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Welcome to our 2024 Holiday Guide, proudly sponsored by Jac’s Craft Smokehouse and The Back Alley Market! These local favorites, nestled in the heart of beautiful Downtown West Monroe, are dedicated to making this season memorable for your family. Jac’s Craft Smokehouse, the only craft smokehouse in the area, offers incredible dining experiences perfect for festive gatherings and catered meals to make the holidays simple! Right around the corner, The Back Alley Market is your one-stop shop for unique gifts and artisan foods, helping you check off every name on your holiday shopping list with something special and locally crafted.
While exploring Downtown West Monroe's holiday festivities, from charming wagon rides to cozy shopping experiences, don’t miss the nearby Land of Lights on the corner of Pine and Cotton Street. The free walk-thru experience is just a stone’s throw from Jac’s Craft Smokehouse. Make a night of it with a visit to the dazzling lights, followed by a delicious meal, and then pick up a few last-minute gifts or treats at The Back Alley Market. Downtown West Monroe is bursting with holiday cheer, and our sponsors are here to ensure your family has a wonderful, unforgettable season!
We kick off the guide with a festive lineup of ongoing holiday activities, followed by a thrilling schedule of local events arranged in chronological order. Next, we dive into exciting happenings across Louisiana, and wrap it all up with engaging fun facts and games for everyone to enjoy!
The 2024 Holiday Guide will be updated as we receive information about events, in some cases daily. If you know of an event that you would like listed please submit it now.
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Ongoing Holiday Activities
Macaroni KID Monroe-West Monroe has put together a list of Holiday Lights with an interactive map to guide you! Load the kids in the car, pack some hot chocolate, and get ready for the adventure!
CLICK NOW!
NORAD Tracks Santa is FREE interactive fun that your kids will love! Games, books, videos, and LIVE on Christamas Eve you can track Santa's location!
CLICK NOW!
Macaroni KID Monroe - West Monroe presents: Annual Candy Cane Scavenger Hunt
Kiroli Park
820 Kiroli Rd., West Monroe
Date: 11/25/24 - 1/05/25
Time: Park Hours
Cost: Park Admission ($1.00 per person) PLAY NOW!
Annual Freedom Trees
Chennault Aviation and Military Museum
701 Kansas Lane, Monroe, LA
Date: 11/11/24 - 12/31/24
Time: 5:00 pm
Cost: FREE
Take the whole family to the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum for an experience that’s both educational and inspiring. Walk through the exhibits to learn about history and honor the sacrifices made by veterans. Kids aged thirteen and up can even enjoy the new flight simulator! Don’t miss the annual Freedom Trees, each beautifully decorated in a Christmas theme representing different military branches. You can bring a photo of a loved one in the service to hang on the appropriate tree, joining other heartfelt tributes. It’s a meaningful visit that brings history and gratitude to life.
Candy Cane Lane
170 Hwy. 151 North, Calhoun, LA
Date: 11/08/24 - 01/04/25
Hayrides: 11/22/24 - 12/28/24 (Hayride tickets must be purchased in advance, the ride is about 20-25 minutes).
Time: 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Cost: $25.00 for Family Vehicle, $50.00 for Commercial Vehicle (15 Passenger Van), Vehicles longer than 30 ft. must have prior approval. Hayride is $12.50 per person and tickets must be purchased in advance.
This is a drive-thru event featuring over 1 million lights! You will move slowly through the one-mile stretch, enjoying several themed displays before ultimately arriving at an interactive tunnel of lights. Candy Cane Lane has become an annual family tradition in Northeast Louisiana.
You can purchase your ticket when you arrive with cash or a credit card, or you can purchase online at BOOK NOW.
The Magic of Christmas at the Biedenharn
2006 Riverside Drive, Monroe, LA
Dates: 12/05/24 - 12/31/24 (Christmas Open House 12/05/24 - 12/07/24, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm FREE ADMISSION)
Hours: Tuesday - Saturday, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Cost: Adults $10.00, Military/Seniors $8.00, Students $5.00, Garden/Bible Museum Only $5.00
Are you ready to experience the magic of the holidays in a truly enchanting place? Look no further than the Biedenharn Museum and Gardens! This hidden gem is a wonderland of holiday cheer that will soon become a beloved tradition for you and your loved ones.
As you enter the museum, you'll be transported to a winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, glittering ornaments, and stunning decorations that will dazzle your senses. Stroll through the gardens and marvel at the stunning displays of holiday greenery and festive decor.
They will also have events featuring Pet Portraits, The Holiday Coca-Cola Truck, and more.
Land of Lights - Downtown West Monroe
Cotton Street, West Monroe, LA
Date: 11/23/24 - 1/01/25
Time: Starts at 5:30 pm each night
Cost: FREE
This is a walk-thru activity that the kids will love! It's not too long or short but you will find it just right for small children. The walking surface is grass but will allow for a stroller. We highly recommend trying JAC's Craft Smokehouse before or after you enjoy the lights, you will be right around the corner from them! Many of the Downtown Shops have extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays from Thanksgiving until Christmas.
Christmas at the Complex (Ice Skating)
Ruston Sports Complex, 2001 Champion Way, Ruston, LA
Dates: 12/3/24 - 12/19/24 (Tuesdays and Thursdays 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm)
Saturday Openings: 12/14/24 8:00 am - 1:00 pm, 12/21/24 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm, 12/28/24 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Cost: FREE (skates are available for use)
Ruston Parks and Recreation is bringing holiday magic to life with Christmas at the Complex! This year’s highlight is a free ice skating experience that’s perfect for the whole family. No need to worry about gear—everything you need will be provided on-site. Just show up, lace up, and enjoy this festive, completely free activity that’s sure to create unforgettable holiday memories.
Curry Farms, Inc.
548 Robinson Dr., Rayville, LA
Date: 11/28/24 - 12/15/24
Time: Monday - Saturday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Sunday 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Thanksgiving Day 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Admission Cost: $15.00 per person (if you buy a Christmas Tree admission is FREE)
From the first warm hello to the last heartfelt “ya’ll come back!”, you know you’re part of our family on the farm. Come visit our Christmas tree farm and enjoy our 38 family activities. There is lots for the whole family to enjoy!
Indian Village Harvest Farms (Facebook Page)
1976 Guyton Swamp Rd., Calhoun, LA
Date: Thursday, 11/28/24-12/21/24
Time: 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Cost: FREE
Beautiful Christmas trees, Santa Claus, and much more. (More Information Coming Soon)!
Precious Memories Christmas Tree Farm
455 Glen Acres Road, Calhoun, LA
Date: 11/23/24 - 12/23/24
Time: Monday - Friday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Saturday - Sunday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm (Open at 12:00 pm on Thanksgiving Day and 8:00 am on Black Friday)
Cost: Various Tree Prices
Precious Memories Christmas Tree Farm supplies everything you will need! They offer a FREE ride around the farm on a sleigh pulled by an antique tractor. All you have to do is enjoy the time with your family and pick out your tree. We cut the tree down and haul it to the front where we will shake, net, and load your tree. They also have a gift shop and photo ops.
Christmas at Kiroli
Kiroli Park
820 Kiroli Road, West Monroe, LA
Time: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Date: 11/29/24 - 12/25/24 (Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) (Thursdays will be included beginning 12/12/24)
Cost: $10.00 for a Passenger Vehicle, $20.00 for a Christmas Season Family Pass, $30.00 for a Commercial Vehicle (Up to 10 Passengers), $50.00 for a Small Bus (Up to 20 Passengers), $100.00 for a Large Bus (Up to 50 Passengers)
A Season Pass can be purchased for $30.00 and includes unlimited visits to Christmas at Kiroli. PURCHASE YOUR PASS or TICKETS NOW
This drive-thru event is always impressive, and we hear they have added some new attractions! You don't want to miss this family fun!
*Santa's Christmas Village
Children's Museum of Northeast Louisiana
323 Walnut Street, Monroe, LA
Date: 12/01/24 - 12/22/24
Days: Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Cost: $12.00 for Non-Members, $5.00 for Members (Pre-Purchased Tickets Not Required)
Visitors, 2 and up require a ticket.
Santa's Christmas Village returns to the Northeast Louisiana Children's Museum. Each year, The Children's Museum is a winter wonderland complete with twinkling lights, decorated trees, festive holiday music, and of course ... Santa! Visitors can have holiday fun while they decorate a cookie, make and take an ornament, slide down Mount Sneaux, play in our "snow", and visit with Santa. Middle and high school art classes have created a Mini Christmas Village for our little visitors to enjoy while their siblings are sliding on Mount Sneaux. Enjoy their Christmas Light Show in the parking lot every night -thanks to DISCOVER MONROE-WEST MONROE.
Upcoming Special Events - TICKET PURCHASE (Tickets Going Fast, Advanced Ticket Purchase Required)
12/7 Breakfast with Santa
12/8 Gingerbread Workshop
12/14 Frozen Meet and Greet
12/15 The Grinch Meet and Greet12/21 Holiday Silent Disco
Cancelled
Holiday Wagon Rides
Alley Park
250 Trenton Street, West Monroe, LA
Date: 12/06/24 - 12/21/24 (Every Friday and Saturday Night)
Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Cost: $10.00 Adult, $5.00 for Children 12 and Under
The wagon will take you through scenic Downtown West Monroe, decorated for the holidays. Pick-up every 30 minutes in Alley Park.
Hollywood Holiday
Strauss Youth Academy of Arts
1300 Lamy Lane, Monroe, LA
Dates and Times:
Friday, December 6 at 7:00 pm
Sunday, December 8 at 2:00 pm
Friday, December 13 at 7:00 pm
Saturday, December 14 at 2:00 pm
Sunday, December 15 at 2:00 pm
Cost: Adults $18.00, Students and Kids: $12.00 (3 and up are required to have a ticket.)
Lincoln Lights Up the Pines 2024
Lincoln Parish Park
211 Parish Park Road, Ruston LA
Date: 12/05/24 - 12/07/24 (Thursday, Friday, and Saturday)
Date: 12/12/24 - 12/14/24 (Thursday, Friday, and Saturday)
Time: 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Cost: Admission is $10 per car and $20 per bus. 100% of the proceeds will go to benefit Lincoln Parish Park.
Get ready to hop in your vehicles and immerse yourself in the enchanting display of lights at the stunning Lincoln Parish Park.
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Holiday Events and Activities
Santa Stop 2024 presented by Sunny 98.3
118 Blanchard St., West Monroe, LA
Date: Saturday, 11/30/24
Time: 10:00 am
Cost: FREE
Santa Stop 2024 is returning to West Monroe at The Assembly. This is a FREE event for the entire family. Santa will land in a helicopter at 10:00 am and then will take pictures with all the children. The Grinch will also be there for pictures as well. We can't wait to see you there! Download the Santa Stop Color Sheet and submit it for a chance to win an iPad!
SHOP SMALL SATURDAY - 11/30/24
Please shop small this Holiday Season!
Holiday Outdoor Movie - The Grinch
Alley Park - Downtown West Monroe
Date: Saturday, 11/30/24
Time: 5:30 pm
Cost: FREE
Bring a lawn chair and enjoy a holiday movie.
City of West Monroe Tree Lighting
City Hall, 2305 N. 7th St., West Monroe, LA
Date: Monday, 12/02/24
Time: 6:00 pm
Cost: FREE
Join the City of West Monroe in kicking-off the Christmas season with live entertainment and the official lighting of the Christmas Tree! Bring your letters to Santa and a new toy for the West Monroe Fire Department toy drive.
CPKC Holiday Express
Downtown Monroe, 301 Desiard St., Monroe, LA
Date: Tuesday, 12/03/24
Arrival Time: 3:00 pm (Train Open 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm)
Cost: FREE
Seeing this highly decorated Christmas train is something your kids won't soon forget! Parents will be happy too as local vendors help you finish your holiday shopping with unique artisan items at Holiday on Main Marketplace. A Monroe Main Street Event!
Holiday Art Crawl & Downtown After Dark
Downtown Monroe & Downtown West Monroe
Date: Thursday, 12/05/24
Time: 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Cost: FREE
Lots of art and artisan products and shops will also have extended hours. Wagon rides will help connect the Twin Cities by providing transportation every 30 minutes leaving and arriving at Alley Park. Bonus FUN: Make sure you take your family to the Land of Lights which is a FREE Christmas light display that you can walk-thru with some awesome photo ops! (Cotton St., West Monroe)
City of Monroe Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway, Monroe, LA
Date: Friday, 12/06/24
Time: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Cost: FREE
Wreath Making at The Trove
2252 Tower Drive Stuite 103, Monroe, LA
Date: Friday, 12/06/24
Time: 6:00 pm
Cost: $125.00
Join Taylor Bennett for a night full of holiday fun! He will walk you through designing a custom wreath for your home. This is an adults-only event, with all supplies, champagne, and snacks included.
Christmas Cookie Decorating Class
Tower Place, 1500 N. 19th St. 1st Floor Ouachita Room, Monroe, LA
Date: Friday and Saturday, 12/06/24 and 12/07/24
Time: Friday 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Saturday 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Cost: $50.00 per person
In this class, you will join Amy Hobbs of The Little Sweet Shoppe, and learn the tips for royal icing cookie decorating! This is a beginner class that will teach:
Outline, Flood, Using Royal Icing Transfers, Consistencies, Sprinkles
Each guest will leave with adorable cookies and their own cookie scribe. We will giggle, decorate cookies, and learn something new. Every single class is so much fun!
We are so excited about our new classroom space, in the Tower Place building. We will be in the Ouachita Room on the 1st Floor.
Extra boxes are available for $20/each if you would like to practice on an extra set at home.
TICKET PURCHASE 12/6/24 TICKET PURCHASE 12/7/24
The Ebenezer Experience
Harvest Chruch West Monroe 100 Ole' Hwy 15, West Monroe, LA
Date: Friday and Saturday, 12/06/24 and 12/07/24
Time: Doors Open at 6:00 pm, Show Begins at 7:00 pm
Cost: $10.00 per ticket, Kids 4 and Under FREE
Join Harvest Church WM this December for The Ebenezer Experience! A unique retelling of the Charles Dickens' Classic. Children 4 and under are FREE but may be required to sit in a lap. Doors open at 6:00 PM. Seats are first come first serve. Tickets are NONREFUNDABLE.
Snowcones by Cadeyn Toy Drive
703 Edwards Rd., West Monroe, LA
Date: 12/07/24
Time: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
Hot chocolate, pictures, door prizes.
Holly Jolly Breakfast presented by Twin City Ballet
Jack L. Howard Theatre, 401Lea Joyner Memorial Expy., Monroe, LA
Date: Saturday, 12/07/24
Time: 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
Cost: $20.00 per person
Join Twin City Ballet at Jack L. Howard Theatre for our Holly Jolly Breakfast beginning at 9:30 a.m. and a matinee showing of Scrooge at 11:00 a.m. Your ticket will provide admission to both the breakfast and matinee performance. The party will include breakfast with the Scrooge cast, sweet treats, crafts, and games. Your children will not want to miss this magical holiday morning! Professional pictures with Santa will be available. Breakfast tickets are $20 each.
Please note tickets are also available for the matinee performance ONLY. These tickets are $15.
Scrooge Gala Performance presented by Twin City Ballet
Jack L. Howard Theatre, 401 Lea Joyner Memoria Expy., Monroe, LA
Date: Saturday, 12/07/24
Time: 6:30 pm
Cost: $25.00 per person
Experience the timeless tale of redemption and transformation in Twin City Ballet Company's reimagined production of Scrooge. Set in the heart of 1800s London, this classic story of a bitter miser whose cold heart is warmed by the magic of Christmas Eve comes to life through dance and music. Watch as hatred is washed away by love, loneliness is replaced with the warmth of family, and a joyless man finds kindness, generosity, and the true Christmas spirit. Join us for a magical journey this holiday season, and rediscover the heartwarming story of Scrooge.
Scrooge will follow Act I: For the Beauty of the Earth. Choreographed by Joe Istre, this beautiful piece will feature the timeless music of Cynthia Clawson and will be the perfect introduction to the holiday season.
Kiwanis Christmas Parade, Live Music, and Christmas Fireworks
Alley Park - Downtown West Monroe & Downtown Monroe
Date: Saturday, 12/07/24
Shopping and Food Trucks: 11:00 am
Live Music in Alley Park: 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Parade Time: 3:30 pm Parade Theme: The Great Elf Takeover
Fireworks: 6:00 pm
Wagon Rides (Alley Park): 7:00 pm ($10.00 per adult, $5.00 12 and Under)
There is so much to enjoy in Downtown Monroe-West Monroe with fireworks visible from both sides of the river. If visiting Downtown West Monroe, make sure you visit the FREE Land of Lights walk-thru Christmas Light display that is always a big hit with families.
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18th Annual Bawcomville Redneck Christmas Parade
Smith St., West Monroe, LA
Date: Saturday, 12/07/24
Time: 10:00 am
Cost: FREE
The Bawcomville Redneck Christmas Parade is the 1st Saturday in December each year. Proceeds go to help provide Christmas to the local less fortunate children and families within the community. If you are interested in finding out more information on participating in the parade or ways to donate, please contact Pam Mann at (318)235-5026.
Santa's Christmas Village - Breakfast with Santa
Children's Museum of Northeast Louisiana
323 Walnut Street, Monroe, LA
Date: Saturday, 12/07/24
Time: 9:00 am -10:30 am
Cost: $15.00 per person 2 and Up (You must purchase your ticket(s) in advance).
Enjoy a holiday breakfast, visits with Santa, & all Christmas village activities.
Christmas on the Farm
Owl Center, 1523 Hwy. 563, Dubach, LA
Date: Saturday, 12/07/24
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Cost: Cash Only - $20.00 per vehicle
There will be pony rides, a petting zoo, a bouncy house, crafts, face painting, a rock wall, a zip line, games, and much MORE! Santa and Mrs. Claus will be visiting from the North Pole. There will be a $20/vehicle entry fee. (CASH ONLY) This covers everything except the ropes courses and food. Pony Rides: 10-minute rides on OWL’s horses. They will have hay rides transporting visitors all across the beautiful property. And the Maze is open all day to explore! Parking is free: shuttles/hay rides will run from the parking area to the conference center.
Choudrant Christmas Parade
Downtown Choudrant
Date: Saturday, 12/07/24
Time: 2:00 pm
Cost: FREE
Join the Village of Choudrant at this family-friendly Christmas parade.
Stelrington Christmas Parade
206 High Ave., Sterlington, La
Date: Saturday, 12/07/24
Time: 6:30 pm
Cost: FREE
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A Merry and Bright MSO
West Monroe Sports and Event Center, 875 Constitution Dr., West Monroe, LA
Date: Sunday, 12/08/24
Time: 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Cost: General Admission $50.00
Hear the Monroe Symphony Orchestra joined by the Delta Youth Chorale and Nutcracker Dancers from Missy Crain Ballet at the West Monroe Sports Complex in West Monroe.
This is a Pops Concert with tables and Bleacher Seating for General Admission.
Santa's Christmas Village - Gingerbread Workshop (20 Left)
Children's Museum of Northeast Louisiana
323 Walnut Street, Monroe, LA
Date: Sunday, 12/08/24
Time: 1:00 pm - 2:45 pm
Cost: $40.00 per person 2 and Up, $20.00 for Additional Gingerbread Houses
A gingerbread house to decorate and bring home, all the yummy supplies, and admission to Santa's Christmas Village for ONE PARENT AND ONE CHILD are included. Additional houses are available on the registration website for $20.00. PLEASE PURCHASE PRIOR TO THE EVENT. RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED; limited seating is available. Tickets are available online and over the phone at (318)361-9611.
Masur Museum Holiday Party
1400 S. Grand St., Monroe, LA
Date: Thursday, 12/12/24
Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Featuring our popular Raise the Roof Fundraiser! Area artists are creating a work of art using one of the original blue slate tiles from the museum’s roof. In 2020, a tornado hit the museum causing roof damage and not all the original tiles from the 1929 roof were able to be reused. We have saved these tiles and artists are creating art with them to help us with a fundraiser to benefit care of the museum’s permanent collection.
These unique tiles would be the perfect Christmas gift for any local art lover!
Wreaths Across America Ceremony - Hasley Cemetery
1500 Arkansas Road, West Monroe, LA
Date: 12/13/24
Time: 10:00 am
Cost: FREE to Attend
The City of West Monroe will host a wreath-laying ceremony at Hasley Cemetery as part of Wreaths Across America on Friday, December 13 at 10 a.m. at Hasley Cemetery. The ceremony will take place at the gazebo located on the grounds of Hasley Cemetery at 1500 Arkansas Road in West Monroe. Hasley Cemetery is an official Wreaths Across American location. The public is encouraged to sponsor a live wreath to place on the headstone of fallen service members laid to rest at the cemetery. More than 800 veterans are buried at the cemetery. Wreaths can be purchased for $17 each. The deadline to purchase a wreath is Tuesday, November 26.
Children's Lighted Bike Parade
Downtown West Monroe - Alley Park
Date: Friday, 12/13/24
Registration Begins: 5:30 pm
Parade Rolls: 6:30 pm
Cost: $5.00 per child (including Santa Photo Op)
Bikes, wagons, and battery-powered cars are welcome! Get creative, first place wins a new bike!
Pancakes, PJ's, and Polar Express
That Place Downtown, 207 N. Main St., Farmerville, LA
Date: Friday, 12/13/24
Time: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Cost: Kids $20.00, Adults $10.00
Enjoy pancakes and hot cocoa for supper as we watch Polar Express in our jammies! Bring a blankie! Kids must have adult supervision.
Please register at thatplacedowntown.com.
Santa's Christmas Village - Frozen Meet and Greet
Children's Museum of Northeast Louisiana
323 Walnut Street, Monroe, LA
Date: Saturday, 12/14/24
Time: 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Cost: $15.00 per person 2 and Up
Join Elsa & Anna for a special visit while dancing to their favorite tunes, and decorating special cookies and ornaments. All other Christmas Village activities are included with your admission. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED; Tickets Available Online Only.
Pet Photos with Santa at Biedenharn Museum and Gardens
2000 Riverside Dr., Monroe, LA (Riverside Gate)
Date: Saturday, 12/14/24
Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Cost: $15.00 per pet
(Rain or Shine) Brush that fur, trim those claws, and break out the outfits, Santa Paws is coming to town! All pets must be leashed or in carriers.
Calhoun Christmas Festival & Parade
189 Calhoun Loop Dr., Calhoun, LA (Park Grounds)
Date: Saturday, 12/14/24
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Parade: 11:00 am
Cost: FREE
Music, festive food, shopping, and crafts.
If you have questions they can be reached at calhouncivic@gmail.com.
Christmas Market on the Alley
Downtown West Monroe - Antique Alley
100-400 Blocks of Trenton Street, West Monroe, LA
Date: Saturday, 12/14/24
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm (Shopping)
Cost: FREE
Shops are open for extended hours so that you can get some of the coolest artisan items, enjoy live music, and get a bite at JAC's Craft Smokehouse or food trucks that will be on sight. Alert: Don't forget to stop by The Back Alley Market!
Christmas at Duck Commander
117 Kings Lane, West Monroe, LA
Date: Saturday, 12/14/24
Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Cost: FREE (Exclusive In-Store Sales)
Join us for Christmas at Duck Commander!
Santa and Mrs. Claus are visiting from 10 AM - 12 PM, perfect for photos with the kids!
Then, cozy up with hot cocoa and Kings Lane Coffee from 10 AM - 1 PM.
Don’t miss exclusive in-store sales and surprise visits from the cast. It's a holiday event you won’t want to miss!
Photos and Story Time with Santa at The Trove
2252 Tower Dr., Suite 103, Monroe, LA
Date: Saturday, 12/14/24
Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Cost: FREE
Visit with Santa and enjoy shopping from some of the most talented artists in our community.
Christmas Blues Spectacular featuring D.K. Harrell and Friends
Dixie Center for the Arts
212 N. Vienna St., Ruston, LA
Date: Saturday, 12/14/24
Time: 7:00 pm -9:00 pm
Cost: $25.00 Reserved Seating, $30.00 Day of Show (Students $10.00)
Join us for this benefit show for the Dixie as D.K. Harrell and Friends bring us a Christmas Blues Spectacular! This show is sure to make your Christmas seem a little less blue and more Merry and Bright. The stage will be filled with many North Louisiana Notables that you don't want to miss! D.K. Harrell is an emerging Blues artist from Ruston, Louisiana.
As a Blues artist, D. K. Harrell is dedicated to the preservation of the Traditional Blues created and performed by B.B. King, Little Milton, and other great Blues artists. D.K. is an artist who wants to bring his perspective on the Blues to the world with the message that younger generations have the blues too.
Jingle Bell Run presented by Scouting for American Louisiana Purchase Council
Forsythe Park 2401 Sycamore St., Monroe, LA
Date: Saturday, 12/14/24
Time: 8:00 am - 11:00 am
Cost: $30.00 - $60.00 Depending on Distance
The Monroe Jingle Bell Run half-marathon is back! This year, we will be offering both a half-marathon and 5K options with a 2-fold mission - the first is to encourage our community to embrace a more active lifestyle and the second is to support local Scouting programs. The race will begin and end in Forsythe Park. The Monroe Jingle Bell Run will raise funds to support local Scouts in Northeast & Central Louisiana including our programs for at-risk youth and scholarships to Camp T.L. James and Camp Attakapas. It will help ensure that EVERY youth has the opportunity to be part of a great organization that will develop our future leaders of tomorrow no matter what social background or economic status. Scouting is needed more today than ever before.
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Jungle Bells presented by Guerriero & Guerriero and LA Purchase Zoological Society
Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo
1405 Bernstein Park Road, Monroe, LA
Date: Saturday, 12/14/24
Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Admission Cost: FREE (Admission Sponsored by Guerriero & Guerriero)
Train Ride: $3.00 per person
Boat Ride: $5.00 per person
Pictures with Santa, Toys while supplies last, pony rides, arts and crafts, and more!
Reindeer Games Futsal Tournament
201 Bridge St., West Monroe, LA
Date: Saturday and Sunday, 12/14/24 and 12/15/24
Time: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Each Day
Cost: To get cost information and details you must register.
Santa in the Park at Kiroli (Facebook Page)
820 Kiroli Rd., West Monroe, LA
Date: Sunday, 12/15/24
Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Cost: $1.00 per person park admission
Come out for food trucks, vendors, live music, photos with Santa and other characters and more! Make sure you complete the Candy Cane Scavenger Hunt at Kiroli and then visit the Macaroni KID Monroe-West Monroe vendor booth to see what prize you won. The scavenger hunt will be available from December 1st - 15th to participate in the Santa in the Park Prize Table! The Candy Cane Scavenger Hunt will be available to be included in a drawing until January 31st, 2025.
Christmas Cookie Crawl
200 Mississippi Ave., Ruston, La
Date: Sunday, 12/15/24
Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Cost: $15.00 per person (Tickets go on sale 11/22/24)
Join us in Downtown Ruston for a delicious holiday tradition – the FIRST Downtown Ruston Cookie Crawl! From 1 to 4 PM, stroll through the beautifully decorated streets, collect up to 10 different cookies from local businesses, and enjoy festive fun for the whole family. (The variety of 20 different cookies is made with love from Uptown Downtown)
This ticketed event will be a great way to make memories in Downtown Ruston and give you an opportunity to get that last bit of shopping done!
With holiday music, The Gingerbread Man and Rudolph (Think about the fun photos), decorations, and a bustling community spirit, the Cookie Crawl is a sweet way to celebrate the season with friends and family. Tickets are limited, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this special holiday tradition!
You'll get your box and instructions at check-in at the Historic Fire Station. We'll be there beginning at 1 pm and will check in until 3 pm. Don't miss your window!
Pajama Jam at Bayou Bowl (Facebook Page)
100 Horseshoe Lake Rd., Monroe, LA
Date: Sunday, 12/15/24
Time: 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Cost: $15.00 per person
Join us for a cozy afternoon of Christmas fun! Slip into your favorite festive pajamas and step into a world of holiday cheer. Enjoy photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus, Christmas crafts, a hot cocoa bar, Christmas games & festive activities, and unlimited bowling. All ages are welcome!
Santa's Christmas Village - Cocoa with The Grinch
Children's Museum of Northeast Louisiana
323 Walnut Street, Monroe, LA
Date: Sunday, 12/15/24
Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Cost: $15.00 per person 2 and Up
Meet and Greet with the Grinch from 5:00 pm -7:00 pm! Hot Cocoa and all Christmas Village activities are included in admission. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED; Tickets Available Online Only.
Coca-Cola Christmas Truck Night
2000 Riverside Dr., Monroe, LA
Date: Wednesday, 12/18/24
Time: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Cost: FREE
The Grand Finale of Christmas at the Biedenharn - share the spirit of Christmas with friends and family with the lights of the iconic Christmas Coke Truck. Enjoy beautiful décor, magical lights, refreshments, food trucks, a model Christmas train, Photos with Santa and the Coke Polar Bear, and more!
Ruston Rudolph Run 5K
Ruston Sports Complex, 2001 Champions Way, Ruston, LA
Date: Thursday, 12/19/24
Time: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Cost: $25.00 per runner, $30.00 after 11/14/24
Get ready for another fun holiday event with this race at the Ruston Sports Complex. The Ruston Rudolph 5k Race will begin in the parking lot to the left of the indoor facility and the course will run around the entire complex going around different sports complexes/fields with Christmas cheer all along the way! All ages can register for the 5K. Registration for the race is $25 and includes a T-shirt. After the race, enjoy ice skating, a Christmas concert, and more. Click HERE to register for the race.
FREE Holiday Concert featuring Russ-Town Band
Dixie Center for the Arts
212 N. Vienna St., Ruston, LA
Date: Thursday, 12/19/24
Time: 7:00 pm -9:00 pm
Cost: FREE
Northeast Louisiana Christmas Celebration at First West
301 Mill St., West Monroe, LA
Dates: Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12/20-12/22/24
Doors Open at 5:00 pm Each Day
Cost: $10.00 per person
Questions are welcome regarding the NELA Christmas Celebration and First West. You may call us anytime at (318) 322-5104 or email us at events@firstwest.cc.
Twas the Night Before a Cajun Christmas presented by Louisiana Delta Ballet
Jack Howard Theatre 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expy., Monroe, LA
Date: Friday, 12/20/24
Time: 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Cost: $35.00 - $50.00 per person
The ballet begins in Santa’s workshop with his busy elves preparing for Christmas. Santa is presented with a special gift at midnight; a new “motorized” sleigh! The reindeer are excited to spend Christmas Eve with their families this year! Santa takes off and is just about finished with his Christmas Eve deliveries when he flies over New Orleans and lands in Louisiana Swamp Land. Little does he know that he is being watched by a devious Swamp Witch named Marie Laveau. She steals his new sleigh thinking it is a magic sleigh and Santa finds himself stranded in the swamp. As the story unfolds, Santa discovers many friends that help him finish his deliveries. Alligators “tango” their way into Santa’s heart, Lightning Bugs lead Santa to the Swamp Witch, Moby the crawfish gathers his friends to help, as the beautiful moon beams shine brightly in the night. In the end, the Swamp Witch has a change of heart when Santa explains THE REAL MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS IS THROUGH FAITH, BELIEVING, LOVE, AND FRIENDSHIP. The performance includes state-of-the-art sets and scenery and breathtaking special effects that make this show a next level event.
Christmas at the Complex
Ruston Sports Complex, 2001 Champions Way, Ruston, LA
Date: Friday and Saturday, 12/20/24 and 12/21/24
Time: Friday (TBA)
Get ready for another fun holiday event with Christmas at the Complex. The Ruston Sports Complex will host these events: Friday, December 20th will be the holiday movie and ice skating at the Ruston Sports Complex (indoor facility). Saturday, December 21st they will have Cookies and Cocoa with Santa from 9:00 am to 11:00 am, as well as ice skating from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm (skates will be provided). Both of these events are free to the public.
Holiday Outdoor Movie
Downtown West Monroe - Alley Park
250 Trenton Street, West Monroe, LA
Date: 12/20/24
Time: 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Cost: FREE
Watch a favorite Christmas movie under the lights on Antique Alley! Free for everyone! Bring a chair and blanket.
Ruston Christmas Parade
Downtown Ruston
Date: Friday, 12/20/24
Time: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Cost: FREE
Enjoy the Ruston Christmas Parade! What is a more magical way to spend a holiday evening than with a parade full of Christmas lights and holiday cheer? So gather your family and friends to come experience the festivities. The parade route begins at the Ruston High School parking lot, travels to Alabama Ave., then to Monroe St., then to the Service Rd. South back down James St., ending at the Ruston High School parking lot.
CANCELLED Santa's Christmas Village - Silent Disco Holiday Edition!
Children's Museum of Northeast Louisiana
323 Walnut Street, Monroe, LA
Date: Sunday, 12/21/24
Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Cost: $15.00 per person 2 and Up
The whole family can dance to familiar Christmas tunes at our Silent Disco - Holiday Edition. Our friends at Bayou Beats will be here to play the hits!
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Louisiana Fun!
Explore Louisiana - Tournament of Roses Parade
It's no secret that parades are a staple in Louisiana. On January 1, 2025, we're bringing our signature flair to California for the 136th Tournament of Roses Parade. The theme for this year's event is “Best Day Ever!”
The parade features three types of entries: floral-decorated floats, equestrian units, and marching bands. The Tournament of Roses features three types of entries: floral-decorated floats, equestrian units, and marching bands. Though the floats are professionally designed, they are decorated by volunteers days before the parade.
98th Annual Natchitoches Festival of Lights
781 Front Street, Natchitoches, LA
Dates: Saturdays - 11/23/24 - 1/06/24
Time: Dusk
Cost: $10, 6 and Under Free
The Christmas Season begins on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and concludes on January 6th the Epiphany. Over 300,000 lights and 100-plus set pieces are on display every night at dusk. Every Saturday there is live music, kids activities, fireworks, and much more! You also won't want to miss their Annual Festival on Saturday, 11/23/24 which includes a drone show.
SEE FULL EVENT SCHEDULE FESTIVAL TICKET AND COOKIES WITH SANTA
Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights
See this awesome interactive map to show you the trail of holiday lights! There are so many beautiful places to visit in Louisiana and this could make for an awesome and unforgettable family trip during Winter break!
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At Home Holiday Fun!
The website officially opens on December 1, 2024! NORADTracksSanta is an annual Christmas -themed program in which North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) simulates the tracking of Santa Claus, who is said to leave the North Pole to travel around the world on his mission to deliver presents to children every year on Christmas Eve.
There are also fun holiday games your kids will enjoy, check them out!
Santa Runner
Santa Claus Jump
Santa Hop!
Gift Craft (4 Games)
Letter Postmarked from the North Pole!
These are the steps to make the magic happen:
- Have the child write a letter to Santa and place it in an envelope addressed to: Santa Claus, North Pole.
- Write a personalized response to the child's letter and sign it "From Santa."
- Insert both letters into an envelope and address it to the child.
- Add the return address: SANTA, NORTH POLE, to the envelope.
- Ensure a First-Class Mail stamp is affixed to the envelope.
- Place the complete envelope into a larger envelope, with appropriate postage, and address it to:
NORTH POLE POSTMARK
POSTMASTER
4141 POSTMARK DR
ANCHORAGE AK 99530-9998
The United States Post Office recommends that you send your letters by December 10. Santa’s helpers in Anchorage, AK, will take care of the rest!
Macaroni KID Monroe-West Monroe publishes time-saving guides to help you connect to the community. We publish individual events in our Event Calendar and for special seasonal events, we publish guides making it easier to plan your family fun! From the spook-tacular fun at Fall Festivals and Halloween to the festive joy of Christmas, the adventurous spirit of Summer Camps, and even a Kid's Party Guide, we've got it all covered.
No more endless searching—our guides make it a breeze to discover and plan all the exciting happenings in our community. So grab a cup of cocoa, sit back, and let Macaroni KID Monroe-West Monroe connect you to the best family fun around. Happy holidays and happy planning! (SEE GUIDES)
