SUNDAY | SEPTEMBER 8 | 2024
The Northshore: An Easy Escape Guide to Louisiana’s Best Fall Festivals
Lafourche Parish Cajun Celebrations
Embracing Fall in Lafayette
Away Game Travel Tips for Tigers and Saints Fans
Trails
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Baton Rouge blends FOOTBALL FEVER with music, culture and festivals for unforgettable fall weekends
By Amanda McElfresh amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
This article is brought to you by Visit Baton Rouge.
There’s no place like Baton Rouge on football gamedays in the fall. The LSU Tigers and Southern Jaguars attract thousands of fans throughout the season who are ready to cheer their teams to victory. We all know about tailgating, but Louisiana’s Capital City offers plenty of other activities to extend your football weekend into an even more memorable experience.
Start things off on Thursday Night with Rock N Rowe, live music in South Baton Rouge’s popular Perkins Rowe shopping district. The concert series kicks off on Sept. 5 with the Coverly Brothers and runs through Oct. 24.
Spend your Friday with friends trying your hand at a cooking class with Red Stick
Spice, a cocktail class at Tipsy Librarian or a candle-making experience at The Bougie Bar. If the group would prefer to take it easy, enjoy the fall weather with a great meal and a drink on the Chimes’ rooftop, at Mid City Beer Garden or on the beautiful patio at BLDG 5.
Spend Friday night in downtown Baton Rouge with Live After Five, the city’s largest and longest-running free concert series. This year’s scheduled fall lineup is as follows:
• Sept. 13: The Peyton Falgoust Band (high-energy Southern rock and country)
• Sept. 20: Dominick Michael (a unique take on country, with elements of rock and blues)
• Sept. 27: George Porter Jr. & Runnin’ Pardners (funk and groove from a New Orleans legend)
• Oct. 11: Southern Avenue featuring The Chloe Marie Band (Grammynominated Memphis soul plus a local rising star)
• Oct. 18: Lil’ Nathan & The Zydeco Big Timers (dance along to Louisiana’s signature sound)
• Oct. 25: Southdown Souls featuring Chris LeBlanc (blues, rock and soul)
Across town, more free live music can be found at the Historic Scotlandville Plaza with the Levitt AMP Series featuring new bands every Friday evening from Sept. 27Oct. 25.
Whether your team wins or loses on Saturday, Sunday brunch in Baton Rouge is always a win. Popular brunch spots include Leola’s, Elsie’s Plate & Pie, Mason’s Grill and Overpass Merchant.
A stop at one of Baton Rouge’s more than 20 museums is a great way to spend Sunday afternoon. The Capitol Park Museum provides a comprehensive overview of Louisiana history, covering everything from its native inhabitants to its musical heritage and colorful political history. The open-air LSU Rural Life Museum showcases more than 30 historic buildings and a massive collection of Louisiana architecture. Other popular picks include the Louisiana Art & Science Museum, the Knock Knock Children’s Museum and the Baton Rouge African American Museum.
Whether you’re a fan of football, history, dining – or a little bit of everything – you’re sure to find lots to do in Baton Rouge this fall. Go to www.visitbatonrouge.com for more ideas and to plan your trip today.
Louisiana’s
Premier Boudin and Bacon Event | Oct.19
The Boudin Cookoff and Acadiana Bacon Fest join forces to bring together culinary artists from Louisiana and Texas at Parc International in downtown Lafayette. It’s a chance to sample everything from bacon-wrapped boudin balls to cheesy bacon grits to boudin pie and everything in between. Family fun also abounds with free ice cream sandwiches, face painting and kids’ games.
Your ultimate guide for embracing fall in Lafayette
By Amanda McElfresh amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
This article is brought to you by
Lafayette Travel.
Lafayette is a destination worth visiting any time of the year, but the fall is especially beautiful in Cajun and Creole Country. The season is also filled with festivals that celebrate everything from black pot cooking to local boudin, brews and haunts. The biggest event is Festivals Acadiens et Créoles, where local culture shines with three days full of immersive music, dancing, art and food.
Need even more inspiration to visit Lafayette this fall? Check out some top event picks and plan your getaway to the Happiest City in America.
Downtown Rising | Sept. 27
This event returns to Parc International with a celebration of Acadiana’s own Marc Broussard as he marks the 20th anniversary of his debut album, “Carencro.” The lineup includes North Mississippi Allstars, Lost Bayou Ramblers, DJ Digital and DJ RV. Stay late for a secret Downtown Rising After Party featuring The Iceman Special presented by Fete du Void.
Festivals
Acadiens et Créoles | Oct. 11-13
One of the Louisiana’s largest free public events celebrates its 50th anniversary in Girard Park with the ceremonial cutting of the boudin at 5 p.m. Oct. 11. The rest of the weekend will be filled with live music on six stages, the Bayou Food Festival, Louisiana Craft Fair, children’s activities, jam sessions and more.
Gulf
Brew | Oct. 19
This longstanding fundraiser for the Acadiana Center for the Arts transforms downtown Lafayette into a beer-centric street festival. With more than 200 different beers to sample, vendors selected by the Louisiana Crafts Guild, live music, a Family Fun Zone and VIP experiences, there’s something for everyone. Proceeds support Arts in Education programming for local public school students.
South Louisiana Black Pot Festival & Cookoff | Oct. 25-26
Now in its 18th year, this event pays homage to the traditional cast iron black pot cooking method. The aromas draw in thousands of people every year who are ready to sample gravy, gumbo, cracklins, jambalaya and desserts prepared the old-fashioned way. Want to put your culinary skills to the test? Anyone from amateurs to professionals can enter the cookoff for a chance at prizes and bragging rights.
Southern Screen Festival | Nov. 21-24
This festival is a platform for emerging and established storytellers to sharpen their skills, showcase their craft and share their creativity. The event regularly attracts entertainment lovers and creators from around the world to film screenings, workshops, panels and live performances that leave attendees educated and inspired.
Fa ll into as wa mp adventure, aFre nc h co nver sat io n, or acoz yb ed after di nner and danci ng .Nom at te rw hat yo ud oi nLafayet te , we promi se yo u’ll fa ll in love wi th it al l, y’al l.
The Northshore offers relaxed atmosphere, outdoor adventures and waterfront dining in Louisiana’s...
By Amanda McElfresh amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
This article is brought to you by Visit The Northshore
The Northshore is just an hour from New Orleans, Baton Rouge and the Mississippi Gulf Coast, but its relaxed vibe is unique to St. Tammany Parish.
“Visitors should experience multiple towns along the Northshore because each one has something special to offer,” said Katie Guasco, chief marketing officer for Visit The Northshore. “We see a lot of people traveling between Covington and Slidell, or between Slidell and Mandeville. Visitors love to explore because they are in a vacation mindset and are ready for that easy escape that we offer. You can be on a swamp tour in the morning and end the day eating dinner in a local restaurant while watching the sunset.”
Sarah Hill, marketing manager for Visit The Northshore, said outdoor dining is one of visitors’ favorite fall activities. Cool weather and scenic views of local waterways create the perfect atmosphere for eating al fresco any time of the day or night. Several restaurants embrace the opportunity to give diners a relaxed experience, setting up everything from sunny patios to sophisticated lounge settings.
EasyEscape
“There’s a crispness in the air that makes waterfront dining a really wonderful experience,” she said. “It’s really great to see local restaurants take advantage of that, whether they’re serving gourmet dishes, comfort food or the Cajun delicacies that we are known for here.”
3, 10, 17, 24 and 31
In between restaurant stops, visitors to the Northshore can spend time at any of the museums and historical sites that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Popular options include the Slidell Museum and Mardi Gras Museum, Slidell Historic Antique District, Maritime Museum Louisiana, Madisonville Museum, Historic Downtown Covington, and more.
“Most of our museums are very immersive and interactive, which makes them interesting for all ages,” Guasco said. “We also have a lot of antique shopping districts in our communities, so people can visit those stores and find one-of-a-kind gifts.”
And, since the fall and winter can be mild along the Northshore, it can be a great time to get outdoors. Hill noted that places like Fontainebleau State Park, The Tammany Trace, Fairview-Riverside State Park
and others continually rate high among visitors for their natural beauty and abundant opportunities for activities like biking, hiking, fishing and birdwatching, or for just disconnecting from the world.
“We have a lot of people who enjoy our parks, and we still see our swamp tours fill up in the fall and winter,” Hill said. “We’ve also seen more businesses offering leisure cruising along the waterways in pontoon boats, as well as renting kayaks to people who prefer to go out on their own. The trees, water and air quality are really perfect in the fall.”
To learn more, go to www.visitthenorthshore. com for a full list of events and attractions, plus access to a podcast, e-newsletter, visitor guide and more.
Restaurant options are endless and delicious on the Northshore, a culinarily diverse area rich in heritage and in flavor.
Rockin’ The Rails Concerts September 26, October
Built in 1895, The Dew Drop in Mandeville is the oldest unaltered Jazz Social Hall in the world.
Fall Festivals
By Amanda McElfresh amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
This article is brought to you by Visit The Northshore
The festival season kicks into high gear in St. Tammany Parish once the weather cools down! Here are some of the top picks for upcoming events that celebrate the food, culture and people of the region.
St. Tammany Parish Fair | Oct. 2-6
Celebrate 115 years of culture on the St. Tammany Parish Fairgrounds in Covington. This fair features a rodeo, pageants, talent showcases, agricultural and horticultural exhibits, music, food, carnival rides and more.
Bluesberry
Music & Art Festival | Oct. 5
This celebration of the arts at Bogue Falaya Park in Covington returns for its fifth year. Activities include live art demonstrations, interactive painting experience, a children’s village, food truck roundup, spirits tent and more. Scheduled musical performance include Josh Garrett, Gary Cain, Laurie Movan, Ally Venable Band, Julian Primeaux, Jourdan Blue and more.
Abita Fall Fest | Oct. 11-12
Located at the Abita Springs Trailhead Park, this nonprofit event celebrates the Abita Springs community with live music on three stages, a kids’ zone, arts and crafts area, green screen photo booth, virtual reality experiences and more. The festival is open to people of all ages. Get the party started early with Fall Fest After Dark on Oct. 11 with live music, food and drinks.
Northshore
Beer Festival | Oct. 13
Experience an array of craft beers from local breweries, plus tasty dishes from food trucks, at the first edition of this festival at the Mandeville Trailhead. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or just someone who likes to relax with a few cold ones on the weekend, there will be something for everyone ages 21 and up.
Madisonville Wooden Boat Festival |
Oct. 19-20
Presented by Maritime Museum Louisiana, this festival on the Tchefuncte River attracts classic boats, spectator boats and wooden boat enthusiasts. Individuals and teams can test their creativity and piloting skills during The Quick ‘n Dirty Boat Building Contest and Parade on Sunday. Northshore Robotics will be on hand to host demonstrations at Madisonville Ball Park. Other events will include painting, a pumpkin patch, live music and more.
Covington Three Rivers Arts Festival
| Nov. 9-10
As one of the largest juried art festivals in the region, this event brings art lovers to downtown Covington for two full days of shopping and entertainment. Stroll the Cultural Arts District and shop from more than 200 artist tents along Columbia Street. A tented food court and local restaurants provide plenty of dining options when you’re ready for a break. Other activities include a Children’s Village, live artist exhibitions, student art competition and more.
Olde Towne Slidell
Antique Fair | Oct. 26-27
More than 200 dealers and vendors will be set up in Slidell’s historic district with antique furniture, stained glass, artwork, vintage jewelry and clothing, collectibles and more. Find a one-of-a-kind item for yourself or your home, or get a head start on holiday shopping with gifts that can’t be found anywhere else.
events
more details and a complete list of fall activities.
Annual WOODEN BOAT FESTIVAL in Madisonville October 19 & 20
Discover great fall hiking on
ICONIC TRAILS
across the Western United States
By Amanda McElfresh amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
The western part of the country is home to some of the most iconic and diverse hiking destinations, offering trails that range from towering mountains and vast deserts to coastal paths and lush forests. Here are some of the best places for a fall hiking trip.
21Great Hikes
Grand Teton National Park | Wyoming
The Teton Range provides a striking backdrop for some of the best hikes in the country. Cascade Canyon offers stunning views of jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and wildlife, while Paintbrush Divide is a challenging route with breathtaking scenery.
Lake Tahoe | California/Nevada
Straddling the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe offers stunning high-altitude hikes. The Mount Tallac Trail provides incredible views of the lake, while the Rubicon Trail hugs the shoreline for picturesque water and mountain views.
Redwood National and State Parks | California
These parks are famous for their towering ancient redwoods. The Tall Trees Grove Trail takes you through a forest of some of the world’s tallest trees, while Fern Canyon features lush greenery and dripping moss-covered walls.
The trail to Angel’s Landing Zion National Park
Zion National Park | Utah
Zion is known for its dramatic red rock formations and deep canyons. The Angels Landing hike is one of the most thrilling in the country, with its narrow ridge and steep drop-offs, while The Narrows involves hiking through the Virgin River within a stunning slot canyon.
Sedona | Arizona
Known for its striking red rock formations, Sedona is a hiker’s paradise. The Cathedral Rock hike offers a steep but rewarding climb with panoramic views, while Devil’s Bridge provides a thrilling viewpoint over a natural sandstone arch.
Yosemite National Park | California
Famous for its massive granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias, Yosemite offers some of the best hiking in the country. The Mist Trail is a popular hike that leads to Vernal and Nevada Falls, while the challenging Half Dome hike offers panoramic views from its iconic summit.
Mount Rainier National Park | Washington
Dominated by the 14,411-foot Mount Rainier, this park features old-growth forests, meadows full of wildflowers, and expansive glacier views. The Skyline Trail offers stunning vistas of Rainier, while the Wonderland Trail is a multi-day hike circling the entire mountain.
Olympic National Park | Washington
Olympic National Park offers diverse ecosystems, from rugged coastlines to dense temperate rainforests and alpine peaks. The Hoh River Trail meanders through one of the largest temperate rainforests in the U.S., and Hurricane Ridge provides alpine views with accessible trails.
Glacier National Park | Montana
Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park is home to rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. The Highline Trail provides breathtaking views of the Continental Divide, while the Grinnell Glacier hike offers up-close glacier views.
Rocky Mountain National Park | Colorado
Located in the heart of the Rockies, this park is a haven for hikers. Longs Peak is a challenging 14,000-foot summit, while the Bear Lake Loop and Emerald Lake hikes are family-friendly options offering stunning alpine scenery.
View of Vernal Falls from the Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park
Bear Lake Loop
Rocky Mountain
National Park
Colorado
to some of Louisiana’s BEST ... Your guide
Fall Festivals
By Amanda McElfresh amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
Each year, music, food, history and holidays inspire hundreds of festivals and events throughout Louisiana. Whether you’re looking for a big party with internationally-recognized performers, a family-friendly weekend that will keep the kids busy, or a low-key event that honors artists and culture, there’s something happening in Louisiana for you. The fall is one of the most popular seasons for festivals in the state, with cooler weather and sunny skies prevailing. Here are some favorites:
26th Annual Haynesville Butterfly Festival
Sept. 14 | 1563 Fairgrounds Drive, Haynesville
Located at the Claiborne Parish Fair Complex, this festival will feature butterfly exhibits, educational workshops, a craft fair, butterfly parade and more. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and avid gardeners. More info: Haynesvillela.org
Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival
Sept. 21-29 | 102 West Main Street, New Iberia
One of Louisiana’s most iconic and bountiful crops is celebrated in the heart of Acadiana with a street fair, blessing of the crop, parades, photo and art exhibits, sugar cookery and much more. More info: hisugar.org
NOLA Coffee Festival
Sept. 27-28 | 600 Convention Center Blvd., New Orleans
Coffee professionals and foodies gather for the largest coffee event in the Deep South. More than 20 Louisiana roasters will sample their best offerings, and experts will lead more than 60 hours of education and demonstrations. Industry leaders will demonstrate new equipment and recipes for coffeeinfused beverages. More info: www.nolacoffeefestival.com
Red River Revel
Sept. 28-Oct.6 | 101 Crockett Street, Shreveport
Performances from national and regional musical artists on multiple stages highlight this festival in downtown Shreveport. It’s also a magnet for talented visual artists who are eager to showcase their work and engage people in their craftsmanship. More info: redriverrevel.com
Louisiana Cattle Festival
Oct. 4-6 | Concord Street, Abbeville
The 74th edition of this event honors all aspects of the state’s cattle industry, including beef and dairy productors, consumers and more. Head to Vermilion Parish near the Louisiana coast for three days of family-friendly music, arts and crafts, a rib-eating contest and other fun. More info: louisianacattlefestival@gmail.com
St. Tammany Parish Fair
Oct. 2-6 | 1304 North Columbia Street, Covington
Since 1910, this fair has been a celebration of community along the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain. Events include pageants, a rodeo, essay and poster contests, kids’ day, gospel night, parade, livestock competitions, carnival rides and more. More info: st.tammanyparishfair@yahoo.com
Blues, Brews and BBQ
Oct. 5 | 5124 East Judge Perez Drive, Violet
This family-friendly event with free admission features blues music, refreshing beverages and delicious barbecue. All proceeds benefit the Community Center of St. Bernard. Scheduled performers include Bruce “Sunpie” Barnes, Johnny Mastro, Jerry Duggar and Little Freddie King. More info: communitycenterstb@gmail.com
Abita Fall Fest
Oct. 11-12 | 22044 Main Street, Abita Springs
Held at the Abita Springs Trailhead Park, this nonprofit event celebrates its community with live music on three stages, a Fall Fest After Dark the night before, food and drink, a kids zone, arts and crafts, a green screen photo booth, VR experiences and more. More info: www.abitafallfest.com
Old Schoolhouse Semi-Annual
Antique Fair and Yard Sale
Oct. 11-13 | 123 Church Street, Washington
This sale takes place at a favorite stop for experienced antique collectors and features more than 200 vendors with bargains on vintage items. The antique mall itself was built in 1934 and features 40,000 square feet of historic merchandise as well as a café serving 1950s-style burgers, sandwiches and more. More info: oldschoolhouseantiquemall.com
Sweet Dough Pie Festival
Oct. 12 | 174 Church Street, Grand Coteau
This event honors the Cajun sweet dough pie, an only-inLouisiana dessert. Take a stroll through historic Grand Coteau and sample creations from trained chefs and home cooks alike. A large variety of pies are available, including fig, custard, lemon, blackberry and more. Over 100 vendors will also be on hand with art, flowers, custom furniture, décor and more. More info: cajuntravel.com/events/sweet-dough-pie-festival/
Rougarou Fest
Oct. 18-20 | 86 Valhi Blvd., Houma
This family-friendly festival with a spooky flair celebrates the rich folklore from the bayous of Southeast Louisiana with live music, children’s activities, Cajun food, a parade and more. Proceeds benefit the South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center. The event has been named a Top Costume Party in the nation and earned numerous statewide accolades. More info: rougaroufest.org
NOLA Funk Fest
Oct. 18-20 | 400 Esplanade Avenue, New Orleans
This event is a preview of The Louisiana Music & Heritage Experience, a forthcoming museum dedicated to the state’s rich musical history. Building on the success of the first year, NOLA Funk Fest 2024 will have another round of exciting artists, plus immersive cultural experience and a brand new exhibit on Louisiana Blues. More info: nolafunkfest.com
8th Annual A Taste of the Deep South Festival
Oct. 19 | 222 North Boulevard, Baton Rouge
Music is the highlight here, with an emphasis on artists from new and world genres, as well as a busking stage. Scheduled performers including Henry Turner Jr. & Flavor, Listening Room All-Stars and comedian Eddie “Cool” Deemer. There will also be a food court with Southern and international favorites. Special VIP tickets are available. More info: www.htjday.com
Chennault Fest
Oct. 25-27 | 701 Kansas Lane, Monroe
The skies of Monroe will come alive with color and excitement as this year’s spectacular lineup soars above the city. Organized by the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum, the festivals lets attendees marvel at numerous hot air balloons that dot the landscape, creating thrills and fun for all ages. More info: www.chennaultfest.com
State Fair of Louisiana
Oct. 30-Nov. 17 | 3701 Hudson Ave., Shreveport
This has been one of the state’s signature events since 1906, bringing together education and entertainment for the whole family. Explore agriculture exhibits, enjoy free attractions and live music, take a spin on the carnival rides, sample delicious foods and watch the state’s largest livestock show and the LRCA Finals Rodeo. More info: www.statefairoflouisiana.com
fans in away game cities across the country and for Saints Tigers TRAVEL TIPS
By Amanda McElfresh amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
If you plan to travel to cheer on LSU or the Saints this season, it’s a great opportunity to turn it into a weekend trip. Here are some picks for places to go before and after the games.
Cowboys | Sunday, September 15
DALLAS, TX
Gamecocks | Saturday, September 14
COLUMBIA, SC
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden earns high marks for its range of animals and interactive exhibits. The South Carolina State Museum features exhibits on history, art and science, plus a planetarium and observatory. Relax in Five Points, a historic neighborhood and entertainment district with shops, dining and nightlife.
Razorbacks | Saturday, October 18
FAYETTEVILLE, AR
Dickson Street is the entertainment hub, with restaurants, bars and live music. For something more low-key, Lake Fayetteville Park has kayaking, biking, hiking and disc golf. The Arkansas Air and Military Museum showcases vintage aircraft, aviation memorabilia and military vehicles.
Texas A&M | Saturday, October 26
BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION, TX
Century Square pulses with shops, restaurants, hotels and entertainment. The Museum of the American GI preserves the experiences of soldiers with military vehicles, uniforms and reenactments. Aggieland Safari lets visitors interact with animals from around the world.
Gators | Saturday, November 16
GAINESVILLE, FL
The Florida Museum of Natural History features exhibits on fossils, the state’s ecosystems and the popular Butterfly Rainforest. Head downtown for dining, shopping, art galleries or a show at the Hippodrome Theatre. Bring the kids to the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention for hands-on projects.
The museum’s internationally acclaimed fossil collections encapsulate the last 65 million years of Earth’s history
The Dallas Arts District is home to major cultural institutions, museums and performance venues. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza offers exhibits on the life and presidency of John F. Kennedy, including the events surrounding his assassination. Reunion Tower is an iconic landmark with a 360-degree observation deck and a rotating restaurant.
Falcons | Sunday, September 29 ATLANTA, GA
The Georgia Aquarium is one of the world’s largest, featuring a wide range of marine life. World of Coca-Cola is dedicated to the popular drink, with a tasting room and memorabilia. Originally built in the mid-1990s, Centennial Olympic Park remains a landmark with the Fountain of Rings and a large lawn.
Chiefs | Monday, October 7
KANSAS CITY, MO
Popular barbecue spots include Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque, Gates Bar-B-Q and Jack Stack Barbecue. Other notable dining spots include Lidia’s Kansas City, an Italian restaurant led by chef Lidia Bastianich; Rye, with Southern-inspired comfort food with a modern twist; and Sylas and Maddy’s, a dessert spot known for homemade ice cream and unique flavors.
Chargers | Sunday, October 27 LOS ANGELES, CA
Stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame to find your favorite performers, then enjoy the amusement park and beach at Santa Monica Pier. Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland Resort are classic theme park destinations for the family.
Panthers | Sunday, November 3
CHARLOTTE, NC
The NASCAR Hall of Fame is a must-visit for racing enthusiasts with interactive exhibits and a racing simulator. Carowinds offers rides and family-friendly attractions. Adventure at the U.S. National Whitewater Center, with rafting, kayaking, ziplining, rock climbing and mountain biking.
Giants | Sunday, December 8 NEW YORK, NY
The Saints/Giants game is technically in New Jersey, but just minutes from the city that never sleeps. Visit iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building and Central Park. Take in culture at the Museum of Modern Art, Metropolitan Museum of Art or Guggenheim Museum. Catch a Broadway show or performance at the Lincoln Center.
Packers | Monday, December 23
GREEN BAY, WI
The Neville Public Museum has exhibits on the region. The Green Bay Distillery offers tours and tastings of handcrafted spirits. The Automobile Gallery features a classic and antique vehicles.
Buccaneers | TBD
TAMPA BAY,
FL
Historic Ybor City is known for its Cuban heritage, vibrant nightlife and traditional cuisine. Busch Gardens is popular for its roller coasters and lush landscape. Sample local dining at Sparkman Wharf, Hyde Park Village or Armature Works.
Saints Tigers
Dealey Plaza – the location of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963.
Spend football weekends at with watch parties, wagers... and tailgate feasts
By Amanda McElfresh amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
This article is brought to you by The Queen.
Football is a huge part of the local culture, with many people making party plans, wardrobe choices and cooking decisions based on the games of the week. The Queen Baton Rouge embraces this, with numerous football-related activities scheduled throughout 2024.
The DraftKings Sportsbook at The Queen is a stateof-the-art gaming destination with a contemporary design, full bar and the latest sports wagering technology via 20 kiosks and four betting windows. Sports bettors can make their selections at the sportsbook, then settle in to the lounge-style seating to watch games on a 28-foot video wall and oversized high-definition TVs. Just a few steps away is 1717 KITCHEN + COCKTAILS, with over 40 televisions that will air live games. Abundant seating options and a
TheQueen
steady stream of appetizers, entrees and drink specials make the restaurant another great place spend college gamedays among fellow fans.
The Queen will have Parlay Paydays this season. Guests will earn entries in a weekly drawing by making a qualifying parlay bet of two legs or more for a minimum $25 wager at the DraftKings Sportsbook. Drawings will occur each Monday, starting Sept. 9, in conjunction with the start of the night’s first Monday Night Football game. Drawings will take place at the end of each quarter, with 16 total entries drawn each week. Winners will receive The Queen promo chips, ranging in value from $100 to $250 depending on which quarter the entries are selected.
The Queen will also host notable Louisiana sports commentators during on-site visits. Radio show and podcast hosts T-Bob and Hester will host NFL watch parties at 1717 KITCHEN + COCKTAILS for the Ravens at Chiefs (Sept. 5), Commanders at Bengals (Sept. 23), Saints at Chiefs (Oct. 7) and Bengals at
Ravens (Nov. 7). In addition, neworleans.football will bring its podcast to The Queen on Sept. 10, with Nick Underhill and Mike Triplett recapping the Saints’ season opener against the Carolina Panthers. The show will be filmed live at 1717.
And, since it’s impossible to watch football without snacks and beverages, The Queen will have food and drink specials throughout the season, including $3 drafts on over 15 varieties all day, every day; plus deals on buckets of major domestics and High Noon Seltzers. Gameday platters featuring nachos, wings and sliders for $25 will be available all day Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, and beginning at 4 p.m. Thursdays and Mondays. There will be tailgate brunches from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, with items such as chili cheese fries, chicken and waffles, carnitas mac-and-cheese, breakfast flatbreads and BYO Blood Marys.
Visit www.thequeenbr.com to learn more.
YOUR FOOTBALL HEADQUARTERS!
Fall in Lafourche Parish: A Cajun celebration of culture, community and culinary delights
By Amanda McElfresh amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
This article is brought to you by Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Tourism.
The fall season is a favorite of Louisiana locals and tourists alike, in part because of the scenic beauty and the turning of the cypress trees in the cooler months. Bayous and swamps reflect the changing of the season, while pleasant temperatures and low humidity make for perfect outdoor conditions.
That authentically Cajun backdrop, infused with hospitality and heritage, makes Lafourche Parish an ideal fall travel destination. In fact, it’s one of the parish’s busiest times of the year, with festivals almost every weekend along the bayou.
“All of the festivals and events here focus on showcasing Cajun culture, our way of life, our food and our joie de vivre,” said Cody Gray, president and CEO of Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Tourism. “You’ll be dancing and sharing a meal before you know it. The atmosphere is very peoplebased and very community-based.”
Some of 2024’s most anticipated fall festivals in Lafourche Parish include:
C.O.Y.C. Hurricane Festival
Sept. 27-29 | Cut Off
This longstanding event features rides, live local musicians, crafts, a live auction and family activities. Delicious food is also a trademark, including steak pinot, pistolettes, fried seafood, gumbo and more.
La Fete Des Vieux Temps
Oct. 4-6 | Raceland
Also known as The Festival of Old Times, this local favorite showcases the region’s true heritage in a celebratory atmosphere. This year, there’s particular excitement for the return of the pirogue races.
Louisiana Gumbo Festival
Oct. 11-13 | Chackbay
Volunteers cook nearly 500 gallons from scratch in the Gumbo Capital of Louisiana, so there’s no excuse to leave hungry. Proceeds support the Chackbay Volunteer Fire Department.
Acadia Music Fest
Oct. 19 | Thibodaux
Nelly headlines the 2024 edition of this longstanding favorite. Other artists scheduled include Cowboy Mouth, Joe Haydel, Icarus Jones, The Premier Soul Band, DJ Spin, Austin Williams and Little John and The Dirty Clarks.
Others on the schedule include French Food Festival (Oct. 25-27, Larose), BBQ and Bourbon on the Bayou Festival (Nov. 2, Thibodaux),Big Boy’s Main Street Cookoff (Nov. 8, Thibodaux), and Thibodeauxville Fall Festival (Nov. 9, Thibodaux).
If your prefer to spend time in nature, there are numerous places to get outdoors in Lafourche Parish. Geaux Paddle in Thibodaux and Port Fourchon offers selfservice kayak and paddleboard rentals, giving people the chance to float along Bayou Lafourche amid the cypress trees (maybe with an alligator or two watching).
There’s also The Coastal Wetlands Park in Port Fourchon, which features a manmade tidal creek suitable for numerous activities.
No trip to South Louisiana is complete without meals at local eateries. Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Tourism has made it easy to find new favorites with the Cajun Bayou Food Trail, which includes 18 restaurants. After someone completes five stops on the Food Trail, they can submit their passport to the parish visitor’s center for a free T-shirt. You can download the official map and passport at lacajunbayou.com.
“All of the restaurants have their regular menu items, but a lot also do fall specials or fall cocktail menus,” Gray said. “You can definitely get your traditional favorites but also be on the lookout for new items that show our creativity with food.”
For more information, visit www. lacajunbayou.com.
