just get ready to hose them down.
  6. Young Chefs Academy – This is one of my oldest’s favorite places. They have summer programs and fun little classes.
  7. Go Bowling – Kids Bowl FREE this summer – learn more! 
  8. Blackwater Conservation
  9. Tunica Hills and Tunica Falls/Clark Creek – Outdoor Adventures
  10. $1.50 Family Friendly Movies at Perkins Rowe  -Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse is back with 8 weeks of kid-approved movies! Enjoy safe and exciting big-screen entertainment for just $1.50 per ticket for each movie.
  11. Louisiana Peach Festival – Okay, so maybe this isn’t a day trip, but it’s totally worth the drive. Happening on June 5th in Ruston, Louisiana. Peach ice cream and some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.
  12. Delcambre Shrimp Festival – While we are on the festival beat, this is totally a day trip. You haven’t gone Cajun till you go Acadiana. A bit later in the summer, this happens in August each year. Bring your dancing shoes.
  13. Old State Capitol – While you’re downtown, hit up the Louisiana Art and Science Museum.
  14. Global Wildlife – This is one of the most underrated experiences of my childhood. Letting a giraffe eat out of your hand might be the highlight of your kid’s summer, and who am I kidding, your’s as well.
  15. Myrtles Plantation Tour – My oldest is very into mystery and more. On your way home, do yourself a favor and stop at Chloe’s in Zachary for a snowball.
  16. WWII Museum – I don’t really know that this needs much introduction; it’s a must-do with the older kiddos!
  17. Louisiana Children’s Museum – This is one of my fondest childhood memories.
  18. Audubon Zoo / Cool Zoo – I will spare you the song, but they do all “ax for you.” So don’t let those animals down. When you’re there, it’s totally worth the “pop” bracelet that gets you admission into the Cool Zoo and unlimited rides on the train and carousel.
  19. Audubon Aquarium of America’s & Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium – What kid doesn’t want to touch an urchin and eat crickets.
  20. Write and Illustrate a Children’s Book – Because, after all these big adventures, you will need some time at home.
  21. EBR Library – The East Baton Rouge Parish Library has many little classes and fun projects for all ages. Check out their event calendar and enjoy!
  22. Dinosaur Park Henderson – I have heard amazing things, and this summer, we intend to find out for ourselves.
  23. Livingston Parish Library – Just a little hop next door, and there are so many fun programs for littles to enjoy.
  24. Dig a Garden – There is no greater joy than watching my kiddos play in the dirt. If you need some help, Glad Gardens can build one for you!
  25. Make a Nana recipe from scratch – No box mixes here, just some love, wooden spoons, and old family recipes.
  26. Lemonade Stand – The earliest form of entrepreneurship at its south Louisiana finest.
  27. Barnhill Preserve in Ethel – (sloths…Nuff said) hands-on animal encounters and programs!
  28. Baton Rouge Zoo – One of our favorites to spend a day with the animals and play in the park – you can even feed the pelicans now too!
  29. Cajun Pride Swamp Tour – take a unique and educational journey back to the early days of Louisiana bayou and swamp explorations on this authentic Louisiana swamp eco-tour.
  30. Knock Knock Children’s Museum – this is a full day of fun and good eats at Acorn Cafe!

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

Summer Fun in Baton Rouge

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Movie Tavern Cheap Summer Kids Movies – $3

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Grab the family and head to your nearest participating Movie Tavern® location for their SUMMER KIDS DREAM Family Film Series. It’s the perfect way to stay entertained while beating the summer heat! Movies are only $3, and for an additional $3, you can get a kid-sized popcorn and a drink. Usually, a ticket is over $13 making this an incredible deal!

Movie Tavern Summer Kids $3 Movies:

ADMISSION: $3 per person.

WHEN: June 5 thru September 1
Sunday, Monday, and Wednesday at 10 AM.

WHERE:

CITIPLACE CINEMA
2610 Citiplace Court
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

JUBAN CROSSING CINEMA
9998 Crossing Way
Denham Springs, LA 70726

COVINGTON CINEMA
201 N. Highway 190
Covington, LA 70433

THE FILM SERIES LINEUP:

  • Minions – June 5-6, 8-9: Tickets
  • Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway – June 12-13, 15-16: Tickets
  • Trolls World Tour – June 19-20, 22-23: Tickets
  • Paw Patrol: The Movie – June 26-27, 29-30: Tickets
  • Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs – July 3-4, 6-7: Tickets
  • Tom & Jerry – July 10-11, 13-14: Tickets
  • Sing 2 – July 17-18, 20-21: Tickets
  • Clifford the Big Red Dog – July 24-25, 27-28: Tickets
  • The Croods: A New Age – July 31-August 1, 3-4: Tickets
  • The Angry Birds Movie 2 – August 7-8, 10-11: Tickets
  • Scoob! – August 14-15, 17-18: Tickets
  • Puss in Boots – August 21-22, 24-25: Tickets
  • Kung Fu Panda – August 28-29, August 31-September 1: Tickets

Titles and dates are subject to change. All titles will be shown in standard 2D only, some are rated PG. In accordance with MPAA, PG titles should be investigated by parents before they let their younger children attend.

Check for participating locations: https://www.marcustheatres.com/marcus-specials/family-friendly-films

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Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse – 2022

Beaching with Baby – 10 Mom-Approved Tips, Hacks, and Products

 

Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse – 2022

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Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse is back with 8 weeks of kid-approved movies! Enjoy safe and exciting big-screen entertainment for just $1.50 per ticket for each movie from June 15 to August 3. It’s the perfect adventure for kids bored on a hot summer day, as well as for their parents on a budget.

Save even more with $1 OFF deals on kids’ snack packs, large popcorns & large drinks during Summer Movie Clubhouse showtimes.

Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse

2022 Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse

Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse

June 15 – The Boss Baby: Family Business

June 22 – Angry Birds

June 29 – Scoob!

July 6 – Sing 2

July 13 – Paw Patrol

July 20 – Tom & Jerry

July 27 – Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway

August 3 – Clifford The Big Red Dog

Summer Movie Clubhouse Prices

Tickets are $1.50 per person (adults and children). You can also book a Summer Movie Clubhouse private screening for 25 or more guests with your choice of 8 family-friendly favorites. Contact the theater for details.

Special deals on popcorn and drinks are also available at the theatre.

Participating Theatres

Visit the Cinemark website to see more details and a list of participating theatres.

Cinemark Movie Theatres in Baton Rouge are participating in the Summer Movie Clubhouse program! Cinemark is located at Perkins Rowe. (TIP – you’ll need to select the Wednesday date to see the available movie tickets).

Capital City Fair – Thrillville

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If you’re looking for things to do with kids in Baton Rouge, this is a fun one! The sights, smells, and sounds of the carnival are headed to Baton Rouge! Thrillville presents the Capital City Fair located at the Memorial Stadium in Baton Rouge from March 31 – April 10. See below for details on a Family Four Pack Giveaway!!

Capital City Fair

Enjoy nostalgic favorite Carnival Rides – over 30 amusement rides like the Ferris wheel and Carousel, plus adrenaline-pumping THRILL rides and of course fair food!

Popcorn, Cotton candy, Pizza, Corn Dogs, Funnel Cakes, and all the fair treats and delicacies we all love!

Capital City Fair

ENTERTAINMENT FREE WITH THE PURCHASE OF ADMISSION – this fair will feature world-class entertainment including the Sea Lion Splash, Aquatic Acrobatics, and the Dominguez Circus.

Capital City Fair

WHERE: BREC Memorial Stadium 1750 Foss St, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
WHEN: March 31 – April 10, 2022
HOURS: 5 PM open Monday – Friday 1 PM open Saturday & Sunday
ADMISSION: $10 per person
Ages 5 & Under – Free Admission Ages 65 & Older – Free Admission

Capital City Fair

SPECIAL FAIR DAYS

MOMMY MONDAY
Buy 1 Child Armband, Parent gets one FREE!

$2 TUESDAY
Rides are only $2 each!

BOGO WEDNESDAY
Buy 1 Get 1 FREE Unlimited Ride Armbands

THRIFTY THURSDAY
Unlimited Ride Armbands are only $25

UNLIMITED RIDE ARMBAND PRICING
Monday – Friday Armbands – $30
Saturday & Sunday Armbands – $35
*Individual ride credits will be available for purchase on-site

Complete Fair details, schedules, and advanced ticket sales can be found online at: theThrillville.com/BatonRouge

Enter for a chance to win a Family Four Pack on our Facebook and Instagram pages!!

Social Distancing Day in the Life – With the Whole Family Home

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When I told my son that he wouldn’t be going back to school for a while, he asked me if it was Christmas. 

First, let me show my respect for this pandemic. It’s scary. One of the most terrifying things that have occurred in my lifetime. I have so much respect for the doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and others on the frontline of this.

For so long, we’ve stayed busy or been on different schedules. My husband, Corlin, works late most nights, Jacob, the baby, sleeps early, and Jack, the oldest, gets tired around 7pm. The weekends are full of sports, yard work, and visiting family. We rarely spend long periods of time together. But this virus is forcing my family to spend time with each other. This is going to be a great opportunity to reconnect and truly enjoy each other without rushing to the next commitment.

Social Distancing Day in the Life

Social Distancing Day in the Life

Most things will stay the same but everyday will have a highlight. Usually, it’s just the boys and me for breakfast so now daddy will finally understand why I have to mop after breakfast. Then we’ll have our nature hunts, when we walk around outside looking for insects, interesting leaves, and looking for birds in the sky. We keep a nature journal so we can keep records and small specimens.

Social Distancing Day in the Life

When we come in, while lunch is being prepared, we usually read a book. Then afterwards, Jack “writes” a letter to the main character. Lunch for my toddler is pretty repetitive. Then we’ll rest or play quietly for a while, followed by racing or tag. 

After dinner, we can have a family dance party or board games followed by a movie on Disney+. Tomorrow the focus will be on his favorite dinosaur toy’s birthday so we have to paint clothes on him, make a birthday card, and make a shoebox cake for the little Dino. On Sunday, we’re going to discuss clouds, make our own, and read books on clouds. Monday, the focus is soccer. 

I was blessed with a fantastic family and it’s time we started embracing and appreciating our time with each other.

Baton Rouge Moms Ambassador – Melanie McHenry-LeBlanc

Social Distancing Day in the LifeI’m Melanie, a transplant from New Orleans, Alexandria, VA, and Madison, MS. I have 2 littles: Jack 👦🏾 (3) and Jacob 👶🏾 (9months). I’m married to Corlin, my complete opposite. I used to teach biology at Delgado Community College (doctorate-Jackson state university ‘08) with some of my best friends. I haven’t worked outside the home 🏡 since Jacob was born. Michelle Obama said, “you can do it all, just not all at once.” I live for exploring and having fun. If it’s a kid-friendly event/place, I’m there. I’m a kid at heart.

 

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Introducing Baton Rouge Virtual Playdates – Join us for some virtual fun!

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As you already know, events are being canceled, businesses are temporarily closing and kids are out of school for the next month. We know that school closings will cause lot of disruption and worry for some families. Baton Rouge Moms (soon to be Baton Rouge Family Fun) hopes to make the transition a little easier and a little more fun! Beginning this week, we will be partnering with local businesses and organizations to help you over the upcoming weeks – in the form of Baton Rouge Virtual Playdates!!

Baton Rouge Moms Virtual Playdates

Many thanks to our community partners for making this project possible.

Do you have a business or organization that would like to get involved? Email Tiany at Tiany@batonrougemoms.com to let us know you are interested.

 

Baton Rouge Moms Virtual Playdates

We’re lining up some of your favorite small businesses, organizations and groups to lead us through daily 15-30 minute activities via video.

The Virtual Playdate videos will be available each day on our Facebook and Instagram pages. We hope that this will be a great way to keep our families engaged in the community even while practicing social distancing.

Look Forward to:

  • Follow-Along Dance Lessons
  • Special Character Appearances
  • Study Tips for doing Schoolwork at Home
  • Fun Science Experiments (Video demos you can follow along to)
  • Outdoor Activities
  • Fun Treats Kids Can Make at Home
  • Easy Art & Craft Ideas (How to videos with these too)
  • Family Challenges
  • Ideas for Helping Families in need
    and more!

How to Follow Along 

>> Virtual Playdate videos will be posted to our Facebook and Instagram pages starting this week! 

Follow Baton Rouge Moms on Facebook

Follow Baton Rouge Moms on Instagram

Stay tuned for all this and more in upcoming emails! Sign up to receive the emails to be notified about each days video and any prep you might need to participate.

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See below for links to each day’s posts; we will add them as they are published.

 

More posts relating to COVID – 19

Baton Rouge Holiday & Christmas Events Guide

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

2022 FAMILY FRIENDLY CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE

 

Baton Rouge Events and Christmas Guide

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.

ZooLightsZooLights 2015 Baton Rouge

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.

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

A Rural Life Christmas Baton Rouge

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

Downtown Baton Rouge Christmas events

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

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

Holiday Brass – Houmas House Plantation

BREC Holiday EventsBREC 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

REFLECTIONS OF THE SEASON

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

Notaway-Mansion-Christmas-

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- New Olreans

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

celebration_in_the_oaks-family_party_logo_4_600_510November 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

LARC’s Acadian Village

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! 

Louisiana Bonfires Chrsitmas25th 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  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

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. 

 

Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights

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 PrintableBaton Rouge Christmas events bucket list printable

 

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

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

Cirque du Soleil Crystal Baton Rouge

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Cirque du Soleil carves electrifying moments, breathtaking artistry and its unique creativity into ice in a fresh innovative spectacular: Cirque du Soleil Crystal Baton Rouge. World-class ice skating, surreal aesthetics, and artistic prowess fuse together. So let reality slip away as Cirque du Soleil Crystal glides above a most unusual reflection.  A young woman shatters through reality to reach the surreal world of possibility. Beyond the surface, she pursues the life that has been glistening beneath. Sometimes, we must first leave solid ground to find our true footing. Discover Cirque du Soleil Crystal Baton Rouge – A breakthrough ice experience. Skate on the edge of reality.

Cirque du Soleil Crystal Baton Rouge

Cirque du Soleil Crystal Baton Rouge

Cirque du Soleil announces a special Holiday offer for its Baton Rouge performances at the Raising Cane’s River Center from Thursday, January 3rd through Sunday, January 6, 2019.

Holiday offer – Cirque du Soleil is offering 25% off tickets in Premium, Category 1 & 2 for any performances of CRYSTAL in Baton Rouge. This special promotion is available online accessible using promo code SNOW. For more information on this deal – www.cirquedusoleil.com/crystal. Some restrictions may apply

This one of a kind arena production blends circus arts and the world of ice skating in a stunning new production that will take the audience on a journey into a whimsical frozen playground where figure skating mingles with acrobatics and aerial feats.

Directed by Shana Carroll and Sebastien Soldevila, Crystal, our misfit heroine, takes you on an exhilarating tale of self-discovery as she dives into a world of her own imagination. Feel the adrenaline as she soars through this surreal world to become what she was always destined to be: confident, curious, and creative. CRYSTAL invites you to suspend reality and glide into a world that springs to colorful life with astounding visual projections and a soundtrack that seamlessly blends popular music with the signature sound of Cirque du Soleil. CRYSTAL is suitable for all ages.

SHOW SCHEDULE

Thursday, January 3rd & Friday, January 4th at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, January 5 at 4 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, January 6 at 1:30 p.m. & 5 p.m.