Fun Things to Do in Baton Rouge This Holiday Season

Baton Rouge comes alive during the final months of the year, with fall festivals, local shopping events, holiday light displays, live performances, and celebrations that bring the community together. Whether you are looking for a family outing or a fun way to explore more of Baton Rouge, these upcoming events offer plenty of reasons to get out and enjoy everything the area has to offer.

Halloween and Fall Festivals.

Fifolet Halloween Festival

October 29–31

Fifolet is one of Baton Rouge's signature Halloween celebrations, bringing costumes, creativity, and a little Louisiana folklore to downtown. The multi-day festival includes a pub crawl, a Halloween parade, and a costume ball. Whether you dress up for the festivities or simply head downtown to enjoy the atmosphere, it is a fun way to celebrate Halloween with friends.

Explore Local Farmers Markets

Fall is also a wonderful time to visit Baton Rouge's farmers markets. The Red Stick Farmers Market in downtown Baton Rouge offers seasonal produce, locally made products, and opportunities to support area farmers and small businesses. The Main Street Market and the monthly Baton Rouge Arts Market are also worth exploring for local food, art, jewelry, and unique finds.

November: Shop Local and Enjoy the Outdoors

White Light Night

Friday, November 20

White Light Night transforms Mid City along Government Street into a lively celebration of local art, shopping, food, and music. Visitors can browse work from Louisiana artists and makers, explore participating shops, and enjoy some of the area's restaurants along the way.

The free event is also a great opportunity to begin holiday shopping while supporting local businesses.

Holiday Lights at Baton Rouge General

November 20–December 31

Baton Rouge General's annual Holiday Lights display turns the greenspace at its Bluebonnet campus into a festive nighttime attraction. Visitors can walk through illuminated tunnels, see dancing lights and singing trees, and take photos among oversized holiday decorations.

The display is free to enjoy, making it an easy addition to an evening out or a fun stop for families looking to get into the holiday spirit.

December: Celebrate the Holidays

Festival of Lights

Saturday, December 5

Festival of Lights is a beloved Baton Rouge holiday tradition that brings downtown to life with seasonal decorations and entertainment. The celebration includes the lighting of the downtown Christmas tree, a holiday parade, and a fireworks display over the Mississippi River.

Louisiana Lights at Burden Museum & Gardens

November 27–December 30

For a holiday outing surrounded by beautiful scenery, Louisiana Lights at Burden Museum & Gardens offers an illuminated walk through the gardens and grounds.

Zoo Lights at BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo

November 27–December 30

Zoo Lights brings holiday magic to BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo with illuminated animal sculptures, festive displays, and a walking trail filled with seasonal decorations. It is a popular choice for families, especially those looking for an activity that combines an outdoor outing with holiday fun.

The Nutcracker: A Tale from the Bayou

December 18–20

Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre puts a Louisiana spin on the holiday classic with The Nutcracker: A Tale from the Bayou. The annual production features beautiful choreography, elaborate sets, community dancers, and professional guest artists.

Ring in the New Year

Red Stick Revelry

Thursday, December 31

Red Stick Revelry brings New Year's Eve celebrations to downtown Baton Rouge. The event features live music and entertainment leading up to the midnight lowering of the illuminated Red Stick in North Boulevard Town Square.

The Louisiana Marathon Weekend

January 16–17, 2027

Start the new year with a little movement and community spirit at the Louisiana Marathon weekend. The event offers several race distances, including a 5K, quarter marathon, half marathon, full marathon, and races for children.

Even if running is not on your list of resolutions, watching the participants and cheering them on can be a fun way to experience the energy of the city. The courses travel through downtown, historic neighborhoods, the LSU campus, and the University Lakes area, showcasing some of Baton Rouge's most recognizable places.

Make the Most of the Season

One of the best things about living in Baton Rouge is the variety of ways to enjoy the community throughout the year. Sometimes the best memories come from discovering something new right in your own backyard.

Thinking about making Baton Rouge your home or finding a new neighborhood to enjoy? The Houk Group can help you explore the area's communities.

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