Events in CenLA

The Tin Woman

The Tin Woman brings a true story to the stage with a compassionate look at how the close of one life can lead to a new beginning for someone else. The production considers loss, renewal, and the unexpected connections that arise from life changing moments. Presented at The Hearn Stage.

The Hearn Stage

The Muse Teen Plushie Making Workshop

Teens can pick up beginner sewing skills while designing and stitching a small plush creature or animal in this hands-on workshop. Participation is free for ages 13 to 19, and those at the minimum age must have had their 13th birthday within one month of the event. Advance sign-up is required.

Red River Dance Theatre Company

Ballet Workshop with Evyn Febuary

At Red River Dance Theatre Company, a ballet workshop led by Evyn Febuary welcomes dancers from the Cenla community. The organizers have shared information about the schedule, costs, and how to register.

Silver Wheel Poetry Circle

Silver Wheel Poetry Circle returns to My Secret Shelves for another gathering hosted by Madame Mystique. After a powerful first meeting, the bookstore’s recent expansion provides a roomier setting for poets and poetry lovers to read, listen, and connect in a romantic, gothic inspired space. The theme continues to draw from Welsh mythology, with a name that nods to Arianrhod, a figure whose story includes betrayal, trickery, misogyny, and forced birth, and who is associated with the arts, manifestation, spinning, and weaving. That imagery guides an evening focused on consciously shaping stories, the flow of life, and change. The mood leans toward a reflective summer in cool comfort, with notebooks and favorite pens close at hand. Attendees are welcome to share original work and spend time with a supportive circle of new and familiar faces. Admission is free. Dressing up for photos is encouraged, with optional touches that are silvery, flowing, or cosmic, even a playful sci fi nod. All are welcome, whether longtime friends, strangers, or writers discovering their voice. There are no vendor spots for this event. Be cautious of anyone attempting to sell vendor spaces or request payment.

Beginner Lessons

Discover American Mah Jongg in a welcoming, beginner-friendly class. You will learn to read the NMJL card, identify tiles and suits, practice the Charleston tile exchange, build hands using the card, and follow calling rules and table etiquette before trying a first game. No prior experience is needed. All materials are provided, so just bring yourself and a willingness to learn. By the end, you will feel prepared to take part in beginner games and continue growing your skills.

Bam With Mary Anne

Jeremiah Wilson

Jeremiah Wilson, a nationally recognized Elvis tribute artist, performs at Hemingway House with a show honoring the King of Rock and Roll. The event pairs dinner with the performance.

Keys to the Dream: A Blueprint to Home Ownership

Hosted by the Alexandria (LA) Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and Red River Bank, this free community seminar offers practical guidance for anyone preparing to buy a home. Professionals in the field will cover budgeting and financial readiness, mortgage choices, assistance with down payments, and effective ways to search for a property so participants can move through the buying process with confidence. Light refreshments will be available, and attendees can take part in drawings for gift cards. The program is open to the public.

Charles Hayward Center

City of Natchitoches Basketball Showdown

Head to the MLK Recreational Center for a citywide basketball showdown featuring standout local players in a contest that blends friendly rivalry with real competition. Bring family, friends, and plenty of community spirit while honoring the meaning of Juneteenth. Expect an energetic day of hoops, fellowship, and Natchitoches pride.

MLK Recreational Center

Puppy Yoga

Experience Puppy Yoga, a relaxing class that blends gentle stretching, time to unwind, and puppy cuddles in a single session.

Historical Fiction Book Club: Fortune Of Sand

Set in Detroit in 1927, this story follows Marjorie Lennox, the youngest daughter of a wealthy auto family who longs to define herself beyond her household’s control. She secretly applies to a selective arts program backed by a mysterious patron, hoping for a fresh start. The facility is grand and the students are talented, yet the atmosphere feels wrong. Rules tighten, doors click shut at odd times, unsettling sounds drift through the corridors, and murmurs suggest women are disappearing. The benefactor is rarely seen, yet his influence seems to be everywhere, leaving Marjorie shaken as her identity and sense of truth begin to fray. A Fortune of Sand draws on long-buried history to evoke a fading, opulent Detroit where glamour meets deceit and asks what becomes of women who refuse to fit a carefully polished frame.

JUN21

Dark Woods Adventure Park

Fathers Day Celebration: Fathers Play Free

This Father’s Day, dads receive complimentary play admission to Buccaneer Bayou Adventure Mini Golf during normal operating hours at Timber Ridge Adventure Park. Make it a full outing with activities and treats like the Lost Treasure Mining Company, Crow’s Nest Cafe, Molly Moo’s, and the Bear Factory. Skip the necktie in favor of treasure maps and a day of shared fun.

JUN21

Wild About Wheels

Alexandria Zoo celebrates Father’s Day with big trucks, hands-on activities, and wildlife learning. Guests can explore ambulances, fire trucks, storm response vehicles, and more, while kids make a Father’s Day card and visit the Discovery Cart. Special keeper chats feature the Greater Flamingo and the Red River Hog, shining a light on some of the remarkable dads of the animal world. Fathers, fathers-to-be, and grandfathers can enjoy complimentary train rides when a train ticket is purchased. Regular zoo admission applies. FOTAZ members receive free entry with membership card and photo ID. With appreciation to the Alexandria Fire Department, USDA Forest Service, Army Corp of Engineers, KALB Weather, Walls Tree Service, Pafford, and England Airpark Fire Department.

Alexandria Zoo

Juggling Juices And Bowls

Career

Breakfast Social

Kick off the morning with a casual meetup for young professionals at Juggling Juices & Bowls. Share a light breakfast while connecting with peers in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Conversation and low-key networking make it easy to build new relationships and start the day on a positive note.

Robot Summer Camp (Ages 8-10)

Children can dive into a week of discovery through a series of eight summer camps presented in two age groups and centered on four themes, including robotics, space, dinosaurs, and the natural world. Each five-day session blends hands-on projects, creative crafts, and interactive learning, with guest presenters offering real-world insights that spark curiosity and imagination. Enrollment is limited to 30 participants per camp. Registration is $115 for non-members and $100 for members, with the discount applied at checkout. A $50 deposit holds a spot, and the remaining balance is due on the first day of camp.

Under the Big Top Summer Camp

Experience a carnival-themed summer camp filled with laughter, snacks like popcorn and other treats, and spirited group games for children. Over the course of the week, participants can enjoy playful activities and make lasting memories. Flexible scheduling is available with full-day or half-day options, plus early arrival and late pickup.

Midstate Strong

City Council Meeting

The City Council will be holding a meeting, which is open to the public. The agenda will be available the week prior to the meeting. Please contact the City Clerk for more information.

Leesville City Hall

The Harvey Rabbit Variety Show

Get ready for a whirlwind of laughs and wild fun as a lively crew rolls into town with a show brimming with silliness. Featuring Harvey at the center of it all, this upbeat performance delivers playful antics and energetic humor. Expect a memorable burst of entertainment that keeps the giggles coming.

Rapides Parish Library

Beauboeuf Neon Sculpture Ribbon Cutting

This event celebrates the unveiling of a new neon sculpture by Louisiana artist Jan Beauboeuf on AMoA's exterior, together with the Cenla Chamber of Commerce.

Yoga in the Gallery

Relax each Tuesday with classes led by Learn with Laci. Advance registration is no longer needed.

Music Bingo

Music Bingo at Flying Heart Brewing & Pub - Natchitoches challenges your music knowledge with rounds of song-filled play, cold beer, and prizes. Three chances to win are on the table. The first round awards a beer token plus a pretzel bite card, the second round offers a $25 gift card, and the third round offers a $50 gift card.

Missed Natchitoches Public Pre-K Registration? No Problem!

Missed the first round of Natchitoches public pre-k registration? Additional opportunities are available at the NPSB Title II Media Center, with daytime sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays and an evening option to be announced. To enroll, bring the child’s updated immunization record, birth certificate to verify age eligibility, Social Security card, a parent or guardian photo ID, and proof of residence such as a utility or water bill, mortgage, or lease. If living with family or friends, an Affidavit of Residency and documentation from the homeowner are required. For income verification, bring one of the following: SNAP or Medicaid documentation, two recent consecutive pay stubs for each parent or guardian in the household, a letter from an employer noting pay rate and hours, a Social Security statement if applicable, a Statement of No Income form if there is no income, or a Declaration of Irregular Income form if self employed. If relevant, also bring court orders, legal guardianship documents, proof of disability, or a hardship request.

Rapides Parish Library, Hineston Branch

The Harvey Rabbit Variety Show

Harvey and the crew deliver a playful entertainment experience packed with silly antics and plenty of laughs. A lighthearted show with zany fun from beginning to end.

Wheelthrowing

Spend three two-hour meetings working at the pottery wheel and finishing with glaze. The program includes making and glazing a single completed piece. Clay, glazes, tools, and aprons are provided. This takes place at River Oaks Square Arts Center.

JUN24

Vernon Parish Library Summer StoryTime

The library presents a summer themed storytime to celebrate the season.

Leesville Library

Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame

2026 Induction Celebration

A three day celebration honors the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2026 and highlights the state’s sports heritage. The lineup features a variety of activities, including free community events.

Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame

2026 Induction Celebration | Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame

The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration spans three days with a mix of complimentary community gatherings and signature festivities. The schedule features a welcome reception that is free and open to all, a celebrity bowling bash, Rockin’ River Fest with a free concert, fireworks, and introductions of the inductees, the VIP Taste of Tailgating, the LSHOF Junior Training Camp, a round table luncheon with the Class of 2026, and the culminating induction reception and ceremony. The celebration honors the Class of 2026, including John Brady, Sylvia Fowles, Joe Horn, Jonathan Lucroy, Todd McClure, Mike McConathy, Warren Morris, Dewain Strother, Pat Williams, Kathy Holloway, John James Marshall, and Gil LeBreton.

Thursday Night Bingo!

Bingo hosted by VFW Post 3106 features both paper and computer play. Cold drinks and food are available for purchase, and it is open to everyone. Players must be 18 or older. It offers a simple way to get out of the house and socialize with the community.

VFW Post 3106

Bedazzle Your Own Book

At My Secret Shelves, this hands-on session focuses on giving books a sparkling makeover. Participants may bring a book from home or select a new favorite to decorate, adding a personalized accent to any bookshelf. The atmosphere is welcoming, with fellow readers and makers sharing ideas and inspiration. Each attendee takes home the bedazzling kit to continue customizing more books afterward.

Fall Fun

Choose from a selection of fall-themed designs and create a project that suits your style. Most projects begin at $30. Reservations must be paid in advance and submitted ahead of time. Use the ticket link to pre-pay, then add a note with the class date and your selected project.

Treasure Boutique

Hearn Stage at the Kress Theatre

The Tin Woman

Sean Grennan’s true-to-life comedy drama centers on Joy, who receives a heart transplant yet finds herself spiraling as she wonders if she deserves a second chance. At the same time, grieving parents Alice and Hank, along with their daughter Sammy, wrestle with the loss of their son Jack, whose heart saved Joy. Encouraged by a friend, Joy reaches out to Jack’s family in search of closure, setting the stage for an encounter that mixes humor with heartfelt moments while reflecting on grief, family bonds, and the meaning of renewed life. Directed by Alana Pate.

Economic Development Seminar Part 1

Part one of a seminar series explores investment in communities and regional economic growth in Central Louisiana. A trio of area experts will share practical perspectives across three distinct topics, all tied together by a common goal of strengthening local communities. Presented by the Mid Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Louisiana Chamber of Commerce Foundation, this educational session takes place at Divine Hideaway.

Divine Hideaway

Handbuilding

A series of three sessions, each two hours long, focuses on handbuilding and glazing. Each person completes and glazes a single finished piece. Clay, glazes, tools, and aprons are supplied. Please wear clothing you do not mind.

Fundraisers

CCA Natchitoches Chapter Banquet

This annual membership banquet includes a live auction, silent auction and raffle items. Each ticket purchase includes a one-year CCA membership. Your participation contributes to conservation efforts.

Riverside Reserve

The Harvey Rabbit Variety Show

Get ready for big laughs and wild fun as the crew comes to town, bringing a generous dose of silliness. This unforgettable entertainment experience features Harvey and delivers playful antics with a lively spirit.

Rapides Parish Library

4th Annual Zydeco Food Truck Festival

The 4th Annual Zydeco Food Truck Festival brings two days of mouthwatering eats and upbeat live music to the Natchitoches Fairgrounds. Look forward to a robust lineup of food trucks from across the region, Zydeco and Southern Soul performances, plenty of dancing, and a welcoming festival atmosphere for friends, families, and visitors. A special appearance by T.K. Soul has been confirmed, with more artists to be announced. Limited early bird tickets are available for a short time. Food trucks and other vendors are currently being welcomed to take part in this growing festival.

Natchitoches Fairgrounds

Dark Woods Adventure Park

Final Friday!

A new tradition is beginning at the park, created for live music and lasting memories. The debut of Final Friday introduces a monthly gathering with music, food, and fun throughout the grounds. For $20, guests receive live music beneath the trees, a meal with a drink, and one round of mini golf. Performances take place at Lafitte’s Landing, and a relaxed, festive feel extends through the park. Additional spots will be open, including The Lost Treasure Mining Co., The Bear Factory, Molly Moo’s Soft Serve & Sweets, and the Crow’s Nest Cafe. Designed with families and friends in mind, Final Friday is planned as a consistent monthly event.

Flying Heart Live With Destiny and the Groove Kings

Enjoy a Flying Heart Live performance in the Beer Garden. All ages are welcome.

Friday Night Trivia

Get set for a high-energy trivia showdown that challenges pop culture fans, history enthusiasts, and science lovers alike. Questions cover a wide mix of themes, including movies and music, notable figures from the past, and technology, with plenty of surprises to keep everyone engaged. A real-time leaderboard tracks team standings as the contest unfolds, adding suspense while everyone pushes for the top spot. Special rounds raise the stakes with chances to double points and quick-fire challenges, plus a few unexpected twists. Create a team with friends, relatives, or colleagues, or arrive solo and be paired with others. Bring sharp thinking and a competitive spirit to see how far your knowledge can take you.

VFW Post 3106

CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital

2025-2026 Safe Sitter Classes

Safe Sitter classes equip youth ages 11 and up with the skills to stay safe when home alone, caring for younger siblings, or babysitting. Participants practice life-saving responses like helping someone who is choking and learn what to do in severe weather, along with other practical safety tips. CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini offers these sessions in the Women’s & Children’s Conference Room, located near the gift shop on the first floor of the Women’s and Children’s Tower Atrium.

Trailblazers Cup Golf Tournament

The Trailblazers Cup Golf Tournament will be held at Links on the Bayou. Teams can register to participate, and sponsorship opportunities are available.

Links on the Bayou

Rapides Parish Library - Main Library

The Harvey Rabbit Variety Show

Lots of laughter and playful antics are on the way as the crew comes to town with a lively show. Featuring Harvey, this lighthearted entertainment experience packs plenty of silliness and wild fun.

Session 2:

A Western themed hoedown sets the tone for this session, with core activities in 2D projects, cooking, and mixed media. Creative work is inspired by themes of Romanticism and expansion, offering a hands-on way to explore the idea of heading west.

Food & Drink

Flying Heart Friday

Flying Heart Friday rewards guests who wear a Flying Heart hat, bandana, shirt, or jacket. Dine in at the Natchitoches location and choose one complimentary item from Pretzel Bites, a small order of Boneless Bites, or a beer or root beer. The special is available every Friday, is for dine in only, and is limited to one item per visit.

Randolph Riverfront Center

Career

2026 Bizzy Awards

The Bizzy Awards will recognize local businesses for their achievements. The event will be an evening at the Randolph Riverfront Center. There will be a cocktail hour followed by dinner. The event includes an awards ceremony and a champagne winners circle. There is a cash bar, and the attire is dinner or cocktail.

Silent Book Club: June 27th • 7pm

Silent Book Club offers a peaceful reading session centered on personal time with your own book. There is no assigned reading or pressure to participate beyond settling in with something you want to read in a cozy, safe space. The space will be closed to the public to maintain quiet with calming music, and talking is discouraged so everyone can focus. Headphones, a favorite blanket, and a drink are welcome for added comfort.

Vada Powell

Wednesday nights showcase live music.

Workshop 6 Herpetology and Insects

Learn about amphibians, reptiles, and insects with Brad “Bones” Gloriosa with LARE and Dr. Christof Stumpf, with field work to follow. The campus location is the Biology building at LSUA. To stay comfortable and prepared, bring water, rubber boots, bug spray, a hat, snacks, and lunch.

LSUA

Aloha Themed Karaoke Night

An aloha-themed karaoke night at Gearheadz invites tropical attire and a positive, upbeat atmosphere. DJ Anxiety Entertainment, promoted as Cenla’s only female VJ, will keep the energy high with a mix of the hottest hits while guests take the mic to sing.

Gearheadz Bar & Grillz

Huckleberry Brewing Company

Mimiclou and more

A daylong celebration of music and art comes to Huckleberry Brewing Co. in Alexandria, LA, featuring live sets from Mimiclou, Patrick Stumped, Shed, Ghostridge, New Fools, and Rapturism Now. The program centers on performances and creative offerings throughout the day in a single lively setting.

Dustin Ray Music

From Richard, Louisiana, singer-songwriter and accordionist Dustin Ray showcases a soulful voice and an expansive musical range. His sound blends Country, Swamp Pop, and Cajun and Zydeco influences.

Quebedeaux's Cajun Cafe

Natchitoches Farmer’s Market

The Natchitoches Farmers Market returns to downtown with fresh, locally sourced offerings. Browse in-season produce alongside handcrafted items.

Downtown Natchitoches

JUN28

Halloween In June

Kick off some Halloween fun with creative projects that feature pumpkins, other seasonal designs, and a playful set of Halloween houses. Choose three houses for $30 or go for all five for $45. A personalized family sign is also available for $35. Reservations must be paid in advance. Prepay through the ticket link and include a note with your class date and your chosen project.

Treasure Boutique

JUN29

Trivia

Trivia is back at Flying Heart. Put your brainpower to the test for a chance at some great prizes.

JUN29

Starfish Book Nook and Coffee Corner

Free Youth Crisis Intervention Training

Presented by Cenla CIT, this free community class provides youth crisis intervention training to help people better support young individuals in the community. It takes place at Starfish Book Nook and Coffee Corner.

JUL1

Vernon Parish Library Summer StoryTime

1401 Nolan Trace Leesville, LA 71446 Phone: (337) 239-2027 Fax: (337) 238-0666 Toll-Free: 800-737-2231 View All Locations and Library Hours

JUL1

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pineville-Alexandria Area

LA CAMPMEETING SHOPPING EVENT

A camp meeting shopping event at Holiday Inn Express in Pineville features accessories for all ages, including options for men, along with boutique women’s apparel, candles, and pampering bath and body products. Appreciation is shared for longtime customers who have supported the event over the years, and shoppers are warmly welcomed back this year.

JUL1

Cenla Songwriter Circle

Songwriters gather each month to share original songs in a round table format, taking turns with one song at a time as the circle goes around. It is not a performance, it is a relaxed creative hangout.

JUL2

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Leesville Planning and Zoning Commission meets publicly at City Hall. When there are no current cases, the meeting may be canceled.

Leesville City Hall

21st Annual Fireworks over Buhlow

Returning to Buhlow Lake, the 21st Annual Fireworks Over Buhlow offers a community celebration with family activities, live entertainment, and a fireworks show. Guests can enjoy food and beverage vendors, browse craft booths, and let kids play on jumpers. Music fills the event with a DJ set and a performance by Bag of Donuts. Pop-up tents are allowed, so attendees can set up a shaded spot by the lake. For safety, ice chests and weapons are not permitted.

Buhlow Lake

Independence HYROX Race

Celebrate Independence Day with a partner workout at Iron Boot in Alexandria during a HYROX simulation race designed for teams of two. The course features eight 800 meter runs completed together and eight HYROX stations where partners split the work. Stations include a 1,000 meter row, a 1,000 meter ski erg, a farmers carry with men using two implements of 24 to 32 kilograms each and women using two implements of 16 to 24 kilograms each, a sled pull with 50 to 100 kilograms for men and 25 to 50 kilograms for women, and a sled push with 100 to 150 kilograms for men and 50 to 100 kilograms for women. Additional challenges include burpee broad jumps, sandbag lunges using 50 to 70 pounds for men and 35 to 50 pounds for women, and wall balls using 14 to 20 pounds for men and 10 to 14 pounds for women. Teams may be male and male, female and female, or mixed. If a team includes one male and one female, they will share the weight and the woman will use the men’s lower division weight. Capacity is limited to 16 teams. Registration is by Venmo with the fee and team name. Pricing is $50 per person for Ironboot members and $60 for non members, with an evening of fitness focused challenges on tap.

Iron Boot

Dark Romance Book Club • Twisted Pawn • LJ Shen

A dark romance book club centered on LJ Shen’s Twisted Pawn explores a high-stakes chase between Tierney Callaghan and Achilles Ferrante. After Tierney breaks his heart and then informs on him to federal agents, the Camorra prince vows to make a spectacle of her end. She is determined to keep running, while he believes nothing moves faster than a bullet. Once she was the only person who saw his softer side, and now he is ready to show the ruthless figure everyone else recognizes. The story delves into betrayal, obsession, vengeance, and a belief that love can destroy, with nods to Greek myth and criminal power struggles.

Flying Heart's 4th Birthday Bash

A multi day celebration marks Flying Heart’s fourth year alongside America’s 250th, featuring live music from The Lovers and Chasin’ Benjamins, plus an adult Super Soaker and water balloon fight. Attendees should bring their own water blasters and balloons for the splash showdown. Admission is free, and all ages are welcome.

Flying Heart Brewing & Pub - Natchitoches, LA

The Lovers

The Lovers perform at Flying Heart Brewing & Pub in Natchitoches, LA. The duo features singer songwriters Amanda June and Cole Vosbury, who first crossed paths at a writers night in Franklin, Tennessee, a meeting they describe as divine will.

JUL4

Holidays

America's 250th Birthday Celebration & Tribute to the Hometown Heroes

Celebrate America’s 250th birthday while honoring hometown heroes at a community gathering hosted by the City of Natchitoches along the riverbank. The event features live music from Patrick Harris, Trini Triggs, and Johnny Earthquake & The Moondogs, a festive fireworks show, a variety of food trucks, and a dedicated kids area. It is designed for all ages. Admission is free, and lawn chairs are welcome. A patriotic spirit fits the occasion as the celebration unfolds by the Cane River.

Cane River Front - Downtown Natchitoches

JUL4

Rick Adams & John Jordan

Local favorites Rick and John present an evening of Americana and blues.

JUL4

Craft + Crochet Book Club • A Shelf Talk Sister Book Club

Craft + Crochet Book Club brings together readers and makers for relaxed conversation and creative time. Participants can work on crochet, knitting, embroidery, coloring pages, journaling, or another personal craft while chatting about the books they are currently reading. As a Shelf Talk sister book club, it offers a friendly setting to share recommendations, swap ideas, and enjoy the company of fellow crafters and readers.

JUL6

Serving Camp

Designed solely to build serving skills, this camp gives participants the chance to log hundreds of serves while refining technique. Instruction covers the core mechanics for float, jump float, and jump topspin serves, with plenty of repetitions to reinforce the fundamentals.

JUL6

Muse World Building Camp

At this day camp, teens design their own imaginary worlds with histories, landscapes, and ecosystems, similar to the work of fantasy and science fiction authors. They will also sketch character profiles and develop backstories for these new settings. Sign-up is required and capacity is limited. There is no cost for participants ages 13 to 19. Participants must be at least 13, and those who turned 13 within a month of the event are eligible.

JUL6

Space Summer Camp (Ages 4-7)

Children can immerse themselves in discovery, creativity, and fun during a five-day summer camp built around engaging themes. With options that include Nature, Robot, Space, and Dinosaur, each day features hands-on projects, creative crafts, and interactive learning. Guest speakers share real-world insights that fuel curiosity and imagination, shaping a week of learning, laughter, and adventure. Camps are offered in two age groups. Enrollment is limited to 30 campers per camp. Registration costs $115 for non-members and $100 for members, with a $50 deposit required and the remaining balance due on the first day.

JUL7

First Contact Camp

Demon First Contact Camp focuses on developing first contact for both offense and defense. Training emphasizes passing, defensive skills, serve receive, and serving. It is suited to players who want concentrated work on these fundamentals.

JUL7

Yoga in the Gallery

Unwind on Tuesdays with yoga sessions led by Learn with Laci. No advance registration is needed.

JUL8

Attacking Camp

At Prather Coliseum, this attacking camp focuses entirely on the attack. Campers work only on attacking while learning proper arm-swing mechanics, 2-step, 3-step, and 4-step approaches, and how to hit. It is designed for participants who want concentrated instruction devoted solely to attacking.

JUL8

Career

Career Connection Camp at NSU 2026

This one day camp at Northwestern State University invites students in grades 7 through 9, ages 13 to 15, to discover NSU majors and the career pathways they lead to while developing practical skills for the future. Participants take part in interactive, hands-on activities, learn about academic options and related career opportunities, and engage with university staff and professionals for insight into a variety of fields. It is designed for students who are beginning to shape their college and career goals and want a closer look at what NSU offers. The cost is $20, and registration will be available through the NSU Career Center.

JUL8

Leesville Fire Dept. (Fire Safety and See Fire Trucks up close) — Summer Storyhour Program

1401 Nolan Trace Leesville, LA 71446 Phone: (337) 239-2027 Fax: (337) 238-0666 Toll-Free: 800-737-2231 View All Locations and Library Hours

JUL9

Mahjong Tiles & Tails

Mahjong Tiles & Tails invites beginners and returning players to a friendly series that blends clear instruction with coached table play and a touch of zoo-themed fun. Across three evenings, participants build fundamentals, boost confidence, and refine strategy with guidance from instructor Allyson Marlowe. Registration includes all sessions plus snacks, sparkling water, and sodas. Attendance is capped at 12 people to keep the experience personal and engaging.

Alexandria Zoo

JUL9

Dark Romance Book Club

This book club meeting centers on dark romance and features a group discussion of The Ritual by Shantel Tessier. It offers thoughtful conversation in a welcoming setting for both longtime fans and those exploring the genre for the first time. Attendance is limited to 15 participants, and a $5 reservation secures a seat. Light refreshments will be available. Reservations can be made in-store or online. Expect spicy reads, a safe space, and the chance to connect with fellow book lovers.

Arctos Bookish Den

All Skills Camp

Hosted at Prather Coliseum, the All Skills Camp is designed for middle and high school student-athletes who are new to volleyball or want to learn more about it. The camp focuses on the fundamentals of the sport.

Randolph Riverfront Center

Vintage Market Days of Southwest Louisiana Presents 'Garden Party

Vintage Market Days is an upscale market that gathers vendors from across the country alongside local sellers. The blend of makers and merchants offers a wide variety of finds, with choices to suit every taste.

Steaming Ahead: A Coffeehouse Homeschool Meet-up

This relaxed, drop-in meet-up takes place in a local bookstore coffee shop and focuses on exploring homeschool curriculum. Attendees can ask questions and browse materials with an experienced homeschool mom and consultant. Special discounts will be available during the event. Resources span pre-K3 through 12th grade, with curriculum available to review at your own pace.

The Book Nook

Childbirth Education Class

An interactive childbirth education class designed to prepare expectant parents for labor, birth, and the early postpartum period. Participants learn practical strategies and clear information to make confident choices that align with their goals for themselves and their baby. Topics include comfort and labor positions, when to head to the hospital, the stages of labor, creating a birth and postpartum plan, newborn care and common procedures, breastfeeding and bottle feeding, and how a series of medical interventions can unfold. There is time for questions and hands-on practice with techniques. Space is limited to ensure individual attention for each attendee and their support person. If available, bring a birth ball or exercise ball or a yoga mat, and alternatives can be arranged if those items are not on hand. Group classes are offered once each quarter. Registration is confirmed when the form and a $90 payment are submitted, and the fee covers one participant and a plus one.

Louisiana Athletic Club

39th September Competition: Opening Reception

The opening reception marks the start of the annual juried exhibition, selected by guest juror Chase Quinn of the Mississippi Museum of Art from national and international submissions. The showcase focuses on contemporary practice across a wide range of media and features artists working at a high level in their fields. The September Competition also strengthens connections between the museum and artists who are excelling in their mediums.

Prospect Camp

Experience what it is like to be a Demon at this Prospect Camp, welcoming students in the classes of 2026, 2027, 2028, and 2029. Designed for participants in grades 9 through 12, it offers a closer look at collegiate volleyball training and opportunities to meet and interact with the coaching staff and current Demon players. The cost is $125 per camper, and lunch is provided.

Pineville Ward 9 Sportsplex

Neon Nights

Neon Nights is a softball tournament held in Pineville, Louisiana.

Rep Yo Team Family Fun Day July 11th 2pm-7pm

This free event is open to everyone. All are welcome to attend at no cost.

Upper Levee Park

Cake Decorating Class

Take part in a cake decorating class with refreshments provided. Space is limited, so register through the Facebook page by selecting Cake in the description and typing "Cake Class". For questions or concerns, call 318-448-0213. A kids class is coming soon.

Airview Terrace

Dungeon Crawler Carl Book Club • Anarchists Cookbook • Matt Dinniman

This book club focuses on Matt Dinniman’s Dungeon Crawler Carl installment Anarchists Cookbook. Earth has become the arena for a galaxy-famous game show called Dungeon Crawler World, and Carl and Donut have advanced to the dangerous fourth floor. Called the Iron Tangle, it knots an entire subway system into a baffling web where antique locomotives and modern trains collide in confusing patterns, cars teem with creatures, stations deceive, and the exit always seems just a few stops away. Their newfound spot in the top ten brings bounties and unwanted attention, making cooperation essential yet risky when trust is uncertain. A crucial hint to the floor’s riddle may be hidden inside a book that appears worthless at first glance.

Photography Retreat

A two-day women’s photography retreat at Magnolia Bend in Pineville, Louisiana offers focused creative time behind the lens. Participants will photograph a styled wedding setup, explore a boudoir segment, and take part in a mini branding session. Lunch is provided on both days.

Magnolia Bend

Forts Randolph & Buhlow State Historic Site

Food & Drink

Battle For The Paddle

Friends of Forts Randolph and Buhlow present Battle For The Paddle, a cast iron cooking competition where participants can put their skills to the test. Those interested in competing can complete the registration form referenced in the event post and use the flyer’s QR code to pay the early registration fee for their group.

Free

Second Saturday

Complimentary entry is offered on the second Saturday of each month, and the event is open to all.

Get To The Pointe Ballet Academy

JUL13

Dancing

Enchanted Forest Dance Camp

Little dancers embark on a whimsical journey through an enchanted forest at a summer camp hosted by Get To The Pointe Ballet Academy. Daily activities include ballet and jazz instruction, character dances inspired by fairies and woodland animals, costumes and imaginative play, themed arts and crafts, and a relaxing movie segment. Each day features new magical touches that encourage confidence, creativity, and a lasting love of dance. Suitable for children ages 3 to 10, whether brand new or already training. An early bird rate of $150 is offered, and space is limited.

JUL13

Summer Camp: Outside the Lines

AMoA’s summer art camps welcome children ages 6 to 12 from central Louisiana for a focused week of creativity. Guided by Cindy Blair, campers explore projects inspired by contemporary artists highlighted in AMoA’s 38th September Competition. Time in the galleries fuels learning about working artists and experimentation across multiple media, culminating in original pieces made by each participant. Sessions are offered over two separate weeks and are organized by age group to create a meaningful experience for every camper.

JUL13

Health & PE Majors Building

Sport Agility & Nutrition Camp

Now in its third year, the Sport Agility & Nutrition Camp welcomes ages 8 to 17. Instruction comes from School of Kinesiology faculty and NSU athletes, offering a focused experience in agility and nutrition. Returning campers are eligible for a discount. Early drop-off is available for free play. For questions, call 318-357-5128 or email hhp@nsula.edu.

JUL14

A. A. Fredericks Fine Arts Center

NSU Summer Dinner Theatre: Country Summer Nights

An easygoing evening of country music beneath a starry sky. The atmosphere is casual and boot-friendly, with feel-good rhythms setting a relaxed pace. It is all about unwinding while the songs carry the night.

JUL16

Romantasy Book Club • Metal Slinger • Rachel Schneider

Romantasy Book Club turns its attention to Metal Slinger by Rachel Schneider, a sweeping fantasy following Brynn, raised among the Alaha though not born to them. Training as a guard, she looks to the Kenta market that marks a rite of passage, even as the Kenta were the ones who drove her adopted people onto the sea. What happens at the market snaps a century of peace and sparks an intense meeting with a Kenta soldier that threatens the fragile balance between their peoples and everything Brynn thought she knew. As the soldier reveals truths about her origins and swears to return her to where she came from, Brynn survives violence on open water and discovers a realm of magic long kept from her. The discussion centers on themes of identity and belonging, loyalty tested by new knowledge, danger at sea, emerging magic, and a connection that complicates duty and the heart.

JUL16

Chad Marshall Band

Chad Marshall Band returns to Spirits Food & Friends in Alexandria, offering a set that blends deep Delta blues with contemporary rock and a hint of funk. For Chad Marshall, it is a welcome homecoming and a chance to reconnect with friends and family.

Spirits Food & Friends

JUL17

Suspenseful Dark Romance Book Club • Blackwood Institute: The Complete Trilogy • J Rose

Explore a suspenseful dark romance as the book club delves into J Rose’s Blackwood Institute: The Complete Trilogy. The narrative follows Brooklyn West, a convicted murderer diagnosed with schizophrenia who accepts a stark bargain, three years in a prestigious institute’s experimental program in place of a lifetime behind bars. What appears impressive from the outside conceals a violent reality within its corridors. Brooklyn plans to end her life, yet four other patients Kade, Hudson, Eli, and Phoenix, each burdened by personal secrets, refuse to let her go. Together they confront the institute’s terrors and the sacrifices survival may demand.

Traditional Music and Dance Performances with Native Nations Intertribal

Members of Native Nations Intertribal will present two sets featuring traditional Native American music and dance at the 46th annual Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival on the campus of Northwestern State University in Natchitoches. The performances focus on song and movement rooted in Native traditions and will be offered in two separate sets during the festival.

Easter Rock Informance with the Winnsboro Easter Rock Ensemble

As part of the 46th Annual Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival on the NSU campus in Natchitoches, the Winnsboro Easter Rock Ensemble shares its traditional Easter Eve ritual in performance.

Music Performances with Gal Holiday and the Honky Tonk Revue

Gal Holiday and the Honky Tonk Revue take the stage for two separate sets featuring classic country, honky tonk, and Americana, presented during the 46th Annual Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival.

Silent Book Club • July 18th

Settle in for Silent Book Club, a pressure free reading session with no assigned book. Bring your current read and enjoy a comfortable, safe space. The venue will be closed to the public to maintain a quiet atmosphere with calming music. Talking is discouraged so everyone can focus. Headphones, a favorite blanket, and a drink are welcome.

Home Buying Basics

Get a clear roadmap to purchasing a home at a friendly workshop at Vernon Parish Library. Designed for anyone just getting started, this session covers the buying process from beginning to end and includes time for questions with instructor Tracey R. Wrisper. Participants receive a free digital home buying guide and a printable worksheet, and light refreshments will be available. Sponsored by American Dream Real Estate, Veteran Owned & Operated, and Homes for Heroes. Space is limited.

Skyway 61

Skyway 61 brings a Knoxville-born rock sound to Fighting Hand Brewing Company. Formed in the early 2000s, this four-member band blends classic rock roots with a modern edge, a combination that quickly drew attention.

JUL20

Get To The Pointe Ballet Academy

Princess Dance Camp

Little dancers can step into a royal-themed adventure at Get To The Pointe Ballet Academy in Alexandria, LA. This camp features princess-inspired dance classes, dress-up fun, craft projects with a princess theme, a movie break, and lively games that help participants make new friends. It is ideal for children who love princess stories, magical adventures, and dancing like royalty. An early bird special is available, and space is limited.

JUL20

Summer Camp: Our Voices Matter

AMoA offers a summer art experience for children ages 6 to 12 from across central Louisiana, featuring two weeklong sessions arranged by age for meaningful learning. This five day interdisciplinary camp, Our Voices Matter, brings together visual art, music, and storytelling. Through hands-on projects, rhythm and sound exploration with percussion, writing, and thoughtful reflection, participants engage their senses and take part in age-appropriate conversations about community, belonging, and care. Campers consider how artists and musicians share ideas, feelings, and values, and they discover that their voices matter while using creativity as a tool for connection and community care. Separate sessions serve ages 6 to 9 and 10 to 12, with a variety of engaging activities tailored to each group.

JUL20

Dinosaur Summer Camp

Children can dive into a five-day summer camp packed with exploration, creativity, and fun. Part of a series of eight camps offered in two age groups, themes include Nature, Robot, Space, or Dinosaur. Each day brings something new through hands-on projects, creative crafts, and interactive learning. Guest speakers share real-world insights that spark curiosity and imagination, creating a week filled with learning, laughter, and adventure. Enrollment is limited to 30 campers per camp. Registration is $115 for non-members and $100 for members, with the discount applied at checkout. A $50 deposit secures a spot, and the remaining balance is due on the first day of camp.

JUL21

Natchitoches Parish Library

NPL - Justice Bus (mobile legal resource center)

The Justice Bus, a mobile legal resource center, returns to the Natchitoches Parish Library to support residents with civil legal needs. Visitors can access a wide range of civil legal resources at no cost.

JUL22

Gary Cathey Band @ Hemingway House

The Gary Cathey Band, a hometown favorite, sets the tone with a midweek evening serenade.

JUL24

Dark Fantasy Book Club • Bloody Black • Rhiannon Hargadon

A book club discussion of Rhiannon Hargadon’s Bloody Black explores a dark fantasy about Anne, once set to wear the crown, whose wedding-night betrayal shatters her life. She returns remade as Blackbeard, scouring the seas for those who wronged her, even as the deals that revived her draw tighter. When she captures Lieutenant Robb Maynard, loyal to the realm that betrayed her, she expects an easy pawn. Instead he refuses to flinch and seems to glimpse the woman beneath the fearsome legend. The conversation looks at how the story weighs vengeance against friendship, the pull of power against the possibility of love, home, and family, and what it costs to reclaim a stolen future.

JUL24

GEARHEADZ BAR & GRILL

Enjoy a performance by Abigayle Holt with her band at the bar and grill.

JUL24

Comedy

Stoned vs Drunk vs Sober - A Stand Up Comedy Competition

Presented by Lafayette Comedy, this stand up competition in Pineville features comedians performing in three categories: stoned, drunk, and sober. The show takes place at Fighting Hand Brewing Company and is marketed as the biggest comedy show in Louisiana, bringing these contrasting states of mind head to head for laughs.

Louisiana State University of Alexandria

LSUA Women's Soccer ID Camp

Players can test their skills and get a feel for the college game at the LSUA Women’s Soccer ID Camp at Louisiana State University of Alexandria. The camp offers on‑campus training, chances to connect with the coaching staff, and competitive play that lets participants show what they can do.

City of Leesville Youth Business Fair

The City of Leesville presents a youth business fair at the Leesville Event Center, where local young entrepreneurs showcase their creativity and growing business skills. Shoppers can explore handmade crafts, baked treats, jewelry, bath products, artwork, and more as these emerging business owners display their ideas and hard work. Attendees will have a chance to cast votes, with awards recognizing Best Booth Presentation, Best Customer Service, Most Innovative Business Idea, Young Entrepreneur of the Year, and Mayor’s Choice. The event focuses on real world learning in customer service, money management, marketing, and entrepreneurship while offering the community an opportunity to support the next generation.

Leesville Event Center

Cozy Book Club • Bookshops & Bonedust • Travis Baldree

A relaxed book discussion focuses on Bookshops & Bonedust by Travis Baldree. The story follows Viv, part of the mercenary band Rackam's Ravens, who is wounded while pursuing a powerful necromancer and sent to recover in the quiet beach town of Murk. Far from the action, she spends her days in a struggling bookshop run by an outspoken proprietor, and that unexpected refuge begins to reshape her path. Trouble still lurks nearby, as a gray-clad traveler, a prickly gnome, a brief summer romance, and more skeletons than anyone expects keep adventure close. Conversation centers on these characters, the town of Murk, and how a forced pause can change a soldier of fortune’s course.

Pizza Cowboy Records Presents: 37th Annual Adam's Birthday Bash Bananza Good Times R Us Party!

Pizza Cowboy Records brings the 37th annual celebration of Adam’s birthday to Froggy Bottom Bar in Leesville, Louisiana. The lineup features Grey Areas, Michael Maddox Band, and The Steve Satchel Band, with additional acts to be announced. Continuing a successful run in recent years, this edition centers on live music and a festive atmosphere.

The Canteen American Legion Post 145

The Canteen American Legion Post 145

Abigayle Holt & Band perform at The Canteen American Legion Post 145.

KIDS BUSINESS MARKET- Registration is now open through July 10th

Alexandria Mall is accepting registrations for the Kids Business Market, a free opportunity where kids participate and keep all of their earnings. Space is limited, and applications are reviewed and approved in the order they are received by Alexandria Mall management, so early submission can help secure a spot. For participants who are 12 or younger, a parent or guardian must complete the entry. The market will take place at Alexandria Mall.

Session 3b: Theatre Immersive Program

Hosted at River Oaks Square Arts Center, Session 3B of the 2026 Theatre Immersive Program is part of a Summer Arts series and explores both performance basics and the behind-the-scenes and technical side of production with the creative crew. A creative team leads the experience, covering core onstage skills along with collaborative tech and crew practices. The session includes a grand finale.

Natchitoches Farmer’s Market

The Natchitoches Farmers Market returns to Downtown Natchitoches with locally sourced offerings, including in-season fruits and vegetables.

Downtown Natchitoches

Louisiana Basketball Boot Camp

Young athletes can take part in a four-day basketball boot camp focused on skill-building, fundamentals, and fun, hosted at Faith Training Christian Academy in Leesville. Designed for developing players, it centers on improving core techniques while keeping the experience enjoyable.

Dinosaur Summer Camp (Ages 8-10)

This dinosaur-themed summer camp offers children five days of exploration filled with discovery, creativity, and fun. Each day features practical projects, creative crafts, and interactive lessons centered on the theme, while guest speakers add real-world insights that spark curiosity throughout the week. Enrollment is limited to 30 campers. Registration is $115 for non-members and $100 for members, with the discount applied at checkout. A $50 deposit is required, and the remaining balance is due on the first day of camp.

City Council Meeting

Members of the public are welcome to attend this council meeting. The agenda is published during the week leading up to each meeting. For questions or additional information about the agenda, reach out to the City.

Leesville City Hall

West Central La. Archaeology Club

A meeting of the West Central La. Archaeology Club at Vernon Parish Library focuses on archaeology and includes artifact identification. It offers a chance to learn and talk with others who share an interest in the subject.

AUG1

Huckleberry Brewing Company

Huckcore II

Huckcore II brings a packed slate of heavy music to Huckleberry Brewing Company with ten bands on one bill for $20, and kids 12 and under get in free. The roster features Louisiana acts alongside guests Aversive Control from Memphis, TN and Numb G from Houston, TX. The show runs in this order, with Skincage opening and Muscle headlining, and performances by Bite Back, Skip Distance, Aversive Control, Embroiled, Numb G, Holeopener, Spiritiste, and Human Instinct. Expect high energy sets, a chance to pick up band merch, and drinks from the brewery with soda options available. Flyer artwork by @ironlordxbham.

AUG1

James and Taylor McCann Music

James and Taylor McCann return to Embers for a performance presented by the Heart of Louisiana Series.

Embers

AUG3

Hearn Stage at the Kress Theatre

AUDITIONS - "Misery"

Auditions are being held for William Goldman’s thriller Misery, directed by Jared Guillory, in the lobby of the Kress Theatre. The story follows bestselling romance author Paul Sheldon after a car accident, when he awakens in the home of his most devoted admirer, Annie Wilkes. As he recovers, she reads his new manuscript, becomes furious that Misery Chastain has been killed off, and coerces him to write a different book. Paul soon understands that his only path to survival is to keep writing. The production is seeking two men and one woman. Annie Wilkes should appear 35 to 60, outwardly caring and simple yet calculating and dangerous beneath the surface. Paul Sheldon should appear 35 to 55, intelligent, somewhat self-assured, and remarkably resourceful. Buster should appear 30 to 60, the sheriff from a nearby town who is searching for Paul.

AUG3

Summer Fun Camp

Wrap up summer at Midstate with the final camp for kids before the school year begins. Options are available to fit different needs, and early drop off and late pick up are offered. Sign-ups are available through the organizer.

AUG8

Bulls, Bands, & Barrels

Bulls, Bands & Barrels brings a powerhouse mix of Western sports and live country music to Laborde Earles Coliseum in Alexandria. The action opens with elite bull riding and freestyle bullfighting, then, once the dust clears, the spotlight shifts to a full concert featuring Hudson Westbrook with special guest Tyce Delk. For an up-close perspective, the Behind the Chutes Experience is available as a $110 VIP add-on and includes standing pit access near the stage, merchandise vouchers, a private VIP entrance, and bar access.

Laborde Earles Coliseum

AUG8

Bulls Bands And Barrels with Hudson Westbrook & Tyce Delk

Alexandria gets an adrenaline-charged night as Bulls, Bands, and Barrels pairs Western sports with a live concert at Laborde Earles Coliseum. The arena action features elite bull riders squaring off with high-leaping bulls, barrel racers racing the clock, and freestyle bullfighters taking bold risks. When the dust settles, the focus shifts to a full performance from Hudson Westbrook with special guest Tyce Delk. Guests seeking more can choose the Behind the Chutes Experience, a $110 VIP add-on that offers standing pit access near the stage, merchandise vouchers, a private VIP entrance, and bar access.

Laborde Earles Coliseum

AUG8

It’s A CARE thang!

At Kees Park, take part in an energizing 90 minute dance class with DJ Bow Bow Bow that blends hip hop, Zumba, and more styles. Snacks and refreshments will be provided.

Kees Park

AUG13

Hearn Stage at the Kress Theatre

Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike

Christopher Durang’s comedy follows middle-aged siblings Vanya and Sonia, who share a home in Bucks County, Pennsylvania and bicker over the turns their lives have taken. Their movie star sister, Masha, shows up with her younger boyfriend, Spike, stirring long-held resentments and raising the possibility of selling the house. Rounding out the story are Cassandra, a maid who can predict the future, and Nina, a young aspiring actress whose arrival unsettles Masha. Winner of the 2013 Tony Award for Best Play, this staging is directed by Diane Falcone and features mature themes and mild language.

AUG25

Rapides Parish Library, Libuse Branch

Medicare Education Class- FREE- Libuse Library, Pineville, LA

Learn the essentials of Medicare at a free education class at the Rapides Parish Library, Libuse Branch in Pineville, LA. Presenters will walk through Parts A, B, C, and D, explain how Medicare Supplement compares with Medicare Advantage Part C, and cover enrollment periods, group insurance, penalties, and other important details. It is designed for those new to Medicare as well as anyone considering changes, with time set aside for questions. If you cannot attend, you can arrange an individual meeting or request accommodations for persons with special needs by calling 318-237-8667.

AUG27

Exhibition Opening ft. Hayes, Morace, & Arbour

An opening reception will showcase work by artists Larry Kip Hayes, Leah Morace, and Katy Keppinger Arbour. The exhibition will remain on view after the reception, and classes are planned beforehand. Additional details will be shared as they become available.

AUG27

NSU Football vs. Louisiana Christian

Northwestern State faces Louisiana Christian in a football matchup at Turpin Stadium, Northwestern State University. Season tickets are on sale.

Harry Turpin Stadium

AUG29

Northwestern Hills Golf Course

Roaring Lion Classic

The Roaring Lion Classic at Northwestern Hills Golf Course is a golf tournament supporting the work of the Natchitoches Lions Club. Teams of two will play a scramble across three flights with a shotgun start. The entry fee is 250 dollars per team, and mulligans will be available. On-course features include hole in one opportunities and closest to the pin challenges. Additional details will be shared soon.

SEP5