Lake Charles, Louisiana – Celebrate the holiday season with ‘Light Up the Lake: A Festive Holiday Celebration,’ a cherished event that brings joy to the Lake Charles community.
This free and family-friendly celebration, taking place on November 25 at the Lake Charles Event Center (formerly Lake Charles Civic Center), offers an array of activities and entertainment for all to enjoy.
From a vibrant art market to a live Christmas concert and a remarkable lighted boat parade, this event promises an unforgettable experience.
Join us for this annual celebration and make lasting memories with your loved ones.
Event Details
From 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., attendees can enjoy a variety of activities and entertainment. The event will feature an art market showcasing homemade arts, crafts, and merchandise, as well as a live Christmas concert at the Rosa Hart Theatre. The lighting ceremony at Millennium Park and the lighted boat parade on Lake Charles are sure to dazzle spectators. To cap off the evening, there will be a fireworks extravaganza over the lake.
Arts & Humanities Council of SWLA’s Holiday Art Walk
11 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Gill Street the Arts & Humanities Council of SWLA’s Holiday Art Walk is a must-visit for festival goers in Louisiana. Located on Gill Street, this market opens its doors at 11 a.m. and stays open until 3 p.m., providing ample time for browsing and shopping. As a new addition to the City’s Light Up the Lake festival schedule, this annual market showcases homemade arts, crafts, and merchandise from talented local creatives and artisans. In addition to the wide variety of items available for purchase, visitors can also indulge in delicious food truck offerings while enjoying live musical entertainment throughout the day. Don’t miss out on this exciting event held at the Lake Charles Event Center!
Musical Performance by Girl Scouts of the Louisiana Pines to the Gulf followed by Rory Partin and his All-Star Big Band
At Rosa Hart Theatre from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. attendees are in for an incredible musical experience during Light Up the Lake. The Girl Scouts of the Louisiana Pines to the Gulf will kick off the festivities with timeless carols, spreading joy and holiday cheer. Following their heartwarming performance, Lake Charles will welcome back Rory Partin and his All-Star Big Band for a second year. Partin, a native of Southwest Louisiana, draws inspiration from musical legends such as Ray Charles, Louis Armstrong, and the Doobie Brothers. Prepare to be enchanted by the smooth and merry sounds of Rory Partin and his exceptionally talented All-Star Big Band as they set the perfect festive atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Light Up The Lake Lighting Ceremony
After the concert, at 6:30 p.m., at Millennium Park, Lake Charles Mayor Hunter will lead a lighting ceremony. Be there as he illuminates the Lake Charles Event Center and Millennium Park.
Lighted Boat Parade
At 7 p.m., on Lake Charles, get ready for the highly anticipated Lighted Boat Parade. Various boats adorned with festive lights will cruise along the Lakefront Promenade, spreading holiday cheer to all onlookers.
Fireworks Finale
At 7:45 p.m., over Lake Charles will be the fireworks finale. Tune into KBYS 88.3 FM McNeese Radio for a special music simulcast during the grand fireworks finale. Witness the breathtaking display of lights and fireworks reflecting on the lake, creating an enchanting atmosphere for festival attendees and boat spectators alike!
Thanks to sponsorships from Entergy, Visit Lake Charles, Banners at McNeese, Lake Charles Toyota, Upscale Productions, and KBYS 88.3 FM, this event is free for all attendees. For more information, contact the City of Lake Charles at 337-491-9159.
Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets, but ice coolers and pets are prohibited.