Lake Charles, Louisiana – The City of Lake Charles has announced a packed schedule of events for the remainder of 2024, courtesy of its Partners in Parks initiative. The program, launched by Mayor Nic Hunter’s administration in July 2018, aims to combine private and public funding to enhance park infrastructure and expand community programming.
As the city enters the fourth quarter of the year, residents can look forward to a diverse range of activities, from art exhibitions and costume contests to holiday festivals and educational workshops. Unless otherwise noted, all events are free, family-friendly, and open to the public.
Kicking off the schedule is an Art in the Park event, “Fall into Creativity,” on October 5 at Tuten Park. This will be followed by a birthday celebration for Lake Charles jazz legend Nellie Lutcher on October 11 at Nellie Lutcher Memorial Park, featuring live music, food trucks, and more.
Other notable events include the Howl-O-Ween Costume Contest for Dogs on October 19 at Bark du Lac Dog Park, a Bat Walk through Drew Park on October 25, and a brand-new event, The Great Pumpkin Trail, at Tuten Park from October 25 to 27.
As the city transitions into the holiday season, residents can anticipate a range of festive events, including the third annual LA Region Five STEM Center Pumpkin Chunkin’ Contest on November 4, a Where in Downtown Lake Charles is Carmen Sandiego scavenger hunt on November 9, and the annual Light up the Lake Christmas Festival on November 30.
December will see the hosting of a special Christmas Ornament Workshop at Historic City Hall on December 7, the Nellie Lutcher Christmas Carol Extraordinaire at Nellie Lutcher Memorial Park on December 15, and a special holiday edition of Movies with the Mayor on December 21.
According to Mayor Hunter, the Partners in Parks initiative has been a resounding success, having secured over $1.6 million in funding for city parks without imposing additional taxes on local citizens. Individuals interested in investing in city parks can do so online by visiting the Foundation of SWLA website.
As the year draws to a close, the City of Lake Charles is celebrating the success of its Partners in Parks initiative, which has provided a wide range of events and activities for residents to enjoy. With its commitment to enhancing public spaces and promoting community engagement, the city is poised to continue its momentum into the new year.