Finding the perfect way to honor Mom on Mothers Day can be tricky—she deserves the world for all she does. Yet, most moms cherish quality time with family above all else. Discover these nine delightful ways to celebrate in Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana, drawing from local expertise to create lasting memories. Unleash creativity together at a special painting class with Painting with a Twist, crafting a one-of-a-kind artwork. Sweet tooth? Mom will adore A Spoonful of Sugar’s Mother’s

Note: Dates reference 2017 events. These popular annual festivals continue—verify current schedules on official websites for the latest details. Sort Festival Months: MAY | JUNE | JULY | AUGUST Southwest Louisiana, especially Lake Charles, is a premier destination for festival enthusiasts and Cajun cuisine lovers. These four exceptional summer Cajun festivals combine mouthwatering food, vibrant music, and cultural heritage for an unforgettable experience. St. Margaret’s Crawfish and Musi

Theres nothing quite like relaxing on a Friday evening in downtown Lake Charles, surrounded by live music from top local bands as the sun sets. Better yet, enjoy four consecutive weeks of free outdoor concerts. Downtown at Sundown is a beloved event blending vibrant nightlife, diverse cuisine, local art, and family-friendly entertainment. Picture a lively street fair atmosphere: stroll from art vendors to food trucks, then settle in for an exceptional live performance. The open dance floor adds

Planning a road trip along the scenic Creole Nature Trail, Louisianas Outback? This wildlife-rich drive offers alligators, diverse species, and natural wonders perfect for families. Pack these 10 essentials for a safe, enjoyable adventure. Creole Nature Trail Experience Guide – Pick it up at Adventure Point in Sulphur or download the free Tour App for iPhone/Android. Sunscreen and insect repellent – Stay protected from burns and bites. Bottled water and snacks – Ideal for picnics; try boudin or

Its time to confess: Im hooked on Waitr for effortless, delicious deliveries from Lake Charles top spots. What began with occasional sushi from Asia has turned into a fridge full of takeout favorites. With so many stellar restaurants here, its no wonder. While some note added fees, savvy deals keep meals affordable under $20 including tip and delivery. Here are my top picks from recent orders. Throwbacks Special Po-Boy A local favorite replicates the towns legendary sandwiches. Throwbacks in L

It was a typical lazy Saturday at home, with everyone lounging after breakfast. After indulging in blueberry muffins and coffee, I noticed our six children glued to phones, iPads, and the TV—some even tethered to chargers. Their energy seemed stagnant. I turned to my husband and said, We need to get the kids outside! Its a beautiful day—lets head to the beach! We announced the plan: time to unplug and go to the beach! The younger kids cheered with excitement, while the older ones looked up in

American Craft Beer Week in the third week of May is a standout for beer enthusiasts. Craft beer has surged in popularity across Southwest Louisiana. Heres a guide to some standout ways to celebrate in Lake Charles with fresh brews, live music, and unique events: Rikenjaks - Tuesday, May 16 Rikenjaks patio is the ideal spot to unwind after a long day, featuring live music seven days a week and a wide selection of Louisiana craft beers. On Tuesday from 8–10 p.m., savor Crying Eagles delicio

In Southwest Louisiana, locals take their food seriously. Ask anyone about their favorite SWLA restaurant, and youll get a passionate response—often with multiple favorites. Over the past few months, we invited you to vote for your top local spots. The votes are in! Were thrilled to reveal Lake Charles/Southwest Louisianas Top 20 Restaurants, starting with the podium finishers. First Place: Steamboat Bills on the Lake. Second Place: Luna Bar and Grill. Third Place: Pat’s of Henderson.

Updated June 28, 2017 When women gather for lunch in Southwest Louisiana, its about more than delicious food. They seek venues with inviting atmospheres perfect for conversation—free from blaring TVs or loud music. Healthy menu options are a must. Discover these 11 popular local favorites for your next girlfriend lunch. Craving al fresco dining? Enjoy the outdoor patio at Garden Path Groceries, a pop-up spot serving lunch Wednesdays in the Historic Calcasieu Marine Bank courtyard. Weekly menus

Golden Nugget Lake Charles has earned its top spot as the #1 hotel on TripAdvisor by delivering exceptional experiences. Highlights include an 18-hole championship golf course, upscale retail shops, a remarkable pool complex with a lazy river, luxurious spa services, and Landrys signature restaurants offering global cuisines. The new Rush Tower elevates the property with a total of 1,100 luxury hotel rooms and suites designed for ultimate comfort. Large King Room Rush Tower introduces spac

Join us for National Get Outdoors Day on Saturday, June 10! Disconnect from screens, apply sunscreen and bug spray, stay hydrated, and embrace the great outdoors for healthy, active fun. National Get Outdoors Day (GO Day) promotes outdoor activities tailored to your interests—hiking, kayaking, camping, trail biking, nature walks, fishing, paddle boarding, or a leisurely park stroll with your dog. For family-friendly inspiration, attend the free Get Outdoors Day event at Creole Nature Trail A

One thing is clear about 2017: its in turbo mode. Where has the year gone? Were already planning summer vacations (or enjoying them), and before long, kids will be back in school as we prepare gumbo pots and Christmas garlands. Each month, I share a message of reflection to refocus your daily intentions and cherish the present. Right now, Id love to hit pause—or at least slow motion! Mays Photo of the Month captures a timeless moment worth freezing and revisiting. This serene image and location

Shrimp and summer are a match made in heaven. This standout recipe—Abita & Cane Syrup Glazed Shrimp from Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill at L’Auberge Casino Resort—captured my heart. Don’t be deterred by the unique ingredients. Award-winning Chef Lyle Brossard masterfully combines Louisiana cane syrup with Abita Amber beer and fresh shrimp for an unforgettable flavor fusion, finished with a subtle cayenne kick. With the right tools, it’s ideal for outdoor grilling in a cast-iron skillet. Cli

With school out, combat those familiar cries of Theres nothing to do! or Im so bored! by treating your family to enriching local arts and performance experiences in Lake Charles. Weve curated a selection of family-oriented arts events to keep everyone engaged and culturally enriched throughout the summer season. Summer Catch A Concert Series - June 12, recurring weekly on Mondays until June 26 Enjoy the Lake Charles Community Bands Once Upon A Time performances at the air-conditioned Lake Char

We had an unforgettable weekend at our first-ever Get Outdoors Day event at Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point! Our sincere thanks to all participants. Over 600 visitors joined us, embracing the thrill of outdoor exploration and learning about local nature. Relive the highlights with these event photos. Thank you to everyone who made it a success!   Congratulations to the National Get Outdoors Day Art Contest winner, Callie Foreman from Maplewood Elementary School! Callie’

Are you following our popular Photo of the Month series? Better yet, are you tagging your shots with #VisitLakeCharles for a chance to win? Each month, our team reviews submissions from talented local and visiting photographers to select a standout image. Its a highlight that celebrates the creativity capturing Southwest Louisianas beauty. Explore the 2016-2017 Photo of the Month winners here. From countless impressive entries, we crowned Britt Richey of Wild Things Photography as the 2016-2017

Summer in Southwest Louisiana is perfect for outdoor activities, warm weather, pools, and grilling. However, with 100% humidity and temperatures over 90°F, firing up the barbecue can be daunting. Where do you turn for a juicy hamburger or cheeseburger without breaking a sweat? Weve consulted TripAdvisor for trusted recommendations from real diners. Wonderful hamburgers Cotton’s Famous Hamburgers – Reviewed by bettys23 on March 16, 2017 My husband and I ate there for years when we visited Lake

Growing up in Southwest Louisiana, I cherish memories of family 4th of July gatherings outdoors with fireworks. Today, we head to the Lake Charles Civic Center for the iconic Red, White, Blue & You celebration—a professional, community-driven event perfect for all ages. The festivities begin at 6 p.m., featuring food vendors, a star-spangled street parade, and a patriotic concert by the Lake Charles Community Band, Louisiana Choral Foundation, and special guests. Fireworks light up the sky

Louisiana stands out for its world-renowned cuisine, particularly in Southwest Louisiana and Lake Charles, where local chefs transform natures bounty into unforgettable dishes. Whether gathering for a family meal or exploring restaurant menus as a visitor, youll encounter unique Cajun terms. This expert glossary demystifies key ingredients and preparations, drawing from generations of culinary tradition in Cajun country. Andouille (ahn-doo-wee) – A lean, spicy, smoked Cajun pork sausage that del

Summer is in full swing on college campuses nationwide, including McNeese State University. While your days are packed with classes, projects, and deadlines, now is the ideal time to plan fun extracurriculars for the upcoming semester. We surveyed current and recent MSU students about their favorite spots for fun. This guide is perfect for newcomers to the college scene or anyone seeking fresh ideas. Where to Eat KD’s Diner Everything on the menu is delicious and budget-friendly. Favorites in