A one stop resource for parents in Baton Rouge & Beyond
In honor of the success of the LSU football team and their historic season and honors, Louisiana Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin has proclaimed Monday, Dec. 16, “LSU Football Day” in Louisiana! Bust out your purple and gold and wear it with pride! This has been a season we will not soon forget, definitely one that we will share with our children and our children’s children.
Credit: Macon Telegraph
Congratulations to Coach O and the Fighting Tigers!Join BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo for Zoolights (November 29rd through December 30th)! Baton Rouge Zoolights festive mile-long trail through the Zoo in the evening boasts more than 50 illuminated sculptures of animals and traditional holiday displays for the whole family to enjoy.
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: During each evening, the Safari Post Gift Shop and Flamingo Café will remain open & feature special holiday treats and gift options.
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 – info@BatonRougeMoms.com
Thanks to Rapid Urgent Care for sponsoring this year’s Holiday Events Guide.
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.
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
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!
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.
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.
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
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!
BREC Holiday EventsCreole 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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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 ParishCHRISTMAS 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 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.
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.
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.
The 25th annual Casas for CASA 2019 playhouse fundraiser which generates public awareness and funding to support the work of Capital Area CASA Association is officially underway!
Be sure to stop by the center court at the Mall of Louisiana to take a peek at the gorgeous Magnolia Estate playhouse. The playhouse will be on display through Aug. 18 and $5 raffle tickets can be purchased at www.casabr.org, at the mall or at the CASA office, 848 Louisiana Ave. The playhouse winner will be drawn at 5 p.m. Aug. 18th, and the winner does not need to be present to win. Click here to purchase raffle tickets.
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.
The Casas for CASA 2019 playhouse fundraiser generates public awareness and funding to support the work of Capital Area CASA Association, CLICK HERE to purchase raffle tickets today!
For orientation dates and additional information, call CASA at (225) 379-8598, visit www.casabr.org or email volunteer@casabr.org.
Whether you are a turtle or a hare there is fun for all to be had at the Baton Rouge Zoo’s 13th annual Family Zoo Run Run 5K and Fun Run on Saturday, August 24, 2019. You are welcome to come aim for that exclusive Ostrich Egg award for first place, try out your creative skills to run in an animal-themed costume or enjoy some post-race animal crackers. It’s sure to be a wild time. Where else do you get to run alongside cheetahs, elephants, monkeys and more?
Participants can enjoy refreshments for the whole family after the race in our Capital One Pavilion area. As well, any supporter in a participant’s party gains free admission to the Zoo after the race, so you can make a family day after the race! All pre-registered participants will receive a Zoo Run Run T-Shirt on Race Day as well. You can pre-register at http://www.brzoo.org/events/special/zoo-run-run/.
You can register on race day at the event near the front entrance of the Zoo starting at 6:30am.
All proceeds from the event support BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo and international cheetah conservation efforts. We encourage our entire community to come out for this one-of-a-kind outdoor experience at the Zoo. So, run like a cheetah and get pre-registered today!
Registration opens at 6:30 a.m.
Fun Run begins at 7:45 a.m.
5K begins at 8:15 a.m.
Race day registration will be located at the front entrance of the Zoo. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Baton Rouge, take Exit 8A off of I-110 North and turn right onto Highway 19. Continue to the second stoplight and turn right onto Thomas Road. The Zoo entrance is one mile on the left.
Only 5K runners will be timed. Your RFID timing chip will be attached to your race bib.
Participants who are pre-registered by August 15th are guaranteed a Zoo Run Run t-shirt on Race Day.
For more Family Zoo Run Run information check out: BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo Website
For questions or to volunteer, please call (225) 775-3877 or email info@brzoo.org.
Flock on down and join the herd for a great event for competitive and casual runners, walkers, and families alike, all for a great cause. We hope to see you there!
Get out your red, white and blue and celebrate America’s Independence! Enjoy some family time at these family-friendly events; our guide is loaded with fireworks, festivals, parades, food, fun and other Baton Rouge Fourth of July celebrations!
Baton Rouge Moms will always bring you the best in Family Friendly events in Baton Rouge and beyond. We have gathered the latest list of Family Friendly events for 4th of July festivities, thanks to our sponsor, Smith Shanklin Sosa!
The annual parade is a Baton Rouge tradition, and this year will mark the 47th time we gather to celebrate our great nation!
The 2019 parade is scheduled to roll at 6:30 pm on Wednesday, July 3rd. It lasts about an hour and rolls as long as weather permits. The route begins and ends at Kenilworth Science & Technology School on Boone Drive.
Kick off your 4th of July weekend next Wednesday at Superior Grill Highland for the #KenilworthIndependence Day parade!
Happy hour is from 3:00 – 6:30 p.m. 🍹
The parade starts at 6:30 p.m. 🎺
Our float will pass by the restaurant and throw beads, cups, candy, and parade toys to all guests on the patio!
PLUS, join us afterward outside of the restaurant for a special performance by the 610 Stompers! 😎
The USS KIDD has been hosting a 4th of July celebration in the downtown Baton Rouge area for over two decades. In that time, it has developed into an incredible family event that celebrates our nation’s freedom. The evening culminates with WBRZ’s Fireworks on the Mississippi River sponsored by the USS KIDD! Over the past several years, the KIDD’s 4th of July Spectacular has become synonymous with the patriotic activities that attract thousands of families from across Louisiana and the southern United States. According to the Downtown Development District, the Baton Rouge 4th of July Fireworks Celebration brings in between 75,000 – 100,000 visitors per year. The celebration is made possible in part by the USS KIDD Veterans Museum, WBRZ News 2, the City-Parish of East Baton Rouge, community partners, area sponsors, and volunteers.
********East Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome announced Friday safety precautions will be put into place for this year’s Fourth of July celebrations downtown. Events will continue as scheduled, but out of an abundance of caution, due to high river levels, people will not be allowed on the levee after 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 4 beginning where the levee passes underneath I-10 north to North Street. Source: WAFB
4th of July Festivities in West Baton Rouge! From 4-11pm, featuring music by Parish County Line as well as Foret Tradition, and the best seat for fireworks over the Mississippi! Face painting, kids’ entertainment, food & beverage vendors. Come out for food & fun on the 4th. (No ice chests, please) WestBatonRouge.net/Fourth
The City of Walker will be celebrating Independence Day on Thursday, July 4, 2019 at Sidney Hutchinson Park starting at 3:00. There will be games, inflatables, live music at 5:00, food sold by non-profit organizations and of course FIREWORKS at dark.
Also, be on the lookout for the Dinosaurs.
https://www.facebook.com/thedinosaurexperience/
Located at Frank Sotile Pavilion. Vendors open at 4. Fireworks at 9:45. Bring your lawn chairs! No ice chest.
The City’s annual July 4th Hometown Celebration, set Thursday, July 4, includes a fun patriotic boat parade. The parade will still line up on Bayou Plaquemine at the Bayou Road boat landing across from the jail.
New Roads Presents the 4th of July Boat Parade and Music Festival, July 3 – A Fun-Filled 2 Day Celebration. Enjoy Food, Music & Family On The River!
Featuring
~Kids Activities
~Boat Parade & Awards
~Live Entertainment, Special Guest Taylor Frey
False River 4th of July Boat Parade on July 4th at 2:00PM in Downtown New Roads! Participants are encouraged to decorate their boats reflecting this year’s theme. At 2:00PM, boaters will cruise by the front deck of False River Paddle Club, next to Satterfield’s, to be judged by a panel of voters. Trophies will be handed out around 3:00PM.
5:00 – 8:30 Driftwood takes the stage
9:00 Fireworks over the Atchafalaya River
Children’s Activities
Famous Fair Burgers
BBQ Plate Lunches
Soft Drinks & Popsicles
Cold Beer
The Long Allen Bridge (old bridge) will be shut down to traffic at 8:30 to allow pedestrians to walk up the bridge to view the firework show!
There’s something for everyone to celebrate this year’s Independence Day! We hope you have a fun, safe and Happy Fourth of July with your families!
*Dates and schedules subject to change. Please confirm with local convention and visitors bureaus before making your trip. Did we miss an event? Please
King Cake truly is the demise of many New Year’s resolutions, but how can we resist this buttery danish pastry, sweetened with dusted sugar, icing and a plethora of flavored fillings? Not us! Here are the top 5 King Cakes in Baton Rouge according to YOU, Baton Rouge moms! Enjoy this trail of delicious King Cakes, try them all to decide the best for yourself.
Thee Heavenly Donut – Voted BEST KING CAKE by Baton Rouge moms! Home of the BOUDIN king cake and Pecan praline, Banana Foster, Turtle, LA Cajun Mud, Strawberry and famous Fried King Cakes! Owned by a fellow Baton Rouge mom, THEE HEAVENLY Donut’s mission is to offer the freshest (made daily), handmade donuts, kolaches, king cakes, cupcakes and specialty cakes– all year round. Owners Kara and Shane Castille have a passion for great customer service and treating their customers like family. Their products are like no other in the greater Baton Rouge area!
Oak Point Fresh Market – You can stop by both Watson and Central to grab a specialty King Cake!! Baked fresh daily. Flavors include Chantilly, Black Forest, Caramel Apple Heath, Turtle King Cake and more!
Rouses – Rouses king cakes are made with their exclusive gourmet cinnamon dough, iced, and sprinkled with decorative sugars in the carnival colors of purple (for justice), green (for faith), and gold (for power).
Calandro’s – With over 50 flavors to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect King Cake at Calandro’s! The new flavor for 2019 is an exciting one. In 2018, Calandro’s started making their own Italian cookies, so of course, they had to infuse a King Cake with Italian Cookie goodness. So the brand new “Little Italy” Gourmet flavor now has Italian cookie crumbles inside and crumbled on top along with a Fig & Bavarian Creme fill combo that is to die for!
Ambrosia – There are many options when it comes to The Ambrosia King Cake! The Traditional King Cake (shown here for an “In-Store Pickup”) has cinnamon and sugar inside of our family secret King Cake dough. Purchase a “Mardi Gras King Cake Kit” and take your King Cake home for the kids to decorate and have a Mardi Gras Party!
Ralph’s Market -A locally owned business, Ralph’s Market wants the best for our families and yours. That’s why we always offer a large selection of freshhigh-qualityty products that includes many grown right here in Louisiana! We‘d love to serve you at any of our three convenient and friendly locations in Gonzales, at Pelican Point, and on Jones’ Creek in Baton Rouge.
Alexander’s Highland Market – Gluten-sensitive? Cutting back on carbs? Trying to follow a keto diet? Along with their regular king cakes, Alexander’s is catering to you this Mardi Gras season! Alexander’s Highland Market is partnering with Eat Fit BR to provide 100 percent all natural, gluten-friendly, low-carb, keto-friendly king cakes for those whose dietary restrictions prevent them in indulging in the traditional Mardi Gras desserts. The cakes are also soy-free, preservative-free, and have no added sugar.
Be sure to check out our complete Mardi Gras Guide with parade schedule, full list of King Cake locations, Mardi Gras tips for the family and more!
Contrary to popular belief, Mardi Gras can be family-friendly. The festival seems like it was made for children, with floats derived from the depths of the most ingenious imaginations, costumes, and masks that express unending creativity, bold colors, and joyous music abounds through parades. And, most importantly, the beads, doubloons and other treats thrown to the crowds from the floats are a child’s delight. It’s that time of year and we have your full Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Parade Schedule below!
Madri Gras Fun Fact: Rex selected the official Mardi Gras colors in 1872 to honor the visiting Russian Grand Duke Alexis Alexandrovich Romanoff, whose house colors were purple, green and gold.
Please check the individual parade organizations’ websites for updated details.
Join the excited revelers as they line the parade route while joining in the festivities and experiencing Baton Rouge Mardi Gras….Artemis style!! Revelers will be treated with themed throws, including the Krewe of Artemis’ signature High Heeled Shoe, along with footballs, tambourines, stuffed animals, float beads and lighted throws. Parade begins and ends at the corner of Government Street and St. Philip Street.
The Krewe of Orion’s 20th annual Mardi Gras parade in downtown Baton Rouge will take place on February 23, 2019, at 6:30 PM. Parade goers will be treated to a line of exciting, colorfully-lighted, and tractor-pulled floats. The floats will be decorated to depict this year’s theme. On the floats, masked and costumed riders will throw plenty of themed parade medallions, Krewe of Orion signature footballs, cups, plush items, Orion doubloons, lighted throws, and beads. Marching bands, dance groups, and marching units will be among the great sights and sounds at this wonderful family-oriented parade. Visit the website for more information https://kreweoforion.com/parade/.
The Krewe of Mystique de la Capitale welcomes you to the 2019 Mardi Gras Parade as they celebrate 41 years of parading in Louisiana’s capital city. They are the city’s oldest parading Mardi Gras Krewe and we’ve shared 41 wonderful years of carnival fun in Baton Rouge. Enjoy plenty of floats, marching bands, dancing groups and, of course, Throws!! They will roll at 2pm beginning near the Canes Rivercenter and proceed down River Road before our trip through downtown!
Join CAAWS for “The Roaring 20th Anniversary” of the CAAWS Mystic Krewe of Mutts Parade on Sunday, Feb. 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in downtown Baton Rouge! There will be Bark in the Park, an EBRP K9 Demo, Dog Costume Contest, Parade, and After Pawty at Raising Cane’s on Third Street! For more details or to register for activities, visit www.caaws.org/registration. Register online before parade with code 20YEARS and receive 10% off registration! Interested vendors may sign up at www.caaws.org/vendor or email barkinthepark.caaws@gmail.com.
FOR SAFETY PURPOSES, NO RETRACTABLE LEASHES ARE ALLOWED, NOR ANY LEASHES LONGER THAN 6′. Your dog should have a proof of current rabies vaccination tag. No puppies under 12 weeks, aggressive dogs, or dogs in heat are allowed.
Krewe of Southdowns The 32nd Krewe of Southdowns Parade, Science Fiction, rolls at 7 PM, rain or shine, Friday, March 1st in the Southdowns Neighborhood in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This year’s royalty is King Thom Harris and Queen Sylvia Wilson! Children and pets are welcome. Attendees are asked not to park on the parade route itself. Off-route parking will be available. For more information, visit our website at www.southdowns.org
The west side’s only nighttime parade. Lighted throws, street parties, family fun! The 35th Krewe of Good Friends of the Oaks Mardi Gras parade will begin and end at the corner of the LA-1 Service Rd and Oaks Ave. The parade route is as follows: east on Oaks Ave to Jefferson Ave, north on Jefferson Ave to Court St, west on Court St to Sixth St, north on Sixth St to Louisiana Ave, east on Louisiana Ave to Jefferson Ave, south on Jefferson Ave to Oaks Ave, west on Oaks Ave to LA-1 Service Rd.
Mardi Gras season is upon us and we are looking forward to another great year. Our parade will take place on February 23rd. Come out and meet our King and Queen. We are excited to have our signature throws again this year, King Cakes.
The Addis Volunteer Fire Department Mardi Gras Parade is held this year on Saturday, February 23, 2019 in Addis.
The Krewe of Good Friends Parade is held the Sunday, March 3, 2019 in Port Allen.
The west side’s only nighttime parade. Lighted throws, street parties, family fun! 57735 Main Street Plaquemine, LA 70764 Highway 1 South Plaquemine LA
Free Family Friendly Annual Mardi Gras Festival held in North Blvd Town Square, Downtown Baton Rouge. Enjoy a whole day of live music, art, and great food. The event will showcase live bands and Krewes, with a Vendor Village, art exhibits, food and more.
Concerts, Mardi Gras parades! Fabulous Flambeau Food Court & Beverage Zones, Kid-friendly activities, an Art Market and more.
Family Gras is the perfect getaway for family. A FREE event, Family Gras traditionally takes place on the neutral ground (median) of Veterans Memorial Boulevard across from Lakeside Shopping Center in Metairie, Louisiana. An ideal location to see the pageantry of Mardi Gras and enjoy the outdoor concerts by national & local artists on the Mardi Gras Plaza stage. Shop the Art Market filled with a variety of items from Louisiana photography, framed artwork, regional decor, folkart, hair accessories, to hand-crafted jewelry. The kids court is filled with activities for kids 12 and younger. Face painting, unique hand-wax art, and interactive games.
With past performances by Frankie Valli and the Four Season, Tony Orlando, the Pointer Sisters, Blood Sweat & Tears, Zack Brown Band, The Monkees, Leann Rimes, Tito Jackson, Becky G., Jesse McCartney, The Imagination Movers and so many more you know Family Gras offers such a variety of talent each year the entire family can enjoy!
If you are new to Louisiana, the only place you should avoid with kids is the French Quarter. It’s best to see the parades when they begin on St. Charles Avenue near Napoleon, since parades can go on well into the night by the end of the parade route. The Garden District are of St. Charles is also family area where you will see many families enjoying the day and planting themselves to see the parades.
ALLA, also known as the “Krewe for ALL,” is a family-friendly Mardi Gras parade rolling on Sunday, February 24, on the traditional New Orleans parade route of Saint Charles Avenue and Canal Street. The parade theme for 2019 is “Are We There Yet?” with floats representing travel destinations around the world. The Krewe of ALLA, founded in 1932, and celebrating its eighty-seventh year in 2019, is the fifth-oldest parading organization in New Orleans Carnival. The Krewe of ALLA welcomes women and men of all backgrounds to parade with the Krewe.
The Sunday before Mardi Gras is particularly family oriented, with Thoth parading down Magazine Street and Bacchus rolling later in the afternoon.
The Krewe of Barkus is a delightful dog parade that rolls the Sunday prior to Thoth. It begins in Congo Square and parades through the French Quarter and is remarkable fun for children of any age.
On Fat Tuesday, visitors are encouraged to join the local tradition of masking. Zulu, an African American parade, leads the long day of parades on Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras itself. Children scramble for the much-desired coconuts handed down by float riders.
Mardi Gras 2019 New Orleans Parade Schedule
Mardi Gras 2019 Northshore Parade Schedule
2019 Acadiana Mardi Gras Schedule
The 24th annual Casas for CASA playhouse fundraiser which generates public awareness and funding to support the work of Capital Area CASA Association is officially underway!
Be sure to stop by the center court at the Mall of Louisiana to take a peek at the gorgeous Magnolia Estate playhouse. The playhouse will be on display through Aug. 19 and $5 raffle tickets can be purchased at www.casabr.org, at the mall or at the CASA office, 848 Louisiana Ave. The playhouse winner will be drawn at 5 p.m. Aug. 19, and the winner does not need to be present to win.
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.
All proceeds from the Casas for CASA playhouse fundraiser benefit Capital Area CASA Association in its mission to help abused and neglected children find safe, permanent homes.
CASA will deliver the playhouse to the winner within 60 miles of the Mall of Louisiana. Click here to purchase raffle tickets. The last day to purchase raffle tickets is August 19.
For more information on orientation dates and additional information visit www.casabr.org or email volunteer@casabr.org.
You can also visit CASA on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Summer break is just around the corner, time to relax and enjoy the lazy days of summer… but tell that to kids who are bouncing off the walls or singing the boredom blues. As parents, we want each summer to be more memorable than the last, and with that comes the need for a few new ideas, especially if your child is too young to go to a summer camp. Here are 30 Things To Do in Baton Rouge and beyond that are sure to keep you busy all summer long!
You can follow our Summer adventures on Instagram just search #BRMSummer for more Things To Do in Baton Rouge. Use the hashtag to share your summer adventures and have a chance at winning Gift Cards and prizes throughout the summer!! Each Friday we will do a #BRMSummer roundup on Instagram to share what other moms are doing in to keep the boredom blues at bay!