As we step into a new year, it's the perfect time to focus on what truly matters – family! Here are five resolutions to make 2024 a year filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable adventures:
1. Mardi Gras Events and Parades:
Your 2024 Mardi Gras Guide is full of wonderful ways to have family fun. We don't just provide event details, we've got crafts, a King Cake Guide, simple kid friendly recipes, and we've got you covered with pet safety information, and tips for children that have sensory processing needs. Bonus: We've included all the local fun for Monroe-West Monroe AND every parade that is happening in Louisiana! The guide is made possible by CC's Coffee House - Monroe.
2. Visit a National Park:
There are 6 National Parks in Louisiana with the closest being Poverty Point Reservoir State Park in Epps, Louisiana. Fishing, camping, 1/2 mile nature trails, flat bottom boat rentals ($20 per day) and opportunities to go Birding with the eBird Website. The website allows you to submit your own bird sightings.
Let the kids' imaginations run wild as they learn about the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of this unique ecosystem. It's an educational and exciting experience that will leave everyone in awe of nature's wonders!
Bonus: Don't forget to visit the Poverty Point World Heritage Site for an unforgettable experience. Double Bonus: There are 6 days in 2024 that will provide families with free park admission.
3. Design Your Own Dining Tour:
Get the whole family involved! Get a list of local restaurants and let the voting begin. Getting an appetizer or sharing a plate will make it possible to visit several different restaurants in one day. You could experience Classic French Toast at Delta Biscuit Company, Butter Chicken at Taste of India, a Shark Board from Flying Tiger Brewery, Barbecue Pork Rind Nachos at JAC's Craft Smokehouse, an iconic Chili Cheese Dog from Coney Island Connection West Monroe, or a slice of Gambino King Cake from CC's Coffee House Monroe (King Cake Guide Coming Soon).
The more places you add the more fun you can have. Make a day of it by visiting the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo, a park, or a local museum.
Museums to Consider: Biedenharn Museum and Gardens, Chennault Aviation and Military Museum, ULM Bry Hall Art Gallery, Masur Museum of Art, ULM's Museum of Natural History, Northeast Louisiana Children's Museum, Northeast Louisiana Delta African American Heritage Museum, and Precious Legacy Museum and Archives.
4. Attend an Outdoor Concert:
There are so many wonderful outdoor concerts in our community and we know, kids love to be outside! Make this the year you attend Ouachita Live! Ouachita Live takes place in Downtown West Monroe's Alley Park. You bring a lawn chair and plan to have some family fun. This event usually kicks off in March and runs through October with international and award winning artists. Previously featured genre' include, rock, gospel, Cuban jazz, French Cajun, and so much more! Follow Ouachita Live on Facebook.
There are usually food trucks, lots of laughter, and you and the kids can get out on the dance floor to boogie! These events are free to attend, but donations are always welcome.
Other outdoor concert venues: Landry Vineyards, and Thirsty Farmers, Flying Tiger Brewery (they have outdoor games like Giant Jenga).
5. Head on a Heron Hunt:
What better way to bond with your family than through a heron scavenger hunt? The thrill of the hunt that can be done in marathon madness or spread it out over several weekends. The one thing we know, as you find each one you will be amazed by the talent of our art community.
In 2024, let's make family the centerpiece of our lives and embark on exciting adventures together. Get ready for an extraordinary journey filled with joy, laughter, and the magic of Louisiana!
Macaroni KID Monroe - West Monroe is your go-to resource for family fun! We specialize in connecting you with the best local and regional events, providing parenting tips to make life a little easier, sharing simple recipes, and offering 15-minute craft ideas the kids will love! We are more than just a website or e-newsletter; since 2015 we have been your guide to creating memorable experiences for your family. Subscribe to our Newsletters | Macaroni KID
