Things to Do in Louisiana This Weekend
Whether you're a culture seeker, food aficionado, outdoor adventurer or history lover, Louisiana is filled with opportunities to #FeedYourSoul.
Here's a roundup of Louisiana events and activities happening this weekend.
Winter in Louisiana brings crisp weather, warm gumbo and luminous light displays. Get outside and explore our state parks, or stay indoors and discover one of Louisiana’s state museums.
Bayou Classic
November 24-29
New Orleans
What started as a simple football game between Southern University and Grambling State University — two of Louisiana’s Historically Black institutions — has now transformed into a citywide celebration called Bayou Classic. The week promises several celebrations, including a Thanksgiving Day parade, a free fan festival and the energetic battle of the marching bands, all leading up to the big game on Saturday, Nov. 29.
If you don’t have much time between festivities, book a tour to eat, sip or stroll your way through the Crescent City. You’ll be amazed at how many cool adventures you’ll have in just one tour.
Turn on the Lights at Dark Woods Adventure Park
November 28-29
Natchitoches
Kick off the holiday season at Turn on the Lights, the first weekend of Dark Woods Christmas. This glittering event provides the perfect setting for family memories. Revel in the sights, sounds and smells of a hometown holiday while taking a leisurely stroll beneath more than 300,000 lights. Meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus, explore interactive attractions or savor sweet concessions.
Up for a little more walking? Consider a Cane River National Heritage Area tour, which covers centuries of Louisiana’s storied past. End the weekend with a warm mug of hot cocoa topped piled high with whipped cream at 7 Brew Coffee.
Plan your trip to Natchitoches.
Louisiana Lights
Select dates through December 30
Baton Rouge
Step inside an incandescent wonderland during Louisiana Lights at Burden Museum & Gardens. Journey through gleaming garden rooms and twinkling trees. Each Wednesday holds a different surprise, like a holiday arts market, a pup-friendly night or live storytelling. Check the Louisiana Lights calendar for more information.
During the day, take in the views of the city along the Mississippi River Levee Path — an ADA accessible spot. Or, sample local cuisine like bread pudding and chargrilled oysters, at Mansurs on the Boulevard.
Winter Wonderland of Lights
Select dates through December 31
Many
Make a wish beneath a sea of fairy lights at Toledo Bend's Winter Wonderland. See who can spot the most beloved cartoon characters in holiday form, or visit Santa's Toy Shop, where he and his elves snap photos with families.
Peek into the past at nearby Fort Jesup State Historic Site, a former border outpost. Love snuggling up in a cozy cabin? Rent one at North Toledo Bend State Park, where you can also hike, bike or stargaze.
Explore Toledo Bend Lake Country.
Winter Lantern Festival
Select dates through January 4
Westwego
Chinese legend comes to life in Louisiana during the Winter Lantern Festival at Bayou Segnette State Park. Wander among thousands of glowing handcrafted lanterns, watch gravity-defying acrobatic shows and sample tasty food and drink from local vendors. All ages are welcome, and children under 3 receive free admission.
Learn more about Westwego's fascinating history — including how a train conductor gave the town its name — at the Westwego Historical Museum. The museum is housed in the town's original general store, which is filled with antiques and artifacts from the late 1800s.
Natchitoches Christmas Festival
Select dates through January 6
Natchitoches
Did you know Natchitoches is home to one of the nation’s longest-running holiday festivals? Considering the town looks like the inside of a Hallmark snow globe, it’s no wonder. Tickets ($15, or free for children 6 and under) provide a stroll along the river, where countless lights refract a prismatic show soundtracked by seasonal classics.
Before you enter the festival, grab a cup of hot cocoa at StoryBrew Coffee Café. The historic shop is known for flaky, mile-high cinnamon rolls and tender, buttery scones.
Learn more about Natchitoches.
Louisiana Renaissance Festival
Select dates through January 7
Hammond
Set your curiosity and creativity alight at the Louisiana Renaissance Festival, a gala of artists and oddities. Shop from wool weavers and welders; watch performances from fiddlers and fire handlers; and sip merlots and meads. Whatever you do, you’ll leave inspired.
Before your medieval adventure, explore the city’s rich culture. Stroll through art galleries, boutiques and antique stores, or explore Hammond Regional Art Center’s latest exhibition.
Ring in the Holidays
Visit seven spirited areas across the Holiday Trail of Lights, which feature darling displays, lively parades, seasonal music, live theater, magical visits from Santa and more. Enjoy the festivities from November to January!
Make Plans for Louisiana This Month
Whether it's one of our many exciting festivals or an adventure in the great outdoors, there is always something unique to discover in Louisiana. Be sure to check our calendar of events for the most up-to-date list of festivities.
