Free Family Fun + Funky Beats? Yes, Please!
The Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana is at it again—lighting the way for families with free community fun that’s good for the soul (and the soles of your feet)! This time, we’re bringing the rhythm with a toe-tapping, hip-swaying event series you don’t want to miss.
Introducing Ouachita Live, an outdoor concert series that turns Alley Park in West Monroe into your family’s favorite open-air dance floor! These monthly concerts are made possible by our amazing friends at the Downtown West Monroe Revitalization Group—and yes, they are 100% free, 100% family-friendly, and 100% pet-friendly.
So why is music + movement a parenting power combo?
Here are 5 top reasons why a little dancing in the park is big magic for your littles:
- Boosts Brainpower
Music and movement help build neural pathways tied to memory, focus, and problem-solving. - Develops Motor Skills
Clapping, jumping, and spinning to the beat improve coordination and balance. - Encourages Self-Expression
Dancing helps even the shyest kids show emotion and creativity—no words needed! - Builds Social Connections
Singing and grooving together builds a sense of community and belonging. - Reduces Stress for Everyone
Fresh air + music + laughter = a perfect recipe for resetting the whole family.
Mark Your Calendars — Here’s the Star-Studded Lineup:
- July 25 – Pocket Chocolate (Funk/Soul)
- August 29 – No Good Horses (Country)
- September 26 – Billy Allen and The Pollies (Rock/Soul)
- October 31 – John “Papa” Gros (Funk/Piano Powerhouse)
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Pro Tips for Parents:
✔️ Bring lawn chairs or picnic blankets
✔️ Don’t forget water and bug spray
✔️ Come hungry—food vendors will be on-site!
✔️ Most importantly: Wear dancing shoes and bring your best moves!
Whether your toddler twirls in circles or your teen just nods to the beat, Ouachita Live is your new monthly tradition (March-October). Because at the Children's Coalition, we believe strong communities and strong kids grow best when the music’s turned up just right.
Let’s dance, Northeast Louisiana!
Upcoming Events from the Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana
- 🖍️ Yay! for Pre-K – Register Now!
- 🎃 Super Saturday: Hooray for Harvest!
September 20th, 2025 – Fall fun for the whole family! - ✨ 26th Annual Lights On Afterschool
October 2025 – Shine a light on the importance of after-school care. - 🌙 Super Saturday: Garden Slumber Party
November 15th, 2025 – Cozy up in the Family Garden for stories, snacks, and stars.
Parenting doesn’t come with a manual—but Lantern gets pretty close. Lantern is a free text messaging support service that delivers age-appropriate tips, local event updates, and helpful reminders right to your phone. It’s like having a parenting BFF who always has your back! This is a service provided by the Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana. Their primary mission is collaborating with partner agencies to identify and address critical issues related to children and youth in our community, facilitating change by bringing together people and programs to meet those needs, and educating parents, professionals, and policy-makers on “what works” for children in our community.
Sign up for Lantern today and light your parenting path—one helpful message at a time. (Make sure you share this wonderful service with friends and family! Tell them to send a text: NELAKids to 274448).
