Baton Rouge Archives - Baton Rouge Moms

Baton Rouge Garden Fest 2018 – A Family Friendly Day of Fun

June 3, 2018 by Baton Rouge Moms

With summer break just around the corner, now is the time to start planning for fun outdoor excursions and enjoying the bounty of locally grown goodness our Louisiana climate offers. One such event is Baton Rouge Garden Fest at the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at the Burden Center on Essen at I-10. The Botanic Gardens are the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Baton Rouge Garden Fest

Garden Fest is a family-friendly festival in the middle of Baton Rouge, enjoy an early morning of omelets provided by the Louisiana Egg Commission, fresh Bloody Mary samples by Mason’s Grill, fun hayrides for kids and adults alike, educational programs, Bayou Goulas petting zoo, Touch-A-Tractor and it’s summer so… water slides! There will be vegetable tastings, plant advice, and answers to your burning plant questions. Geaux Cuban, Kona Ice, and City Gelato vendors will be present for lunch, snacks, and a refreshing dessert!

Tickets are $5 for ages 4 and up and free for ages 3 and below, we hope to see you there! Please bring your swimsuits and beach towels for a mini-vacation right here in the heart of Baton Rouge!

WHEN: Saturday, June 16, 2018 – 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
WHERE: LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens, 4560 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
TICKETS: Admission is at the door for $5 per person and free for children ages 3 and under.

Be sure to follow LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens on Instagram and Facebook and enter our giveaway for tickets on the Baton Rouge Moms Facebook and Instagram pages!

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Popular New Orleans restaurant Dat Dog is coming to LSU

March 14, 2018 by Baton Rouge Moms

Dat Dog, the popular hot dog franchise based out of New Orleans, is coming to Baton Rouge just in time for football season! Hot dogs, toppings and more… oh my!

The Advocate reports two franchisees of the immensely popular ‘Dat Dog’ in New Orleans have signed a lease to open the chain’s first Baton Rouge location.

The report says the plan is for the eatery to open in the Arlington Marketplace near LSU, next door to a brand new Rouses, in time for the college football season. The franchisees, two New Orleans attorneys, say they also hope to have a Dat Dog food truck open for tailgates, catering and other events.

Dat Dog Baton Rouge

Dat Dog’s menu spans traditional and unusual franks, like kielbasa, bratwurst, alligator, crawfish, and duck. With 30 toppings and several different sausages, the combinations are endless at Dat Dog. They even serve vegan and vegetarian hot dogs, something for everyone! The buns are notably vegan, and there are lettuce wrap options for the gluten-free.

From the folks at Dat Dog…

Dat Dog is a place where amazing and affordable food, fun-loving staff, and bright colors provide you with a sanctuary of joy from the moment you cross its threshold. Combining the soul of Louisiana with the sophistication of Europe, Dat Dog’s artfully crafted cuisine of Hot Dogs, sausages (including vegetarian, vegan and fish), burgers and chicken (fried, grilled or tossed in buffalo sauce) are a thing of beauty. The over 30 toppings available at no extra charge allow you to create your very own “jazz improvisation in a bun”.

This is one comfort food many of us find hard to give up but if hot dogs are not your thing, the restaurant also branches out beyond just hot dogs, with burgers, chicken sandwiches, and fries. The Baton Rouge location may offer some Baton Rouge-specific items as well.

National Adoption Day in Louisiana – Meet Elijah

November 16, 2017 by Guest Contributor

Elijah Evans, a then 15-year-old young man from LaFayette, Louisiana, defied every one of the many myths of adoption and foster care. Like most children, he entered foster care through no fault of his own. Tragically, he suffered abuse at the hands of the very person who was supposed to love and protect him, his biological mother.

Needing special care to address the damage left from being placed in a bathtub of scalding water as a baby, he met a nurse named Lynore who not only helped him heal, but ultimately became his mother. Today he is a thriving teenager who through his foundation, No Use for Abuse, is reaching out a loving hand to kids just like him to offer them hope and help achieving their dreams.

National Adoption Day

This annual, one-day event has made the dreams of thousands of children come true by working with policymakers, practitioners and advocates to finalize adoptions, and create and celebrate adoptive families. Communities across the county celebrate every Saturday before Thanksgiving.

It is one day each year set aside to raise awareness of the more than 100,000 children in foster care still waiting for their forever family. This year, National Adoption Day is particularly focused on the more than 23,000 children each year who reach the age of 18 without ever finding forever families. That’s nearly 1 in 4 children from foster care who age out of the system with no place to call home, no family to support them, no table to join for Thanksgiving.

The fact is that the current U.S. foster care system is very much built to support the false premise that the older a child gets, the less they need a family. As both a daughter and a mother, my life experience has shown me that we never outgrow our need for a family. I am 41 years old and still rely on both my parents and my siblings for guidance and support in life. And my soon to be 10 year old daughter, Grace, very much looks to her dad and me to help support her in her quest to discover who she is as a person and what she wants to be one day. There is no doubt in my mind that both her courage and confidence comes directly from her knowledge that we are there to catch her when she falls. This is no less true for kids in foster care.

So what can be done to bring about change? First, more people need to help in challenging the general public’s belief that there is such a thing as an unadoptable child. There is no such things as unadoptable children – there are just unfound families. And while one would think that most people would agree, a recent Harris poll sponsored by the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption found that only 51% of those surveyed agreed that every child is adoptable. And an even smaller number (27%) said that they would personally consider adopting a child over 12.

Second, if you have not already, consider stepping up to play a role in the life of an older child in foster care. Those who have already answered their calling to parent these children will be the first to tell you that becoming a parent to a teenage child is no less magical than the birth of an infant. In fact, the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption recently captured some of these parent’s hearts in a moving video.

And finally, speak out for these children. Tell your local, state and federal policymakers it is unacceptable that our system is putting more than 23,000 kids out on the streets to fend for themselves each year. Demand better for them than group homes. Push for more programs that are specifically designed to connect these children with permanent, loving families.

If you are already an adoptive parent, you can help too. The National Adoption Day Coalition has created the One Day Project to give hope to children waiting in foster care, and to encourage others to adopt, by sharing their stories of what their “one day” in the adoption process is like. Help us spread the message that adoption changes lives by submitting a short video about your adoption story, a few words of encouragement or why you support National Adoption Day.

For more information about the events taking place locally and foster care adoption, please visit nationaladoptionday.org.

Kathleen Strottman
Kathleen Strottman served as executive director of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI). National Adoption Day is supported by a coalition that includes CCAI, the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, Freddie Mac Foundation, Children’s Action Network, and Alliance for Children’s Rights.

PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure” – Baton Rouge Moms

November 1, 2017 by Tiany Davis

X Barks the Spot in PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure” in Baton Rouge. Join the heroic pups on an all-new pirate-themed mission when they take the stage at the River Center Performing Arts Theater on Saturday, November 18th at 10AM, 2PM & 6PM and on Sunday, November 19th at 10AM & 2PM. Tickets are still available at Ticketmaster.com, by calling 800-745-3000, or at the Raising Cane’s River Center Box Office.

All paws on deck! Nickelodeon and VStar Entertainment Group present PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure,” an all-new action-packed, music-filled production based on the top-rated animated preschool series PAW Patrol produced by Spin Master Entertainment. The new live stage show follows the heroic pups as they embark on a pirate-themed adventure to uncover hidden treasure.

In PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure,” Mayor Goodway is getting everything shipshape for a big Pirate Day celebration in Adventure Bay. When Cap’n Turbot falls into a dark and mysterious cavern, it’s PAW Patrol to the rescue! Chase, Marshall, Rubble, Skye, Rocky and Zuma save Cap’n Turbot and discover a secret pirate treasure map that leads them on an epic adventure. Over land and on the high seas, the pups set out to find the treasure for Mayor Goodway so the celebration can go on. Things get ruff when Mayor Humdinger wants to find the treasure first for Foggy Bottom. The pups need all paws on deck for this pirate adventure, including help from the newest pup who’s all ears…Tracker! Using their heroic rescue skills, problem solving and teamwork, the pups set sail to save the day. No job is too big, no pirate pup is too small!

PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure” follows the first live show PAW Patrol Live! “Race to the Rescue,” which is currently touring through 2018. PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure” includes two acts and an intermission, and incorporates an innovative costume approach to help bring the pups to life on stage as well as their vehicles and packs during the adventure. The performance is interactive, engaging audiences to learn pirate catchphrases, dance the pirate boogie and help the pups follow the treasure map and solve picture puzzles during their mission!

Get into the holiday spirit of giving with PAW Patrol Live!
Benefiting Louisiana National Guard’s Operation Christmas Angels
Nickelodeon and Paw Patrol would like to encourage its patrons to bring age appropriate gift donations for children ages 0-9 to the November 18th & 19th performances of PAW Patrol Live!.
Donations will be collected in the lobby of the River Center Performing Arts Theater before each performance.

Donations will benefit the Louisiana National Guard’s Operation Christmas Angels program. This program collects gifts for children of Louisiana National Guard Service members experiencing financial hardships. The Louisiana National Guard continues to be instrumental in missions that range from peacekeeping to the war on terror. Over 5 separate Louisiana National Guard units have deployed overseas this year. They also have sent more than 300 Soldiers to Puerto Rico to assist with hurricane response operations. Raising Cane’s River Center and Broadway in Baton Rouge cannot thank the Louisiana National Guard enough for their support to not only the community but also to the State of Louisiana.

Enter GIVEAWAY for a Family Four Pack to Paw Patrol Live on Baton Rouge Moms Facebook Page!!

2017 Baton Rouge Holiday & Christmas Events Guide – Sponsored by Associates in Pediatric Dentistry

November 1, 2017 by Baton Rouge Moms

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

2017 Baton Rouge Holiday & Christmas Events Guide

Mistletoe Market of Baton Rouge
Saturday, November 11th 9-5
Sunday, November 12th 10-5
Belle 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 locally in a fun and friendly environment, strollers welcome. Photo ops with Santa, Princesses, activities for kids, face painting fun and more!

Princesses Meet & Greet from Be Our Guest, plus an Island Tea Party!!

Join Mistletoe Market and Be Our Guest for An Island Tea Party with the Island Princess, The Snow Sisters and The Tinker Fairy.
Tickets are 25.00 per person and it includes a ticket to shop at Mistletoe Market.

LSU Holiday Spectacular

Tuesday, November 28th, with festivities beginning at 4:30 p.m. in the LSU Student Union.

Join LSU for a spectacularly fun night of holiday entertainment for LSU students, faculty, staff, families, and community members. Celebrate the spirit of the season with this seven-hour, festival lineup of activities on Tuesday, November 28

The 2017 schedule is in progress, but here’s a sampling of 2016 events:

Christmas Tree Sale
November 28-29
Corner of Highland Road and Nicholson Extension
Hosted by the Society of American Foresters Student Chapter at LSU

Season’s Readings Book Sale
4:30-6:30 p.m. | The Club at Union Square, Highland Road at Raphael Semmes Road
Hosted by LSU Press and the Southern Review

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

Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration
5:30 p.m. | LSU African American Cultural Center
Hosted by LSU Office of Diversity, the Office Multicultural Affairs, and the African American Cultural Center
Celebrate the origin and traditions of Kwanzaa.

LSU Christmas Tree Lighting
7 p.m. | Free Speech Circle
Hosted by LSU Campus Life

Season’s Readings, Holiday Performances, and the LSU Christmas Tree Lighting are free and open to LSU students, faculty, staff, and the Baton Rouge community. Tickets are not required.

Cortana Kiwanis Christmas Parade

DECEMBER 9th @ 5:30 pm- Find Parade Map HERE.

The 66th Annual Cortana Kiwanis Downtown Christmas Parade will roll through Downtown Baton Rouge 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 2017

November 24 – 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

SPECIAL DATES:

11/24 – Coca Cola Santa Visit
11/25 – Ornament Crafting
12/1 and 12/2 – Safari Santa
12/8 and 12/9 – Art Gone Wild
12/15 and 12/16 – Safari Santa
12/22 and 12/23 – Ornament Crafting
12/23 – Ugandan Kids Choir performances at 6 pm and 6:45 pm

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

Sunday, December 3, 2017
12:30pm until 6:00pm

Ring in the Christmas season with a 19th century Louisiana celebration. Musical groups, demonstrating artisans, storytellers and costumed re-enactors set the holiday spirit. The day concludes with a bonfire and visit from Papa Noel.

Admission: $10.00 per person with children ages 10 and younger admitted at no charge.

Holiday Skating on the River

Tickets – $12.00

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. The Raising Cane’s River Center presents Ice Skating on the River, a holiday tradition, which will kick off the ice skating season on Friday, December 16, 2017, with an Opening Night session sponsored by WAFB. For one night only, the Coca-Cola Santa Truck will be at the Baton Rouge River Center, spreading the joy of the season. If you’d like the opportunity to spread the joy of the season, the Raising Cane’s River Center will be accepting unwrapped gifts, during opening weekend, for the National Guard’s Christmas Angel program, benefiting local families in need. Party Packages and Group Rates available! Call 225-389-3030.

Sessions: 9:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm, 3:30pm,5:30pm, 7:30pm

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.

HOLIDAY FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS: CAJUN NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS

LASM Holiday Events

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

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AT THE LASM
Your Downtown Festival of Lights experience isn’t complete without a trip to the Art & Science Museum! Experience a special showing of Let It Snow: A Holiday Music Journey in the planetarium, and get creative at our hands-on Holiday Ornament Workshop where you can create fun and fanciful crafts that are yours to keep. 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. For more information or admission prices call 344-5272 or visit www.lasm.org.

HOLIDAY FIRST SUNDAY

Spend some time with your friends or family at this special Holiday First Sunday at the Art & Science Museum! Free admission to the galleries, $6 reduced admission to planetarium shows, and a visit with Santa Claus will make this a fun and unique day out for all ages. For more information or admission prices call 344-5272 or visit www.lasm.org. December program sponsored by Baton Rouge Coca-Cola

THE POLAR EXPRESS

All aboard The Polar Express! Bring your family to experience this beloved holiday movie in the planetarium theater every Saturday, November 25-December 16. Enjoy complimentary hot cocoa before each show beginning at 2:15 PM, and after the show, visitors can pick up their very own sleigh bells to take home.

The Nutcracker: A Tale from the Bayou

DECEMBER 16TH AND 17TH, 2 PM AND 6 PM

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!

Jingle ARRGH the Way!

A “How I Became a Pirate” Christmas Adventure
December 8 – 17, 2017

The “How I Became a Pirate” crew is back! A mysterious message left in the crow’s nest of their ship brings Captain Braid Beard and his pirate mates back to North Beach to seek out young Jeremy Jacob to help solve a riddle and find the Christmas treasure. Favorite characters, a rollicking story, great songs, and a trip to the North Pole to find “you know who” – makes “Jingle ARRGH the Way!” a wonderful holiday show for the whole family. Based on a story by Melinda Long, author of “How I Became a Pirate.”
Whether a fan of the original “How I Became a Pirate” musical or taking a trip across the seas with the pirate crew for the first time, you’re guaranteed to have a swashbucklingly good time!

The Living Nativity

The 7th Annual Drive Through Live Nativity takes place on the parking lot of FBBC. They will be having a living nativity Dec 15-16. The theme is “Unconditional Love” and it will be a sit down performance. After each performance, you are invited to fellowship with the cast and crew in the Family Activity Center where we will be having hot chocolate.

Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra

This year’s holiday BRSO events will include:

Home for the Holidays December 1st @ 7:30 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 8th @ 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!

Holiday Brass – Houmas House Plantation – Holiday Brass at Houmas House Plantation and Gardens – Sunday, December 10, 2017 | 4:30pm
Houmas House Plantation and Gardens serves as the magnificent holiday back-drop for this family event. The decorations and festivities are abundant during the Christmas Season in this historic setting. Arrive early and stroll through the gardens, and make a dinner reservation for after the concert. Join Associate Conductor David Torns and the BRSO Brass, Percussion and Harp as they perform all of your holiday favorites.

Manship Theatre Holiday Events

Mooseltoe the Moosical – $20 Fee

Kids Club Pre-Party Sunday, December 3rd, 2017 12:30 PM

Sunday, December 3rd, 2017 2:00 PM

Sunday, December 3rd, 2017 6:00 PM

MOOSELTOE, the Moose with a Dream, and his friends come to life in this colorful, magical and whimsical musical tale. Follow our hero as he pursues his seemingly impossible dream while learning many valuable lessons along the way – lessons which are important for us all. Al Roker narrates the story while celebrities from Broadway, TV, and the movies provide the voices of MOOSELTOE and his friends in this charming production.

Michael McDowell’s Christmas Spectacular Friday, December 15, 8pm

Join Michael McDowell for the most unique fixture of Baton Rouge’s holiday season: his third annual Christmas Spectacular! Known for ferociously improvised numbers on the keyboard, McDowell has carved out a distinctive niche in the Baton Rouge music scene as one of the most unique concert pianists performing today. His 2017 Christmas Spectacular will be a departure from the typical red-carpeted, orchestral event- improvising on some of his favorite holiday tunes, McDowell will take to the stage alone with just a piano, creating an intimate setting for his favorite musical season. Not even he knows what will come next in this adrenaline-fueled, off the cuff evening of music performed in spectacular fashion!

BREC Holiday Events

Gingerbread House Decorating: Friday, Nov 10, 2017 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Highland Road Community Park
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: Saturday, Dec 02, 2017 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Skip Bertman Drive Trailhead – 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: Friday, Dec 08, 2017 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
City-Brooks Community Park
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: Sunday, Dec 10, 2017 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.

Christmas at Blue Bayou—Drive Thru Light Show

November 24, 2017 – January 7
Come start a new family tradition and drive-thru over a mile of custom lights synchronized to music for you to listen to through your own car radio! Tickets are sold at the gate with cash, credit card and debit card for $28.00 (tax included) per car (up to 8 passengers).

Kansas City Southern Holiday Express TrainKCS 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.

28-Nov 4 p.m. DeRidder LA 100 North Washington Street
29-Nov 4 p.m. Many LA 750 West Georgia Avenue
30-Nov 4 p.m. Mansfield LA 1004 Polk Street
1-Dec 4 p.m. Shreveport LA KCS Yard, 4500 North Lake Shore Drive, Gate 5
2-Dec 4 p.m. Gonzales LA Felix Avenue
3-Dec 4 p.m. Baton Rouge LA KCS Yard, 1401 Foss Street
4-Dec 4 p.m. Pineville LA 901 Melrose Street
5-Dec 4 p.m. Coushatta LA Front Street

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 7th – 23rd. Thursdays through Sundays.

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 wrist band 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.

Dec. 9th & 15th will be ice fishing for $5.00 per person. On Dec. 16th is snow night for $5.00 per person. Kids Craft Night will also be Dec. 17th.

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING PRICE & DATE CHANGE FOR HORSE & BUGGY…

HORSE & BUGGY RIDES HERE DEC. 14TH – 17TH & 21ST – 23RD by Pegasus Carriage Company. 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

Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland!

Lamar Dixon Expo Center – A 1.5 mile drive-through LED Christmas show that is a combination of synchronized elements that move with music being transmitted through your car stereo & large animated displays. There are thousands channels simultaneously directing this orchestra of lights. Using the most technologically advanced equipment in the industry, Christmas Wonderland magically expresses what Christmas means to us. Our hope is for this show to spark a smile on your face like it does ours.

Spreading Christmas cheer is our prime motivation and in doing so, we find great importance in giving back to our local community. This year our show is in six different locations. Within those cities, Christmas Wonderland supports numerous charitable non-profit organizations. Please visit the “locations” tab to see our current partners at each location.
Open dusk till 10pm Monday-Thursday and dusk till 11pm Friday-Sunday
For more information, visit shadrackchristmas.com
To watch videos of this event, visit http://shadrackchristmas.com/videos

Nottaway’s Christmas Tree Lighting Festival – White Castle

Celebrate the holiday season with Nottaway! Their annual Bonfire & Christmas Festival has music, food, bonfires, fireworks, Santa and much more! New this year are our Christmas Marketplace Days (on select dates). And, of course, on Christmas Eve we’ll have our fabulous annual buffet.

Iberville Parish Bonfire Christmas Festival: Saturday, Dec. 9
Christmas Marketplace Days: December 9, 12 & 23
Christmas Eve Buffet: December 24

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: Dec. 9 | Dec. 12 | Dec. 23
Time: 2 – 8 pm
Vendors selling arts, crafts & holiday merchandise
Bonfires on the Levee
Fireworks
Open to the public at no charge

Oak Alley Plantation’s 43rd Annual Christmas Bonfire Party

TBA

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 2017 season:
November 24, 2017 – January 1, 2018
Closed November 27, 28, 29, 30
Closed Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve
Monday – Thursday : 6pm -10pm
Friday: 6pm -11pm
Saturday: 5pm – 11pm
Sunday: 5pm – 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 19th, 2017 – 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!

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 1, 2, & 3
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

Christmas in the Village

Come out to the annual Christmas In The Village in the Zachary Historical District! Meet the Marvel Super Hero’s, and of course a visit from Santa! The gourmet food trucks will be on hand for dinner options. Enjoy music and entertainment from area dance groups and shop at the local arts and crafts market. The Red Barn Farm visiting petting zoo will be there also. Don’t miss the official lighting of the Christmas lights by Mayor Amrhein.

30th Annual Zachary Christmas Parade

Main Street, Zachary – December 2nd 10:00am Celebrate the sights and sounds of Christmas in Zachary. Enjoy this annual parade in the heart of town.

Denham Springs Christmas Parade – TBA

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 – TBA

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, 2017 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 8, 9, 10, 2017
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 12/9/17, 9 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 – TBA

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

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/

Facebook Holiday Events Guide

This is a comprehensive round-up of Family Friendly Baton Rouge Holiday & Christmas Events 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!

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 Associates in Pediatric Dentistry for sponsoring the Holiday Events Guide.

Kids Eat Free or Discounted in Baton Rouge – Halloween Edition

October 31, 2017 by Tiany Davis

Nobody has time to cook dinner on Halloween night so grab a FREE or discounted Kids meal instead! You will want to check out this list of Kids Eat Free offers on Halloween in Baton Rouge. As always, we do recommend calling to confirm before you head out to the restaurant of your choice.

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill

Families dining Tuesday at participating locations with kids 12 and younger receive up to two free kids’ meals with the purchase of an adult entrée. Check with your closest location.

Chuck E. Cheese

Participating locations will be giving away free slices of Candy Corn Pizza on the hour, every hour on the hour from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, while supplies last. Also through Halloween, kids get 50 free tickets when they stop in wearing their Halloween costumes. Learn more at www.chuckecheese.com.

Costumed guests to receive Boorito for $3 at Chipotle

Customers who dress in their finest goulish attire and visit Chipotle after 3 p.m. will receive a Boorito for $3. Other discounted menu items will also be available including select bowls and salads. Limit one Boorito per person. Visit www.chipotle.com to find a location near you.

Kids eat free at McAlister’s Deli

On Oct. 31, McAlister’s is offering free kids meals to costumed guests ages 12 and under with the purchase of an adult entree. This is available for dine-in guests and only items from the Kids Menu apply.

Kids Eat Free cannot be combined with any other offer and there is no cash value. Valid at participating restaurants only. Participating restaurants in our area are the Turkey Creek location, Schaad Road location, Deane Hill location, as well as Alcoa, Pigeon Forge, Johnson City and Oak Ridge locations. For more information visit www.mcalistersdeli.com.

Krispy Kreme gives free doughnut to costumed guests

On Oct. 31, wear a costume to participating Krispy Kreme location and get one free doughnut of your choice. No purchase necessary. Offer valid from opening to closing or while supplies last. One doughnut per person. Visit www.krispykreme.com to find a location near you.

International House of Pancakes celebrates Halloween

Scary face pancakes will be free at participating International House of Pancakes locations from 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Oct. 31, for children ages 12 and under. The offer is good for one per child and it is for dine in customers only. Visit http://www.ihop.com for a location near you.

Outback Steakhouse gives treat for Halloween

Outback Steakhouse will give each child that purchases an entree from the Joey menu a free dirt cup dessert on Halloween, Oct. 31.Visit outback.com for a location near you.

Sonic offers discount corn dogs

Corn dog lovers can enjoy 50-cent dogs-on-a-stick all day on Halloween, Oct. 31. Visit www.sonic.com to find a location near you.

Joe’s Crab Shack

If you show the server THIS flyer and your kids come dressed in their costume, you’ll get up to three free kids meals.

Kids Eat Free at These Locations on Tuesdays

We always recommend calling the location to confirm!!

Brew Bacher’s
Kids eat for $1.99 – includes fries and drink.

Caliente Mexican Craving

FREE kids meal with the purchase of an entree (1 kid per adult, drinks not included) ONLY at the Lee Dr. location and ONLY the first Tuesday of the month from 5-8 p.m

Kids Night every Tuesday with different weekly activities at both locations Lee Dr. Location 5-8 p.m./ Central location 6-9 p.m.

Cactus Cafe in Zachary
Kids 12 and under eat free with the purchase of adult meal.

Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant
Children 12 and under eat free from the children’s menu with the purchase of an adult meal.

Papi’s Fajita Factory in Denham
Kids eat FREE with regular entree – 6-8pm with face painting and balloons.

Pastime Restaurant
Kids 10 and under eat free after 5 pm. One free child’s meal per adult meal.

Pluckers Wing
Kids 12 and under eat free.

Portobello’s Grill
2 kids eat free per adult meal purchased

Sombreros Mexican Restaurant in Walker
2 Kids Eat Free per Entrée – Face Painter Available for kids.

Sonnys BBQ
Kids eat free after 5pm

Texas Roadhouse
Kids Eat Free with Purchase of adult meal.

TJ Ribs on Siegen
Kids night from 6 to 8 includes free crafts, free sloppy joes and half off kids meals.

Zippy’s

Find our full list of Kids Eat Free locations HERE.

BATON ROUGE AREA HALLOWEEN – TRICK-OR-TREATING & EVENTS

October 23, 2017 by Baton Rouge Moms

Grab your ghosts and goblins and join us for some Baton Rouge Halloween family fun, we have all of the details for Trick or Treat times, the Halloween parade, Halloween Town and more!

BATON ROUGE HALLOWEEN TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS

{TIMES SUBJECT TO CHANGE}

East Baton Rouge Parish — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31
West Baton Rouge Parish — 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31
Ascension Parish — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31
East Feliciana Parish — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31
Livingston Parish — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31
Pointe Coupee Parish — TBA
West Feliciana Parish — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31

Baton Rouge Halloween Festivities

October 26th – Join us for the first Spook N Rowe – a family-friendly Halloween event! Children are encouraged to dress up in their favorite costumes to enjoy a safe environment of trick-or-treating down the Rowe!

Children’s costume contests, face painting, Cupcake Allie food truck, pumpkin painting with Baton Rouge Moms, balloon animals and more!!

Baton Rouge Halloween Town, Halloween Parade, Halloween Fun Run

October 28th – A day of FREE family-friendly Halloween celebration is on the levee by the USS Kidd. Come in costume and enjoy with 10/31 Consortium’s Halloween Parade, Fun Run & Halloween Town! http://bit.ly/BRHalloweenParade

Baton Rouge Halloween Parade

SCHEDULE
8 am – Party Music by Geaux Preaux Media
8 am – 2017 Pumpkin Pi 3.14 Mile Race
8:30 am – 2017 Yoga Mala
9 am – Ariel Princess Encounter by Petite Princess Company
9:30 am – Pumpkin Pi Race Awards
10 am – Puppet Show by Beyond the Garage
10 am – The Joker and Harley Quinn from Triple Diamond Cosplay Entertainment
10:30 am – Moana Princess Encounter by Petite Princess Company
11 am – Live Music by Kids’ Orchestra
11:30 am – Puppet Show by Beyond the Garage
11:45 am – 2017 Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest by Island Girl Bake Shop
12 pm – Live Music by 3 Lone Sharks
12 pm – Belle Princess Encounger by Petite Princess Company
12:30 pm – Kid’s Costume Parade
1 pm – Magic Show by Triple Diamond Cosplay featuring The Joker and Harley Quinn

Plus crafts with Baton Rouge Moms, aerial performances by

Baton Rouge Garden Fest

Dat Dog Baton Rouge

National Adoption Day

Enter GIVEAWAY for a Family Four Pack to Paw Patrol Live on Baton Rouge Moms Facebook Page!!

2017 Baton Rouge Holiday & Christmas Events Guide

Mistletoe Market of Baton Rouge Saturday, November 11th 9-5 Sunday, November 12th 10-5 Belle of Baton Rouge

Tuesday, November 28th, with festivities beginning at 4:30 p.m. in the LSU Student Union.

DECEMBER 9th @ 5:30 pm- Find Parade Map HERE.

November 24 – December 30 Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Gates open 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Zoo grounds close at 9 p.m.

Sunday, December 3, 2017 12:30pm until 6:00pm

Holiday Skating on the River

Festival of Lights at Far-Out First Friday

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

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

DECEMBER 16TH AND 17TH, 2 PM AND 6 PM

A “How I Became a Pirate” Christmas Adventure December 8 – 17, 2017

BREC Holiday Events

Kansas City Southern Holiday Express TrainKCS 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.

Holiday Events Beyond Baton Rouge

Christmas Marketplace Nights

The 2017 season: November 24, 2017 – January 1, 2018 Closed November 27, 28, 29, 30 Closed Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve Monday – Thursday : 6pm -10pm Friday: 6pm -11pm Saturday: 5pm – 11pm Sunday: 5pm – 10pm

Canal Street Lighting Ceremony

A Civil War Christmas- – St. Francisville

December 3rd 6-8pm

Christmas in Central Square – TBA

December 1-23, 2017 5:30-9:00 pm Nightly (weather permitting)

December 8, 9, 10, 2017 Lutcher Park 2545 Louisiana Avenue Lutcher, LA

Christmas Past Festival 12/9/17, 9 AM-3 PM in Old Mandeville.

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill

Chuck E. Cheese

Costumed guests to receive Boorito for $3 at Chipotle

Kids eat free at McAlister’s Deli

Krispy Kreme gives free doughnut to costumed guests

International House of Pancakes celebrates Halloween

Outback Steakhouse gives treat for Halloween

Sonic offers discount corn dogs

Joe’s Crab Shack

Kids Eat Free at These Locations on Tuesdays

BATON ROUGE HALLOWEEN TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS

Baton Rouge Halloween Festivities

Baton Rouge Halloween Town, Halloween Parade, Halloween Fun Run

Mistletoe Market of Baton Rouge
Saturday, November 11th 9-5
Sunday, November 12th 10-5
Belle of Baton Rouge

November 24 – December 30
Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas
Gates open 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Zoo grounds close at 9 p.m.

Sunday, December 3, 2017
12:30pm until 6:00pm

A “How I Became a Pirate” Christmas Adventure
December 8 – 17, 2017

The 2017 season:
November 24, 2017 – January 1, 2018
Closed November 27, 28, 29, 30
Closed Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve
Monday – Thursday : 6pm -10pm
Friday: 6pm -11pm
Saturday: 5pm – 11pm
Sunday: 5pm – 10pm

December 8, 9, 10, 2017
Lutcher Park
2545 Louisiana Avenue
Lutcher, LA