As the holiday season kicks into full swing, Baton Rouge offers an array of festive activities to enjoy this week. From dazzling holiday light displays illuminating neighborhoods to exciting ice hockey games on the local rink, residents and visitors have plenty of options to celebrate and stay active. In addition to these seasonal highlights, a variety of events and attractions around the city promise entertainment for all ages. Here’s a roundup of things to do this week in and around Baton Rouge.
Holiday Light Displays Brighten Baton Rouge Neighborhoods with Festive Cheer
Baton Rouge neighborhoods are aglow this season as residents pull out all the stops with dazzling holiday light displays. Streets once quiet have transformed into sparkling wonderlands, inviting families and visitors to take evening drives or strolls to soak in the festive atmosphere. From classic red and green motifs to elaborate animated setups featuring snowmen and reindeer, these displays add a magical touch to the community’s holiday spirit. Local homeowners’ associations have even organized friendly competitions, encouraging everyone to get involved and spread cheer throughout the city.
To help plan your festive tour, here’s a list of must-see neighborhoods and highlights around town:
- Broadmoor: Known for its synchronized lights dance show set to holiday music every evening.
- Highland Road: Features classic white lights wrapped around tall oak trees lining the streets.
- Southdowns: Famous for its community-driven display, including a life-sized nativity scene.
- Garden District: Showcases creative use of color-changing LED lights and festive decorations on front lawns.
| Neighborhood | Display Theme | Best Viewing Times |
|---|---|---|
| Broadmoor | Holiday Music Synchronized | 6 PM – 10 PM |
| Highland Road | Classic White Lights | 5:30 PM – 11 PM |
| Southdowns | Nativity Scene & Community Decor | 6 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Garden District | LED & Color-Changing Displays | 7 PM – Midnight |
Catch Exciting Ice Hockey Action as Local Teams Face Off at the River Center Arena
Get ready for some high-octane ice hockey this week as local rivals take the ice at the River Center Arena. The upcoming bouts promise fierce competition, drama, and plenty of action for fans of the sport. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or new to the game, the atmosphere will be electric with passionate crowds cheering on their hometown heroes. Expect fast breaks, strategic plays, and the kind of physicality that only ice hockey can deliver.
Game Highlights:
- Multiple matchups featuring Baton Rouge’s top amateur teams
- Skilled players showcasing speed, precision, and teamwork
- Family-friendly environment with food and merchandise vendors
- Opportunities to meet players after the game
| Team | Game Time | Tickets |
|---|---|---|
| Baton Rouge Blades | 7:00 PM | $12 – $25 |
| Louisiana Icebreakers | 9:30 PM | $15 – $30 |
Additional Family-Friendly Activities and Events to Explore This Week Around Baton Rouge
Families looking to extend their festive fun can check out the Downtown Baton Rouge Winter Market happening this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the River Center. The market features local artisans offering handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and interactive craft booths tailored for kids. Additionally, the Baton Rouge Zoo is hosting its popular Wild Lights event every evening this week, where visitors can wander through dazzling light installations and catch special animal-themed performances designed to engage younger guests.
For those eager to be active, the weekend offers the Family Skate Night at Red Stick Roller Rink, complete with themed music and glow-in-the-dark skating sessions. Meanwhile, sports enthusiasts can head to the Raising Cane’s River Center Arena to catch the Baton Rouge Kingfish vs. the Corpus Christi IceRays game, where family ticket packages include face painting and meet-and-greet opportunities with the mascot. Below is a quick look at some of these events:
| Event | Date & Time | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Winter Market | Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | River Center | Craft booths, local vendors, kids activities |
| Baton Rouge Zoo Wild Lights | Daily, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Baton Rouge Zoo | Light displays, performances, animal encounters |
| Family Skate Night | Friday, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Red Stick Roller Rink | Glow skating, themed music |
| Kingfish vs. IceRays Game | Saturday, 7 p.m. | River Center Arena | Family packages, mascot meet & greet |
The Way Forward
Whether you’re drawn to the dazzling holiday light displays, eager to catch an exciting ice hockey game, or looking to explore other local events, Baton Rouge offers a variety of activities to brighten your week. Stay tuned to The Advocate for the latest updates and comprehensive coverage on community happenings, ensuring you never miss out on what’s going on around town.