Past Holiday Happenings

Past Christmas Events in Louisiana
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Holiday Happenings(2001)
Christmas events planned in Bayou State for 2007 may be different

By LISA TRAMONTANA
Newsfeatures staff writer
This time of year, just about everyone is looking for that elusive Christmas spirit, which often gets lost in the commercial crush of the holidays.

Where and how do you find it?

For some, it’s the excitement of a parade full of Santas, elves and reindeer. It just wouldn’t be Christmas without the shopping and the parties and the yuletide hustle and bustle.

For others, Christmas is in the quiet moments — the peaceful calm of Midnight Mass, living Nativities, twinkling lights, children’s choirs.

Whatever appeals to you, there are plenty of events to bring that Christmas spirit to life. You just need to know where to look ... and here’s a good place to start.

Nov. 23-Dec. 31

Heart of Louisiana Trail of Lights
For a great holiday experience, sample this year’s Heart of Louisiana Trail of Lights. It allows visitors to sample the holiday charms of several areas, including Jonesboro, Jackson Parish, Natchitoches, Alexandria, Pineville, Allen Parish, Lafayette, Lake Charles and southwest Louisiana.
The Trail of Lights begins Saturday, Nov. 24 in Jonesboro and Jackson Parish with an official downtown lighting at 4 p.m. From there, it makes its way from city to city with parades, hay rides, entertainment, music, holiday home tours, and several mini-Christmas festivals. For more information, call 1-800-551-9546 or 318-442-9546.

A Cajun & Creole Christmas, Lafayette. The event begins Nov. 23 with the Zoo of Acadiana’s "Safari of Lights" featuring more than 30 larger-than-life sculptures with animated scenes and an illuminated train ride through the savanna. At Vermilionville, enjoy cooking demonstrations, historic decorations, caroling in French and English and a candlelight trail through the village from Dec. 1-23. Noel Acadien au Village features light displays, Christmas scenes and seasonal entertainment Nov. 30-Dec. 23. The Festival of Lights illuminates Lafayette’s Oil Center with decorations, music, food, shopping and activities for children on Nov. 30. For a complete schedule of other events in smaller towns surrounding Lafayette (Breaux Bridge, St. Martinville, Coteau, etc.), call 1-800-346-1958.

Nov. 23

Celebration in the Oaks, 5:30-10:30 p.m. nightly through Jan. 6, 2002, City Park, New Orleans. See the city’s historic City Park transformed into a holiday wonderland, its ancient oak trees aglow with more than 2 million sparkling lights. Holiday entertainment, refreshments, driving tour, amusement rides, botanical garden walking tour, puppet shows, gift shop, horse-drawn carriage rides, Santa visits through Dec. 23. Admission ranges from $3 to $8 depending on whether you choose the walking or driving tour. Children under age 4 are free. Visit the Web site at www.neworleanscitypark.com.

Sarari of Lights, time TBA, Zoo of Acadiana, Lafayette. More than 30 larger-than-life illuminated animal sculptures, a train ride night tour, choirs, concerts and dance. Guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit. 1-800-551-9546.

Nov. 24

18th Annual Christmas Open House, Holiday memories from Pointe Coupee, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., New Roads and Morganza. Catch the Christmas spirit by shopping in a festive atmosphere. About 25 merchants will participate.

Christmas Under the Oaks, 4:15 p.m., St. Tammany Parish Courthouse, Covington. Oak trees in front of the parish courthouse will be illuminated with lights. Performance by the Haller Ballet, caroling and visiting with Santa Claus. Free.

Nov. 25

Nov. 29

BREC’s Christmas in the Park, 6:30-9:30 p.m., BREC’s Independence Park. Live entertainment on stage in the new theater, Christmas lights, arts and crafts, stargazing, food, cookie decorating, visit from Santa, Santa carousel, electric train and more. Free. 225-273-6439.

Holiday Chef’s Evening and Wine Tasting Event, 7-9 p.m., Antique Village, downtown Denham Springs. Eight restaurants will prepare holiday recipes in participating shops. Wine-tasting will also be included. A string quartet will be featured as well as a violinist and guitar player. Tickets $10 . All proceeds benefit Main Street Denham Springs. 225-665-2048.

Nov. 30

West Baton Rouge Parish Festival of Trees, 1-10 p.m., West Baton Rouge Community Center, 749 N. Jefferson Ave., Port Allen. More than 30 elaborate and creatively decorated trees on display, a holiday marketplace, live holiday entertainment, a holiday open house at Aillet House, pictures with Santa. Admission $3 adults, $1 children, free children under age 6. 225-383-3140.

North Boulevard Lighting Ceremony, 5 p.m., Galvez Plaza downtown. Baton Rouge Ballet Theater performs excerpts from The Nutcracker. Choirs perform holiday music. Santa arrives. Registration for the Jingle Bell Jog & Reindeer Run is at 5 p.m. at Avoyelles Cafe, 333 Third St. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. At 6:30 p.m., the film Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer will be shown. 225-766-2282.

Old Governor’s Mansion Open House, 5-8 p.m., Old Governor’s Mansion. 225-387-2464.

Live Nativity Scene, 6-8 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 701 North Blvd. 225-387-0617.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Light displays, decorations with a Louisiana theme. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Louisiana’s Historical Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd. Continues through Dec. 25. 225-927-5337.

Live Nativity Scene, 7-8 p.m., Bishop Sullivan High School, 17521 Monitor Ave. Program of traditional Christmas music performed by the school band and choir with soloist Emily Baudoin. Scripture reading will be given by school Beta Club members who will also re-enact the Nativity. Sing-along of Christmas carols will follow. 225-775-3618.

Nutcracker on Ice and Cinderella on Ice, 7 p.m., New Orleans Arena, New Orleans. Tickets $9 to $35. 504-587-3808.

Christmas in the Big House, Christmas in the Cabin, 7-9 p.m., West Baton Rouge Museum, 845 N. Jefferson Ave., Port Allen. Holiday Open House depicting holiday customs circa 1830. Pere Noel visit, choirs, parlor games for children, holiday activities. Free. 225-336-2422.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, 7:30 p.m., Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd. Admission $10 per person. 225-344-5450.

Baton Rouge Symphony’s Holiday Pops, 7:30 p.m., Centroplex, River Road. Timothy Muffitt leads the Symphony through selections of heartwarming favorites and traditional holiday classics for the whole family. Tickets start at $7, half-price admission for children under age 13. 225-927-2776.

A Tuna Christmas, 8 p.m., Baton Rouge Little Theatre, 7155 Florida Blvd. Hilarious Christmas comedy starring Terry Byars and Jonathan Goodman. Opening night tickets $17 members, $20 nonmembers. 225-924-6496.

Nov. 30-Dec. 1

Natchitoches 75th Annual Christmas Festival, Natchitoches. Festival kicks off Friday, Nov. 30 at 6 p.m. with a lighted barge parade followed by entertainment on the downtown riverbank. On Saturday, festivities include a Santa Shuffle, arts and craft vendors, carnival rides, live music, fireworks display and more. The Festival of Lights (light display) continues through Jan. 6. Admission on Saturday is $4 adults, $1 children age 6 to 12, free for children under 6. Natchitoches. 1-800-259-1714.

Nov. 30-Dec. 1

Noel Acadien au Village, Lafayette. Spectacular lighting displays with animated Christmas scenes, nightly enertainment, concessions, Santa Claus, children’s court, more than 25 retail shops open for Christmas Open House.

Dec. 1

Baton Rouge Arts Market, 8 a.m.-noon, 300 North Blvd. 225-344-8558.

Red Stick Farmers Market, 8 a.m.-noon, 300 North Blvd. 225-336-9532.

Teddy Bear Breakfast, 8:30-9:30 a.m., West Baton Rouge Community Center, 749 N. Jefferson Ave., Port Allen. Admission $3 children, $3 adults. 225-383-3140.

Art of the Season, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Centroplex, River Road. 225-389-3030.

Hilltop Arboretum Holiday Sale, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Hilltop Arboretum, 11855 Highland Road. 225-767-6916.

Christmas in Central Parade, 10 a.m., corner of Hooper Road and Joor Road. Proceeds down Hooper Road to Sullivan Road. $150 cash prize awarded for best float. 225-261-9650.

Christmas Shoppe Arts & Crafts Show, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Natchez Community Center, 205 Franklin St., downtown Natchez. Nearly 50 booths of arts, crafts and gifts. 318-336-5572.

West Baton Rouge Parish Festival of Trees, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., West Baton Rouge Community Center, 749 N. Jefferson Ave., Port Allen. More than 30 elaborate and creatively decorated trees on display, a holiday marketplace, live holiday entertainment, a holiday open house at Aillet House, pictures with Santa. Admission $3 adults, $1 children, free children under age 6. 225-383-3140.

Nutcracker on Ice and Cinderella on Ice, 10:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m., New Orleans Arena, New Orleans. Tickets $9 to $35. 504-587-3808.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, 2 p.m., Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd. Admission $10 per person. 225-344-5450.

Holiday Evening Home & Garden Tour, 5:30-9 p.m., Covington. Several homes will be open for tours. Holiday decorations and luminary-lit gardens, food and beverages, music and Asian art.

Lights Under the Oaks Christmas Concert, 6 p.m., Harvest Cathedral, 1224 Museum Drive, Houma. Musical performances followed by Christmas lighting and refreshments. 985-851-3000.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Mistletoe Madness Gala, 6:30 p.m., West Baton Rouge Community Center, 749 N. Jefferson Ave., Port Allen. Black tie event features a tree auction, live band and dancing among the Christmas trees. Cash bar. Admission $25 per person. 225-383-3140.

Christmas Pageant 2001, 7 p.m., First Baptist Church of Zachary. Worship experience through music and drama. Tickets, $8, are for reserved seating. 225-654-2755.

Dec. 2

St. Elizabeth Bayou Bears Christmas Bazaar, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., St. Jules Church Hall, Hwy. 1, Belle Rose. Craft bazaar, jambalaya plate lunches, Christmas decorations. 985-369-7402.

West Baton Rouge Parish Festival of Trees, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., West Baton Rouge Community Center, 749 N. Jefferson Ave., Port Allen. More than 30 elaborate and creatively decorated trees on display, a holiday marketplace, live holiday entertainment, a holiday open house at Aillet House, pictures with Santa. Admission $3 adults, $1 children, free children under age 6. 225-383-3140.

A Rural Life Christmas, noon-6 p.m., LSU Rural Life Museum, Essen Lane and I-10. Summon up memories of an old-fashioned Christmas as you stroll through candlelit plantation building and hear costumed re-enactors recreate Christmas of the 19th century. Gospel choirs, handbell ringers, wagon rides, storytelling, demonstrations, hot cider, jambalaya dinners. Event ends with a visit from Papa Noel at the bonfire. Admission $5 per person. 225-765-2437.

Christmas Shoppe Arts & Crafts Show, noon-5 p.m., Natchez Community Center, 205 Franklin St., downtown Natchez. Nearly 50 booths of arts, crafts and gifts. 318-336-5572.

Baton Rouge Symphony’s Holiday Pops, 1 p.m. visit from Santa followed by 2 p.m. performance, Centroplex, River Road. Timothy Muffitt leads the Symphony through selections of heartwarming favorites and traditional holiday classics for the whole family. Tickets start at $7, half-price admission for children under age 13. 225-927-2776.

Children’s Christmas workshop, 1-4 p.m., Louisiana Arts & Science Center, 100 River Road. 225-344-5272.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, 2 p.m., Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd. Admission $10 per person. 225-344-5450.

Christmas Pageant 2001, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., First Baptist Church of Zachary. Worship experience through music and drama. Tickets, $8, are for reserved seating. 225-654-2755.

Baton Rouge Concert Band Christmas Concert, 3 p.m., St. Joseph Cathedral, 412 North St. 225-387-5928.

Twin Living Christmas Trees, 3:30 and 7 p.m., Jefferson Baptist Church, 9135 Jefferson Hwy. A 120-voice choir accompanied by a full orchestra combines the best Christmas traditions with the real reason for the season. Singing, dancing bears, dramatic backdrop, parade of wooden soldiers, ornate costuming, drama and music. Tickets $8 per person. 225-926-0902.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Christmas Tree Lighting, caroling and visit from Santa, 6 p.m., Huey P. Long Ave. at the River in front of City Hall, Gretna. Sing along in festive caroling while you wait for Santa’s arrival. 504-363-1580.

Serve With Gladness concert, 6 p.m., First Baptist Church, 529 Convention St. Senior adult musical. 225-343-0397.

Dec. 3

Sounds of Seasons — Woodlands Ringers, noon, First United Methodist Church, 930 North Blvd. 225-383-4777.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Christmas Pageant 2001, 7 p.m., First Baptist Church of Zachary. Worship experience through music and drama. Tickets, $8, are for reserved seating. 225-654-2755.

Twin Living Christmas Trees, 7 p.m., Jefferson Baptist Church, 9135 Jefferson Hwy. A 120-voice choir accompanied by a full orchestra combines the best Christmas traditions with the real reason for the season. Singing, dancing bears, dramatic backdrop, parade of wooden soldiers, ornate costuming, drama and music. Tickets $8 per person. 225-926-0902.

Dec. 4

A Visit from Mrs. Santa Claus, 9:30 a.m., Delmont Gardens Branch Library, 3351 Lorraine St. Special guest appearance by Mrs. Claus with storytelling, music, carols and treats. Children are encouraged to bring the letters they have written to Santa. (Mrs. Claus will take them back to Santa at the North Pole). Free.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Dec. 5

A Visit from Mrs. Santa Claus, 10 a.m., Baker Branch Library, 3501 Groom Road. Special guest appearance by Mrs. Claus with storytelling, music, carols and treats. Children are encouraged to bring the letters they have written to Santa. (Mrs. Claus will take them back to Santa at the North Pole). Free.

5th Annual Christmas Tour of Homes, 5-8 p.m., Natchitoches. Candlelight tour that incorporates the beauty of each home with the splendor of the season and the creative talents of each homeowner. Tickets $15 per person. 1-800-259-1714.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Advent Services, 7 p.m., Bethel AME Church, 1358 South St. 225-344-6931.

Dec. 6

A Visit from Mrs. Santa Claus, 10 a.m., Centroplex Branch Library, 120 St. Louis St. Special guest appearance by Mrs. Claus with storytelling, music, carols and treats. Children are encouraged to bring the letters they have written to Santa. (Mrs. Claus will take them back to Santa at the North Pole). Free.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Dec. 7

Nature Conservancy Holiday Open House, 4-7 p.m., 201 St. Charles St. 225-338-1040.

Christmas in the Country, dusk, downtown St. Francisville. Lighting of the Christmas tree at Town Hall, choirs, Christmas concert, dessert reception at Jackson Hall. Tickets required. 225-634-7590.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Christmas Pageant 2001, 7 p.m., First Baptist Church of Zachary. Worship experience through music and drama. Tickets, $8, are for reserved seating. 225-654-2755.

Tree Lighting Ceremony, 7:30 p.m., Railroad Depot, Port Allen. Entertainment will be provided just prior to the lighting. Free. 225-343-8166.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, 7:30 p.m., Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd. Admission $10 per person. 225-344-5450.

Dec. 8

Christmas in the Country, all day, downtown St. Francisville. The day begins with a 7:30 a.m. prayer breakfast followed by a one-mile fun run/walk, open houses at various businesses, bands, bell choirs, carolers, dancers, spacewalk , Christmas parade at 2 p.m. Nativity scene, sing-along, children’s choir performance, horse-drawn carriage rides. 225-635-6330.

Baton Rouge Arts Market, 8 a.m.-noon, 300 North Blvd. 225-344-8558.

Red Stick Farmers Market, 8 a.m.-noon, 300 North Blvd. 225-336-9532.

Christmas Tea & Storytime, noon, Carver Branch Library, 1509 Highland Road. Joyce Burges will speak on the origins of tea, English "high tea" traditions and how to make the perfect cup. Girl Scouts from the Audubon Council will read stories to members of the audience. Free, but registration is required. 225-389-4978.

Merriment on Magazine, noon-3 p.m., Magazine Street, New Orleans. Song, dance, Santa visit, Victorian carolers, refreshments provided by merchants. 1-800-387-8924.

5th Annual Christmas Tour of Homes, 1-4 p.m., Natchitoches. Candlelight tour that incorporates the beauty of each home with the splendor of the season and the creative talents of each homeowner. Tickets $15 per person. 1-800-259-1714.

A Christmas Tea, 2 p.m., Baker Branch Library, 3501 Groom Road. Joyce Burges will speak on the origins of tea, English "high tea" traditions and how to make the perfect cup of tea. Bring your own recipes, which will be collected, assembled and made into a booklet to be distributed at a later date. Free. 225-778-5940.

Christmas Pageant 2001, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., First Baptist Church of Zachary. Worship experience through music and drama. Tickets, $8, are for reserved seating. 225-654-2755.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, 2 and 7:30 p.m., Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd. Admission $10 per person. 225-344-5450.

Baton Rouge Jaycees Christmas Parade, 5 p.m., begins at 4th St. 225-756-8264.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

The Light of Christmas, 7 p.m., The Chapel on the Campus, 3355 Dalrymple Dr. Featuring the voices of the Chapel Choir, Kingdom Seekers and Praise Kids, The Youth Music & Drama Group accompanied by a 25-piece orchestra. Suggested donation $5. 225-387-4416.

Oh Holy Night - A Gospel Christmas, 7:30 p.m., Heymann Center, Lafayette. Performance by The Joyous Voices Choir. Tickets $6 to $30. 337-237-2787.

Dec. 9

Christmas in the Country, all day, downtown St. Francisville. The Friends of the Library host a West Feliciana Tour of Homes from noon to 5 p.m. Tickets $15. 225-635-6330.

Service of Lessons & Carols, 11 a.m., St. James Episcopal Church, 208 N. 4th St. 225-387-5141.

Holiday Wreath Making and Wine Tasting, 1-5 p.m., Feliciana Cellars Winery, 1848 Charter St., Jackson, La. Celebrate the holidays by making grapevine wreaths and swags for your home while enjoying the Cellars’ muscadine wines, punch for the children, a train ride for the family, holiday entertainment and holiday cuisine. Proceeds benefit Cancer Services of Greater Baton Rouge and The Republic of West Florida Historical Association. Admission $12 adults, $3 for children age 12 and under. 225-763-9977.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, 2 p.m., Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd. Admission $10 per person. 225-344-5450.

Christmas Pageant 2001, 2 p.m., First Baptist Church of Zachary. Worship experience through music and drama. Tickets, $8, are for reserved seating. 225-654-2755.

A Tuna Christmas, 2 p.m., Baton Rouge Little Theatre, 7155 Florida Blvd. Hilarious Christmas comedy starring Terry Byars and Jonathan Goodman. Opening night tickets $17 members, $20 nonmembers. 225-924-6496.

Jones Creek Business Association Christmas Parade, 2 p.m., begins at Tiger Bend and Jones Creek. 225-751-4980.

The Light of Christmas, 3 and 7 p.m., The Chapel on the Campus, 3355 Dalrymple Dr. Featuring the voices of the Chapel Choir, Kingdom Seekers and Praise Kids, The Youth Music & Drama Group accompanied by a 25-piece orchestra. Suggested donation $5. 225-387-4416.

Joy Gift Service, 4 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 701 North Blvd. 225-387-0617.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

University Lab School Christmas Concert, 7 p.m., University High School auditorium. Three choirs and three select ensembles will sing traditional holiday selections and re-enact dramatic readings from well-known holiday plays and literature. Free.

Downtown Churches Mass Choir, 7 p.m., Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd. 225-343-0397.

Dec. 9-18

Christmas Under the Stars, 6-9 p.m., Griffith Park, 333 Erlanger St., Slidell. Olde Towne Slidell becomes a winter wonderland complete with ice-skater displays, thousands of twinkling lights, Nativity scene with live animals, Christmas caroling and storytelling in the gazebo. Free. 985-646-4375.

Dec. 10

Sounds of Seasons, noon, First United Methodist Church, 930 North Blvd. 225-383-4777.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Dec. 11

A Visit from Mrs. Santa Claus, 10:30 a.m., Main Library, 7711 Goodwood Blvd. Special guest appearance by Mrs. Claus with storytelling, music, carols and treats. Children are encouraged to bring the letters they have written to Santa. (Mrs. Claus will take them back to Santa at the North Pole). Free.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Christmas at Dansereau, 6:30-9 p.m., Dansereau House, Thibodaux. Semi-formal event that features live musical performances, a cocktail buffet and more. Tickets $60 per person. 985-448-4272.

San Antonio Vocal Arts & Ensemble Concert, 8 p.m., St. Joseph Cathedral, 412 North St. 225-387-5928.

Dec. 12

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Advent Services, 7 p.m., Bethel AME Church, 1358 South St. 225-344-6931.

Dec. 13

A Visit from Mrs. Santa Claus, 10:30 a.m., Eden Park Branch Library, 4142 Gus Young Ave. Special guest appearance by Mrs. Claus with storytelling, music, carols and treats. Children are encouraged to bring the letters they have written to Santa. (Mrs. Claus will take them back to Santa at the North Pole). Free.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Donaldsonville Christmas celebration, 6 p.m., Louisiana Square, Old Historic Donaldsonville. Tours, caroling and pictures with Santa. 225-473-4814.

Dec. 14

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, 7:30 p.m., Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd. Admission $10 per person. 225-344-5450.

A Tuna Christmas, 8 p.m., Baton Rouge Little Theatre, 7155 Florida Blvd. Hilarious Christmas comedy starring Terry Byars and Jonathan Goodman. Opening night

Continued on Page 22

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tickets $17 members, $20 nonmembers. 225-924-6496.

Dec. 15

Baton Rouge Arts Market, 8 a.m.-noon, 300 North Blvd. 225-344-8558.

Red Stick Farmers Market, 8 a.m.-noon, 300 North Blvd. 225-336-9532.

Children’s Christmas workshop, 10:30 a.m., Louisiana Arts & Science Center, 100 River Road. 225-344-5272.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, 2 and 7:30 p.m., Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd. Admission $10 per person. 225-344-5450.

Public Ice Skating, noon, 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Centroplex Arena. Admission $10 and includes a Coke and bag of popcorn. 225-389-3030.

The Nutcracker: A Tale from the Bayou, 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., Centroplex, River Road. 225-766-8379.

A Visit from Mrs. Santa Claus, 2:30 p.m., Greenwell Springs Road Branch Library, 11300 Greenwell Springs Road. Special guest appearance by Mrs. Claus with storytelling, music, carols and treats. Children are encouraged to bring the letters they have written to Santa. (Mrs. Claus will take them back to Santa at the North Pole. Free.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Live Nativity Scene, 6-8 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 763 North Blvd. 225-387-0617.

Joseph the Carpenter, 7 p.m., LSU Union Theater. Presented by Parkview Baptist Church, this event features a 70-voice choir, full orchestra and original script. Childcare provided for preschool children of ticketed patrons. Tickets $6-$10 per person. 225-293-2820, ext. 159.

Dec. 16

Chancel Choir Christmas Music, 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. services, First United Methodist Church, 930 North Blvd. 225-383-4777.

Service of Lessons & Carols, 10:45 a.m., Wesley United Methodist Church, 544 Government St. 225-343-8421.

The Nutcracker: A Tale from the Bayou, 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., Centroplex, River Road. 225-766-8379.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, 2 p.m., Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd. Admission $10 per person. 225-344-5450.

French Creole Christmas Tour & Bonfire Celebration, 5-8 p.m., Magnolia Mound Plantation, 2161 Nicholson Dr. Experience Christmas as the Duplantier family might have celebrated it in 1802. Activities include historic home tours, period dancing, refreshments that include mulled cider and sweets from the open-hearth kitchen, a bonfire and a visit from Pere Noel. Admission is charged. 225-343-4955.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Live Nativity Scene, 6-8 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 763 North Blvd. 225-387-0617.

Carols and Candlelight, 6 p.m., First Baptist Church, 529 Convention St. Christmas musical. 225-343-0397.

Baton Rouge High School Christmas Concert, 7:30 p.m., St. Joseph Cathedral, 412 North St. 225-387-5928.

Public Ice Skating, 8:30 p.m., Centroplex Arena, after the Baton Rouge Kingfish hockey game. Admission $10 and includes a Coke and bag of popcorn. 225-389-3030.

Dec. 17

Sounds of Seasons with the Jones Davis Singers, noon, First United Methodist Church, 930 North Blvd. 225-383-4777.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Public Ice Skating, 7 p.m., Centroplex Arena. Admission $10 and includes a Coke and bag of popcorn. 225-389-3030.

Dec. 18

A Visit from Mrs. Santa Claus, 10:30 a.m., Zachary Branch Library, 5055 E. Mae St. Special guest appearance by Mrs. Claus with storytelling, music, carols and treats. Children are encouraged to bring the letters they have written to Santa. (Mrs. Claus will take them back to Santa at the North Pole). Free.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Public Ice Skating, 7 p.m., Centroplex Arena. Admission $10 and includes a Coke and bag of popcorn. 225-389-3030.

Dec. 19

A Visit from Mrs. Santa Claus, 10 a.m., Jones Creek Branch Library, 6222 Jones Creek Road. Special guest appearance by Mrs. Claus with storytelling, music, carols and treats. Children are encouraged to bring the letters they have written to Santa. (Mrs. Claus will take them back to Santa at the North Pole). Free.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Advent Services, 7 p.m., Bethel AME Church, 1358 South St. 225-344-6931.

An All American Family Christmas Celebration, 7 p.m., Ascension Civic Center, Airline Hwy., Sorrento. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. with a living nativity scene. The main event features performances of Christmas and patriotic music, local dancers, Christmas scenes, a reading of the Christmas story. Be prepared for a little snowfall as well. Minimal entry fee $2 per person.

A Gift for Lyman Bourke, 8 p.m., Baton Rouge Little Theater, 7155 Florida Blvd. Louisiana native and local celebrity Jamie Wax returns to the stage to do a benefit performance of his two-act show, a local favorite of Baton Rouge audiences. Tickets $20. 225-924-6496.

Dec. 20

A Visit from Mrs. Santa Claus, 10:30 a.m., Scotlandville Branch Library, 7373 Scenic Hwy. Special guest appearance by Mrs. Claus with storytelling, music, carols and treats. Children are encouraged to bring the letters they have written to Santa. (Mrs. Claus will take them back to Santa at the North Pole). Free.

A Visit from Mrs. Santa Claus, 5 p.m., Central Branch Library, 13505 Hooper Road. Special guest appearance by Mrs. Claus with storytelling, music, carols and treats. Children are encouraged to bring the letters they have written to Santa. (Mrs. Claus will take them back to Santa at the North Pole). Free.

Longest Night Service, 6 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 930 North Blvd. 225-383-4777.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Public Ice Skating, 7 p.m., Centroplex Arena. Admission $10 and includes a Coke and bag of popcorn. 225-389-3030.

A Gift for Lyman Bourke, 8 p.m., Baton Rouge Little Theater, 7155 Florida Blvd. Louisiana native and local celebrity Jamie Wax returns to the stage to perform his two-act show, a local favorite of Baton Rouge audiences. Tickets $17 adults, $15 seniors and children. 225-924-6496.

Dec. 21

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Public Ice Skating, 7 p.m., Centroplex Arena. Admission $10 and includes a Coke and bag of popcorn. 225-389-3030.

Dec. 22

Red Stick Farmers Market, 8 a.m.-noon, 300 North Blvd. 225-336-9532.

Public Ice Skating, noon, 2:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. following the Kingfish hockey game, Centroplex Arena. Noon, 2:30 p.m. Admission $10 and includes a Coke and bag of popcorn. 225-389-3030.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Baton Rouge Symphony Chamber II Holiday Brass, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd. 225-927-2776.

Dec. 23

Public Ice Skating, noon, 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Centroplex Arena. Admission $10 and includes a Coke and bag of popcorn. 225-389-3030.

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Downtown Christmas Carol Pilgrimage, 6 p.m., begins at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 356 East Blvd. 225-383-5401.

Live Nativity Scene, 6-8 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 763 North Blvd. 225-387-0617.

Dec. 24

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Live Nativity Scene, 6:30 p.m., First Presbyterian Church. 763 North Blvd. 225-387-0617.

Dec. 25

Cajun Christmas Wonderland, 6-10 p.m., between the Centroplex and the Old State Capitol, River Road. Ends on Christmas Day. 225-927-5337.

Live Nativity Scene, 6:30 p.m., First Presbyterian Church. 763 North Blvd. 225-387-0617.

Dec. 26

Public Ice Skating, noon, 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Centroplex Arena. Admission $10 and includes a Coke and bag of popcorn. 225-389-3030.

Dec. 27

Public Ice Skating, noon, 2:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. following the Kingfish hockey game, Centroplex Arena. Admission $10 and includes a Coke and bag of popcorn. 225-389-3030.

Dec. 28

Public Ice Skating, noon, 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Centroplex Arena. Admission $10 and includes a Coke and bag of popcorn. 225-389-3030.

Dec. 29

Public Ice Skating, noon and 2:30 p.m., Centroplex Arena. Admission $10 and includes a Coke and bag of popcorn. 225-389-3030.

Children’s Christmas workshop, 1:30 p.m., Louisiana Arts & Science Center, 100 River Road. 225-344-5272.

Jan. 2

Public Ice Skating, noon, 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Centroplex Arena. Admission $10 and includes a Coke and bag of popcorn. 225-389-3030.

Information on downtown events provided by Downtown Development District, 225-389-5520.

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