From Mardi Gras to Music Festivals in Lake Charles

By: The Local Palate

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Lake Charles, Louisiana, is a blend of contrasts with luxurious gaming resorts and nearby outdoor adventures along lakes, rivers, and Gulf beaches. While in the lake area, you can definitely live it up or relax in style at L’Auberge Casino Resort, Golden Nugget, or Delta Downs Racetrack Casino Hotel. From spa treatments to delicious dining selections, live entertainment to hitting a round of golf, there is an array of activities to explore at area resorts—not to mention lazy rivers with swim-up bars during warmer months.

Springtime in Lake Charles offers non-stop music, festivals, colorful art displays, crawfish cravings, and plenty to do in the great outdoors! Next to Mardi Gras weekend, February 25 to March 1, one of the most anticipated events is the Live @ the Lakefront Series. The event will take place March 11, 18, and 25, along the shores of Lake Charles featuring live music, an outdoor art market, food trucks, and family-friendly fun. The Downtown at Sundown Concert Series follows May 13, 20, 27, and June 3, with a smattering of festivals and events in between.

Later in March, the PGA Korn Ferry Tour Lake Charles Championships will take place March 21 to 27, at the Country Club at the Golden Nugget Lake Charles. The Korn Ferry Tour is the pathway to the PGA, so everyone can cheer on the competition. Golf lovers will also enjoy checking out Mallard Golf Club, which is a brand-new course in the lake area. In addition, the Max Restaurant at the National Golf Club of Louisiana is making delicious waves on social media with the traditional Louisiana cuisine that balances the right sprinkle of spices and flavors.

Eat and Drink in Lake Charles

For a round of brews, check out Crying Eagle Brewing, which touts the Bistro, a beer garden with fine wines and spirits. Bayou Rum Distillery offers tours and pours, or you can check out Yellowfin Vodka in Sulphur for spirits made from Louisiana-grown rice.

While in the area, live music can be found at many restaurants and night spots, and you definitely don’t want to miss out on over-the-top jazz and blues brunches on Saturdays and Sundays.

If you are looking to connect with nature and decompress from city life, there are activity rentals, such as kayaks, canoes, bikes, boats, and Jet Skis. With wildlife all around, you can spot the American alligator, over 400 species of birds, and indigenous plants and marshland along the estuaries and wildlife refuges found in the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road.

For trip ideas, be sure to log on to visitlakecharles.org and find your way to play in Louisiana’s playground!