If your child is interested in chemistry, Louisiana Art & Science Museum has just the event. The next LASM Kids' Lab event happens Saturday and will explore playful polymers. The lab is perfect for children ages 6-12, is free for LASM members, and included in the price of general admission for non-members. On Saturday, Kids' Lab will start at 10:15 a.m., noon and 2 p.m., and Sunday at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. For more information, click here.
Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge's Community School for the Arts rings in the season with its Summer Arts Blast next Tuesday. The program is available for children ages 6-12. This year's classes will delve into fantasy, and the first session tackles monsters and fairies. Registration starts at $342 with a $15 registration fee. All sessions will be held at The Dufrocq School (Map it!). For more information, visit artsbr.org and click on the Community School for the Arts tab on the left.
Celebrate Memorial Day with a fun-filled day, courtesy of BREC. The festivities kick off Saturday at 5 p.m. in Independence Park (Map it!) with softball, tennis, a golf clinic and more. Families are encouraged to bring a picture of veterans to be included on BREC's Memorial Day Wall of Honor. At 7 p.m., BREC Superintendent Carolyn McKnight will host a short ceremony and the evening will continue at Liberty Lagoon water park with dinner and music starting at 7 p.m. Admission to the water park is $5 for veterans with a military ID or picture in uniform and $7 for all other attendees. For more information, call 272-9200, ext. 400 or 409.
The Baton Rouge Zoo will honor its endangered species Saturday. The day will be full of fun activities for the entire family. Most importantly, visitors will learn why these species are in trouble and what we can do to help save them. Admission is $8.25 for adults/teens, $7.25 for seniors, $5.25 for children ages 2-12, and free for children 1 and younger. Gates open at 9:30 a.m. For more information, visit brzoo.org.
Family Road of Greater Baton Rouge will host a whimsical gala perfect for the entire family. The fifth annual Storybook Ball kicks off at 5 p.m. Saturday at the Baton Rouge River Center. The event will feature classic stories such as The Jungle Book, Where the Wild Things Are, Harry Potter and more coming to life. Each book will have its own station full of interactive activities. The Young Band Nation Blues Project, Tim the Magician, stilt walkers and more will also be on hand. Proceeds benefit Family Road. Children's tickets are $20; adult tickets are $60. Specials and reserved tables are also available for purchase online.
After a week of semifinals, the top local teens will show off their clever wordplay and performance skills for audiences in Saturday's ALL CITY grand slam finals at the Manship Theatre. The event features some of the city's best young voices, competing for an opportunity to represent Baton Rouge at the Brave New Voices International Poetry Slam this summer in Chicago. The show kicks off at 6 p.m. Tickets are $15. Student and senior pricing is also available. For more information, visit manshiptheatre.org.
Some of your favorite Disney royalty will be at the Baton Rouge River Center for the new ice-skating show, Rockin' Ever After. The event features Ariel, Rapunzel, Belle, Merida and even a few princes competing to be the next superstar in this comedic, family-friendly spectacle. Performances start Thursday at 7 p.m. and run through Sunday. Friday's shows are at 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m.; Saturday at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets range from $9-$65 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.
BREC's Liberty Lagoon opens just in time for the summer season this Saturday. The park has a ton of attractions, including water slides, a water playground, splash pads and more. The park will only be open on the weekends through May 19, with the hours of 10 a.m.-7 p.m. on Saturdays and noon-7 p.m. on Sundays. Beginning May 22, the park will also be open 11 a.m.-7 p.m. during the week. Admission is free for children 2 and under; $8 for those shorter than 48 inches; $10 for those taller than 48 inches. For more information, visit libertylagoon.com.
If you want to introduce your children to the power and beauty of classical music, you can do so for free this Sunday. The Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra's Louisiana Youth Orchestras will perform at 3 p.m. at the Baton Rouge Community College's Magnolia Arts Pavilion. The free concert features some of the best young musicians of the state. For more information, visit brso.org.
Have fun exploring the world of chemistry at this weekend's Kids' Lab at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum. The hands-on event will be Saturday at 10:15 a.m., noon and 2 p.m., and Sunday at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. The lab is free for LASM members and included in the price of general admission for non-members. The workshop is for children ages 6-12. For more information, click here.
The LSU AgCenter will host its AgMagic event this Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Parker Coliseum. The interactive experience teaches children about food and fiber products produced by Louisiana farmers and used every day. AgMagic shows the importance of interactions between agriculture, the environment and society. For more information, click here.
Spend all night with the Baton Rouge Zoo in the weekly Safari Night. The evening includes walking tours throughout the zoo to learn about different animals, such as the hooting owl, the howling wolves and those noisy monkeys. The program is available for participants ages 5 and up. Sleeping accommodations will be in the zoo's climate-controlled education building. Dinner and breakfast are included. Tickets are $30 per person. Groups need to have a minimum of 15 people. For more information, click here.
If you are a young entrepreneur looking to get ahead in the lemonade business or just think you have the best recipe for the summer drink to beat the heat, head to the Mall of Louisiana Saturday. There, Lemonade Day Louisiana will host a Lemonade Tasting Contest at 10:30 a.m. in the Dillard's Court. Registration begins at 10 a.m. and is open to children of all ages. Bring one quart of your finest lemonade. To pre-register and get more information, click here.
Earth Day is an annual highlight for Baton Rouge. This year will feature live music and activities across four stages downtown and in the Old State Capitol, noon-8:30 p.m. Among the live bands performing are Bag of Donuts, Wayne Toups, The Pine Leaf Boys and many more. Children's activities will take place noon-5 p.m. Art exhibits and food aplenty will also be on hand for this event. For a full list of events and more information, download the flier here.
The 30th annual French Quarter Festival takes place in the heart of New Orleans this weekend. The event features a ton of local musicians, food from more than 65 restaurants and caterers, and a ton of good times. For more information and a complete schedule of events/performers, click here.
The LSU Museum of Art will ask families to "Take a Seat" in this weekend's Saturday Arts for Families event, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. The program will explore questions such as "What is considered art anyway?" and explore pieces throughout the museum. For more information, click here.
Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre's Ballet for Children program will perform "Into the Swamp: Healthy Choices Win" at 11 a.m. next Tuesday at the Mall of Louisiana's lower-level center court. The free performance is a part of the mall's Arty On! partnership with the Arts Council and teaches about making healthy food choices. For more information on the production, call 766-8379.
Only a few movies can make us scream "Great Scott!," and that's the Back to the Future trilogy. Manship Theatre will screen the trilogy Sunday, starting at 3 p.m. The event will also feature the famous DeLorean parked outside, video games, foosball challenges and more. If you dress up as your favorite character, you will be eligible for a prize giveaway. Tickets for the entire trilogy screening are $10. Tickets for individual films are $5. For more information, visit the Manship Theatre website and click on the Events tab.
If you love burgers, cars Uplifting the Coast has just the event for you this Saturday at the Baton Rouge Fairgrounds, 16072 Airline Hwy. The organization, dedicated to promoting and supporting coastal restoration efforts in Grand Isle, will host a car show and hamburger showdown. The event kicks off at 10 a.m. as teams compete for the title of State Burger Master Champion. Sampling tickets are $10. An array of hot rods and classic cars will also be on display, along with musical performances by Debbie Landry, Downfall, and Wasted Days. For more information, click here.
The BR Walls Project will host a pot-luck lunch and painting party for children of all ages at the PODS Warehouse, 2056 Wooddale Blvd, Sunday. This will be a unique opportunity for families to collaborate with local artists to decorate a PODS storage container that will be featured in the Better Block BR event on April 13-14. No RSVP is required. Kid-friendly snacks, drinks or lunch items are welcome.
Calling all young scientists, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum has a big weekend in store for you. On Saturday, check out NanoDay, a nationwide festival that celebrates the science of small matter. The event includes hands-on activities with a live-stage performance, story time, and a planetarium show. One activity that piques our interest is discovering the nano-world of the Dr. Seuss classic Horton Hears a Who. LASM will also celebrate the special occasion during FestForAll with a booth highlighting the events. For more information, click here.
This Easter season, bring your basket, pack a flashlight and try to find some eggs in BREC's Lights Out Egg Hunt Thursday night at Plank Road Park. The free event starts at 6 p.m. and will feature a flashlight hunt, short movie entertainment and a photo op with the Easter Bunny. Games, arts and crafts and fun challenges will also be on the schedule. For more information, call 654-8401.
More than 200 cats will be on hand to compete in the Greater Baton Rouge Cat Club's 40th annual cat show at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales Saturday. From 11 a.m.-6 p.m., judges will be on hand to pick the finest felines; and the event benefits local rescue organizations. For more information, visit the Cat Club's Facebook page.
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum has a ton of fun events planned this weekend. If you haven't checked out The Little Prince yet, this weekend is a good time. The digital film revolves around a—you guessed it—little prince who jumps from planet to planet to find his beloved Rose. Along the way, the prince meets a comical fox and comes across many adventures that threaten to stop his quest. The fully immersive adventure is great for all ages and will be screened 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit lasm.org for more details.
The Young Actors Program of Theatre Baton Rouge will present Godspell Jr. this weekend. Based on the book by John Michael Tabelak, the production features various styles of theatre, including pantomime, clowning and acrobatics, as well as a rousing soundtrack. The final string of performances run this weekend. Show times are as follows: 7:25 p.m. on Friday; 2 p.m. and 7:25 p.m. Saturday; and 1:55 p.m. Sunday. All performances take place in The Studio at Theatre Baton Rouge. Tickets are $15. For more information, click here.
Celebrate the Southern spring in St. Francisville with the annual Audubon Pilgrimage. The festival runs from Friday to Sunday, and includes tours of historic homes and gardens, soirees, hymn singing and much more. For more information and a complete schedule, visit audubonpilgrimage.info.
Creatures from the past are recreated and housed in a special place … No, it's not the plot of Jurassic Park. This is the theme surrounding this weekend's fun, prehistoric event, "Discover the Dinosaurs." This exhibit teaches children about dinosaurs in 10 scenes across the Baton Rouge River Center and will also feature activities such as the Dino Dig, Dino Theater, Dino Den, rides and much more. Friday's show starts at noon. Saturday and Sunday's shows start at 10 a.m. For tickets and more information, visit discoverthedinosaurs.com.
Children will be able to get hands-on with science in the Louisiana Art & Science Museum's Kids' Lab this weekend. The 45-minute sessions will feature chemistry workshops for children ages 6-12. This month's experiment teaches children about emulsifiers and making hand lotion. You can reserve a spot by e-mailing kidslab@lasm.org. The event is free for members and included in the price of general admission. Kids' Labs start at 10:15 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. this Saturday.
What do Monster Mutt, Iron Man, Nitemare, Fatal Attraction, War Wizard and Gunslinger all have in common? No, these aren't bad comic book characters. These are the monster trucks coming to the Baton Rouge River Center Friday and Saturday night in the Monster Jam. Friday's show starts at 7:30 p.m. On Saturday, there will be shows at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., as well as a pit party 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Tickets range from $29.50-$44.80. For more information, visit brrivercenter.com.
This Sunday, enjoy free admission to awesome spots like the LSU Museum of Art, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum and the USS Kidd, plus the always-free admission Capitol Park Museum. Don't miss your chance to get out with the family and enjoy the best of Baton Rouge's museums. 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
We can tell you how to get to Sesame Street—head to the River Center this Thursday through Sunday for a performance of Sesame Street Live: Can’t Stop Singing. Join favorites like Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, Grover and many more as they lead you and your kids on a magical, musical tour. Click here for tickets.
Saturday, basketball wizards the Harlem Globetrotters bring the laughs, trick shots and signature moves to the River Center for an exhibition that’s sure to be fun for the whole family. 7 p.m. Tickets are $16-$95, and available at brrivercenter.com.
Meet Lilly—“Queen of the World” and lover of everything! Lilly loves cheese snacks, her new red boots, her best friends Wilson and Chester, her new teacher Mr. Slinger, and especially her brand new purse that plays music whenever it’s opened. In fact, she loves her new purse so much that it gets her into trouble—and she learns that making mistakes is all a part of growing up. This enchanting, whimsical, fun-filled adaptation of the books by Kevin Henkes will delight audiences of all ages. Performances run this Friday through March 3. Grab your tickets by clicking here.
The LSU Burden Center’s Arbor Day celebration happens this Saturday after being rained out last month. Wind your way through a 5K hike on some of Baton Rouge’s most beautiful trails, partake in a tree scavenger hunt along the way, visit with Smokey Bear, and even plant your own seedling on the grounds. Trail mix and beverages are included in the $5 admission fee. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For more information, call 763-3993 or visit the website by clicking here.
Saturday, the Louisiana Youth Orchestras will perform at the Baton Rouge Community College Magnolia Performing Arts Pavilion. LYO is the premier youth performing arts organization in Greater Baton Rouge. Their concerts are free and open to the public, making this is a perfect opportunity to introduce young people to classical music and to experience their peers performing on stage. 3 p.m. Click here for more information.
This Saturday and Sunday, explore the dynamic world of chemistry in hands-on Kids' Lab workshops at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum (for children ages 6-12). Each instructor-led Kids' Lab workshop offers safe and engaging chemical experiments coupled with interactive demonstrations focused on water purification. When the class is finished, children receive a lab apron, a certificate of participation and other fun takeaway items. Visit lasm.org for more information.
The Krewe of Southdowns rolls Friday in the only Baton Rouge Mardi Gras parade that doesn’t happen downtown. This family-friendly nighttime parade, with “Time Machine” as this year’s theme, will feature bands, crazy floats and tons of throws—as any good Mardi Gras parade should! The route starts at Pickett Ave. at 7 p.m. and takes a twisty ride through the neighborhood, ending on Perkins Road at Stanford Avenue. Visit southdowns.org for the complete parade route and more information.
This Sunday, enjoy free admission to awesome spots like the LSU Museum of Art, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum and the USS Kidd, plus the always-free admission Capitol Park Museum. Don't miss your chance to enjoy the best of Baton Rouge's museums. 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum hosts storyteller and children's entertainer Miss Trudy and her Traveling Trunk Show this Saturday morning. Kids will love her humorous stories, songs, games and her puppet friends, Sheldon the Sheepdog and Frederick the Mouse. The program is free for members, and is included in the price of a general admission ticket for nonmembers. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. You can also stick around for Doctor Spark, LASM's roving explainer, as she interacts with children throughout the galleries. Doctor Spark's zany sense of humor and backpack full of educational surprises will make learning fun for all ages. lasm.org
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum hosts storyteller and children’s entertainer Miss Trudy and her Traveling Trunk Show this Saturday morning. Kids will love her humorous stories, songs, games and her puppet friends, Sheldon the Sheepdog and Frederick the Mouse. The program is free for members, and is included in the price of a general admission ticket for nonmembers. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Plus you can stick around for Doctor Spark, LASM’s roving explainer, as she interacts with children throughout the galleries. Doctor Spark’s zany sense of humor and backpack full of educational surprises will make learning fun for all ages. lasm.org
Dogs will have a paw-some time at this annual Mardi Gras parade for animals downtown on Sunday. You and your family can come out and have a doggone good time visiting the booths and vendors along North Boulevard's Town Square and Galvez Plaza for a day full of food, shopping, information, demonstrations, activities, contests and fun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Parade rolls at 1:30 p.m. Click here for more information.
Legendary pianist Elton John is coming to the River Center in March, and tickets for this sure-to-be sold-out show go on sale Friday. Don’t miss your chance to see the legend live—click here to grab your tickets when they go on sale.
Oregonian alt-rock duo The Helio Sequence arrives at the Spanish moon tonight to support the release of the band’s new album, Negotiations. New Orleans musicians Alexis & the Samurai will open at this early show. Doors open at 7 p.m. Click here for more information.
Engelbert Humperdinck, best known for hits like "Release Me," "The Last Waltz," "After the Lovin'" and "A Man Without Love," brings his pop melodies to L'Auberge Casino this Saturday at 8 p.m. Get tickets by clicking here.
Tickets are still available to see the red-haired stranger play an intimate show at the Varsity Theatre next Tuesday at 8 p.m. This legendary outlaw country pioneer hasn’t let his sound fade with age—don’t miss your chance to catch him live in concert. Tickets are $87.50 by clicking here.
The reigning “King of the Blues,” 87-year-old B.B. King will bring his iconic guitar stylings to the River Center this Saturday at 8 p.m. A model for other legendary guitarists from Eric Clapton to Jimmy Page, King blends blues, jazz, swing and pop into one unique and immediately identifiable sound. Tickets to see him and his beloved guitar Lucille bring the house down are available at brrivercenter.com.
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum also hosts storyteller and children’s entertainer Miss Trudy and her Traveling Trunk Show this Saturday morning. Kids will love her humorous stories, songs, games and her puppet friends, Sheldon the Sheepdog and Frederick the Mouse. The program is free for members, and is included in the price of a general admission ticket for nonmembers. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Plus you can stick around for Doctor Spark, LASM’s roving explainer, as she interacts with children throughout the galleries. Doctor Spark’s zany sense of humor and backpack full of educational surprises will make learning fun for all ages. lasm.org
This Saturday and Sunday, explore the dynamic world of chemistry in hands-on Kids' Lab workshops at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum (for children ages 6-12). Each instructor-led Kids' Lab workshop offers safe and engaging chemical experiments coupled with interactive demonstrations focused on water purification. When the class is finished, children receive a lab apron, a certificate of participation and other fun takeaway items. Visit lasm.org for more information.
Snuggle into a seat at the Manship Theatre with the kids in tow for two fun family films tomorrow. First up at 10:30 a.m. is the Academy Award-winning film Happy Feet, which follows the mishaps of penguin Mumble as he tries to find his place in the world through dance. Tickets include a free juice and popcorn snack. Then at 8 p.m., you can catch the classic—and rather darker—Who Framed Roger Rabbit?, which follows down-and-out detective Eddie Valiant as he tries to clear the name of the titular toon star. Tickets for each show are $5 at manshiptheatre.org.
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum’s Planetarium presents a new digital movie on the big dome screen—The Little Prince, based on the classic children’s book. Join the little prince on an extraordinary journey as he jumps between amazing planets on a quest to find his beloved Rose. You'll meet his comical fox friend, wake the friendly stone giant, scale the music planet's instruments, and dodge a ferocious dragon's metal claws. More information at lasm.org.
The weather’s turned wintry cold, and it’s your last week to experience the River Center’s annual Skating on the River, which lets you strap on some blades and glide across the ice for an hour or two. A $12 ticket gets you refreshments, skates and an hour and a half of icy glee. Continues through Jan. 2. Click here for more information.
Thursday at Manship, catch two beautifully-animated French children’s films: Azur & Asmar and Tales of the Night. Beginning at 10 a.m., Azur & Asmar tells the story of two boys raised as brothers, separated by ignorance and later reunited as rivals, who embark on a dangerous quest to find and rescue the magical Djinn Fairy. Tales of the Night, showing at 2 p.m., weaves together six exotic fables unfolding in unique locales, blending history with fairytale as viewers are whisked off to enchanted lands full of dragons, werewolves, captive princesses, sorcerers and enormous talking bees. Tickets for each film are $8.50; $6.50 for seniors and students. Visit manshiptheatre.org for more information.
Catch the magic of Christmas on the big screen at the Manship Theatre this Thursday as they present a special screening of The Polar Express. It's the story of a young boy on Christmas Eve who boards a powerful magical train headed to the North Pole and Santa Claus's home. What unfolds is an extraordinary adventure of self-discovery that shows our hero how the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. Tickets are $5. manshiptheatre.org
It’s the last week to bring the whole family and check out Zoolights at the Baton Rouge Zoo. Be amazed at the larger-than-life light displays scattered around the animal habitats while you wander the zoo after hours. Visitors can warm up with hot cocoa and other treats available to purchase throughout the zoo grounds. This Thursday through Sunday; 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Admission ranges from $3 to $5 depending on age. brzoo.org
Bring the whole family and check out Zoolights at the Baton Rouge Zoo. Be amazed at the larger-than-life light displays scattered around the animal habitats while you wander the zoo after hours. Visitors can warm up with hot cocoa and other treats available to purchase throughout the zoo grounds. Thursday through Sunday evenings through Dec. 23. 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Admission ranges from $3 to $5 depending on age. brzoo.org
'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. But wait! In this Playmakers version of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, a mouse is stirring—because Santa missed his house last year. Don't miss this modern twist on the story as a mouse, an elf and a little girl set off to make their Christmas dreams come true. Tickets are $15. Click here for more information. And at the Baton Rouge Little Theatre, you can experience the magic and joy of the Christmas season as the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future lead miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a powerful journey of transformation and redemption in A Christmas Carol. Click here for more information. Tickets are $25. The show continues through Sunday.
Explore the dynamic world of chemistry in hands-on Kids’ Lab workshops for children ages 6-12 at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum this Saturday morning. Kids will get to participate in fun chemistry experiments that demonstrate exciting scientific principles, but are easy and safe to do. A parent or guardian must accompany each child. Click here for more information.
Doktor Kaboom is an interactive one-man science variety show suitable for all audiences—especially the kids. Doktor Kaboom creatively blends theatre arts with the wonders of scientific exploration. Join him for a sidesplitting journey of increasingly spectacular, and often successful, experiments and demonstrations. Doktor Kaboom keeps his crowds riveted with interest and rolling with laughter as he explores the modern scientific method. This Friday and Saturday at the Manship Theatre. manshiptheatre.org
This Sunday, enjoy free admission to downtown spots like the LSU Museum of Art, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum and the USS Kidd. The LASM will also feature reduced admission to planetarium shows and exhibits, so don't miss your chance to enjoy the best of Baton Rouge's museums. 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
This Friday night during the Festival of Lights, don’t forget to stop by the Old Governor’s Mansion for family-friendly fun and festivities. Santa and Mrs. Claus will provide an awesome photo opportunity, along with Christmas movies, face painting and Christmas treats. Your kids can even make Christmas cards for children in foster care with the Brave Heart program. Free to the public, starting at 5 p.m.
Gingerbread, anyone? The sights, sounds and all the 19th century trimmings of Christmas time in the country come alive during the annual LSU Rural Life Museum’s “A Rural Life Christmas” this Sunday. Smell the freshly cut greenery, from smilax vines to Ponderosa Pines, and of course experience what’s cooking in the open-hearth kitchen. Costumed re-enactors and artisans will demonstrate crafts such as candle making, soap making, blacksmithing, Rosary crafting, textiles and doll making, and wagon rides will be offered for everyone to enjoy. Nineteenth century yard games and storytelling by local professionals will continue throughout the day. Grab a jambalaya or gumbo dinner while your kids visit with Papa Noel by the bonfire. 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Click here for more information.
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum hosts storyteller and children’s entertainer Miss Trudy and her Traveling Trunk Show this Saturday morning. Kids will love her humorous stories, songs and games, and her puppet friends, Sheldon the Sheepdog and Frederick the Mouse. The program is free for members, and is included in the price of a general admission ticket for nonmembers. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Plus you can stick around for Doctor Spark, LASM’s roving explainer, as she interacts with children throughout the galleries. Doctor Spark’s zany sense of humor and backpack full of educational surprises will make learning fun for all ages. lasm.org
New Orleans’ City Park fires up its annual holiday display, Celebration in the Oaks, this Friday. Train rides through the park, a children’s theme park, festive decorations, musical entertainment and a full-service café make this fun evening worth the trip. 6 p.m.-10 p.m., Sunday through Thursday; open until 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Admission is $7, and children get in free. Visit celebrationintheoaks.com for more information.
Bring the whole family and check out the Baton Rouge holiday tradition Zoo Lights, beginning this Friday at the Baton Rouge Zoo. Be amazed at the larger-than-life light displays scattered around the animal habitats while you wander the zoo after hours. Visitors can warm up with hot cocoa and other treats available to purchase throughout the zoo grounds. Thursday through Sunday evenings through Dec. 23. 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Admission ranges from $5 to $3 depending on age. brzoo.org
Join the scientists at LIGO for Science Saturday this weekend, when the topic will be POP-u-lar Science. They'll lead groups in investigating things that go "POP" and will conduct popular science experiments. Visitors will have the opportunity to take a tour of the facility and talk to a LIGO Scientist or science specialist. Click here for more information.
Go back in time this weekend, as the Louisiana Renaissance Festival continues in Hammond through Dec.9. With knights, jousters, jugglers, queens and fairies, you'll feel as if you've stepped into the pages of an Elizabethan novel. Browse the booths for cool and funky crafts, like swords and chain mail, and chow down on fair food. Watch blacksmiths and glassblowers ply their trades and join the Queen's Parade around the lake. There are ten acres of acts, activities and fun things to explore Saturdays and Sundays, 9:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit larf.net for tickets and info.
Celebrate the end of hurricane season by experiencing The Wildest Weather in the Solar System, a National Geographic production that will send audiences through a 400-year-old hurricane, the atmosphere of Venus and the magnetic storms of the sun. The show runs Tuesdays-Sundays at 3 p.m. through Nov. 21, at the LASM’s Irene W. Pennington Planetarium. Click here for more information.
This Saturday and Sunday, explore the dynamic world of chemistry in hands-on Kids' Lab workshops at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum (for children ages 6-12). Each instructor-led Kids' Lab workshop offers safe and engaging chemical experiments coupled with interactive demonstrations focused on water purification. When the class is finished, children receive a lab apron, a certificate of participation and a pouch filled with other fun takeaway items. Visit lasm.org for more information.
This Sunday, enjoy free admission to downtown spots like the LSU Museum of Art, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum and the USS Kidd. The LASM will also feature reduced admission to planetarium shows and exhibits, so don't miss your chance to enjoy the best of Baton Rouge's museums. 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
Moms Let Loose features America's funniest moms and grandmas onstage together in this clean, family-oriented, multi-generational comedy. From infancy to the teen and college years, weddings and grandchildren, these ladies laugh about it all, blending musical numbers, standup comedy and audience participation via a rollicking Q&A finale. Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Independence Park Theatre. Click here for tickets.
On Saturday, WordPlay Teen Writing Project will host its monthly teen open mic and poetry slam, Freshhhh Heat, at the Louisiana Book Festival. This event will take place at the Capitol Park Museum, 660 N. Fourth St., and will begin at 3:45 p.m. This family-friendly event is open to all ages, but youth interested in performing in the open mic or the poetry slam must be between the ages of 13-19. Find out more at wordplaybr.org.
Take a spooky trip back in time at the Rural Life Museum this Sunday from 3:30 p.m.-6 p.m. With storytelling featuring the “Ghosts of Windrush,” face painting, wagon rides, historic games, apple dunking and a fun and safe round of trick-or-treating for the little ones, you and your kids will have a Halloween celebration to remember. Admission is $5 per person. rurallife.lsu.edu
Ghouls, zombies, witches, mummies and vampires line up to parade through downtown Baton Rouge this Saturday afternoon. The theme is “Boo on the Bayou: A Red Stick Apocalypse!” Get your hands up to catch fun Halloweeny throws—but spectators can also give back to the community. The Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank will have one of their trucks as the first unit in the parade. They will have a team of volunteers walking around the truck to collect non-perishable food donations from the crowd. 2 p.m. Click here for a story about the parade in this month's 225, and click here for more information.
The Baton Rouge Zoo invites kids and their families to join them for the 16th annual "merry-not-scary” trick-or-treating event, Boo at the Zoo. Wear your best costumes and wander the zoo grounds, trick-or-treat at various zoo exhibits, ride the spooky train, wander through the hay maze and visit the zoo’s seasonal cave of wonders, the Boo Den. Then finish off your afternoon with a safari snapshot with one of the zoo’s animals, including Penny the elephant. This Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. brzoo.org
This Saturday, renowned gallery artists will demonstrate their techniques of painting, sculpting, pottery creation and printmaking to the public. Visitors can stroll through the scenic grounds of City Park just outside the Baton Rouge Gallery and see area artists creating artwork as well as watch improvisational theatre, listen to local school bands and musicians and more. The BRG will also hold a portfolio sale of its artist members’ work. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free to the public. Click here for more information.
Join the Louisiana Art & Science Museum on the levee to gaze at the moon, the ringed planet Saturn, star clusters and more through telescopes set up on the Riverfront Landing Dock between LASM and the USS Kidd. If you prefer, you can even bring your own telescope. Weather permitting, this all-ages free event begins at sunset this Saturday.
The Baton Rouge Zoo invites kids and their families to join them for their 16th annual "merry-not-scary" trick-or-treating event, Boo at the Zoo. Wear your best costumes and wander the zoo grounds, trick-or-treat at various zoo exhibits, ride the spooky train, wander through the hay maze and visit the zoo’s seasonal cave of wonders, the Boo Den. Then finish off your afternoon with a safari snapshot with one of the zoo’s animals, including Penny the elephant. This Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., and next weekend, Oct. 27-28. brzoo.org
Head to the West Baton Rouge Museum this Sunday to explore artifacts discovered 4,000 feet below the Gulf of Mexico from a 200-year-old shipwreck off the coast of Louisiana. Then, enjoy the challenge of building and floating your own toy boat, building a working compass, making a telescope and using hourglasses and measuring devices that were once used aboard ships. The journey, which begins at 2 p.m., concludes with a 3 p.m. screening of the film Swiss Family Robinson. No passports are required. However, registration is requested by calling 336-2422, ext. 15. westbatonrougemuseum.com
BREC's Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center, 10503 N. Oak Hills Parkway, will host Haunted Hikes on Fridays, Oct. 12, 19 and 26 from 7:30-9:30 p.m. The fee is $6 per person and the event is open to all ages. Registration is not required. Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center designs the Haunted Hikes especially for younger children as an alternative to the commercial haunted houses. Participants learn about snakes, insects, rats and other "creepy critters" as they stop at educational stations along the trail. Staff members do not use scare tactics during this program and participants are welcome to come in costume if they choose. All participants should bring a flashlight. Because this program runs at night, an adult must accompany all children. For more information, visit brec.org/swamp.
The Festival Singers, Baton Rouge Magnet High School’s student choir, is hosting a fall choral concert at United Methodist Church at LSU on Tuesday, Oct. 16, at 7 p.m. The 22-student choir is preparing for a springtime trip to Italy culminating in a performance for Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican. For more information on this concert, contact United Methodist’s Director of Music Carter Smith at 344-0343, ext. 19.
The New Orleans-based performance troupe Lightwire Theater, responsible for the smash hit Darwin the Dinosaur, returns to the Manship Theatre stage this Sunday to bring two classic tales to sparkling life. Applying a unique combination of state-of-the-art theater effects and mind-blowing moving sculpture choreography, you and your kids will be mesmerized by the once-familiar tales of The Tortoise and the Hare and The Ugly Duckling. 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 and available at manshiptheatre.org.
This Sunday, enjoy free admission to awesome downtown spots like the LSU Museum of Art, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum and the USS Kidd. The LASM will also feature reduced admission to planetarium shows and exhibits, so don't miss your chance to enjoy the best of Baton Rouge's museums. 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
Join the staff at the West Baton Rouge Museum in Port Allen for the 17th annual SugarFest this Sunday, a sweet celebration of all things sugarcane. Kids and families can learn about Louisiana's unique history with the crop, view historic craft demonstrations, watch a mule-driven cane driver in action, chow down on raw sugarcane and take part in various fun arts and craft activities. Live musical acts will sweeten the air, and you can indulge your sugar cravings with the various tasty treats on display. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free to the public. Visit westbatonrougemuseum.org for more information.
Come and celebrate at the annual Festival Latino at the Catholic Deaf Center on Brightside Drive this Sunday, highlighting the vibrant Latino culture in Baton Rouge. Taste a variety of Latin foods from countries such as El Salvador, Honduras, Cuba, Colombia, Mexico, Venezuela, Peru and Nicaragua, listen to live music, play games, enjoy arts and crafts, raffles, folk dances, the Crowning of Miss Festival Latino and much more. This all-ages celebration is fun for the whole family. 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Visit festivallatinobr.com or call the Hispanic Ministry at 225-927-8700 for more information.
BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo is having a party, and you're invited! Head to the zoo Saturday as they celebrate the 3rd birthday of Zuri, the first black rhino born in captivity at the zoo in many years. The female rhino will have a cake made with many of her favorite treats. Zuri’s keepers will present her with her birthday treat shortly after noon, but guests can visit all day for fun activities, including signing her birthday card, free rhino-themed cupcakes, zookeeper chats, wildlife safaris and arts and crafts. Visit brzoo.org for more information.
Enjoy the weather and celebrate World Peace Day in Beauvoir Park under the Perkins Road overpass. Yoga, live music, live art, shopping and lots of children’s activities will keep the energy at the park fun and positive. Buy refreshments from the food trucks and enjoy a peaceful day with plenty of activities. Click here for more information.
Live a little bit of history at the LSU Rural Life Museum’s Harvest Days celebration this Saturday and Sunday. Artisans from across the state will display old-timey skills, from boat-building to blacksmithing. And don’t miss the bugle call as historical re-enactors don the blue and gray and recreate the Battle of Baton Rouge. Regular admission price ($9 for adults) will be charged for both days. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Find out more at rurallife.lsu.edu.
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum hosts storyteller and children’s entertainer Miss Trudy and her Traveling Trunk Show this Saturday morning. Kids will love her humorous stories, songs and games, and her puppet friends, Sheldon the Sheepdog and Frederick the Mouse. The program is free for members, and is included in the price of a general admission ticket for nonmembers. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. lasm.org
Every third Saturday of the month, the Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory in Livingston opens to the public for tours, a Q&A, demonstrations and guest speakers who will talk about scientific concepts such as light, gravity, waves and more. Bring your science-obsessed kids and let them interact with the engineers and researchers who conduct amazing experiments every day. Free to the public. Click here for more information.
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum hosts storyteller and children’s entertainer Miss Trudy and her Traveling Trunk Show this Saturday morning. Kids will love her humorous stories, songs and games, and her puppet friends, Sheldon the Sheepdog and Frederick the Mouse. The program is free for members, and is included in the price of a general admission ticket for nonmembers. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. lasm.org
Explore the dynamic world of chemistry in hands-on Kids’ Lab workshops for children ages 6-12 at the Louisiana Art and Science Museum this Saturday morning. Kids will get to participate in fun chemistry experiments that demonstrate exciting scientific principles, but are easy and safe to do. A parent or guardian must accompany each child. Click here for more information.
This Sunday, brave the heat and enjoy free admission to awesome spots like the LSU Museum of Art, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum—with recently re-opened planetarium—and the USS Kidd. Don't miss your chance to enjoy the best of Baton Rouge's museums. 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
Join Club South at BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo for the seventh annual Zoo Zoom 5K and Kids' Half-Mile Fun Run on Saturday. Whether you sprint like a cheetah or crawl like a tortoise, this race is for you! The Kids' Half-Mile Fun Run begins at 7:45 a.m. The 5K starts at 8:15 a.m. Click here for more information.
Get inspired for LSU's upcoming football season at the annual Taste of Tiger Tailgating expo at the Baton Rouge River Center this Saturday. Sample food and drinks from some of the city's best caterers and restaurants, and pick up some new merchandise to wear on game day. It's the biggest tailgating party around—at least until football season starts! Tickets are $25 at brrivercenter.com. 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
American guitarist, singer, composer and producer Lindsey Buckingham has a long career in the music industry, and is most notable for being the guitarist and male lead singer of the musical group Fleetwood Mac from 1975-1987, and 1997-present day. Aside from his tenure with Fleetwood Mac, Buckingham has also released six solo albums and two live albums featuring such hits as "Trouble," "Go Insane" and "Holiday Road." A member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and numbering among Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time, you won't want to miss this talented musician at the Manship Theatre this Friday. 8 p.m. Tickets are $100 at manshiptheatre.org.
Prepare for a night of incredible freestyle at IndieCent Exposure this Thursday at the Varsity. Featuring incredible local talents D-Lain, Luke St. John, Marcel P. Black and Nil & the Prophet, if you’re curious about Baton Rouge’s hip-hop scene, this is the night to dig into it. varsitytheatre.com
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum hosts storyteller and children’s entertainer Miss Trudy and her Traveling Trunk Show this Saturday morning. Kids will love her humorous stories, songs and games, and her puppet friends, Sheldon the Sheepdog and Frederick the Mouse. The program is free for members, and is included in the price of a general admission ticket for nonmembers. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. lasm.org
If you’re looking to get out of the heat and the rain this weekend, the recently opened Rockstar Racing may be your ideal destination, featuring indoor go-kart racing in a fun and family-friendly environment. Spend an afternoon racing with your family at this cool indoor track and see how much fun go-karts can be! Click here for pricing and more information.
Ladies and gentlemen, children of all ages! Are you ready for the greatest show on earth? Trapeze artists, elephants, tigers, magicians and more will make a thrilling sight on the floor of the River Center this week, when the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus comes to town. The ringmaster will lead you and your kids on a magical journey, with breathtaking stunts like human cannonballs, trick riding and death-defying high-wire acts. Multiple performances Thursday through Sunday, with prices ranging from $15-$45 at brrivercenter.com.
Beginning this Saturday, the West Baton Rouge Museum presents a special celebration in honor of the 100th anniversary of the founding of Girl Scouts. Current and former scouts will love the museum's display of local Girl Scout artifacts including uniforms, photographs, books, awards, crafts and badges. Groups can also make reservations for a special program with reenactor Linda Collins, who performs as Juliette Low, the founder of Girls Scouts of America. Weekend times are available at the museum. To schedule, call 336-2422, ext. 17. Click here for more details.
LASM Kids' Lab explores polymers
If your child is interested in chemistry, Louisiana Art & Science Museum has just the event. The next LASM Kids' Lab event happens Saturday and will explore playful polymers. The lab is perfect for children ages 6-12, is free for LASM members, and included in the price of general admission for non-members. On Saturday, Kids' Lab will start at 10:15 a.m., noon and 2 p.m., and Sunday at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. For more information, click here.
Summer Arts Blast from Arts Council kicks off next week
Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge's Community School for the Arts rings in the season with its Summer Arts Blast next Tuesday. The program is available for children ages 6-12. This year's classes will delve into fantasy, and the first session tackles monsters and fairies. Registration starts at $342 with a $15 registration fee. All sessions will be held at The Dufrocq School (Map it!). For more information, visit artsbr.org and click on the Community School for the Arts tab on the left.
BREC celebrates Memorial Day
Celebrate Memorial Day with a fun-filled day, courtesy of BREC. The festivities kick off Saturday at 5 p.m. in Independence Park (Map it!) with softball, tennis, a golf clinic and more. Families are encouraged to bring a picture of veterans to be included on BREC's Memorial Day Wall of Honor. At 7 p.m., BREC Superintendent Carolyn McKnight will host a short ceremony and the evening will continue at Liberty Lagoon water park with dinner and music starting at 7 p.m. Admission to the water park is $5 for veterans with a military ID or picture in uniform and $7 for all other attendees. For more information, call 272-9200, ext. 400 or 409.
Endangered Species Day at B.R. Zoo Saturday
The Baton Rouge Zoo will honor its endangered species Saturday. The day will be full of fun activities for the entire family. Most importantly, visitors will learn why these species are in trouble and what we can do to help save them. Admission is $8.25 for adults/teens, $7.25 for seniors, $5.25 for children ages 2-12, and free for children 1 and younger. Gates open at 9:30 a.m. For more information, visit brzoo.org.
Be a part of the story
Family Road of Greater Baton Rouge will host a whimsical gala perfect for the entire family. The fifth annual Storybook Ball kicks off at 5 p.m. Saturday at the Baton Rouge River Center. The event will feature classic stories such as The Jungle Book, Where the Wild Things Are, Harry Potter and more coming to life. Each book will have its own station full of interactive activities. The Young Band Nation Blues Project, Tim the Magician, stilt walkers and more will also be on hand. Proceeds benefit Family Road. Children's tickets are $20; adult tickets are $60. Specials and reserved tables are also available for purchase online.
Teen poetry grand slam finals at Manship Saturday
After a week of semifinals, the top local teens will show off their clever wordplay and performance skills for audiences in Saturday's ALL CITY grand slam finals at the Manship Theatre. The event features some of the city's best young voices, competing for an opportunity to represent Baton Rouge at the Brave New Voices International Poetry Slam this summer in Chicago. The show kicks off at 6 p.m. Tickets are $15. Student and senior pricing is also available. For more information, visit manshiptheatre.org.
Rock on ice with your favorite Disney princes and princesses
Some of your favorite Disney royalty will be at the Baton Rouge River Center for the new ice-skating show, Rockin' Ever After. The event features Ariel, Rapunzel, Belle, Merida and even a few princes competing to be the next superstar in this comedic, family-friendly spectacle. Performances start Thursday at 7 p.m. and run through Sunday. Friday's shows are at 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m.; Saturday at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets range from $9-$65 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.
Liberty Lagoon opens Saturday
BREC's Liberty Lagoon opens just in time for the summer season this Saturday. The park has a ton of attractions, including water slides, a water playground, splash pads and more. The park will only be open on the weekends through May 19, with the hours of 10 a.m.-7 p.m. on Saturdays and noon-7 p.m. on Sundays. Beginning May 22, the park will also be open 11 a.m.-7 p.m. during the week. Admission is free for children 2 and under; $8 for those shorter than 48 inches; $10 for those taller than 48 inches. For more information, visit libertylagoon.com.
BRSO Youth Orchestra performs Sunday
If you want to introduce your children to the power and beauty of classical music, you can do so for free this Sunday. The Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra's Louisiana Youth Orchestras will perform at 3 p.m. at the Baton Rouge Community College's Magnolia Arts Pavilion. The free concert features some of the best young musicians of the state. For more information, visit brso.org.
Kids' Lab Saturday and Sunday at LASM
Have fun exploring the world of chemistry at this weekend's Kids' Lab at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum. The hands-on event will be Saturday at 10:15 a.m., noon and 2 p.m., and Sunday at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. The lab is free for LASM members and included in the price of general admission for non-members. The workshop is for children ages 6-12. For more information, click here.
AgMagic this weekend at Parker Coliseum
The LSU AgCenter will host its AgMagic event this Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Parker Coliseum. The interactive experience teaches children about food and fiber products produced by Louisiana farmers and used every day. AgMagic shows the importance of interactions between agriculture, the environment and society. For more information, click here.
Safari Night at B.R. Zoo Friday, Saturday
Spend all night with the Baton Rouge Zoo in the weekly Safari Night. The evening includes walking tours throughout the zoo to learn about different animals, such as the hooting owl, the howling wolves and those noisy monkeys. The program is available for participants ages 5 and up. Sleeping accommodations will be in the zoo's climate-controlled education building. Dinner and breakfast are included. Tickets are $30 per person. Groups need to have a minimum of 15 people. For more information, click here.
Do you have the best tasting lemonade?
If you are a young entrepreneur looking to get ahead in the lemonade business or just think you have the best recipe for the summer drink to beat the heat, head to the Mall of Louisiana Saturday. There, Lemonade Day Louisiana will host a Lemonade Tasting Contest at 10:30 a.m. in the Dillard's Court. Registration begins at 10 a.m. and is open to children of all ages. Bring one quart of your finest lemonade. To pre-register and get more information, click here.
Celebrate Earth Day downtown Sunday
Earth Day is an annual highlight for Baton Rouge. This year will feature live music and activities across four stages downtown and in the Old State Capitol, noon-8:30 p.m. Among the live bands performing are Bag of Donuts, Wayne Toups, The Pine Leaf Boys and many more. Children's activities will take place noon-5 p.m. Art exhibits and food aplenty will also be on hand for this event. For a full list of events and more information, download the flier here.
On the Road: French Quarter Festival
The 30th annual French Quarter Festival takes place in the heart of New Orleans this weekend. The event features a ton of local musicians, food from more than 65 restaurants and caterers, and a ton of good times. For more information and a complete schedule of events/performers, click here.
Saturday Arts for Families at LSU Museum of Art
The LSU Museum of Art will ask families to "Take a Seat" in this weekend's Saturday Arts for Families event, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. The program will explore questions such as "What is considered art anyway?" and explore pieces throughout the museum. For more information, click here.
Baton Rouge Ballet performs at Mall of Louisiana next Tuesday
Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre's Ballet for Children program will perform "Into the Swamp: Healthy Choices Win" at 11 a.m. next Tuesday at the Mall of Louisiana's lower-level center court. The free performance is a part of the mall's Arty On! partnership with the Arts Council and teaches about making healthy food choices. For more information on the production, call 766-8379.
Back to the Future trilogy at Manship Sunday
Only a few movies can make us scream "Great Scott!," and that's the Back to the Future trilogy. Manship Theatre will screen the trilogy Sunday, starting at 3 p.m. The event will also feature the famous DeLorean parked outside, video games, foosball challenges and more. If you dress up as your favorite character, you will be eligible for a prize giveaway. Tickets for the entire trilogy screening are $10. Tickets for individual films are $5. For more information, visit the Manship Theatre website and click on the Events tab.
Burgers and cars at Baton Rouge Fairgrounds Saturday
If you love burgers, cars Uplifting the Coast has just the event for you this Saturday at the Baton Rouge Fairgrounds, 16072 Airline Hwy. The organization, dedicated to promoting and supporting coastal restoration efforts in Grand Isle, will host a car show and hamburger showdown. The event kicks off at 10 a.m. as teams compete for the title of State Burger Master Champion. Sampling tickets are $10. An array of hot rods and classic cars will also be on display, along with musical performances by Debbie Landry, Downfall, and Wasted Days. For more information, click here.
Free Kids Art Party Sunday
The BR Walls Project will host a pot-luck lunch and painting party for children of all ages at the PODS Warehouse, 2056 Wooddale Blvd, Sunday. This will be a unique opportunity for families to collaborate with local artists to decorate a PODS storage container that will be featured in the Better Block BR event on April 13-14. No RSVP is required. Kid-friendly snacks, drinks or lunch items are welcome.
NanoDay Saturday at LASM
Calling all young scientists, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum has a big weekend in store for you. On Saturday, check out NanoDay, a nationwide festival that celebrates the science of small matter. The event includes hands-on activities with a live-stage performance, story time, and a planetarium show. One activity that piques our interest is discovering the nano-world of the Dr. Seuss classic Horton Hears a Who. LASM will also celebrate the special occasion during FestForAll with a booth highlighting the events. For more information, click here.
Evening Easter egg hunt at Plank Road Park Thursday
This Easter season, bring your basket, pack a flashlight and try to find some eggs in BREC's Lights Out Egg Hunt Thursday night at Plank Road Park. The free event starts at 6 p.m. and will feature a flashlight hunt, short movie entertainment and a photo op with the Easter Bunny. Games, arts and crafts and fun challenges will also be on the schedule. For more information, call 654-8401.
Meow: Greater Baton Rouge Cat Show Saturday in Gonzales
More than 200 cats will be on hand to compete in the Greater Baton Rouge Cat Club's 40th annual cat show at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales Saturday. From 11 a.m.-6 p.m., judges will be on hand to pick the finest felines; and the event benefits local rescue organizations. For more information, visit the Cat Club's Facebook page.
The Little Prince now playing at LASM
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum has a ton of fun events planned this weekend. If you haven't checked out The Little Prince yet, this weekend is a good time. The digital film revolves around a—you guessed it—little prince who jumps from planet to planet to find his beloved Rose. Along the way, the prince meets a comical fox and comes across many adventures that threaten to stop his quest. The fully immersive adventure is great for all ages and will be screened 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit lasm.org for more details.
Godspell Jr. from Theatre Baton Rouge
The Young Actors Program of Theatre Baton Rouge will present Godspell Jr. this weekend. Based on the book by John Michael Tabelak, the production features various styles of theatre, including pantomime, clowning and acrobatics, as well as a rousing soundtrack. The final string of performances run this weekend. Show times are as follows: 7:25 p.m. on Friday; 2 p.m. and 7:25 p.m. Saturday; and 1:55 p.m. Sunday. All performances take place in The Studio at Theatre Baton Rouge. Tickets are $15. For more information, click here.
Audubon Pilgrimage kicks off Friday in St. Francisville
Celebrate the Southern spring in St. Francisville with the annual Audubon Pilgrimage. The festival runs from Friday to Sunday, and includes tours of historic homes and gardens, soirees, hymn singing and much more. For more information and a complete schedule, visit audubonpilgrimage.info.
Jurassic Park, sort of: 'Discover the Dinosaurs' this Friday
Creatures from the past are recreated and housed in a special place … No, it's not the plot of Jurassic Park. This is the theme surrounding this weekend's fun, prehistoric event, "Discover the Dinosaurs." This exhibit teaches children about dinosaurs in 10 scenes across the Baton Rouge River Center and will also feature activities such as the Dino Dig, Dino Theater, Dino Den, rides and much more. Friday's show starts at noon. Saturday and Sunday's shows start at 10 a.m. For tickets and more information, visit discoverthedinosaurs.com.
Kids' chemistry at LASM
Children will be able to get hands-on with science in the Louisiana Art & Science Museum's Kids' Lab this weekend. The 45-minute sessions will feature chemistry workshops for children ages 6-12. This month's experiment teaches children about emulsifiers and making hand lotion. You can reserve a spot by e-mailing kidslab@lasm.org. The event is free for members and included in the price of general admission. Kids' Labs start at 10:15 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. this Saturday.
Monster trucks take over River Center
What do Monster Mutt, Iron Man, Nitemare, Fatal Attraction, War Wizard and Gunslinger all have in common? No, these aren't bad comic book characters. These are the monster trucks coming to the Baton Rouge River Center Friday and Saturday night in the Monster Jam. Friday's show starts at 7:30 p.m. On Saturday, there will be shows at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., as well as a pit party 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Tickets range from $29.50-$44.80. For more information, visit brrivercenter.com.
First Sunday downtown
This Sunday, enjoy free admission to awesome spots like the LSU Museum of Art, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum and the USS Kidd, plus the always-free admission Capitol Park Museum. Don't miss your chance to get out with the family and enjoy the best of Baton Rouge's museums. 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
Sesame Street Live at the River Center
We can tell you how to get to Sesame Street—head to the River Center this Thursday through Sunday for a performance of Sesame Street Live: Can’t Stop Singing. Join favorites like Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, Grover and many more as they lead you and your kids on a magical, musical tour. Click here for tickets.
Harlem Globetrotters in Baton Rouge
Saturday, basketball wizards the Harlem Globetrotters bring the laughs, trick shots and signature moves to the River Center for an exhibition that’s sure to be fun for the whole family. 7 p.m. Tickets are $16-$95, and available at brrivercenter.com.
Playmakers presents Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse
Meet Lilly—“Queen of the World” and lover of everything! Lilly loves cheese snacks, her new red boots, her best friends Wilson and Chester, her new teacher Mr. Slinger, and especially her brand new purse that plays music whenever it’s opened. In fact, she loves her new purse so much that it gets her into trouble—and she learns that making mistakes is all a part of growing up. This enchanting, whimsical, fun-filled adaptation of the books by Kevin Henkes will delight audiences of all ages. Performances run this Friday through March 3. Grab your tickets by clicking here.
Arbor Day at the Burden Center
The LSU Burden Center’s Arbor Day celebration happens this Saturday after being rained out last month. Wind your way through a 5K hike on some of Baton Rouge’s most beautiful trails, partake in a tree scavenger hunt along the way, visit with Smokey Bear, and even plant your own seedling on the grounds. Trail mix and beverages are included in the $5 admission fee. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For more information, call 763-3993 or visit the website by clicking here.
Louisiana Youth Orchestra performance
Saturday, the Louisiana Youth Orchestras will perform at the Baton Rouge Community College Magnolia Performing Arts Pavilion. LYO is the premier youth performing arts organization in Greater Baton Rouge. Their concerts are free and open to the public, making this is a perfect opportunity to introduce young people to classical music and to experience their peers performing on stage. 3 p.m. Click here for more information.
Kid-friendly chemistry at LASM
This Saturday and Sunday, explore the dynamic world of chemistry in hands-on Kids' Lab workshops at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum (for children ages 6-12). Each instructor-led Kids' Lab workshop offers safe and engaging chemical experiments coupled with interactive demonstrations focused on water purification. When the class is finished, children receive a lab apron, a certificate of participation and other fun takeaway items. Visit lasm.org for more information.
Family-friendly fun at Southdowns
The Krewe of Southdowns rolls Friday in the only Baton Rouge Mardi Gras parade that doesn’t happen downtown. This family-friendly nighttime parade, with “Time Machine” as this year’s theme, will feature bands, crazy floats and tons of throws—as any good Mardi Gras parade should! The route starts at Pickett Ave. at 7 p.m. and takes a twisty ride through the neighborhood, ending on Perkins Road at Stanford Avenue. Visit southdowns.org for the complete parade route and more information.
First Sunday downtown
This Sunday, enjoy free admission to awesome spots like the LSU Museum of Art, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum and the USS Kidd, plus the always-free admission Capitol Park Museum. Don't miss your chance to enjoy the best of Baton Rouge's museums. 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
Stories and science for kids
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum hosts storyteller and children's entertainer Miss Trudy and her Traveling Trunk Show this Saturday morning. Kids will love her humorous stories, songs, games and her puppet friends, Sheldon the Sheepdog and Frederick the Mouse. The program is free for members, and is included in the price of a general admission ticket for nonmembers. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. You can also stick around for Doctor Spark, LASM's roving explainer, as she interacts with children throughout the galleries. Doctor Spark's zany sense of humor and backpack full of educational surprises will make learning fun for all ages. lasm.org
Stories and science for kids
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum hosts storyteller and children’s entertainer Miss Trudy and her Traveling Trunk Show this Saturday morning. Kids will love her humorous stories, songs, games and her puppet friends, Sheldon the Sheepdog and Frederick the Mouse. The program is free for members, and is included in the price of a general admission ticket for nonmembers. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Plus you can stick around for Doctor Spark, LASM’s roving explainer, as she interacts with children throughout the galleries. Doctor Spark’s zany sense of humor and backpack full of educational surprises will make learning fun for all ages. lasm.org
Krewe of Mutts parade downtown
Dogs will have a paw-some time at this annual Mardi Gras parade for animals downtown on Sunday. You and your family can come out and have a doggone good time visiting the booths and vendors along North Boulevard's Town Square and Galvez Plaza for a day full of food, shopping, information, demonstrations, activities, contests and fun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Parade rolls at 1:30 p.m. Click here for more information.
Elton John tickets on sale Friday
Legendary pianist Elton John is coming to the River Center in March, and tickets for this sure-to-be sold-out show go on sale Friday. Don’t miss your chance to see the legend live—click here to grab your tickets when they go on sale.
The Helio Sequence at Spanish Moon
Oregonian alt-rock duo The Helio Sequence arrives at the Spanish moon tonight to support the release of the band’s new album, Negotiations. New Orleans musicians Alexis & the Samurai will open at this early show. Doors open at 7 p.m. Click here for more information.
Engelbert Humperdinck at L’Auberge
Engelbert Humperdinck, best known for hits like "Release Me," "The Last Waltz," "After the Lovin'" and "A Man Without Love," brings his pop melodies to L'Auberge Casino this Saturday at 8 p.m. Get tickets by clicking here.
Willie Nelson at the Varsity
Tickets are still available to see the red-haired stranger play an intimate show at the Varsity Theatre next Tuesday at 8 p.m. This legendary outlaw country pioneer hasn’t let his sound fade with age—don’t miss your chance to catch him live in concert. Tickets are $87.50 by clicking here.
B.B. King at the River Center
The reigning “King of the Blues,” 87-year-old B.B. King will bring his iconic guitar stylings to the River Center this Saturday at 8 p.m. A model for other legendary guitarists from Eric Clapton to Jimmy Page, King blends blues, jazz, swing and pop into one unique and immediately identifiable sound. Tickets to see him and his beloved guitar Lucille bring the house down are available at brrivercenter.com.
Stories and science for kids
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum also hosts storyteller and children’s entertainer Miss Trudy and her Traveling Trunk Show this Saturday morning. Kids will love her humorous stories, songs, games and her puppet friends, Sheldon the Sheepdog and Frederick the Mouse. The program is free for members, and is included in the price of a general admission ticket for nonmembers. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Plus you can stick around for Doctor Spark, LASM’s roving explainer, as she interacts with children throughout the galleries. Doctor Spark’s zany sense of humor and backpack full of educational surprises will make learning fun for all ages. lasm.org
Kid-friendly chemistry at LASM
This Saturday and Sunday, explore the dynamic world of chemistry in hands-on Kids' Lab workshops at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum (for children ages 6-12). Each instructor-led Kids' Lab workshop offers safe and engaging chemical experiments coupled with interactive demonstrations focused on water purification. When the class is finished, children receive a lab apron, a certificate of participation and other fun takeaway items. Visit lasm.org for more information.
Kids’ movies at Manship
Snuggle into a seat at the Manship Theatre with the kids in tow for two fun family films tomorrow. First up at 10:30 a.m. is the Academy Award-winning film Happy Feet, which follows the mishaps of penguin Mumble as he tries to find his place in the world through dance. Tickets include a free juice and popcorn snack. Then at 8 p.m., you can catch the classic—and rather darker—Who Framed Roger Rabbit?, which follows down-and-out detective Eddie Valiant as he tries to clear the name of the titular toon star. Tickets for each show are $5 at manshiptheatre.org.
The Little Prince at the Planetarium
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum’s Planetarium presents a new digital movie on the big dome screen—The Little Prince, based on the classic children’s book. Join the little prince on an extraordinary journey as he jumps between amazing planets on a quest to find his beloved Rose. You'll meet his comical fox friend, wake the friendly stone giant, scale the music planet's instruments, and dodge a ferocious dragon's metal claws. More information at lasm.org.
Skating on the River
The weather’s turned wintry cold, and it’s your last week to experience the River Center’s annual Skating on the River, which lets you strap on some blades and glide across the ice for an hour or two. A $12 ticket gets you refreshments, skates and an hour and a half of icy glee. Continues through Jan. 2. Click here for more information.
Children’s movies at Manship
Thursday at Manship, catch two beautifully-animated French children’s films: Azur & Asmar and Tales of the Night. Beginning at 10 a.m., Azur & Asmar tells the story of two boys raised as brothers, separated by ignorance and later reunited as rivals, who embark on a dangerous quest to find and rescue the magical Djinn Fairy. Tales of the Night, showing at 2 p.m., weaves together six exotic fables unfolding in unique locales, blending history with fairytale as viewers are whisked off to enchanted lands full of dragons, werewolves, captive princesses, sorcerers and enormous talking bees. Tickets for each film are $8.50; $6.50 for seniors and students. Visit manshiptheatre.org for more information.
Polar Express at Manship
Catch the magic of Christmas on the big screen at the Manship Theatre this Thursday as they present a special screening of The Polar Express. It's the story of a young boy on Christmas Eve who boards a powerful magical train headed to the North Pole and Santa Claus's home. What unfolds is an extraordinary adventure of self-discovery that shows our hero how the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. Tickets are $5. manshiptheatre.org
Zoolights at the B.R. Zoo
It’s the last week to bring the whole family and check out Zoolights at the Baton Rouge Zoo. Be amazed at the larger-than-life light displays scattered around the animal habitats while you wander the zoo after hours. Visitors can warm up with hot cocoa and other treats available to purchase throughout the zoo grounds. This Thursday through Sunday; 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Admission ranges from $3 to $5 depending on age. brzoo.org
Zoolights at the BR Zoo
Bring the whole family and check out Zoolights at the Baton Rouge Zoo. Be amazed at the larger-than-life light displays scattered around the animal habitats while you wander the zoo after hours. Visitors can warm up with hot cocoa and other treats available to purchase throughout the zoo grounds. Thursday through Sunday evenings through Dec. 23. 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Admission ranges from $3 to $5 depending on age. brzoo.org
Continuing holiday plays
'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. But wait! In this Playmakers version of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, a mouse is stirring—because Santa missed his house last year. Don't miss this modern twist on the story as a mouse, an elf and a little girl set off to make their Christmas dreams come true. Tickets are $15. Click here for more information. And at the Baton Rouge Little Theatre, you can experience the magic and joy of the Christmas season as the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future lead miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a powerful journey of transformation and redemption in A Christmas Carol. Click here for more information. Tickets are $25. The show continues through Sunday.
Kids and chemistry
Explore the dynamic world of chemistry in hands-on Kids’ Lab workshops for children ages 6-12 at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum this Saturday morning. Kids will get to participate in fun chemistry experiments that demonstrate exciting scientific principles, but are easy and safe to do. A parent or guardian must accompany each child. Click here for more information.
Doktor Kaboom presents The Science of Santa
Doktor Kaboom is an interactive one-man science variety show suitable for all audiences—especially the kids. Doktor Kaboom creatively blends theatre arts with the wonders of scientific exploration. Join him for a sidesplitting journey of increasingly spectacular, and often successful, experiments and demonstrations. Doktor Kaboom keeps his crowds riveted with interest and rolling with laughter as he explores the modern scientific method. This Friday and Saturday at the Manship Theatre. manshiptheatre.org
First Sunday downtown
This Sunday, enjoy free admission to downtown spots like the LSU Museum of Art, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum and the USS Kidd. The LASM will also feature reduced admission to planetarium shows and exhibits, so don't miss your chance to enjoy the best of Baton Rouge's museums. 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
Open House at the Old Governor’s Mansion
This Friday night during the Festival of Lights, don’t forget to stop by the Old Governor’s Mansion for family-friendly fun and festivities. Santa and Mrs. Claus will provide an awesome photo opportunity, along with Christmas movies, face painting and Christmas treats. Your kids can even make Christmas cards for children in foster care with the Brave Heart program. Free to the public, starting at 5 p.m.
A Rural Life Christmas
Gingerbread, anyone? The sights, sounds and all the 19th century trimmings of Christmas time in the country come alive during the annual LSU Rural Life Museum’s “A Rural Life Christmas” this Sunday. Smell the freshly cut greenery, from smilax vines to Ponderosa Pines, and of course experience what’s cooking in the open-hearth kitchen. Costumed re-enactors and artisans will demonstrate crafts such as candle making, soap making, blacksmithing, Rosary crafting, textiles and doll making, and wagon rides will be offered for everyone to enjoy. Nineteenth century yard games and storytelling by local professionals will continue throughout the day. Grab a jambalaya or gumbo dinner while your kids visit with Papa Noel by the bonfire. 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Click here for more information.
Education and entertainment at LASM
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum hosts storyteller and children’s entertainer Miss Trudy and her Traveling Trunk Show this Saturday morning. Kids will love her humorous stories, songs and games, and her puppet friends, Sheldon the Sheepdog and Frederick the Mouse. The program is free for members, and is included in the price of a general admission ticket for nonmembers. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Plus you can stick around for Doctor Spark, LASM’s roving explainer, as she interacts with children throughout the galleries. Doctor Spark’s zany sense of humor and backpack full of educational surprises will make learning fun for all ages. lasm.org
On the Road: Celebration in the Oaks
New Orleans’ City Park fires up its annual holiday display, Celebration in the Oaks, this Friday. Train rides through the park, a children’s theme park, festive decorations, musical entertainment and a full-service café make this fun evening worth the trip. 6 p.m.-10 p.m., Sunday through Thursday; open until 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Admission is $7, and children get in free. Visit celebrationintheoaks.com for more information.
Zoo lights up for the holidays
Bring the whole family and check out the Baton Rouge holiday tradition Zoo Lights, beginning this Friday at the Baton Rouge Zoo. Be amazed at the larger-than-life light displays scattered around the animal habitats while you wander the zoo after hours. Visitors can warm up with hot cocoa and other treats available to purchase throughout the zoo grounds. Thursday through Sunday evenings through Dec. 23. 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Admission ranges from $5 to $3 depending on age. brzoo.org
Science Saturday at LIGO
Join the scientists at LIGO for Science Saturday this weekend, when the topic will be POP-u-lar Science. They'll lead groups in investigating things that go "POP" and will conduct popular science experiments. Visitors will have the opportunity to take a tour of the facility and talk to a LIGO Scientist or science specialist. Click here for more information.
Renaissance Festival returns to Hammond
Go back in time this weekend, as the Louisiana Renaissance Festival continues in Hammond through Dec.9. With knights, jousters, jugglers, queens and fairies, you'll feel as if you've stepped into the pages of an Elizabethan novel. Browse the booths for cool and funky crafts, like swords and chain mail, and chow down on fair food. Watch blacksmiths and glassblowers ply their trades and join the Queen's Parade around the lake. There are ten acres of acts, activities and fun things to explore Saturdays and Sundays, 9:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit larf.net for tickets and info.
Wild, wild weather
Celebrate the end of hurricane season by experiencing The Wildest Weather in the Solar System, a National Geographic production that will send audiences through a 400-year-old hurricane, the atmosphere of Venus and the magnetic storms of the sun. The show runs Tuesdays-Sundays at 3 p.m. through Nov. 21, at the LASM’s Irene W. Pennington Planetarium. Click here for more information.
Kid-friendly chemistry at LASM
This Saturday and Sunday, explore the dynamic world of chemistry in hands-on Kids' Lab workshops at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum (for children ages 6-12). Each instructor-led Kids' Lab workshop offers safe and engaging chemical experiments coupled with interactive demonstrations focused on water purification. When the class is finished, children receive a lab apron, a certificate of participation and a pouch filled with other fun takeaway items. Visit lasm.org for more information.
First Sunday downtown
This Sunday, enjoy free admission to downtown spots like the LSU Museum of Art, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum and the USS Kidd. The LASM will also feature reduced admission to planetarium shows and exhibits, so don't miss your chance to enjoy the best of Baton Rouge's museums. 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
Moms Let Loose
Moms Let Loose features America's funniest moms and grandmas onstage together in this clean, family-oriented, multi-generational comedy. From infancy to the teen and college years, weddings and grandchildren, these ladies laugh about it all, blending musical numbers, standup comedy and audience participation via a rollicking Q&A finale. Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Independence Park Theatre. Click here for tickets.
WordPlay open mic at the Book Festival
On Saturday, WordPlay Teen Writing Project will host its monthly teen open mic and poetry slam, Freshhhh Heat, at the Louisiana Book Festival. This event will take place at the Capitol Park Museum, 660 N. Fourth St., and will begin at 3:45 p.m. This family-friendly event is open to all ages, but youth interested in performing in the open mic or the poetry slam must be between the ages of 13-19. Find out more at wordplaybr.org.
Rural Life Fall Fair provides family-friendly fun
Take a spooky trip back in time at the Rural Life Museum this Sunday from 3:30 p.m.-6 p.m. With storytelling featuring the “Ghosts of Windrush,” face painting, wagon rides, historic games, apple dunking and a fun and safe round of trick-or-treating for the little ones, you and your kids will have a Halloween celebration to remember. Admission is $5 per person. rurallife.lsu.edu
Halloween Parade will make your Saturday freaky
Ghouls, zombies, witches, mummies and vampires line up to parade through downtown Baton Rouge this Saturday afternoon. The theme is “Boo on the Bayou: A Red Stick Apocalypse!” Get your hands up to catch fun Halloweeny throws—but spectators can also give back to the community. The Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank will have one of their trucks as the first unit in the parade. They will have a team of volunteers walking around the truck to collect non-perishable food donations from the crowd. 2 p.m. Click here for a story about the parade in this month's 225, and click here for more information.
Boo at the Zoo this weekend
The Baton Rouge Zoo invites kids and their families to join them for the 16th annual "merry-not-scary” trick-or-treating event, Boo at the Zoo. Wear your best costumes and wander the zoo grounds, trick-or-treat at various zoo exhibits, ride the spooky train, wander through the hay maze and visit the zoo’s seasonal cave of wonders, the Boo Den. Then finish off your afternoon with a safari snapshot with one of the zoo’s animals, including Penny the elephant. This Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. brzoo.org
Art in the Park
This Saturday, renowned gallery artists will demonstrate their techniques of painting, sculpting, pottery creation and printmaking to the public. Visitors can stroll through the scenic grounds of City Park just outside the Baton Rouge Gallery and see area artists creating artwork as well as watch improvisational theatre, listen to local school bands and musicians and more. The BRG will also hold a portfolio sale of its artist members’ work. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free to the public. Click here for more information.
Star party on the levee
Join the Louisiana Art & Science Museum on the levee to gaze at the moon, the ringed planet Saturn, star clusters and more through telescopes set up on the Riverfront Landing Dock between LASM and the USS Kidd. If you prefer, you can even bring your own telescope. Weather permitting, this all-ages free event begins at sunset this Saturday.
The zoo says boo!
The Baton Rouge Zoo invites kids and their families to join them for their 16th annual "merry-not-scary" trick-or-treating event, Boo at the Zoo. Wear your best costumes and wander the zoo grounds, trick-or-treat at various zoo exhibits, ride the spooky train, wander through the hay maze and visit the zoo’s seasonal cave of wonders, the Boo Den. Then finish off your afternoon with a safari snapshot with one of the zoo’s animals, including Penny the elephant. This Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., and next weekend, Oct. 27-28. brzoo.org
Shipwrecked Family Adventure in West Baton Rouge
Head to the West Baton Rouge Museum this Sunday to explore artifacts discovered 4,000 feet below the Gulf of Mexico from a 200-year-old shipwreck off the coast of Louisiana. Then, enjoy the challenge of building and floating your own toy boat, building a working compass, making a telescope and using hourglasses and measuring devices that were once used aboard ships. The journey, which begins at 2 p.m., concludes with a 3 p.m. screening of the film Swiss Family Robinson. No passports are required. However, registration is requested by calling 336-2422, ext. 15. westbatonrougemuseum.com
Haunted Hikes at Bluebonnet Swamp
BREC's Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center, 10503 N. Oak Hills Parkway, will host Haunted Hikes on Fridays, Oct. 12, 19 and 26 from 7:30-9:30 p.m. The fee is $6 per person and the event is open to all ages. Registration is not required. Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center designs the Haunted Hikes especially for younger children as an alternative to the commercial haunted houses. Participants learn about snakes, insects, rats and other "creepy critters" as they stop at educational stations along the trail. Staff members do not use scare tactics during this program and participants are welcome to come in costume if they choose. All participants should bring a flashlight. Because this program runs at night, an adult must accompany all children. For more information, visit brec.org/swamp.
Baton Rouge Magnet choral concert
The Festival Singers, Baton Rouge Magnet High School’s student choir, is hosting a fall choral concert at United Methodist Church at LSU on Tuesday, Oct. 16, at 7 p.m. The 22-student choir is preparing for a springtime trip to Italy culminating in a performance for Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican. For more information on this concert, contact United Methodist’s Director of Music Carter Smith at 344-0343, ext. 19.
Lightwire Theater promises illuminating entertainment
The New Orleans-based performance troupe Lightwire Theater, responsible for the smash hit Darwin the Dinosaur, returns to the Manship Theatre stage this Sunday to bring two classic tales to sparkling life. Applying a unique combination of state-of-the-art theater effects and mind-blowing moving sculpture choreography, you and your kids will be mesmerized by the once-familiar tales of The Tortoise and the Hare and The Ugly Duckling. 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 and available at manshiptheatre.org.
Free first Sunday downtown
This Sunday, enjoy free admission to awesome downtown spots like the LSU Museum of Art, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum and the USS Kidd. The LASM will also feature reduced admission to planetarium shows and exhibits, so don't miss your chance to enjoy the best of Baton Rouge's museums. 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
Explore the sweet life at SugarFest
Join the staff at the West Baton Rouge Museum in Port Allen for the 17th annual SugarFest this Sunday, a sweet celebration of all things sugarcane. Kids and families can learn about Louisiana's unique history with the crop, view historic craft demonstrations, watch a mule-driven cane driver in action, chow down on raw sugarcane and take part in various fun arts and craft activities. Live musical acts will sweeten the air, and you can indulge your sugar cravings with the various tasty treats on display. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free to the public. Visit westbatonrougemuseum.org for more information.
Festival Latino
Come and celebrate at the annual Festival Latino at the Catholic Deaf Center on Brightside Drive this Sunday, highlighting the vibrant Latino culture in Baton Rouge. Taste a variety of Latin foods from countries such as El Salvador, Honduras, Cuba, Colombia, Mexico, Venezuela, Peru and Nicaragua, listen to live music, play games, enjoy arts and crafts, raffles, folk dances, the Crowning of Miss Festival Latino and much more. This all-ages celebration is fun for the whole family. 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Visit festivallatinobr.com or call the Hispanic Ministry at 225-927-8700 for more information.
Zuri’s 3rd birthday party
BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo is having a party, and you're invited! Head to the zoo Saturday as they celebrate the 3rd birthday of Zuri, the first black rhino born in captivity at the zoo in many years. The female rhino will have a cake made with many of her favorite treats. Zuri’s keepers will present her with her birthday treat shortly after noon, but guests can visit all day for fun activities, including signing her birthday card, free rhino-themed cupcakes, zookeeper chats, wildlife safaris and arts and crafts. Visit brzoo.org for more information.
World Peace Day in Beauvoir Park
Enjoy the weather and celebrate World Peace Day in Beauvoir Park under the Perkins Road overpass. Yoga, live music, live art, shopping and lots of children’s activities will keep the energy at the park fun and positive. Buy refreshments from the food trucks and enjoy a peaceful day with plenty of activities. Click here for more information.
Rural Life Museum’s Harvest Days
Live a little bit of history at the LSU Rural Life Museum’s Harvest Days celebration this Saturday and Sunday. Artisans from across the state will display old-timey skills, from boat-building to blacksmithing. And don’t miss the bugle call as historical re-enactors don the blue and gray and recreate the Battle of Baton Rouge. Regular admission price ($9 for adults) will be charged for both days. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Find out more at rurallife.lsu.edu.
Miss Trudy’s Traveling Trunk Show
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum hosts storyteller and children’s entertainer Miss Trudy and her Traveling Trunk Show this Saturday morning. Kids will love her humorous stories, songs and games, and her puppet friends, Sheldon the Sheepdog and Frederick the Mouse. The program is free for members, and is included in the price of a general admission ticket for nonmembers. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. lasm.org
Science Saturday at LIGO
Every third Saturday of the month, the Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory in Livingston opens to the public for tours, a Q&A, demonstrations and guest speakers who will talk about scientific concepts such as light, gravity, waves and more. Bring your science-obsessed kids and let them interact with the engineers and researchers who conduct amazing experiments every day. Free to the public. Click here for more information.
Miss Trudy’s Traveling Trunk Show
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum hosts storyteller and children’s entertainer Miss Trudy and her Traveling Trunk Show this Saturday morning. Kids will love her humorous stories, songs and games, and her puppet friends, Sheldon the Sheepdog and Frederick the Mouse. The program is free for members, and is included in the price of a general admission ticket for nonmembers. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. lasm.org
Kids’ lab: Creating fun with chemistry
Explore the dynamic world of chemistry in hands-on Kids’ Lab workshops for children ages 6-12 at the Louisiana Art and Science Museum this Saturday morning. Kids will get to participate in fun chemistry experiments that demonstrate exciting scientific principles, but are easy and safe to do. A parent or guardian must accompany each child. Click here for more information.
First Sunday downtown
This Sunday, brave the heat and enjoy free admission to awesome spots like the LSU Museum of Art, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum—with recently re-opened planetarium—and the USS Kidd. Don't miss your chance to enjoy the best of Baton Rouge's museums. 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
Zoo Zoom Saturday
Join Club South at BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo for the seventh annual Zoo Zoom 5K and Kids' Half-Mile Fun Run on Saturday. Whether you sprint like a cheetah or crawl like a tortoise, this race is for you! The Kids' Half-Mile Fun Run begins at 7:45 a.m. The 5K starts at 8:15 a.m. Click here for more information.
Taste of Tiger Tailgating
Get inspired for LSU's upcoming football season at the annual Taste of Tiger Tailgating expo at the Baton Rouge River Center this Saturday. Sample food and drinks from some of the city's best caterers and restaurants, and pick up some new merchandise to wear on game day. It's the biggest tailgating party around—at least until football season starts! Tickets are $25 at brrivercenter.com. 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
Lindsey Buckingham at Manship
American guitarist, singer, composer and producer Lindsey Buckingham has a long career in the music industry, and is most notable for being the guitarist and male lead singer of the musical group Fleetwood Mac from 1975-1987, and 1997-present day. Aside from his tenure with Fleetwood Mac, Buckingham has also released six solo albums and two live albums featuring such hits as "Trouble," "Go Insane" and "Holiday Road." A member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and numbering among Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time, you won't want to miss this talented musician at the Manship Theatre this Friday. 8 p.m. Tickets are $100 at manshiptheatre.org.
IndieCent Exposure at the Varsity
Prepare for a night of incredible freestyle at IndieCent Exposure this Thursday at the Varsity. Featuring incredible local talents D-Lain, Luke St. John, Marcel P. Black and Nil & the Prophet, if you’re curious about Baton Rouge’s hip-hop scene, this is the night to dig into it. varsitytheatre.com
Miss Trudy’s Traveling Trunk Show
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum hosts storyteller and children’s entertainer Miss Trudy and her Traveling Trunk Show this Saturday morning. Kids will love her humorous stories, songs and games, and her puppet friends, Sheldon the Sheepdog and Frederick the Mouse. The program is free for members, and is included in the price of a general admission ticket for nonmembers. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. lasm.org
Race like a 'Rockstar'
If you’re looking to get out of the heat and the rain this weekend, the recently opened Rockstar Racing may be your ideal destination, featuring indoor go-kart racing in a fun and family-friendly environment. Spend an afternoon racing with your family at this cool indoor track and see how much fun go-karts can be! Click here for pricing and more information.
The circus comes to town
Ladies and gentlemen, children of all ages! Are you ready for the greatest show on earth? Trapeze artists, elephants, tigers, magicians and more will make a thrilling sight on the floor of the River Center this week, when the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus comes to town. The ringmaster will lead you and your kids on a magical journey, with breathtaking stunts like human cannonballs, trick riding and death-defying high-wire acts. Multiple performances Thursday through Sunday, with prices ranging from $15-$45 at brrivercenter.com.
Girl Scout Centennial
Beginning this Saturday, the West Baton Rouge Museum presents a special celebration in honor of the 100th anniversary of the founding of Girl Scouts. Current and former scouts will love the museum's display of local Girl Scout artifacts including uniforms, photographs, books, awards, crafts and badges. Groups can also make reservations for a special program with reenactor Linda Collins, who performs as Juliette Low, the founder of Girls Scouts of America. Weekend times are available at the museum. To schedule, call 336-2422, ext. 17. Click here for more details.