EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Katie Guasco, CDME
EDITORIAL STAFF
Every Wave Welcome on The Northshore
Sun’s out, fun’s in! It’s time to sip, savor and soak up the vibrant energy of spring and summer on The Northshore. Our team has curated this issue to help you embrace every sunlit moment, with effortless escapes that make memories for a lifetime.
This is the season of unlimited joy and discovery, so bring your family and friends. From scenic swamp tours and birding trails to culinary treasures and cultural celebrations, we’ve handpicked the best ways to celebrate these sunny days.
Start your journey with a dose of inspiration from the St. Tammany Art Association (page 10), where the latest exhibitions and programs bring creativity to life. When the sun’s at its peak, it’s time to hit the water. Whether you’re cruising by boat or cooling off at splash pads (page 13), there’s no shortage of ways to keep cool. Explore nature’s newest hits in our state parks (page 14), where trails, playgrounds, wildlife and scenic views create a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. Explore the tranquil waterways of The Northshore and enrich your adventure with the captivating maritime history featured in our cover story (page 34). Diving into these stories will spark your imagination and add
a splash of excitement to your journey. After all, you’re never more than 15 minutes from water on The Northshore.
Fuel your fun with our dining section (page 20). This season, we’ve served up a mouthwatering mix of features on festival foods (page 22), where bold flavors meet the spirit of celebration, and sweet treats around the parish (page 26), highlighting irresistible desserts for every craving. No matter your taste, there’s something delicious waiting to elevate your spring and summer experiences.
As you’re making waves, let this guide be your starting point for endless exploration. Visit us online at VisitTheNorthshore.com for even more ideas, and tune in to All The Waves, our podcast that brings you closer to the captivating stories and personalities that make The Northshore so irresistible.
When you’re here, don’t forget to share your adventures with us! Use #VisitTheNorthshore and #TammanyTaste to show off your favorite moments. Ready to embrace the sunshine?
Grab your sunglasses, pack your sense of adventure and let’s make this spring and summer unforgettable on The Northshore! With sunny smiles and boundless excitement,
Katie Guasco, CDME EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Sarah Hill, Roberta Carrow Jackson, Nicole Davis
CONTRIBUTORS
Ron Barthet, Jyl Benson, Deepa Bhagchandani, Liz Bragdon, Donna Bush, Maggy Case-Eymard, Beth D'Addono, Carroll Devine, Louisiana Office of State Parks, Keith Lusher
PHOTOGRAPHY
Virender Ajmani, Donna Bush, Leah Dominique, Kevin Garrett, Cheryl Gerber, Laura Grier, Jordan Hefler, Joanie Johnston, Michael Koster, Bill Lang, Anthony Chopper Leone, Eric Lindberg, George Long, Joseph Marc, Anna Rockhold, Randy Schmidt, Bobby Talley
The Northshore guide is dedicated to Renée Kientz.
PRESIDENT AND CEO Donna O'Daniels, CDME
Visit The Northshore 68099 Highway 59 Mandeville, LA 70471 (985) 892-0520 VisitTheNorthshore.com
CREATIVE DIRECTION
PRESIDENT/CEO Kimberly Ferrante
GROUP PUBLISHER Adam Pitluk, PhD
CONTACT THE PUBLISHER Info@midwestluxurypublishing.com midwestluxurypublishing.com | (917) 447-7731
The Northshore is a biannual publication of Visit The Northshore. Visit The Northshore provides visitor information and assistance to leisure and business travelers in St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana. Find comprehensive listings for accommodations, attractions, dining and events at VisitTheNorthshore.com
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Mural at Antique Umbrella Alley
Plan Your Visit
Check out the Full Events Calendar at VisitTheNorthshore.com
CAN'T-MISS FESTIVALS
April 12
SPRING FOR ART
Art market, gallery shows, live music and Mix Masters cocktail competition in downtown Covington
April 26
SLIDELL’S ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT CRAWFISH COOK-OFF
Teams compete at the world’s largest single-day cook-off of Louisiana’s favorite crustacean
April 26-27
COVINGTON ANTIQUES & UNIQUES FESTIVAL
Treasure-hunting for antique aficionados
May 10
MANDEVILLE FOOD TRUCK
FESTIVAL
Food trucks, live music, kids' activities and crafts vendors, indoors and out
June 28-July 4
INDEPENDENCE DAY
CELEBRATIONS
Parish-wide parties with fireworks, food and family fun
July 12
KOKOMO STROLL
Covington says aloha to summer with grass skirts, Hawaiian shirts, cocktails and tunes
July 26
SOUL FOOD FESTIVAL
Delicious dishes with southern flair at Slidell’s Harbor Center
August 8
WHITE LINEN AND LAGNIAPPE
A so-long to summer with music, art and shopping in Olde Towne
August 16
COVINGTON WHITE LINEN FOR PUBLIC ART
Wear your cool linens, see some cool art and music in downtown Covington
September 6
LOUISIANA FOOD
TRUCK FESTIVAL
A feast of flavors, live tunes, local finds and good vibes for foodies and families alike
Concert Calendar
DIVE INTO DELICIOUS DEALS
AUGUST 1-31, 2025
The area’s top restaurants roll out the red carpet with creative, discounted prix fixe menus and exclusive dining deals. Don’t forget to snap and share your delicious moments! Tag your posts with #TammanyTaste for a chance to be featured. Hungry for more details? Head to www.TammanyTaste.com and start planning your culinary journey!
UNIQUELY NORTHSHORE
April 11-13
ABITA SPRINGS EN PLEIN AIR
EXHIBITION
Local artists’ annual captures of the outdoors, painted in the open air
May 1-31
A TASTE OF COVINGTON FOOD, WINE, MUSIC & ART FESTIVAL
A full month of Bacchanalian feasts and tastings
May 18
SOME ENCHANTED EVENING WITH NORTHSHORE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA
Symphonic sounds under the stars in Slidell’s Heritage Park
June 7
NORTHSHORE PRIDE PARADE
All ages welcome to this LGBTQ celebration on the Mandeville lakefront
July 28 & August 4
UNITED WAY RED BEANS ‘N RICE COOK-OFFS
Get all you can eat of this Louisiana favorite and benefit local charities
Rockin’ the Rails at Covington Trailhead
APRIL 3 | APRIL 10 | APRIL 17
| APRIL 24 | SEPT. 25
Food trucks on site, restaurants nearby, picnics welcome.
Thursdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
419 N. New Hampshire St., Covington covla.com
Mandeville Live!
Free Fridays at the Trailhead
APRIL 4 | APRIL 11 | APRIL 18 | APRIL 25
| MAY 2 | MAY 9 | SEPT. 26
Food trucks and concessions onsite, restaurants and bars nearby.
Fridays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. 675 Lafitte St., Mandeville experiencemandeville.org
Sunset at the Landing in Covington
APRIL 18 | MAY 16 | JUNE 20 | JULY 18 | AUG. 15 | SEPT. 19
Picnics welcome, limited bench seating by stage.
Fridays, 6-8 p.m.
100 N. Columbia St., Covington covla.com
Bayou Jams in Heritage Park
APRIL 13 | APRIL 27 | MAY 4 | JUNE 1
| JUNE 8 | SEPT. 7 | SEPT. 14 | SEPT. 21 | SEPT. 28
Shelters with picnic tables, a playground, a splash pad and more. Picnics welcome.
Sundays, 5-7 p.m. 1701 Bayou Lane, Slidell myslidell.com
LISTENING ROOMS
Lobby Lounge Listening Room Concert Series
APRIL 17 | MAY 27 | JUNE 20 | JULY 24 | AUG. 21 | SEPT. 17
Food and beverages available for purchase.
7-9:30 p.m. Ticketed.
100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell Harborcenter.org/lobbylounge
Third Sunday Concerts at Christ Episcopal Church
APRIL 20 | MAY 18 | SEPT. 21
Meet-the-artist reception with refreshments follows.
5-6 p.m. Free admission.
120 S. New Hampshire St., Covington christchurchcovington.com/concert_series
Abita Springs Opry Concerts at Abita Town Hall
APRIL 19 | MAY 17 | SEPT. 20
Food and beverages available for purchase.
6-7 p.m. Doors at 5:45 p.m. Advance purchase recommended. $20. 22161 Level St., Abita Springs abitaopry.org
Dew Drop Jazz & Social Hall Concerts
APRIL 5 | APRIL 19 | MAY 10 | MAY 17
Limited seating inside; bring a chair to listen and socialize outdoors. Food and beverages available for purchase.
6:30-9 p.m. $10.
430 Lamarque St., Mandeville dewdropjazzhall.com
Jazz’n the Vines at Wild Bush Farm + Vineyard
APRIL 5 | APRIL 19 | MAY 10 | MAY 24 | JUNE 7
Lawn chairs, blankets and picnics welcome. Wild Bush wines available for purchase in Tasting Room.
6:30-9 p.m., gate 5 p.m. $12 adults, $5 youth, free for 12 and under. 81250 Hwy. 1082, Bush wildbushfarmandvineyard.com
Funk it Up! Chafunkta Brewing Co.
EVERY SATURDAY Live music and rotating food trucks weekly.
7 or 8 p.m. $15, all ages. 69123 Sky Brook Rd., Mandeville facebook.com/chafunktabrew
Friday Night Live at Haven EVERY FRIDAY Local songwriters and recording artists perform original music.
7:30 p.m. Free. 534 N. New Hampshire St., Covington havencc.coffee
*NOTE: ALL DATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE; CHECK OUR EVENTS CALENDAR FOR CURRENT INFORMATION. MUSIC OFF THE BEATEN PATH
Slidell's All-You-Can-Eat Crawfish Cook-off
Rockin’ the Rails
OUTDOORS
Your Easy Escape Discover
Shop Local
Easy Shopping on The Northshore.
DISCOVER HOW EASY IT IS TO SHOP your way through St. Tammany. With a mix of expansive shopping centers and delightful local boutiques, finding unique treasures has never been more convenient. Whether you’re exploring Fremaux Town Center or popping into a cozy corner shop, you’ll be charmed by the effortless blend of variety and style. Searching for keepsakes or standout gifts? The Northshore makes it effortless—plus, some of our local shops now feature exclusive Visit The Northshore souvenirs. Keep your eyes peeled for these special finds!
ANTIQUES & ART ON FIRST 1952 1st St., Slidell (985) 643-4790
ABITA ROASTING CO. 1011 Village Walk, Covington 13102 Hwy. 1085, Ste. 120, Covington 504 Water St., Madisonville abitaroasting.com
ABITA MYSTERY HOUSE 22275 LA-36, Abita Springs Abitamysteryhouse.com
ACQUISTAPACE'S 125 E. 21st Ave., Covington 631 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville 191 Gause Blvd. West, Slidell Acquistapace.com
BLACK FLOWER APPAREL AND RECORDS
424 N. Columbia St., Covington Blackflowerapparel.net
BRIDGE STREET INK 2141A 1st St., Slidell Bridgestreetink.com
CREATE DAT 311 Robert St., Slidell Createdat.net
DAS SCHULERHAUS 611 Girod St., Mandeville facebook.com/dasschulerhaus
FLEURTY GIRL 2881 Hwy. 190, Mandeville Fleurtygirl.net
GREEN OAKS APOTHECARY 2238 1st St., Slidell facebook.com/greenoaksapothecary
ST. JOSEPH ABBEY GIFT SHOP 75376 River Road, Covington Saintjosephabbey.com/Gift-Shop
SWAMP GIRL GLASS BLOWING 1060 Front St., Slidell swampgirlglassllc.com
Black Flower Apparel and Records
Abita Roasting Co. Easy Escape Blend
Brushstrokes and Beyond
The Northshore's Art Scene Inspires at STAA.
BY MAGGY CASE-EYMARD, M.A., ART HOUSE COORDINATOR
IN 1958, my great-grandmother, Miriam Barranger, started the St. Tammany Art Association (STAA) with a group of like-minded individuals who had the goal of providing quality art programming to The Northshore. Miriam believed in the power of inclusive spaces centered around artistic ideas, and my goal is to fulfill her vision through supporting local artists both inside and outside of our galleries. In 2025, STAA plans to build on the momentum from its first year back after renovations following hurricane damage by bringing exciting exhibitions and programs to all.
This past fall, in collaboration with Visit The Northshore, STAA and local artist Inga Clough Falterman undertook the daunting project of restoring, preserving and preparing the wall in STAA’s Art Alley for the St. Tammany Parish Community Mural Project. Inga’s mural features a fish-eye image of a pond and its flora and fauna both above and below the waterline. STAA is grateful for the opportunity to work with Visit The Northshore and an experienced muralist like Inga.
After years of closure, the mural represents a new era for STAA and is a visual representation of the future we hope to curate in the coming decades.
On April 12, Spring for Art will offer an eye-catching display of 2D paintings in the Barranger Gallery, along with Cecilia Goett’s large-scale landscape paintings in our Brick Room Gallery. We invite you to join us on the second Saturday of April when we close Columbia Street in Downtown Covington for a full display of art in all its forms! That evening, STAA will provide the public with an opportunity to browse our members' artists’ booths, listen to music, participate in community paintings and visit our opening exhibitions in both the Barranger Gallery and Members’ Gallery.
STAA also plans to host art markets showcasing member artists during every Columbia Street Block Party on the final Friday of the month from March through October. This market is in Art Alley, right next to STAA’s Art House. Moving forward, the community mural will provide a beautiful backdrop for our artists and their work.
This summer, June will consist of our educational Fingerprints Visual Art Camps, Pottery Camps and Young Artist Studios for kids and teens. Throughout the year, STAA provides all ages with opportunities to learn about different painting media, color theory, ceramics, monoprinting, bookbinding and large-scale abstract work. Our educators aim to provide students with informative, productive and inclusive experiences. We also provide resources for young artists to connect with Talented Arts instructors in the St. Tammany Parish public school system, allowing them to gain new insight into art and its possibilities.
We are also excited to announce that in 2025, the St. Tammany Art Association will bring back its acclaimed juried Summer Show to run from July 12, 2025, into early fall. STAA also welcomes exhibition and class proposals from all artists in the U.S. over 18 years old.
Whether it is a proposal for the Barranger Gallery, a feature in one of our Members’ Galleries or a new and exciting workshop, STAA aims to provide opportunities for all. The St. Tammany Art Association is located at 320 N. Columbia St., Covington.
Mural by Inga Clough Falterman
Art House
TAMMANY TRACE
Make a Splash This Spring and Summer
The Best of The Northshore’s Water Recreation.
RELAXING WATERS ARE EVERYWHERE in St. Tammany Parish, from the vast expanse of Lake Pontchartrain to the tranquil waters of rivers and bayous. Whether you’re in the mood for adventure, relaxation or a little bit of both, The Northshore has water activities to suit every traveler’s taste.
SET SAIL IN STYLE
For the ultimate water experience, embark with Delaune Sailing Charters. Gather up to five friends and take a private trip aboard a luxurious 42-foot sailboat. Captain Rick, the owner, also offers hands-on sailing lessons covering everything from rigging to tackling—perfect for aspiring skippers or those dreaming of yacht ownership. delaunesailingcharters.com
Rent a Bike
SEASONED CYCLISTS AND LEISURE RIDERS ALIKE enjoy the beautiful Tammany Trace, a 31-mile paved path through towns and green spaces. The Trace winds through St. Tammany Parish and connects Covington, Abita Springs, Mandeville, Lacombe and Slidell. You can bring your own bike or rent one at any of the shops listed. Call the shop directly to reserve, or just show up and enjoy the ride!
BROOKS' BIKE SHOP OF COVINGTON
416 E. Gibson St. | (985) 338-5933
BROOKS' BIKES/TRIKES & BEYOND OF MANDEVILLE
128 Girod St. | (985) 231-1079
BROOKS' BIKE AND BOARD SHOP OF SLIDELL
208 W. Hall Ave. | (985) 265-4278
O’WHEELIES BICYCLE COMPANY, MANDEVILLE
639 Girod St. | (985) 629-4211
PADDLE THROUGH PARADISE
Join Canoe and Trail Adventures for a guided wetland journey along the Bogue Falaya River. A Northshore staple for over 45 years, they know every scenic nook and cranny. They also rent vessels at Chimes Restaurant in Covington, the best way to wait for your table. canoeandtrail.com
Kayaks To Geaux delivers kayak rentals to multiple locations across St. Tammany Parish, so you can chart your own course through the area’s beautiful bayous, rivers and swamps. kayakstogeaux.com
Bayou Adventure offers an easy-to-use kayak kiosk at Fontainebleau State Park. bayouadventure.com
HIT CRUISE CONTROL
If cruising is more your style, hop aboard Tchefuncte River Charters’ Fat Bottom Girl. This 26-foot pontoon boat—equipped with a bar, sound system and restroom—is the ultimate floating party. With stops at up to eight scenic bars and eateries along the Tchefuncte River, it’s a laid-back way to sip, snack and soak in The Northshore’s natural beauty. tchefuncterivercharters.com
Or, take a serene, awe-inspiring tour on Captain Mike’s 24-foot covered pontoon boat with Louisiana Tours and Adventures. Captain Mike is constantly unveiling creative ways to tour the Tchefuncte, and no tour is identical. louisianatoursandadventures.com
From sunset sails to scenic paddles and leisurely cruises, The Northshore’s waters are calling. Come float awhile, snap some photos and let Louisiana’s Easy Escape work its magic.
Keep it Cool at these Splash Pads on The Northshore.
ABITA SPRINGS TRAILHEAD SPLASH PAD
22049 Main St., Abita Springs
COQUILLE PARKS AND RECREATION SPLASH PAD
13505 Hwy. 1085, Covington
EAST LAKEFRONT
CHILDREN’S PARK
1500 block of Lakeshore Drive, Mandeville
FONTAINEBLEAU STATE PARK WATER PLAYGROUND
62883 Hwy. 1089, Mandeville
HERITAGE PARK SPLASH PAD 1701 Bayou Lane, Slidell
MADISONVILLE PARK SPLASH PAD
1007 Pine St., Madisonville
MANDEVILLE TRAILHEAD SPLASH FOUNTAIN
675 Lafitte St., Mandeville
PEARL RIVER PLAYGROUND AND SPLASH PAD
64500 Church St., Pearl River
Newest Hits
BY LOUISIANA OFFICE OF
FONTAINEBLEAU, FAIRVIEW-RIVERSIDE AND BOGUE CHITTO STATE PARKS present many opportunities to get outdoors and explore the natural beauty of Louisiana. If you haven’t visited southeast Louisiana in a while, make plans to pay these parks another visit as there have been many changes over the last year.
FONTAINEBLEAU STATE PARK
Fontainebleau State Park is a 2,800-acre park located on the shore of Lake Pontchartrain. Overnight guests can experience magnificent sunsets from a porch in one of 12 renovated vacation cabins. With a recently completed campground improvement project, RV guests can now spend more time relaxing and experiencing the natural beauty of the park with the convenience of full-hookup utilities.
One of two brand-new, all-inclusive playgrounds—specialized areas that give children of various abilities the opportunity to play and interact together—is found at Fontainebleau State Park. The over 7,000-square-foot playgrounds (the second located at Bogue Chitto State Park, featured right) include special features like a safety surface, accessible ramps, a wheelchair-accessible together glider, an inclusive swing seat and more.
The park is home to the brick ruins of a sugar mill built in 1829 by Bernard de Marigny de Mandeville, founder of the nearby town of Mandeville. Cycling, hiking and in-line skating are easily enjoyed along the Tammany Trace, a revitalized railroad track that runs through the park.
FAIRVIEW-RIVERSIDE STATE PARK
At just 99 acres, Fairview-Riverside State Park is one of the smallest state parks in Louisiana. Located within the park is the historic Otis House, originally built in the 1880s as the family home for sawmill owner William Theodore Jay and later purchased by Frank Otis. The Otis House Museum offers tours on Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. by appointment. Call (985) 845-3318 for info.
Fairview-Riverside has access to freshwater and brackish water fishing, with the chance for speckled trout in addition to the ever-present bream and bass. A boat launch near the park provides direct river access for avid anglers. A boardwalk along the Tchefuncte River is a great place to spend some time while RV camping at Fairview-Riverside State Park.
BOGUE CHITTO STATE PARK
Several new and improved attractions have opened at Bogue Chitto State Park, including a kids' trail, an equestrian campground and mountain bike area upgrades. The kids' trail is an accessible, quarter-mile paved trail featuring artwork by Louisiana artists Brandon Ballengee and Brad Bourgoyne. This interactive trail is designed to engage children with animal-themed, hands-on learning experiences through sculptures of native animals and insects.
The seven-campsite equestrian campground, designed to accommodate campers and their horses, is equipped with full hookups, a 40x40-foot pavilion, a barn and a comfort station with shower and restroom facilities. Mountain bike area enhancements include a restroom building with showers, a bike wash and repair station, a skills area and two pump tracks for children and adults. Not an equestrian? No problem. The park still features four cabins (each sleeps up to eight), one lodge (sleeps up to 14) and 80 RV sites.
To learn more and plan your next visit, go to www.LAStateParks.com.
Fontainebleau State Park
Unveil the Latest Fun at State Parks.
STATE PARKS
Bogue Chitto State Park
Fairview-Riverside State Park
Feathers in Flight
Experience the Magic of Migration on The Northshore.
BY DONNA BUSH
THE NORTHSHORE IS FORTUNATE TO BE located on the Mississippi Flyway, a bird migration route that follows the Mississippi, Missouri and Lower Ohio Rivers in the United States across the western Great Lakes into Canada.
This northbound trip is most prominent from March to May as trans-Gulf migrants make the long, arduous journey from their wintering grounds in Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America and South America. There are roughly two million of our feathered friends flapping their wings for several hundred miles to make landfall along the western and northern coasts of the Gulf of Mexico. The birds are headed to their breeding grounds, which may be here or further north, in numbers so great that they can be tracked on weather radar. The website birdcast.info provides real-time predictions.
According to the National Audubon Society, almost half of the bird species and nearly forty percent of the waterfowl of North America spend a portion of their lives in the Mississippi Flyway. Providing excellent food and water sources, with zero mountainous areas to impede travel, this area offers wonderful birding opportunities.
189 spring migrants have been recorded within Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge.
According to Loyola University New Orleans, spring migration has morphed from March through May to January through June. Purple martins arrive in January from their wintering area of southern South America. However, the first white-rumped sandpipers that nest in the Arctic don’t arrive until mid-to-late April through June.
Per eBird.org, 189 spring migrants have been recorded within Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. It is best to visit early in the day, late in the day and often. More migrants are likely to be seen from late March into April. Check birdcast.info for real-time data.
A few of the most likely migrants that can be observed are: American goldfinches, pine siskins, cedar waxwings, chipping sparrows, rose-breasted grosbeaks, blue grosbeaks, indigo buntings, painted buntings, scarlet tanagers, black and white warblers, yellow-rumped warblers, prothonotary warblers, eastern kingbirds, swallow-tailed kites, bald eagles and many, many more.
Two species of birds recorded at Big Branch National Wildlife Refuge in decent numbers can only be observed in spring on the refuge: the white-rumped sandpiper and the bobolink. The white-rumped sandpiper can be found from late April through the month of May. The bobolink heads north through Big Branch for the entire month of May. White-rumped sandpipers choose the furthest areas of arctic Alaska and Canada.
Billions of birds fly twice each year between wintering and breeding grounds using the night sky to navigate their path. Bright artificial lights around buildings and homes can cause confusion and collisions with windows and walls, leading to numerous deaths. Lights Out is a nationwide campaign by Audubon to partner with business owners and residents to reduce the number of birds impacted by turning off lights during periods when they would most likely affect migrating or nocturnal birds. Not only is this good for birds, but it also saves energy.
For more information, visit www.fws.gov/refuge/big-branch-marsh.
COMMON MIGRANT SPECIES
American goldfinches
Pine siskins
Cedar waxwings
Chipping sparrows
Rose-breasted grosbeaks
Blue grosbeaks
Indigo buntings
Painted buntings
Scarlet tanagers
Black and white warblers
Yellow-rumped warblers
Prothonotary warblers
Eastern kingbirds
Swallow-tailed kites
Bald eagles
Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge Boy Scout Trail
Unleash Creativity
The Children's Museum of St. Tammany.
BY NICOLE DAVIS
FUN IS ALWAYS IN PLAY at the Children's Museum of St. Tammany. If you're planning a kid-friendly vacation to The Northshore, this museum is an absolute must-visit. With over ten engaging exhibits, children can dive into hands-on adventures that encourage exploration, discovery and imagination. But don’t take our word for it; you’ll have to experience it yourself.
At its exciting new location, the Children’s Museum of St. Tammany does a remarkable job of igniting a passion for learning with interactive exhibits that captivate young minds. Its art-focused activities seamlessly blend STEM learning with artistic expression, making each visit an unforgettable experience. From scaling new heights at the Great Tammany Oak Gallery to lighting up creativity at the LiteZilla exhibit, every visit is sure to inspire curiosity and foster creativity. Come see why the Children's Museum of St. Tammany is the perfect place for families to enjoy an easy escape. For more details, visit cmstkids.org
Culinary Kids and Adults
Whip Up Fun This Spring and Summer.
THE CHEFS AT CULINARY KIDS ARE COOKING up unforgettable experiences where fun, food and learning come together perfectly. Kids of all ages can roll up their sleeves and jump into hands-on kitchen adventures that go beyond basic recipes. From measuring and mixing to mastering simple cooking techniques, young chefs will gain confidence, creativity and teamwork skills—one delicious dish at a time. With friendly, encouraging instructors, every child gets a taste of success and a sprinkle of fun.
The kitchen magic isn’t just for kids. Culinary Kids offers exciting family-friendly classes and adult workshops, too. Whether it’s a themed cooking night, a parent-child team challenge or a fun gathering with friends, there’s a spot for everyone at this table. Best of all, Culinary Kids keeps it simple, wholesome and fun. Their programs introduce fresh ingredients and healthy eating habits in ways that feel like play—not work. Plus, you’ll leave with tasty creations, happy hearts and new skills to show off at home.
This spring and summer, escape the ordinary and stir up some smiles with Culinary Kids. It’s the perfect recipe for laughter, learning and unforgettable memories. To reserve a class, visit culinarykidsns.com.
Pickleball Paradise on The Northshore
Ample Indoor and Outdoor Courts Across St. Tammany.
IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A FUN, fast-paced sport that’s perfect for all ages and skill levels, pickleball is calling your name. With courts popping up across The Northshore, there’s never been a better time to paddle up and play.
In 2024, Slidell celebrated the grand opening of 12 state-of-the-art pickleball courts at John Slidell Park. After a match, visit the park’s playground, ball fields or jogging trails or picnic under the pavilion. Find details at MySlidell.com.
Just down the road, Fritchie Park offers another pickleball haven with indoor courts, two softball and baseball fields, nature trails and a covered pavilion. It’s also home to the Camellia City Bark Park—perfect for your furry fans!
For even more pickleball action, Pelican Park boasts eight courts surrounded by endless recreation options. From sand volleyball and batting cages to a skate park and disc golf, it’s a one-stop spot for family fun. Reserve your pickleball court at PelicanPark.recdesk.com
Wrap up your pickleball journey at Cat 5 Pickleball, a standout for players of all levels. With four indoor, climate-controlled courts, you can enjoy the game no matter the weather. Beginners will love the welcoming classes with all essentials included, while intermediate and advanced players can book clinics or private lessons to refine their skills. Don’t miss the chance to glow it up with neon fun during Glow Pickleball, open to ages 8 and up! Courts are easy to book online for members and guests alike. For more details, head to cat5pickleball.com.
Whether you’re a pro or you're picking up a paddle for the first time, The Northshore has the perfect court waiting for you. Let the games begin!
Pelican Park
Eat and Drink Like a Local
Bayou Boil ‘N’ Geaux
Drive-Thru for a Flavorful Feast.
BY KATIE GUASCO
WHEN IT COMES TO FAVORITE FOODS, boiled Louisiana crawfish tops my list every time. There is something about a steaming pile of crawfish hot from the pot to usher in the festive vibes of spring and summer. Crawfish season is a celebrated time in St. Tammany, and there are many ways to enjoy this “shore to be flavorful” delicacy. Whether it’s a lively crawfish boil with family and friends or a heaping threepound tray at a local restaurant, the season’s biggest question is always: Where can you find the best crawfish? Tony Chachere’s has even developed The Crawfish App to find crawfish near you. That’s how I discovered Bayou Boil ‘N’ Geaux in Covington—and it didn’t disappoint. In 2018, Lisa and Steve Beene started Bayou Boil ‘N’ Geaux. Steve, a Louisiana native, wanted to return to his roots and share his love for authentic Louisiana flavors. This dynamic duo got to work immediately, creating the first drive-thru crawfish spot on The Northshore and the only
After all, pairing a perfectly blended
daiquiri with fresh, flavorful crawfish is the ultimate Louisiana experience!
combined daiquiri and crawfish shop on The Northshore. After all, pairing a perfectly blended daiquiri with fresh, flavorful crawfish is the ultimate Louisiana experience! I recently toured their location, and it was clear to see the love and passion for their product and their high level of customer service. They pride themselves on serving farm-to-table crawfish and using proprietary liquid and powder seasonings that are both MSG-free and gluten-free. Visitors can expect friendly service and top-quality seafood that the Beenes proudly stand behind. Whether it’s crawfish, shrimp or other offerings like their delicious dipping sauces, Bayou Boil ‘N’ Geaux delivers authentic Louisiana flavors in a convenient drive-thru experience. Don’t miss their Bayou Spicy Dill Pickles and a fan-favorite pickle sandwich, which are unique to their menu. If that isn’t enough, the team will be adding the Bayou Daiquiri Shop right at the front of their location. Located at 1512 N. Hwy. 190, Covington, Bayou Boil ‘N’ Geaux is ready to serve the best of the season with friendly service and unmatched flavor.
T Rivers Bar & Grill
Festin' al Fresco
Spring and Summer Festival Foods and Food Truck Round-Ups.
BY JYL BENSON
AN ABUNDANCE OF FOOD TRUCKS AND FESTIVALS makes it possible to enjoy The Northshore’s celebrated food while basking in glorious weather, often between bouts of rigorous dancing to the strains of local music.
FOOD TRUCK ROUNDUPS
Given the sheer number of food trucks offering every imaginable type of cuisine, it is hard to believe there were none here before Hurricane Katrina. Twenty years later, Northshore standouts include Dat Fiya (@datfiya), offering wings, burgers and hibachi; The Good Stuffed (@thegoodstuffedfoodtruck), offering burritos, wraps, nachos, burrito bowls, quesadillas and stuffed baked potatoes; Creole Tomateaux (@thecreoletomateaux) with fried seafood, burgers, sandwiches and tacos; and The Crab Man Plus (@thecrabmanplus_), featuring fresh, flavorful peel-and-eat seafood platters.
On the first Friday of every month, Abita Brewing Company, Tap Room & Gift Shop (21084 Hwy. 36, Covington, abita.com) hosts a Food Truck Round-Up from 5:30–8:30 p.m. Trucks turn up from throughout the region. Also, a different visiting food truck is brought in every Saturday and Sunday. The beer garden and patio are dog-friendly. abita.com/events
In May, the Mandeville Lions Club will host the Mandeville Food Truck Festival, featuring music and a kids' zone. Proceeds will provide eyeglasses for low-income individuals and a camp for children with special needs.
And don’t miss the Louisiana Food Truck Festival at the Harbor Center in Slidell, which features over 20 food trucks, local craft vendors and live music.
FOOD FESTIVALS
Spring and summer on The Northshore are brimming with delicious reasons to celebrate, as food festivals take center stage, showcasing the region’s culinary creativity and vibrant community spirit. From heaping piles of crawfish to craft beer, these festivals serve up the flavors of the season with a side of live music, art and good times. Whether you’re a foodie or just someone who loves a fun, festival atmosphere, you’ll find plenty to savor. Here’s a taste of what’s cooking.
In April, Crawfish Cookin' for a Cause will take over the area around the Mandeville lakefront splash pad with music and the aroma of crawfish with all the fixings. Proceeds benefit charities supported by the Northshore Community Foundation. crawfishcookinforacause.com
Catch the 14th Annual Crawfish Cook-off by the St. Paul's School's Alumni Association in Covington. spscco.com
Slidell's All-You-Can-Eat Crawfish Cook-off believed to be the largest single-day crawfish boil in the world, will take place April 26, 2025. Eat all the crawfish you can manage while enjoying live music, too.
A Taste of Covington Food, Wine, Music & Art Festival runs throughout May with wine dinners and special events at area restaurants. Premier events include the Festa del Vino on May 10 and a Grand Tasting on May 17. atasteofcovington.com
On June 21, Mandeville's Castine Center will welcome craft beer enthusiasts for the 12th annual Larry Hartzog's Twisted Beer Fest and Homebrew Competition. Pets are welcome, and others will be available for adoption. All proceeds go to the Northshore Humane Society. northshorehumane.org/larryfest
Open only to adults, on July 12, the 7th annual Kokomo Stroll throughout downtown Covington features cocktails, craft beers and light bites. Participants are encouraged to dress in hula skirts, coconut bras and resort wear. komostroll.com
Come hungry, come thirsty and come ready for a season of Northshore festivals that will have your taste buds dancing and your calendar marked with unforgettable events!
FESTIVAL READY
YOUR ULTIMATE PACKING LIST
Festival tickets or wristbands
Festival schedule or event app with map of the festival grounds
Cash, credit card and ID
Light-colored, breathable hat with a brim
Small backpack (if permitted)
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Refillable water bottle
Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight, light-colored clothing with pockets
Portable chair or blanket
Phone with camera and portable charger
Hand sanitizer
Wet wipes or paper napkins
Bug spray
Rain poncho/light jacket or umbrella (if allowed)
Snacks or picnic items (if allowed)
Cooling towel or handheld fan
Earplugs (for loud performances)
Picnic basket or cooler
(if permitted)
Reusable utensils and cups
(for food vendors)
Trash bags
(for cleanup or muddy gear)
Notebook or sketchpad
(for artists and enthusiasts)
Child-friendly entertainment
(toys, bubbles, coloring books)
Foldable wagon
(for kids or gear, if allowed)
The Crab Man Plus
From Italy to Louisiana
The Delicious Fusion of Italian-American Cuisine.
BY JYL BENSON
DELICIOUSLY STEEPED IN HISTORY and bursting with flavor, The Northshore’s Sicilian and Italian dining scene invites visitors to savor a mouthwatering journey that blends Old World traditions with Louisiana’s vibrant soul.
People of Sicilian heritage started immigrating to New Orleans in the 1830s. Their numbers swelled considerably following the Civil War, when the Louisiana Bureau of Immigration was created to grow Louisiana’s population. Most would start planting operations, greengrocers, markets and pasta factories. The Lower French Quarter was known as “Little Palermo,” where more people spoke the Sicilian dialect than any place outside of Palermo itself, and the French Market was one of the country’s largest pasta hubs.
A natural merging with New Orleans’ established Creole cookery occurred, leading to the evolution of the fantastic cuisine we regard as “Creole-Italian.”
With growing conditions similar to those of their native Sicily, the immigrants could grow what they needed to reproduce their native cuisine, which relied on seafood, garlic, bell peppers, tomatoes, olive oil, eggplant, pasta and artichokes. Ultimately, people of Northern Italian descent made their way to the area, bringing food using ingredients found in their mountainous territories—polenta, cheese, butter, cream sauces and game meats. A natural merging with New Orleans’ established Creole cookery occurred, leading to the evolution of the fantastic cuisine we regard as “Creole-Italian,” whereby the French technique was merged with foundationally Italian ingredients. For “red gravy,” tomato paste is browned like flour for a roux; garlic-laden, French-inspired Bordelaise sauce is served atop pasta; crawfish in a cream sauce may be ladled over medallions of eggplant coated in Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs before they are fried then served next to a tangle of spaghetti or over polenta.
As New Orleans’ population grew, many people of Italian descent made their homes on The Northshore, where numerous Sicilian and Italian restaurants thrive.
Sal Impastato opened Sal & Judy’s in 1974. It remains a destination for diners throughout the region who show up for specialties like Spitini (thinly sliced pork loin medallions rolled around ham, provolone, seasonings and tomato relish) and Brucioloni (round steak rolled around a breaded stuffing of cheese, Italian sausage and ground beef then simmered in tomato sauce. 27491 Hwy. 190, Lacombe (985) 882-9443, salandjudys.com
At Del Porto in Covington, chefs David and Torre Solazzo have been turning out rustic Italian fare and hand-made pasta since 2014, making it a neighborhood favorite and a destination for the entire metro area. The menu changes seasonally. Ask for a table on the sidewalk for prime people watching in this picturesque small town.
501 E. Boston St., Covington (985) 875-1006, delportoristorante.com
A native of Sicily, Chef Leonardo Giarraputo opened Leonardo’s Trattoria and Pizzeria in 2017. Pizzas, salads and pasta dishes are served all day. Sandwiches are available at lunch. 2625 Florida St., Mandeville (985) 778-2550, leonardostrattoria.com
Nuvolari’s has been a Northshore institution for over 40 years. Specialties like rigatoni alla vodka, lobster caramelle and braised lamb shoulder are served against a backdrop of exquisite wood detailing and etched windows overlooking ivy-covered garden walls.
246 Girod St., Mandeville (985) 626-5619, nuvolaris.com
Like many Italian restaurants, nearby Marcello’s blurs the line between the cuisines of northern and southern Italy. The menu changes frequently but may include spinach and pork cannelloni; lasagna or spaghetti and meatballs with bolognese sauce; veal or chicken molli is served scaloppini style, with roasted artichokes, lemon butter and capers.
324 E. Boston St., Covington (985) 400-5668, marcelloscovington.com
With a waterfront location in Slidell, Joe's Ristorante is a popular choice. The chicken piccata (sautéed chicken breast in white wine, lemon, butter sauce with capers) is top notch. 300 Oak Harbor Blvd., Slidell (985) 326-8637, joesristorante.com
From the bustling tables of familyowned trattorias to celebrated culinary destinations, discover dishes inspired by generations of Italian and Sicilian immigrants who brought their cherished recipes to New Orleans, and later to The Northshore. Buon appetito!
Sal Impastato at Sal & Judy's
Leonardo’s Trattoria and Pizzeria
Sugar Rush
Dive into the Best Bakeries and Candy Bank Delights.
BY DEEPA BHAGCHANDANI
Visit The Northshore Easy Escape Insider Follow Deepa on Instagram for more @Flavourfulfinds2
SWEET TREATS HAVE A MAGICAL WAY OF bringing joy to anyone's day, and bakeries are not just places to buy bread and pastries; they are havens of happiness filled with delightful smells, colorful candies and sugary confections. Come with me to explore the local bakeries that offer a delightful experience that everyone should enjoy.
Let’s start in Slidell with Sugar Love Bakery, whose king cakes are a local favorite. Whether you prefer classic cinnamon or something adventurous like cream cheese or praline, there's a king cake for everyone. My favorite is the strawberry-filled version. Or, head to Emma’s Famous Pralines. For more than 20 years, this Slidell bakery has been a cherished local gem. Ms. Emma crafts the most incredible pralines, pound cakes and other treats. Her radiant smile is sure to draw you in, inviting you to indulge in her lovingly-made, sweet creations.
Next, treat yourself to Krummel’s Mandeville Bake Shop. Established in 1986, you'll find a selection of fresh desserts, including cookies, cakes, donuts, bread and king cakes. Let’s stick around Mandeville and visit
The Candy Bank, a paradise for anyone with a sweet tooth. Step inside and relive your childhood with a selection of homemade fudge, jellybeans, gummies and chocolate. You'll also find classic candies and an old-fashioned soda shop that will take you back in time. I adore the nostalgic sweets; they instantly transport me back to my youth. Or, try Sweet Olive Market & Bakery, Old Mandeville's hometown specialty market, bakery, catering kitchen and meals-to-go venue located in the historic Griffins bakery shop.
Next, visit Croissant French Bakery & Lagniappe. If you're craving authentic French pastries that will whisk you away to a Parisian Cafe, you won't be disappointed. It offers a variety of French delights, such as croissants, fruit tartlets, crepes and other sweet confections.
Our next destination is the delightful Tournesol Café and Bakery in Covington. Here, you'll find freshly baked breads such as ciabatta, sourdough, challah and an olive-roasted garlic boule. The sandwich selection is equally enticing, so make sure you grab one and enjoy it on the patio. My favorite is the Galette de Rois.
Another beloved spot in Covington is Zoe’s Bakery. Renowned for its stunning custom cakes, Zoe's specializes in catering for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and other special events. Personally, I can’t get enough of the delectable white chocolate cake paired with fresh fruit.
Finally, tucked away in the charming town of Abita Springs lies Maple Street Bakery and Café. This establishment boasts a full bakery featuring breads and pastries. It also specializes in custom cakes for any occasion. During the carnival season, the bakery offers king cakes, and my personal favorite is the one that combines three different flavors. Why settle for just one when you can indulge in all of them?
CROISSANT FRENCH BAKERY & LAGNIAPPE 1301 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville (985) 334-0974
EMMA’S FAMOUS PRALINES 705 Old Spanish Trail, Slidell (469) 328-0895
KRUMMEL’S MANDEVILLE BAKE SHOP
22037 Florida St., Mandeville (985) 626-1952
MAPLE STREET BAKERY AND CAFÉ 21470 LA-36, Abita Springs (985) 327-5554
SUGAR LOVE BAKERY 1329 Englewood Drive, Slidell (985) 265-4146
SWEET OLIVE MARKET & BAKERY
301 Lafitte St., Mandeville (985) 778-0345
THE CANDY BANK
201 Carroll St., Mandeville (985) 778-2750
TOURNESOL CAFÉ AND BAKERY
100 S. Tyler St., Ste. 10B, Covington (985) 900-2132
ZOE’S BAKERY
118 W. 32nd Ave., Covington (985) 892-5570
Sweet Olive Market & Bakery
SWEET FIX
Raise a Glass
A Flavorful Journey Through Northshore Libations.
EMBARK ON A SPIRITED ADVENTURE ACROSS THE NORTHSHORE, where every sip tells a story, every stop brings a smile and every flavor invites you to unwind and revel in Louisiana’s Easy Escape!
Step into Whiskey and Ashe in Olde Towne Slidell, where sophistication meets relaxation. Sip a classic Old Fashioned, savor a unique cigar or design your dream cocktail in the chic lounge and humidor room. Let the bartender guide your pairing journey—think oaked Chardonnay with a sweet cigar or bold Malbec with a spicy one. Attend a whiskey tasting night to deepen your love for bourbon and blends. whiskeyandashe.com
Next, join the hype at Covington Beer Garden, a community hub with heart. Thursday Night Bingo raises the stakes for charity, while comedy nights, trivia and pet-friendly gatherings keep the vibe vibrant. With a variety of beers on tap, a stellar wine list and crawfish boils, it’s easy to settle in at the Beer Garden. covingtonbeergarden.com
For beer aficionados, Abita Brewing Company is a must-visit. Take an immersive tour, peek at brewing tanks and sip signature beers or non-alcoholic craft sodas. From food truck roundups to self-guided tours, Abita offers family-friendly fun with a pint of Louisiana charm. abita.com
Revel in the renaissance of Chafunkta Brewing Company, where “The Funk” brings bold flavors to Mandeville. Celebrate Sundays with “Pups and Pints,” enjoy trivia nights or groove to live music. Whether IPA or stout, Chafunkta has a brew for every taste. chafunkta.com
Escape to Wild Bush Farm + Vineyard where vines meet melodies. Sip handcrafted wines during Jazz’n the Vines concerts under starry skies. wildbushfarmandvineyard.com
Tequila, Tapas and a Twist
Luna Tequila Brings Bold Flavor to Slidell.
BY SARAH HILL
ONE TEQUILA, TWO TEQUILA AND MORE!
Or, make a refreshing stop at Dry Oak, Louisiana’s first nonalcoholic retail shop, in downtown Covington. Raising the bar on a booze-free lifestyle, Dry Oak offers a curated selection of premium non-alcoholic beverages. Whether you’re seeking a craft mocktail mix, a zero-proof spirit or an artisan soda, this innovative spot has something to toast every occasion. Cheers to a flavorful, inclusive Northshore experience! thedryoak.com
Like with
tequila,
From a pure Blanco to a complex Añejo, Luna Tequila in Slidell offers plenty to sip and small bites to savor. When stepping into Luna, you will be greeted with rich, deep greens, pops of color and gold accents, which give the bar a regal yet modern feel. As with tequila, the bar itself is relaxed elegance. Take a moment and browse the back wall. There you will find an array of tequilas and mezcals from which to choose. If you’re not familiar with the vast world of these two spirits, no need to worry. The Luna staff are well-versed in the subject and can guide you to make the perfect selection. Explore the cocktail menu if a fruity, fun margarita such as the Cadillac Lunarita is more your style.
the bar itself is relaxed elegance.
Once you have settled on your drink of choice, ask about the tapas, aka small plates. A local fan favorite that shouldn’t be passed up is the elote dip. This Mexican street corn dip is a delightful mix of savory, tangy and a hint of spice. It hits the spot when paired with the smoky notes of the Mezcal Sour.
While tequila is a top pick for many, don’t forget about its wild, distant cousin, whiskey. Next door to Luna Tequila, you will find Whiskey and Ashe, a laidback whiskey and cigar bar. Luna Tequila shares an outdoor area with Whiskey and Ashe, making it easy for friends with different preferences to enjoy a night out together.
Abita Brewing Company
MEET
Alia Casborné
Shining a light on Mandeville Culture.
BY BETH D'ADDONO
ASK ANYBODY WHO KNOWS HER, and they’ll say that Alia Casborné is organized. “Even in my family, I’m that person,” she said. “I plan all the travel. I have a binder for everything. I’ve always been that way.”
Casborné brings that attention to detail to her job as the City of Mandeville’s Director of Cultural Development and Events. It’s a job she was hired to create 14 years ago. Since then, she has built a calendar of more than a dozen year-round festivals and events that celebrate Mandeville’s distinct culture and heritage. Her greatest point of pride, which she recently shared with All the Waves podcast hosts Katie Guasco and Zondra White Jones, was having the opportunity to take her vision and create a lively cultural landscape from the ground up.
Her role is diverse. Casborné organizes city events and oversees the Mandeville Trailhead, a hub for special and seasonal events and live concerts, including the Mandeville Live! Free Friday concert series. She coordinates events at the Castine Center at Pelican Park and works closely with the Friends of the Dew Drop Jazz and Social Hall, which has been a hallmark of the local African American community since 1895. Casborné is a resource and support for all kinds of groups, which submit special event applications through her department. Casborné feels strongly that everyone should have access to arts and culture, which is why most of the city’s events are free.
Casborné was born and raised across the lake in the Bayou St. John neighborhood of New Orleans. Her husband Gerald is a Mandeville native, so the family ties to St. Tammany run deep. After living and working in Atlanta, Birmingham and New Orleans, the couple decided to move with their two young daughters, Lira and SriLan, back to Mandeville. Hurricane Katrina interfered with their plans, but by 2006, they were on The Northshore.
Casborné feels strongly that everyone should have
access to arts and culture, which is why most of the city’s events are free.
“We love the quality of life in Mandeville,” she said. “It’s a wonderful community to raise a family.” Her only concern was needing to go back to the south shore for activities.
“When I saw the job posting, I felt like this was a way for me to do something about that. To develop more cultural activities in our own backyard.” Which is exactly what she did, from planning a sunset concert with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra to shining a light on the city’s African American history. “Our mayor (Clay Madden) is very supportive, which I’m thankful for. I love the job,” said Casborné. “Even with recurring events, it’s still new every single day. I’m always looking at ways to elevate my community.”
MEET
Christian Serpas
Making Festival Music Matter.
BY BETH D'ADDONO
FOR CHRISTIAN SERPAS, IT ALL STARTED WITH ELVIS. Serpas, who along with his band Ghost Town was inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame in 2024 and recently represented Visit The Northshore in the 2025 Rose Parade in Pasadena, CA, remembers his mom being crazy for The King. “It was the soundtrack of our house,” he recently said on episode 5 of the All the Waves podcast. When he saw his first Elvis movie, something clicked. “Elvis was playing guitar and the girls all liked it,” he said with a laugh. “I figured, I’d like to do that.” So, he raised money to buy a mail order guitar by catching turtles in the canal by his house and selling them as pets. “I was 13. My first guitar was from Sears.”
twice. The owner asked us to come back. I looked at my wife and said, 'Well, now what do we do?' That was the start of it all. We became a festival band. And we know a lot more than nine songs now.”
"The teacher wanted to teach me
'Mary Had a Little Lamb.' I wanted to play Zeppelin."
He started taking guitar lessons, but that didn’t last long. From the beginning, Serpas literally marched to the beat of a different drummer. “The teacher wanted to teach me 'Mary Had a Little Lamb.' I wanted to play Zeppelin.”
So began a lifelong career in music, songwriting and performing his unique blend of country and rock. Serpas, who grew up in Arabi, Louisiana, tried going the commercial route in L.A. and Nashville in the late 80s and early 90s, but the scene wasn’t for him.
In 1995, he and his wife moved to Mandeville. Serpas had been in a few bands, but when he started Ghost Town 25 years ago, everything came together. “Our first gig was at the Rocking Horse in Folsom,” he remembers. “We knew nine songs. We even played 'Folsom Prison Blues'
Since then, the band has released nine CDs and played more than 2,000 live performances throughout the Gulf South. They’ve done clubs, fairs, festivals, casinos, concert halls, TV and radio shows and shared stages with country stars, including Kenny Chesney, Merle Haggard and the Zac Brown Band.
But at this point, what makes Serpas happiest is playing family-friendly venues and festivals. “If kids can’t come, I don’t really want to be there. We played so many smoky clubs. It’s just not for me anymore.” Instead, Serpas and Ghost Town headline festivals from French Quarter Fest in New Orleans to the All-You-Can-Eat Crawfish Cook-Off in Slidell. “Name a crustacean, and we’ve played a festival for it. Oysters, shrimp, crawfish—we’ve done it all. My favorite is the small-town family scene. It’s one of the best things about living here.”
MARITIME Legacy
Honoring the Past and Enjoying the Present.
BY RON BARTHET
Widely recognized for its many modern marinas, which provide safe harbor for thousands of recreational boats, The Northshore also enjoys a rich history of little-known maritime milestones. The lake and rivers once teemed with cargo schooners and passenger steamships, and over the years, several shipyards produced hundreds of large vessels for World War I and II, as well as the worldwide petroleum industry.
Early Native Americans glided along the waterways in their dugout canoes, and even went out into the lake to their village on an island in the middle of Lake Pontchartrain more than 500 years ago.
Day sailors cruise the lake daily, carrying on a tradition that began centuries ago. Paintings from the 1800s often include sailing boats gliding across the lake. The Mandeville yacht club was established as early as 1893, and yacht club regattas frequently traverse the lake today.
The Northshore even earned a spot in nautical history when James Rumsey, the inventor of the steamboat, lived on Bayou Rouville in Lacombe beginning in 1774. Working in secret, he used the newly invented steam engine to design a craft that could move forward against the current. His work continued, first on Pearl River Island just east of the Rigolets and then in Baltimore, Maryland. In 1787, in the Potomac River at Shepherdstown, WV, he amazed onlookers with this steam-powered watercraft. He later served as George Washington’s chief engineer.
father of submarine warfare." In the mid-1800s, he owned a plantation in Covington and designed three submarines. The first one, built at a foundry in New Orleans, was called the “Pioneer.” After being tested in the lake, it was reportedly scuttled in the Tchefuncte River near Madisonville to keep it out of Yankee hands.
The third submarine built from his designs is credited with the first sinking of an enemy vessel in times of war which took place in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina.
Demand was so high that between 1842 and 1887, more than 58 sailing vessels were built on The Northshore.
Meanwhile, back in Lake Pontchartrain, as New Orleans' trade activity increased, an ever-growing amount of goods and produce came from The Northshore. This was made possible by dozens of cargo schooners crisscrossing the lake. Demand was so high that between 1842 and 1887, more than 58 sailing vessels were built on The Northshore. The same schooners helped many people escape to The Northshore when outbreaks of yellow fever descended upon the Crescent City.
Horace Lawson Hunley is widely acknowledged as the developer of submarine technology and "the
Southbound trade became so prolific on the lake and through the Rigolets that a number of pirates flourished as well. They would confront vessels laden with items bound for New Orleans, steal their booty and then go hide out in Honey Island Swamp. Thousands of dollars’ worth of gold coins, dated 1827, were found buried in that swamp in 1907. Today, the Honey Island Swamp is a treasure for hunters and fishermen as well as wildlife
enthusiasts who delight in the daily cruises that tour the swamp.
When passenger steamboats made the scene in the late 19th century, they offered daily trips to The Northshore for heat-weary New Orleans residents. Thousands of people enjoyed weekend excursion voyages on these boats, and beginning in the 1920s, the vessels could even accommodate vehicles. Thus the New Orleans workday commute was born. Commuters switched over to the world’s longest bridge over water, the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, in 1956.
In the early 1900s, New Orleans musicians would voyage to Mandeville, then make the circuit of several music halls across The Northshore to play for dances and parties. The Northshore’s rich musical heritage continues today with riverside concerts in Covington, lakefront symphonic performances and the jazz sessions at the Dew Drop Jazz Hall in Mandeville.
Area shipyards began with a U.S. Navy shipyard built in the early 1800s on the Tchefuncte River. Since
then, The Northshore has hosted several large shipyards producing a variety of tugboats, barges and cargo ships. Multiple thousands of Northshore men and women have contributed to the expansion of the U.S. merchant maritime fleet as well as warships when needed.
During the 20th century, shipyards flourished on Bayou Bonfouca in Slidell, Lacombe and Madisonville. Some are still in operation today.
Among the larger operations were Canulette Shipyards, Southern Shipbuilding, Louisiana Shipyard, all of Slidell and Jahncke Shipyards and Equitable Equipment Co., both of Madisonville. The Maritime Museum Louisiana was built in the mid-1990s on the Jahncke worksite. Equitable was the world's largest builder of LASH and SEABEE barges, and the company also built various
types of offshore support boats, ocean-going tugs and other vessels for the petroleum industry.
Balehi Marine in Lacombe, founded in 1975, was a small operation, but it produced custom-designed boats in steel, aluminum and fiberglass. Towboats and tugboats were its specialty. It is located alongside today’s highly popular Tammany Trace recreational bike trail.
The Northshore maritime legacy continues today with the Maritime Museum Louisiana, which showcases the area’s many unique contributions to the maritime industry. There, visitors find many informative displays focusing on the history of area lighthouses, steamboats and fishing vessels, as well as a replica of the Pioneer submarine.
What's Biting on The Northshore?
BY KEITH LUSHER
SPRING
As the weather warms, the bream begin to move into the shallows to spawn. There is no easier time than right now to catch bluegill along the shoreline of the many tributaries that pepper The Northshore. A simple bobber and a small bream hook rigged with a live worm or cricket is all you need to catch bream. Bream fishing is how most folks get started, so this is a great time to introduce a kid to the sport of fishing. There are plenty of public places where you can catch bream. Fairview-Riverside State Park in Madisonville, Fontainebleau State Park in Mandeville and Bogue Chitto State Park in Franklinton are all prime spots that offer anglers plenty of shoreline and docks from which to catch bream.
SUMMER
As the bream bite fades, catfish become more plentiful! During the summer months, channel catfish and blue catfish group up in the deeper sections of the rivers. The Tchefuncte River leads the way as far as catfish production and has plenty of spots that are available to fish from the bank. Simply rig your line with a 1-ounce sinker Carolina or drop-shot style. Since there’s always the chance that you'll catch a giant, don’t use anything smaller than a #3 hook. Since catfish are scavengers, bait is not important as anything will work—market shrimp, chicken livers, worms and shiners will put catfish on the stringer during the summer months.
EDITOR'S TIP
Packing List for the Modern Mariner
Camera and Binoculars
Capture wildlife and historic sights, from modern marinas to the storied Honey Island Swamp.
Sunglasses and a Secure-Fitting Hat
Protect yourself while enjoying open water views.
Sunscreen and Bug Spray
Essential for comfort during those long, sun-soaked afternoons.
Comfortable and Practical Boat Shoes
Perfect for exploring sturdy decks or stepping ashore.
Waterproof Bag
Keep your phone, keys and valuables dry while soaking in the maritime legacy.
Refreshments
Pack water and easy snacks to fuel your journey, much like sailors of the past.
Fishing License
If you’re casting a line like the generations of anglers before you, be prepared.
Personal Flotation Device
Double-check with your captain about sizes on board.
Discover our Communities
MAYBE IT’S SOMETHING IN THE WATER that gives Abita Springs its flavor—its creativity, quirkiness and affinity for nature—everywhere evident. Indeed, the town’s artesian spring or well water, with its reputed healing powers, has long drawn vacationers and settlers alike. Whatever the cause, the town generously shares the benefits. Annually, musicians who typically perform in the streets for tips are
Abita Springs
celebrated at the ever-popular outdoor Busker Festival. Another widely favored event is the Whole Town Garage Sale in March. Just imagine the treasures that await you. And all seriousness aside, a visit to the Abita Mystery House, a sort of repository of tongue-incheek weirdness, is worthwhile.
CULINARY HOT SPOTS
ABITA BREW PUB 72011 Holly St. (985) 892-5837
BY CARROLL DEVINE
LITERARY
A stop on the unspoiled Tammany Trace, Abita Springs has a Victorian-style pavilion with a park and playground at its center, next to the Abita River.
You can feel the town’s vitality at the nearby Abita Café and the Abita Brew Pub, at the Trailhead Museum and at the Town Hall, which hosts the Abita Opry in spring and fall. At the Abita Brewing Company’s tours and tastings, you can learn about the fascinating process of beer making. And on a hike through nearby Abita Creek Flatwoods Preserve, among the beauty of the longleaf pines, you'll be refreshed.
ABITA FARMERS MARKET 22056 LA-59
ABITA SPRINGS CAFÉ 22132 Level St. (985) 400-5025
ARTIGUE’S ABITA MARKET 22069 LA-59 (985) 892-7300
MAMA D’S PIZZA & MORE 22054 LA-59 (985) 809-0308
MAPLE STREET BAKERY 21470 LA-36 (985) 327-5554
ST. TAMMANY
ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2023
Abita Princess Statue
Covington
JUST AS THE NAMES ABITA, TCHEFUNCTE AND BOGUE
FALAYA, said together, have a rhythmic beat, so too does the vibrant city where these rivers converge. Covington, over 200 years old, is a place where the past and present hold hands, and nature and art of every kind are best friends. Hear the local beat at downtown clubs, like the Columbia Street Tap Room and Encore Bar & Grill Enjoy free Rockin’ the Rails concerts
weekly in April and October at the Covington Trailhead, or music once a month, March to October, at the Columbia Street Landing, both the riverfront stage and the gazebo, and Saturday mornings at the bustling Farmers Market Catch the art beat in the city’s many galleries, including Armbruster Artworks, SALADINO, Marianne Angeli Rodriguez Gallery and Dead Tree Gallery. Visit St. Tammany Art Association’s exhibitions of established and emerging artists’ work, and find great buys at the monthly Art Markets. Visit Southern Hotel, a work of art itself, which displays seasonal art by accomplished local artists. Also, see how easily the past joins the conversation as you visit H.J. Smith & Sons General Store and Museum—there since 1876—now right in the middle of happening boutiques, restaurants and cafes. Go half a mile north on 21st Avenue and look carefully to spot the enchanting “twig house,” a unique, hundred-year-old sanctuary structure, artfully and obviously lovingly made from intertwined heart
pine knots. The fairy-type house with a dirt floor and see-through walls has prompted many legends. See it and you may be tempted, like others, to invent your own story about its mysterious purpose. But there’s no mystery about why a magnificent live oak stands in the middle of Boston Street, the town’s main thoroughfare. When the street was constructed, the oak was in the way, so the builders just built the road respectfully in a semi-circle around the treasured tree.
CULINARY HOT SPOTS
ABITA ROASTING CO.
1011 Village Walk (985) 246-3345
BOULEVARD AMERICAN BISTRO
70340 LA-21 (985) 326-2121
COFFEE RANI
234-A Lee Lane (985) 893-6158
COLUMBIA STREET TAP ROOM AND GRILL
434 N. Columbia St. (985) 898-0899
CURED. ON COLUMBIA
415 N. Columbia St. (985) 893-0355
DEL PORTO RISTORANTE
501 E. Boston St. (985) 875-1006
DICHRISTINA’S ITALIAN AND SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
226 E. Lockwood St. (985) 875-0160
ENGLISH TEA ROOM
734 E. Rutland St. (985) 898-3988
GALLAGHER’S GRILL
509 S. Tyler St. (985) 892-9992
HAVEN COFFEE & COCKTAILS
534 N. New Hampshire St. (985) 352-2644
LOLA
517 N. New Hampshire St. (985) 892-4992
MARCELLO’S
324 E. Boston St. (985) 400-5668
MATTINA BELLA
421 E. Gibson St. (985) 892-0708
MERIBO
326 Lee Lane (985) 302-5533
NEW ORLEANS FOOD AND SPIRITS
208 Lee Lane (985) 875-0432
TAVI
330 N. New Hampshire St. (985) 200-2045
THE CHIMES COVINGTON 19130 W. Front St. (985) 892-5396
THE DAKOTA
310 E. Boston St. (985) 892-3712
THE GLORIETTE
428 E. Boston St. (985) 202-8090
THE GREYHOUND
705 E. Boston St. (985) 400-5828
VALENCIA
315 N. Vermont St. (985) 900-2151
Bush&Folsom
Global Wildlife Center
THE NORTHWEST HORSECOUNTRY area of St. Tammany Parish offers numerous opportunities for rejuvenation—for slowing your roll, experiencing nature and engaging with our animal friends. In a roughly triangular area encompassing north Covington, Bush and Folsom, you may find your new tempo.
At Splendor Farms in Bush, see yourself connecting with horses as you go trail riding through woods, creeks and open fields, or take horseback riding lessons. Enjoy the sweetness of the petting farm animals, or go hiking or fishing. Spend nights in their comfortable accommodations.
Visiting Wild Bush Farm + Vineyard, you’ll learn about winemaking, have a tour and a tasting in a charming vinedraped building and be delighted with music under the stars at
a spring or fall concert.
Looking for a deeper dive into serenity? Escape to Little River Bluffs Preserve and Retreat in Folsom. Enjoy peaceful nature at its best. Stay in a cabin or “refined rustic” lodge house amid 30 wooded acres on the artesian-fed Little Tchefuncte River. Go kayaking, tubing, pedal boating, pond fishing or swimming in their mineral pool or doing whatever unwinds you.
A wagon tour at the Global Wildlife Center safari park offers you rewarding closeups with various species of free-roaming animals.
But you’ll find friendly encounters of the human kind at the beautiful laid-back gathering place of Giddy Up Folsom. Giddy Up also hosts outdoor live music in spring and fall, and you might easily connect with the work of local artists at the Far Horizons Art Collective next door. Voilà rejuvenation.
Madisonville
CULINARY
HOT SPOTS
B&B GENERATIONS
82366 LA-25, Folsom (985) 260-5000
FOLSOM MARKET
82343 LA-25, Folsom (985) 465-3663
GEAUX PIZZA AND WINGS
82361 LA-25, Folsom (985) 796-4207
GIDDY UP FOLSOM
82292 LA-25, Folsom (985) 260-5060
GLYNN’S DRIVE-IN OF FOLSOM
82439 LA-25, Folsom (985) 796-4700
GUS’S RESTAURANT
82343 LA-25, Folsom (985) 796-0230
HOUSE OF SEAFOOD BUFFET
81790 LA-21, Bush (985) 886-2231
LA SERENDIPITY VINEYARDS
82178 Old Military Rd., Bush (504) 481-0716
ROUX 25
82010 LA-25, Folsom (985) 796-4466
SCOOPS FAMILY RESTAURANT
82245 LA-25, Folsom (985) 796-8087
MADISONVILLE IS GRACIOUSNESS personified, with her moss-dressed live oaks, gingerbread-trimmed front porches and come-hither looks. She’s not just a pretty face, though. She can help with your escape from the mundane, offering places you’ve never been before as you explore the remote reaches of the meandering Tchefuncte River on a pontoon boat. View the alluring 1837 landmark lighthouse that stands at the river’s mouth, currently only accessible by boat. Knowledgeable captains with the right stuff from Tchefuncte River Charters or Louisiana Tours and Adventures are ready to guide and entertain you. You can learn the town’s fascinating history at Maritime Museum
Louisiana, located on the former site of Jahncke Shipyard, where 2,200 workers built wooden ships for the U.S. Navy in 1900. Let yourself be astonished by the museum’s expertly displayed dioramas, artifacts and other exhibits. Madisonville also easily accommodates as you do your own thing, like enjoying a meal at one of the Water Street restaurants or gaining a new life perspective as you loll on the river’s bank. And, a short ride east down Highway 22, Fairview-Riverside State Park on the Tchefuncte offers picnicking, camping, fishing and all the elements you need to complete your escape.
CULINARY
ABITA ROASTING CO.
504 Water St. (985) 246-3340
CHERRYBOMB COFFEE
306 Covington St. (985) 792-7121
EMPATACO
101 LA-22 (985) 792-7157
KEITH YOUNG’S STEAKHOUSE 165 LA-21 (985) 845-9940
MORTON'S BOILED SEAFOOD & BAR
702 Water St. (985) 845-4970
REELS WATERFRONT BAR & GRILL
100 Marina Del Ray Drive (985) 206-5390
TCHEFUNCTE’S AND THE ANCHOR 407 St. Tammany St. (985) 323-4800 T RIVERS BAR & GRILL 1999 Main St. (985) 845-1711 TRIPLE NICKEL GRILL 305 Covington St. (985) 792-7292
The Anchor
Mandeville
IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A PLACE that blends the feel of a small, intimate town with a coastal resort, Mandeville could be it. Since the early 1900s, daily steamers have brought visitors to Mandeville looking for entertainment and crowd-weariness relief. You'll still find that kind of place today. Discover it in the tree-shaded streets of Old Mandeville, in the friendliness of Girod Street's neighborhood restaurants, boutiques, art and antique shops, and at the Saturday morning Trailhead Community Market, where artisans, growers and producers sell their wares while musicians play on stage for free.
At the same Trailhead amphitheater, for six Friday nights each spring and fall, find Mandeville Live!, a series of free concerts.
Also, each spring and fall on scheduled Saturdays, feel the special vibe as live music of various genres is performed in the iconic 1895 wooden building, Dew Drop Jazz and Social Hall. You might even dance. Not far away, and since the 1920s, sits the bar and live music dance hall known as Ruby’s Roadhouse. The style is funky, eclectic and unplugged.
For the ultimate in “unplugged,” you might want to meet the Seven Sisters Oak. At 65 feet tall, with a girth of 40 feet and an estimated age between 500-1,200 years, she has been President of the Live Oak Society since 1968. She lives on a quiet street in the Lewisburg neighborhood. You can’t miss her.
A few miles down the road, you will find Fontainebleau State Park. You can picnic, hike, fish, camp or play on the sandy beach or on the kids’ splash pad.
Then, you can head back to the marina on Lakeshore Drive and charter a sailboat from Delaune Sailing Charters and even take lessons. It could happen.
CULINARY HOT SPOTS
BISTRO BYRONZ
1901 US-190 (985) 951-7595
BOSCO’S ITALIAN CAFÉ
2040 LA-59, Ste. 3 (985) 624-5066
CAFÉ LYNN
2600 Florida St. (985) 624-9007
COSCINO'S 1809 N. Causeway Blvd. (985) 727-4984
CRAZY PIG SOUTHERN KITCHEN
4700 LA-22 Ste. 1 & 2 (985) 792-7900
DESI VEGA'S STEAKHOUSE 4250 LA-22 Ste. 1 (985) 221-7700
DUMAN ARTISAN KITCHEN 821 Girod St. (985) 231-7663
GIROD STREET MARKET & DELI 528 Girod St. (985) 629-4260
HABANERO'S 3900 LA-22 (985) 778-0126
IMPASTATO CELLARS 240 LA-22 (985) 845-4445
KELLY'S COASTAL CABANA 124 Girod St. (985) 231-6623
Lakefront
LAGO
2660 Florida St. (985) 674-7602
LA LOU
200 Girod St. (985) 231-7125
LIZ’S WHERE Y’AT DINER
2500 Florida St. (985) 626-8477
NAN'S NEW ORLEANS CAFE & POBOYS
700 Florida St. (985) 951-2586
ODELIA
3529 U.S. Hwy. 190 (985) 778-0034
PARDOS
5280 LA-22 (985) 893-3603
PAT’S REST AWHILE 2129 Lakeshore Drive (985) 951-2173
PONTCHARTRAIN PO-BOYS
318 Dalwill Drive (985) 626-8188
RIPS ON THE LAKE
1917 Lakeshore Drive (985) 727-2829
SPOKE + BARREL
639 Girod St. (985) 612-1828
THE BARLEY OAK 2101 Lakeshore Drive (985) 727-7420
Fontainebleau State Park
Mandeville
Slidell
NATURE AND GOOD TIMES ARE never far apart or far away in Slidell. There are festivals, live music with “gotta-move dancing,” good food, play, adventure, history and serenity. In the city’s expansive and modern Heritage Park, which kisses the shore of Bayou Bonfouca for a quarter mile, you’ll find a walking trail, picnic table shelters, a playground, a splash pad and a boat launch at the marina end of the park. Better still, an amphitheater stands ready for the Bayou Jam concert series in spring and fall and "Some Enchanted Evening" with the Northshore Community Orchestra in May.
If pickleball is your game, you’ll find courts open to the public at both John Slidell Park and Fritchie Park. You can’t miss trying local cuisine at some of the restaurants and cafes. Have fun exploring historic buildings or browsing shops in Olde Towne Slidell. On Saturdays, the Camellia City Market is the place to stock up on homegrown produce, prepared foods, arts, crafts and specialty items—and to hear live music. See nature close up, following a wooden boardwalk through the nearby Camp Salmen Nature Park on Bayou Liberty. Besides having a playground, amphitheater and pavilions, the park is home
to the Camp Salmen House, a rare example of 1830s-era French Creole cottage architecture.
Take a ride on the wilder side on a Honey Island Swamp boat tour through this permanently protected wildlife preserve. Cajun Encounters Tours or Dr. Wagner’s Swamp Tours can take you into the pristine freshwater swamp for a mesmerizing experience. Yes, Slidell has a bit of everything, including drama—the good kind—like you’ll see in productions at Slidell Little Theatre and Cutting Edge Theater.
CRAWFORD’S 1-STOP 715 Old Spanish Trail (985) 445-1199
EIGHT60 WINE WHISKEY BITES 860 Oak Harbor Blvd. (985) 259-4051
GILLIGIL’S ISLAND 4826 Pontchartrain Drive (985) 201-8824
JOE'S ITALIAN RISTORANTE
300 Oak Harbor Blvd. (985) 326-8637
KENNEY SEAFOOD, INC. 400 Pontchartrain Drive (985) 643-2717
KY’S OLDE TOWNE BICYCLE SHOP 2267 Carey St. (985) 641-1911
NATHAN’S RESTAURANT 36440 Old Bayou Liberty Road (985) 643-0443
NOLA SOUTHERN GRILL 1375 Gause Blvd. (985) 201-8200
OLDE TOWNE PIZZA CO. 285 Cousin St. (985) 445-1273
PALMETTOS ON THE BAYOU 1901 Bayou Lane (985) 643-0050
PEARL’S SEAFOOD MARKET 502 Gause Blvd. (985) 214-9014
PECK’S SEAFOOD 2315 Gause Blvd. E. (985) 781-7272
PHIL’S MARINA CAFÉ 1194 Harbor Drive (985) 641-0464
QUE RICO! CUBAN CAFÉ 2170 Gause Blvd. W. (985) 201-8215
SOUTHSIDE CAFÉ
3154 Pontchartrain Drive (985) 643-6133
Honey Island Swamp
Northshore Beach
Northshore Soundtrack
There’s a Place for Everyone to Find their Groove.
BY ROBERTA CARROW JACKSON
OUR SPRING-SUMMER MIX
highlights groups with a Latin influence to bring the energy of local festivals, dance floors and live performances right to your ears. Experience the rich interplay of Latin American and Louisiana musical traditions through these tracks, each reflecting a unique cultural fusion that defines The Northshore's vibrant music scene.
We kick off the collection with the New Orleans-based ensemble, The Iguanas. Renowned since the early ‘90s for their eclectic blend of musical styles, The Iguanas fuse Chicano rock, R&B, Conjunto, Tejano and the blues and jazz traditions of the American South into their sound.
Northshore audiences catch them at Wild Bush Farm + Vineyard in Bush. The winery has hosted several Latin artists at its “Jazz’n the Vines” concert series, including Los Po-Boy-Citos, who pays homage to Latin soul and boogaloo, and Charlie Halloran and The Tropicales, whose traditional Caribbean music brings the sounds of the islands to life.
No Latin playlist would be complete without plenty of brass, so we’ve included Big Sam's Funky Nation, who infuse their New Orleans funk with Latin rhythms to create a dynamic, danceable sound heard at events like Abita Fall Fest, and Bonerama, who has brought their brass-heavy funk infused with Latin grooves to the Mandeville Live! Free Friday concert series.
Harpist Patrice Fisher leads Arpa in blending Latin jazz with Celtic and classical influences, often highlighting the rhythms and melodies of Central and South America. Festgoers saw them at Fontainebleau State Park’s Culture Campout and the Third Sunday Concert Series at historic Christ Episcopal Church in Covington. An instrumental band specializing in a fusion of jazz, Latin and flamenco, Roman Street draws inspiration from Spanish guitar traditions. The duo has performed at The Lobby Lounge Listening Room at The Harbor Center in Slidell.
Versatile clarinetist Ben Redwine explores various genres, including Brazilian samba. His album Samba Jazz is a tribute to the iconic 1962 Jazz Samba album by Stan Getz and Charlie Byrd, which introduced bossa nova to a global audience. Redwine recorded Samba Jazz on its 50th anniversary, using the same venue and techniques. A recipient of a Lifetime Achievement in the Arts recognition at the 2022 Parish President’s Arts Awards, Redwine performs at venues across the region and events around the world.
While the musicians on this list are also recording artists, you’ll find more groups performing at venues and events across The Northshore, like the Lago Fest Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration in September at the Mandeville Trailhead. Prefer a DJ dance night? Check out Havana Salsa Nights at Que Rico! Cuban Café in Slidell.
Perfect for adding a little spice to your day, this playlist celebrates the global rhythms flowing through Louisiana’s musical soul and the cultural fusion that defines The Northshore music scene.
24-MILE PLAYLIST: CAUSEWAY TO THE NORTHSHORE
"Que Tristeza" from Super Ball by The Iguanas (1996)
"Alegria" from Birth of a Nation by Big Sam's Funky Nation (2004)
"Sol Tropical" from Jump Up by Charlie Halloran & The Tropicales (2024)
“Bayou Betty” from Bringing It Home by Bonerama (2007)
"Estelita's Boogaloo" Hasta by Los Po-Boy-Citos (2013)
"Santa Lucia" from Shorelines by Roman Street (2010)
“Só Danço Samba” from Jazz by Ben Redwine feat. David Rosenblatt & John Previti (2018)
"Sunrise on the Bayou" Happy Socks by Patrice Fischer and Arpa (2020)
Dew Drop Jazz & Social Hall
