Things to do in Alexandria, Louisiana

FALL FEST ANTIQUE SHOW is scheduled for October 16 & 17, 2009 at the Jena Fair Grounds just off Hwy 84 next to Walmart in Jena, LA. Friday, Oct 16 will be a set up/swap meet day. Saturday, October 17 starting at 8 am will be the day of entertainment – Tractor Pulls, Antique tractors, car/trucks, hit & miss motors, and all type of heritage displays. Games for all ages, Kids tractor pull, Kids barrel race, grass sack race, adult tractor games, women skillet toss and much more. Live music all day with group jam sessions. Arts & Crafts booths. Don’t miss out - . Free Admission. For more information you may call 318-992-2206.
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FALL ARTWALK: 5 – 8pm, Friday, October 16, 2009, Downtown Alexandria. The Artwalk is a free, family-oriented walking tour that features visual art and live entertainment. Downtown sidewalks, green spaces, and the alleys will come alive as local artists display and demonstrate their works of art. Artists will have booths set up in the Alexander Fulton Mini-Park. Qualifying items may be purchased free of tax. Visitors can tour our various museums, studios, and galleries to view exciting exhibits and live music within a few city blocks. Johnny Earthquake and the Moondogs will play on the steps of City Hall. For more information, please call the Division of Community Services at (318) 449-5051 or the Arts Council at (318) 443-4718.
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Don't Miss...
A progressive Gypsy Jazz band from Buffalo, NY inspired by the legendary guitarist Django Reinhardt. Babik has the ability to bridge passionate jaw-dropping virtuosity, with a rare toe-tapping danceability that keeps its audiences enthusiastically engaged.

Sunday, October 18, 2009
3 pm
Jewish Temple, 2021 Turner St.
Free & Open to the Public
For info., call 445-3655

Sponsored by the Bindursky-Fuhrer Cultural Fund
A program of the Rapides Parish Library Big Read

FREE concert at the Jewish Temple this coming Sunday, October 18 at 3 pm ., 2021 Turner St.
There is no charge.
It is open to the public and there will be a reception with food and a chance to meet the performers afterwards.
If someone plays guitar, this concert is not to be missed.
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City Park Players presents BlackJack : A Thief of Possession, October 15 -18 at the Hearn Stage in downtown Alexandria, LA.
Performances are scheduled Thursday – Saturday Evenings at 7:30 and on Sundays at 2:30 in the afternoon.

Black Jack is a play by Rosary Hartel O’Neill, directed by Dan Forest. It follows an eccentric New Orleans family as it is squeezed into the close quarters of a Mississippi Riverboat cruise for the New Year’s holiday. Irene, the matriarch of the family, suspects a rift in her estranged daughter's second marriage. Her Latin assistant sets her sights on the grandson, a successful rock star. Kaitlyn, the daughter, is convinced that she is channeling the poet Baudelaire, and certain that her husband, Beau, a brilliant novelist, is having an affair with a larger-than-life character, Rory DeBango. Everyone dons costumes for a New Year's Eve Party, casting off their old identities. As fireworks explode, cracks are revealed in the family’s façade and ugly truths belie frivolity.

Theresa Louviere is the wealthy New Orleans Garden District matriarch, Irene Soniat DuBonnet. Her daughter, Kaitlyn Dubonnet Ellis, is portrayed by Kim Patton. Beau Ellis is played by Casey Scarbrock and Susan Hathorn is Rory DeBango. Bunky Dubonnet Legere is played by Danny Higdon with Christal Workman as Luisa.

In the continuation of our Community Connections initiative we salute Central Louisiana Arts & Healthcare, a not for profit organization whose mission is to bring innovative arts experiences into healthcare settings. They work to enhance the environment of hospitals and healthcare facilities by providing public performances in lobbies and waiting areas, rotating art galleries, and in-room healing arts experiences for patients and families. We invite you to view the "Chairs For Charity" exhibit on display in the lobby of The Hearn Stage. Twelve chairs creatively decorated and painted by Studio Artists at Ethel Dixon's Studio are being auctioned (final bidding takes place Oct. 16). Proceeds will go to help Central Louisiana Arts & Healthcare continue its healing arts programs.

Reservations are urged. Tickets are available for purchase at the box office before the show. Ticket prices: Adults $12 – Seniors (over 65) $10 - Students $5. The Hearn Stage is located at 3rd & Johnston in Downtown Alexandria in the Rapides Foundation Bldg. Discounted group ticket sales are available. Please contact City Park Players at (318) 442-1800 or email cityparkplayers@gmail.com. Our blog is also a good source of information. http://cpptheatre.blogspot.com

A premiere community theatre, City Park Players is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization committed to offering quality cultural activities and experiences to the entire Central Louisiana community through live theatre productions, programming, and education. City Park Players’ programs are supported, in part, by grants from the Louisiana Division of the Arts and the Roy O. Martin Foundation as administered by the Arts Council of Central Louisiana.

Additional support comes from our patrons and donors and people like you who believe that community theatre enriches our lives and enhances our quality of life.
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FALL ARTWALK TO BE HELD IN DOWNTOWN ALEXANDRIA OCTOBER 16

The City of Alexandria along with the Arts Council of Central Louisiana will host the Fall Artwalk on October 16, 2009 from 5:00-8:00 pm.

The Artwalk is a free, family-oriented walking tour that features visual art and live entertainment. Downtown sidewalks, green spaces, and the alleys will come alive as local artists display and demonstrate their works of art. Artists will have booths set up in the Alexander Fulton Mini-Park. Qualifying items may be purchased free of tax.

Visitors can tour our various museums, studios, and galleries to view exciting exhibits and live music within a few city blocks. Johnny Earthquake and the Moondogs will play on the steps of City Hall.

Local businesses open for Artwalk include: Alexandria Museum of Art, River Oaks Square Arts Center, Finnegan’s Wake, Diamond Grill, Emmanuel Baptist Church Art Gallery, T.R.E.E House Children’s Museum, and many, many more. Also, students from Bolton High School will take over downtown sidewalks as a canvas for their chalk art.

For more information on the artwalk, please call (318) 449-5051.

Participants Sought for Downtown Zombie Walk

Boils and Ghouls! The shambling horde invites you to participate in the 1st Zombie Walk. The Walk is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. on October 28, 2009.

Ghouls wishing to partake in this historic event will bring three non-perishable can food items to the event and together the horde will march from Front Street to the NSU campus. Face painting and candy will be available for children and a night of fun frights is in store for Natchitoches. All food items will be donated to a local food drive just in time for the Thanksgiving Holiday.

This charitable event is presented by Southern Gothic, a registered NSU student organization.

For more information on the Zombie Walk call 601-529-0273 or the faculty advisor at 318-357-6931.

For more information on other events in Natchitoches Parish contact the Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-259-1714 or visit www.natchitoches.net.

Looking for something fun...head to Monroe-West Monroe

Hoe culture in the South, farm hand near Birmingham, AL, June 1936, Vintage silver print; Dorothea Lange

Artists of the Great Depression, now through November 7 at Masur Museum of Art, Tuesday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Admission is free. Exhibition includes Depression era artists. View paintings, prints and photographs. Includes artists Thomas Hart Benton, Dorothea Lange, John McCrady and many others. 318-329-2237 or www.masurmuseum.org
Other events at Masur Museum

Brown Bag Concert Series with Doug Duffey, October 7 at 12:00 p.m. at the Anna Gray Noe Park, 251 Oak Street, Monroe. Enjoy a free concert every Wednesday in October sponsored by Northeast Louisiana Arts Council. Bring a sack lunch and some friends. Some seating is provided; picnic blankets and lawn chairs are welcome. 318-396-9520

Community Days: Woods, Woodworking, & Tools, October 10 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Starr Homeplace Heritage and Creativity Cener in Oak Ridge. Starr Homeplace boosts seven museums along with a working quilting room, woodworking shop, blacksmith, and 50’s cottage. Great for a family outing! A program is provided along with the noon meal. $5 entry fee; $8 for community meal. Starr Homeplace Heritage & Creativity Center, LA 133/US 425, Oak Ridge 318-244-5700 or 318-651-8311

Louisiana Art & Folk Festival, October 10, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Main Street in Columbia. Festival includes fine art exhibits and demonstrations, music, children's fun, arts and crafts, food and more. Cost is $3; children 3-12, $1, 318-649-0726

Children's Drop-In: Grown Your Own Greens, October 10, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Biedenharn Museum & Gardens in Monroe. Cost is $5. Learn how to grow your own vegetables! Handouts will be available with fun ideas focusing on gardening all year around. When the activity is finished, families are welcome to walk through ELsong Garden, tour the home, and enjoy a nickel Coca-Cola. 318-387-5281 or www.bmuseum.org

Walking Tour of the Henry Bry Historic District, October 10 at 2 p.m. Masur Museum of Art in Monroe. Cost is $25. The Cooley House Foundation will present a walking tour of the Henry Bry Historic District led by architect F. Lestar Martin. Today, the houses in this district represent 200 years of architectural styles. Space is limited. 318-329-2237

Solo Exhibition by Michael Stillion, October 11-November 24, Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Friday 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Free. ULM – Bry Art Gallery, Monroe 318-342-1414 or www.ulm.edu/vapa

Greg Biolchini Workshop, October 12-16, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Kiroli Park Lodge, West Monroe.The gallery has scheduled internationally known artist, Greg Biolchini to instruct a pastel workshop. The focus is learning the specific approach to painting in pastel. Whether you are a beginner or accomplished artist, you will enjoy this one-on-one experience. Biolchini’s work is on his web site, www.biolchini.com. Class size is limited. Cost is $400. 318-322-2380 or www.orag.org

Col. John Reitzell Speaking at Chennault Aviation and Military Museum, Monroe, October 13 at 6 p.m. Reitzell served 28 years in the Army and is in the 509th Parachute Infantry’s Hall of Fame. The public is encouraged to attend. 318-362-5540

Artist Talk with Doyle Jeter, October 13 at 6:30 p.m. Doyle Jeter is founder of Enoch’s Irish Pub, the Eye-20 Group, the 10/20/40 Group, and the Northeast Louisiana Celtic Festival. He has a master’s degree in printmaking from New Mexico Highlands University. His work can be found in private and public collections, including the Museum of Fine Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico. This event is Free. Masur Museum of Art, Lower River Gallery, Monroe 318-329-2237 or www.masurmuseum.org

Tales and Trails in , October 15, 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. at Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Monroe. Program is for children ages 3 to 5 years of age. The day includes a snack, story time and making crafts, as well as some outdoor activities. Tales and Trails is free but children must be registered to attend. Call 318-387-1114 to register.

Outdoor Concert: Strike up the Band, October 15, 7:00 p.m. at the Biedenharn Museum & Gardens – Elsong Garden in Monroe. Corey Trahan with Tynan Davis and Cathy Venable will present a theatrically enhanced presentation of popular music from the 1929-39 era of American History. Gershwin’s Summertime, Porter’s It’s De’Lovely, showstoppers from Rodger’s Oklahoma, Kern’s Showboat and a patriotic tribute composed by Irving Berlin are a few of the selections that will be featured – all under the skies of ELsong Garden. The concert is $15. Call 318-387-5281 or visit www.bmuseum.org.

US Hwy 80 Sale, October 16-18, 8:00 a.m. daily. Bargain hunters and shopaholics, travel to one of the longest sales scattered over a three state area. Shop along historic Hwy 80. The sale covers 392 miles from Mesquite, Texas through Louisiana to Jackson, Mississippi. For more information visit www.easttexasguide.com.

3rd Annual Fall Fest & Antique Show, October 17, 9:00 a.m. Jena Fair Barn, Jena, Louisiana. A day of fun with tractor pulls and games for all ages. See antique tractors, cars and trucks. Admission is free. Enjoy live music and jam sessions. For more information call 318-992-2206

19th Annual St. Patrick’s Herbal Harvest, October 17 from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church, 1712 Wellerman Road, West Monroe. Plants and herbs, original arts and crafts, jewelry, children's clothes and garden accessories. Sausage, soup and jellies also available. Free to attend. 318-396-1341.

Annual Fall Celebration at Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Monroe, October 17 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Fun for the entire family with outdoor activities including guided nature walks, face painting, live exhibits, and more. Free. 318-387-1114

Ouachita River Arts Gallery Exhibit, October 17-November 1, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. Sunday, The Biedenharn Museum & Gardens hosts works of art by the members of the Ouachita River Arts Gallery in the Fountain Room. This event is free. 318-387-5281 or www.bmuseum.org

Container Gardens featuring Ashley Higginbotham, October 20 from 12:00–5:30 p.m.
Ashley Higginbotham offers tips on planting terrariums, Wardian cases and tabletop gardens. Seating is limited. Advance reservations may be made in the Museum Store with payment of $10. This event takes place in the Education Building of the Biedenharn Museum & Gardens in Monroe. 318-387-5281 or www.bmuseum.org.

The 5th Annual March of Dimes Gourmet Gala, October 20, 6:00 p.m. at the West Monroe Convention Center in West Monroe. This event is held to raise money and support for the March of Dimes. Their mission is to reduce birth defects, premature births and infant mortality. Area chefs offer samples of their signature dishes. The evening also features live and silent auctions of trips, dining experiences and other items. Cost is $75; Corporate Tables available for $500; West Monroe Convention Center, West Monroe 318-387-3650

“Cowboy-Up” Western Celebration, October 21 at 11:30 a.m. at the West Ouachita Senior Center, Monroe. Participation for seniors 60 years and older. Free to attend. 318-323-5700 or www.wmcd.org

Brown Bag Concert Series with Mairtin de Cogain, October 21 at 12:00 p.m. Visit Northeast Louisiana Arts Council's outdoor concert series at Anna Gray Noe Park, 251 Oak Street, Monroe. Bring a sack lunch, a blanket and friends and enjoy a free concert. 318-396-9520.

Earth Oven Demonstration at Poverty Point State Historic Site, October 24 from 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. A site ranger will be conducting demonstrations of this unique cooking method. $2; Children (12 and under) and Seniors (62 and older) Free. Poverty Point State Historic Site, Epps 318-926-5492 or 888-926-5492

Northeast Louisiana Celtic Festival, October 24 & 25, 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. daily at Ike Hamilton Expo Center, West Monroe. The festival honors the rich Celtic heritage of Northeast Louisiana. Performances from Grammy-nominated Trout Fishing in America and some of Ireland’s most famous bands. Fun for the entire family! www.nelacelticfest.net

Brown Bag Concert Series with Rod Payne and Lisa Spann, October 28 at 12:00 p.m. at Anna Gray Noe Park, 251 Oak Street, Monroe. Brought to you by the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council’s outdoor concert series. Picnic blankets and lawn chairs are welcome. Bring your sack lunch and a bunch of friends. 318-396-9520

Bingo Bash, at the West Ouachita Senior Center, Monroe October 30 at 10:00 a.m. Participation for seniors 60 years and older. Free to attend. 318-323-5700 or www.wmcd.org

Wild Friday: Campfire Stories, October 30 at 6:30 p.m. at the Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge–Amphitheater, Monroe. A tradition at Black Bayou Lake is sharing stories around the campfire. Come take part and bring the entire family. Cost is free. 318-387-1114

Boo at the Zoo, October 31 at 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo,
Monroe. Costume contests, games and activities and candy! A day of family fun and games. Cost is $5. 318-329-2138 or www.monroezoo.com.

Faustwork Mask Theatre, October 31 from 3–5:00 p.m. at the West Monroe Convention Center, West Monroe. Robert Faust will appear with the Monroe Symphony Orchestra to create a unique synthesis of theatre, physical comedy, music, dance, and poetry. Enjoy an afternoon of entertainment suitable for the entire family. Children are invited to come in costume. $15; $5 for students. 318-812-6761 or www.monroesymphonyorchestra.com


Source: Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitors Bureau

Cane River Green Market to host Fall Harvest markets

The Cane River Green Market will hold special “Fall Harvest” markets on Oct. 10 and Oct. 31, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the downtown riverbank.

Besides fresh fruits, vegetables and plants, customers can choose from a selection of “value-added products” including farm fresh eggs, homemade breads, jams, jellies, pickles, honey and much more.

Craft vendors will also be on site with hand-made crafts such as woodwork, artwork, jewelry, stained glass, soaps, pottery, furniture and more.

On Oct. 10, enjoy live music by The Back Porch Band from 10 a.m. to noon. The band primarily plays traditional ballads, folk and Celtic music. Band members play many instruments including violins, dulcimers, cello, harp, wash boards and Irish whistles.

WesMar Farms will be onsite with their goat milk products including milk, cheeses and soaps. Don’t miss your opportunity for smoked boudain, hot tamales and pork steaks from Uncle Waine’s BBQ. The Natchitoches Master Gardeners will also be vendors at the Oct. 10 market selling a variety of plants.

Patrons can enjoy live music, complimentary coffee and free "Louisiana Cooking" magazines while supplies last. There will be fun for the kids as well. Children can enjoy fall craft projects and there will also be fall decorations on the riverbank, making the perfect setting for fall family pictures.

For more information about the market, please call the Cane River Green Market (318) 352-CRGM or visit the web site at www.canerivergreenmarket.com.



Source & Photo Credit: City of Natchitoches

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Christmas Festival accepting entries for Lighted Boat Parade

The Natchitoches Christmas Festival is now accepting applications for the 2009 Christmas Festival Lighted Boat Parade.

The Lighted Boat Parade, which is the first major event of the 2009 Christmas Festival, will take place on Friday, December 4 at 6 p.m. on Cane River Lake in downtown Natchitoches. Barges, boats, canoes, virtually anything that floats safely can enter. There is no entry fee; however, every entry must have lights.

First place will receive $250, second place receives $150 and third place receives $100. Additionally, the Cane River Waterway Commission is offering a $200 safety award to the entry that exhibits the best water safety features. Miss Merry Christmas and the Christmas Belles are the parade’s official judges.

This event has become one of the most popular events of the Festival season. This year it has been expanded to make it an even greater spectacle and to offer the opportunity for everyone to become a part of the fun of the Festival. The sight of brightly decorated vessels floating up and down Cane River adds greatly to the atmosphere of Festival weekend.

To enter the barge parade, or for more information, call Lori Tate at 318-357-8744.


For more information about the Festival or Natchitoches, call Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce at (318) 352-6894 or the Natchitoches Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-259-1714. For more information on the Christmas Festival, visit www.christmasfestival.com.

Source: Natchitoches Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Fun Events to check out

Christmas Festival Poster Unveiling, September 27, The 2009 Natchitoches Christmas Festival Poster was created by 10-year Madalyn Sibley of League City, TX. Held at Dicken's & Co. at 524 Front Street. Posters will be on sale for $35. For more information call 318-357-3839.

"Peanut Butter and Jam Concert Series" on Saturday, October 10 at 6:30 p.m. The Children's Museum

October events in North Louisiana

Hunting and Fishing Day, September 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Tensas National Wildlife Refuge, 2312 Quebec Road • Tallulah, Louisiana. For more information 318-574-2664 or www.fws.gov/tensas. Admission is free. This event is an initiative for youth ages 8-15, "Children and Nature" and is designed to be enjoyed by the whole family. Attendees will enjoy skeet shooting, BB shooting and archery. The highlight and main attraction of the day is the registration and selection process for Tensas river (NWR)’ annual Youth Lottery Hunt.

Teddy Bearfest '09, October 10 from 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. For more information call 318-574-8519 Admission is free. Tallulah Courthouse Square, Tallulah, Louisiana www.ladelta65.org

Teddy Bearfest '09 Historical Celebration, Celebrating the Great Outdoors

Joe Wiegand, renowned Teddy Roosevelt Reprisor, will perform on stage capturing the life and times of President Roosevelt. Lots of activities for children will be offered. Educational and informational booths featuring a variety of activities and live animals, and information on wildlife, hunting, fishing will be on display. Booths showcasing arts and crafts will be avaliable. door prizes will be given and there will be a variety of food booths and live non-stop entertainment.
Shea Arender, Elvis Tribute Artist, will be the main attraction along with Vickie Bell, soul rythmn and blues singer and jazz musician, Dr. Willie Naylor. Other entertainers include Brian Sivils, Band of Brothers, Jamie Lynn Robinson, Baylee Regan, David Breechen, the Senational Six and a host of local gospel groups.

Madison Parish Tourism Commission, 305 Dabney Street, Talluah, Louisiana 888.744.8410, 318-574-8519, 318-574-1123

2nd Annual Avoyelles Bayou B-B-Q Cookoff

September 26 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Town of Cottonport, Cottonport Avenue, Cottonport, Louisiana, Visit travelavoyelles.com or call 318-876-3485. Admission is free.

2009 Fall Bluegrass Festival

September 30 to October 3 from 6:30 p.m. 318-428-5282 for more information. Admission: $40 3-Day Pass or $15 a day. Thomas Jason Lingo Community Center, 10284 Hwy. 17 South, P.O. Box 1224, Oak Grove, Louisiana, Louisiana, www.needfoundation.com, needfoundation_communitycenter@yahoo.com. 3 Day event with Wednesday evening having a covered dish supper with Bluegrass Gospel Music.

Caldwell Parish COC

Louisiana Art and Folk Festival

October 10 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Downtown Columbia, call 318-649-0726 or visit louisianaartandfolkfestival.com for more information.

The Louisiana Art and Folk Festival will be held Saturday October 10, 2009 from 9:00 - 5:00. This will be the 54th year for the Louisiana Art and Folk Festival. Held in historic downtown Columbia on Main Street. There will be a Fine Arts show with an art contest, an art exhibit at the Schepis Museum on Main Street. There will be a variety of music played throughout the day on stage in front of the courthouse. Arts and Craft booths will be set up on Main Street (booth spaces available), a children's petting zoo and other activities for children. Food booths will be serving a variety of foods. Our restaurants will be open for business (San Miguel, Mexican, Jan's Pizza Place, the Coffeehouse and Poparazzy serving Italian Ice.

Ruston Jaycees Fall Fair, October 14-17 North LA Exhibition Center, North Hwy 33, Ruston, Louisiana 318-789-8347 for more information

Pioneer Day at Hypolite Bordelon Home, October 10 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Located at 242 Tunica Drive West, Marksville, Louisiana, call318-253-0284 for more information or visit travelavoyelles.com

Lions Club Pro Rodeo, October 8-10, Gates open 6pm, Starts at 7pm
337-239-3190 for more information. Vernon Parish Fairgrounds, 276 H. M. Stephens Blvd., Leesville, Louisiana

West Louisiana Forestry Festival & Fair October 7-11 at the Vernon Parish Fairgrounds. For more information call 337-353-2314. Admission is $3 Students, $5 Adults. Vernon Parish Fairgrounds, 276 H. M. Stephens Blvd., Leesville, Louisiana

Rapides Parish Cemetery Tour, October 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free. Call 318-487-5998 for more information. Visit various historic cemeteries in Rapides Parish. www.kenthouse.org

Lecompte Pie Festival, downtown Lecompte, October 2-4, Town of Lecompte Visit www.asliceoflouisiana.com or call 318-776-5488

West Louisiana Forestry Festival Pageant, October 2 at 7 p.m. Admission: $5 Adults, $3 Students, Vernon Parish Fairgrounds, 276 H. M. Stephens Blvd., Leesville, Louisiana

Biedenharn Special Evening Hours, Biedenharn Museum & Gardens, October 2 from 9 - 11 p.m., 318-387-5281 or www.bmuseum.org for more information. Admission is free.
Special evening hours are perfect for couples, families, and friends! They are also ideal for night photography, marriage proposals and garden enthusiasts.

Downtown Art Crawl, October 1 from 5 - 9 p.m., Downtown Monroe-West Monroe Arts Districts, admission is free. For more information call 318-329-1921 for more information. www.downtowngallerycrawl.com. Make your way from one historic jewel to the next, each filled with fine art and friendly faces. The Downtown Gallery Art Crawl is hosted by a community of artists and the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council and provides art, live entertainment, and more!

Natchitoches Parish: October Events

Robeline Heritage Festival, downtown Robeline, Louisiana, October 2-3, Friday: 5 – 9 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. - until . Robeline, Louisiana, located about 15 miles west of Natchitoches, will celebrate its heritage with live entertainment, games, children's activities, arts and crafts, a parade and food. Guest performances by Trini Triggs and Becky Birdwell & Roadhouse.
Admission is free; For more information call 800-259-1714 or visit www.robelineheritage.org

Return to the 50's Classic Car Show in downtown Natchitoches on October 3, from 10 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Natchitoches Historic District will return to the 50's with a classic car show, 50's music by "Shake, Rattle and Roll", concessions and, of course, shopping.
Admission is free. www.natchitoches.net

55th Annual Fall Pilgrimage from October 9-11, The Association for the Preservation of Historic Natchitoches presents the 55th annual Fall Pilgrimage/Tour of Homes. The Tour includes plantations, town homes and homes seen in the movie "Steel Magnolias." Proceeds from the annual tour benefit the historic and cultural preservation of properties owned by APHN. Time varies by tour. Admission: $15 individual tour; $30 two-tour package; $40 three-tour package – discounted tickets available in advance and for groups 800-259-1714 www.natchitoches.net

St. Augustine Catholic Church Fair, October 9-11, Friday: 6:30–10 p.m./Saturday 8 a.m.–11:30 p.m./Sunday 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Experience authentic Creole cuisine, music, games and a jaunt through historic Isle Brevelle. Masses will continue throughout the weekend and guests are encouraged to attend Saturday at 5 p.m. and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. St. Augustine Catholic Church, Melrose, Louisiana. Admission is free. For more information call 318-379-2521. www.natchitoches.net

Natchitoches Art Guild Art Walk, downtown Historic District, October 16 at 5 p.m. Maps and brochures will guide tourists and art connoisseurs through the downtown Historic District where professional artists will display their art and "meet and greet" patrons. Many businesses will be open late offer light refreshments. Musical entertainment will help to guide you along the Art Walk path. Admission is free. Natchitoches Art Guild & Gallery, 318-352-1626 or www.natchitoches.net.

Thunder on the River Christian Motorcycle Rally, October 16-18 from noon on Friday. Presented by Paul Lever Ministries this will be the first Christian Motorcycle Rally to be held in Natchitoches. Thousands of bikers will head to the historic city to spread God’s message. This is a family-friendly event. Activities include fun run, guest speakers, bike show, vendors and entertainment. Admission is free.800-259-1714 or www.thunderontheriver.com

Caddo Adai Pow-Wow, October 17, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Adai Indian Community on Hwy. 485 will host their annual Pow Wow on the grounds of the Adai Indian Cultural Center. Festivities include arts and crafts, food, traditional Indian dances and more! Bring your lawn chair. Free admission. For more information call 318-472-1007. Adai Caddo Indian Nation, Highway 485, Robeline, LA Adai Caddo Indian Community 318-472-1007 or www.AdaiIndianNation.com

Hauted History Tour, October 31 from 5-9 p.m.. The Natchitoches Historic Foundation invites you to find out what's haunted about Natchitoches while being terrifically entertained as it resurrects some of the most colorful characters in the history of the Louisiana Purchase. The Spirit Hunters Paranormal Investigations will once again be in town to report their findings.
Location of Event: American Cemetery, Second Street. Admission: Admission $10 for adults and $5 for children and students. Tickets available at the Natchitoches Parish Tourist Commission, 781 Front Street and at the American Cemetery during the Tour. 800-259-1714 or www.historicfoundation.org

Witch Way to Main Street, October 31 at 5 p.m. in downtown Natchitoches. Downtown trick-or-treating and activities for children 12 and under. Participants will be allowed to trick-or-treat at participating downtown businesses. Children must be in costume and accompanied by an adult to participate. Activities include face painting, a tour of the "haunted" Natchitoches Parish Library bookmobile, Sparky the Fire Dog, McGruff the Crime Dog and games. The Order of Omega from NSU will host their Halloween Carnival downtown. Admission is free. 866-941-6246 or www.natchitoches.net

Source: Natchitoches Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Events in Rapides Parish: Fall 2009

Pops on the River "Red, White and Boom" September 26 at Alexandria Riverfront Amphitheater

Homegrown talent, patriotic favorites, and a beautiful, early fall evening are guaranteed to please concertgoers at the 27th annual "Pops on the River" concert presented by the Rapides Symphony Orchestra at 7:30 p.m., September 26 at the Alexandria Riverfront Amphitheater. The concert is presented without charge to the community with bleacher seating available on a first-come, first-seated basis. Reserved tables for parties of 10 are available for purchase.

Headlining this year's concert are vocalist Katelyn Sooter and recording artist Dezmond Meeks, both Pineville High School graduates, and 2009 Cenla Idol winner Desmone Sanders.

Dezmond attended Northwestern State University before following his star as a contestant in the 4th season of "American Idol" where he advanced to the quarter-round finals before he was eliminated from the competition. He now entertains twice a week as a musician/front man at "Howl at the Moon" inside Hollywood's Universal City Walk.

Katelyn, daughter of Molly and Vic Sooter, is a cum laude graduate of Oklahoma City University and completed studies at the Springboard program in New York City where she worked with many leading Broadway performers. She now resides in Dallas. As an added treat, the finale - the Symphony's performance of Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture" will be accompanied by canon fire and a surprise.

While seating is free, a limited number of reserved tables for ten are available for purchase. For table reservations, please call the Rapides Symphony Orchestra office at 318-442- 9709.

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Centenary College Choir to perform Concert at First United Methodist Church in Pineville, Louisiana

From sacred to secular, from Broadway to European, the choir's repertoire is as uniquely varied as its members who have graced the stage! The young men and women come from various regions of the country and often other countries. The combination of fine singing, showmanship, character, and visual appeal that have garnered wid recognition and given credence to the choir's title as "America's Singing Ambassadors."
The choir remains one of the most traveled choral groups in the nation! In addition to having toured extensively throughout the United States, including past Christmas performances in the White House, the choir has brought its choral celebration to over thirty nations on six continents.
They will be performing in the Sanctuary on September 27 at 6 p.m. Please come and enjoy the choir's fine singing, showmanship, character and visual appeal that will create a concert you don't want to miss!!!! Invite your friends and neighbors.
No charge, a love offering will be taken.

Location: First United Methodist Church, 2550 Monroe Highway, Pineville, LA 71360

Source: Alexandria Pineville Convention and Visitor's Bureau

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2009 Louisiana State Championship Bowie BBQ Duel

Enjoy the Bowie BBQ Duel and Jim Bowie Festival on Friday, September 18 and Saturday, September 19.

Live music featuring stars Avery Michaels & Exit 209, Maggie Brown, The Blue-Haired Mafia Band, Back Roads, and Paul Southerland and Hanna Belle. A re-enactment of the Bowie Sandbar Fight.

Schedule of Events
The 2009 Festival will be held at the RiverView RV Park and Resort at the tree grove area on the Vidalia Riverfront.

Admission Friday $3/Saturday $5 per person; children under 6 are free.

Friday, September 18, 2009
5:00 p.m. - Gates open, BBQ Duel Cook's Meeting (VIP Tent)
6:30 p.m. - Little Miss Bowie Pageant (Main Stage)
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. - "Anything Butt" Judging
(Winners announced Saturday with BBQ Duel Awards)

Saturday, September 19, 2009
8:00 a.m. - BBQ Duel Judges Registration
9:00 a.m. - Festival Kickoff, Vendor Area Opens
10:00 a.m. - Paul Southerland & Hannah Belle, BBQ Duel Shoulder Judging
11:15 a.m. - Maggie Brown
11:15 a.m. - BBQ Duel Whole Hog Judging
12:30 p.m. - Jim Bowie Sandbar Duel Re-enactment
12:30 p.m. - Professional BBQ Duel Ribs Judging
1:15 p.m. - Blue Haired Mafia Band
2:00 p.m. - Amateur Rib Judging
2:30 p.m. - Back Roads
3:45 p.m. - Avery Michaels and Exit 209
5:30 p.m. - BBQ Duel Awards Ceremony for all competitions
6:00 p.m. - Festival Close
8:00 p.m. - Chillin' On The River Vidalia Women's Club Street Dance (RiverFront Amphitheater)

For more information click on the link below.

Source: The Vidalia Chamber of Commerce