While Mardi Gras weekend isn’t until March, Carnival season is already in full swing in the Capital Region. And you best believe that we are ready to celebrate for as long as we possibly can. Get in the spirit with a variety of parades taking place in the Baton Rouge Area.
- Looking for something family-friendly? With throws for all ages including beads, boas, foam footballs, doubloons and more, you’ll want to check out the Krewe of Artemis in downtown Baton Rouge, Mid City Gras in the ever-growing Mid City area, Courir du Lundi Gras in Pointe Coupee Parish, or the New Roads Lions Club Parade.
- Want to bring your furry friend with ya? Head to the Krewe of Mutts Parade this Sunday, February 17 at 2 p.m. for barks and beads.
- Looking for something a little wilder (and not-so-kid-friendly)? Then the Spanish Town Parade is for you. Rolling on March 2, you are sure to see scores of pink floating through downtown Baton Rouge at this rambunctious day parade.
Can’t make any of those parades? Have no fear, because there are plenty more to choose from. Check out Louisiana Travel’s list of 2019 Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Parades to find the perfect one (or two, or three) for you.
Flavor of the Week: King Cakes Around the Capital
The perfect king cake is a little different for everyone. Some like extra frosting, some say it’s all about the filling, and some are dazzled by the purple, gold and green sprinkles. But one thing we can ALL agree on is that king cake season is the best season. Check out some of our favorite king cakes around the Capital Region:
- If you’re looking to stray from the traditional king cake, swing into Calandro’s Supermarket to find over 50, yes you heard us, OVER 50, different king cake flavors. We’re talking flavors like banana puddin’ and a specialty cake called Bourbon Street that combines cream cheese, chocolate, caramel, and yep, you guessed it, bourbon.
- Want to get fancy with your king cake selection? Check out Rosch Bakehaus. They rotate their flavors every week so be sure to keep a lookout for your favorite. With flavors like Balsamic Roasted Strawberry and Dark Chocolate Port Soaked Cherry you will never run out of king cakes to try.
- For Mardi Gras traditionalists your local bakery or market can’t steer you wrong. Check out several locations of Rouse’s Market in the Baton Rouge Area or Ralph’s Market and LeBlanc’s in Gonzales. For delicious bakery finds, check out Gambino’s or Ambrosia. They have the tried and true classics of cream cheese, cinnamon, Bavarian cream and more.
Did you get the baby in the king cake? Don’t forget to tag your celebratory pics with #thinkBR for a chance to be featured on the BRAC blog.
Workin’ It: Economic Research and Policy Analyst
BRAC is seeking an economic research and policy analyst to join its team. The analyst will be responsible for tracking and understanding economic, policy, legislative, business, and market trends impacting the region. They will also maintain intelligence on the key business and policy sectors in the Baton Rouge Area, lead data collection, and conduct research to support and inform key policy focus areas including workforce development, education, transportation, crime, healthcare and others. The position is responsible for staffing and supporting at least one BRAC issue council.
To apply, send cover letters and resumes to andrew@brac.org with the subject line “Economic Research and Policy Analyst.” No in-person or phone inquiries will be accepted for this position. Only emailed submissions will be accepted.
In the “Workin’ It” section of the newsletter we feature exciting job opportunities and/or professional organizations in the Baton Rouge Area. The positions featured are from companies who are BRAC investors and not necessarily positions at BRAC. For more information about BRAC’s talent development program or to advertise an open position, email talent@brac.org.
My Baton Rouge: Flock to the Lakes
It’s that time of year again. If you passed by the LSU Lakes on Monday you probably saw our favorite feathery friends hanging out in the water. No, not the ducks. The bright pink flamingos! Doesn’t ring a bell? Every year the organizers of the Spanish Town Parade surprise the city by decking out the lakes with over a dozen giant, wooden flamingos. After that it’s a race to see who can grab a coveted bird to put in their yard as they mark the beginning of Spanish Town’s Mardi Gras season.
Quirky traditions that bring the community together, that is my Baton Rouge.
In the “My Baton Rouge” section of the newsletter, we feature people or events that help tell the story of Baton Rouge. To submit an idea, email talent@brac.org.
Out on the Town
- LSU v. ULM Baseball, February 15, get back into the baseball season with the Tigers’ first game of 2019
- #BRBLACKEXCELLENCE Community Extravaganza, February 16, collaborate with the community at this family-friendly event highlighting black excellence in the Capital Region
- Crawfete 2019, February 24, celebrate the official kickoff of crawfish season with this block party
- Best of 225 Voting Kick-off Party, February 27, cast your votes for your favorite things in Baton Rouge while eating, drinking, and having fun
For more local events, visit the Life in BR Events Page.