Summer is hot up on the Northshore, and it is also hot, hot, hot with fun. Here are just a few fun-filled things to do over the next few months.
Put on Your Red, White and Blue
The Northshore has many celebrations of America’s independence on Thursday, July 4. Madisonville presents an “Old-Fashioned 4th of July” on the banks of the Tchefuncte River. The fun begins at 10 a.m. with cornhole and horseshoe tournaments, watermelon eating contest, pie bake-off, kids’ games, food, music, and of course, fireworks. More details here. Not to be outdone, Abita Springs is hosting a Fourth of July celebration at the Trailhead Park. The festival features military appreciations, live music, fireworks, food and more, from 2 p.m. to the fireworks finale at 9 p.m. For details, click here. As for the eastern part of the parish, Olde Towne Slidell has its celebration with food, games, eating contests, kids’ activities and live bands at three locations. Festivities begin at noon, and fireworks will cap off the evening. For more details, click here.
Turn Your Fingers Blue
It is officially get-your-fingers-blue season, as it is time for blueberry picking! At Bachman Blueberries, the young and young-at-heart can pick their own to enjoy in your favorite recipes. The farm supplies the buckets and bags for convenience. Be sure you lather up with sunscreen and stay hydrated with plenty of water. And, definitely be sure to indulge in the blueberry lemonade and muffins during your visit. For more information, click here.
Get Back to Red (Beans)
It’s back for the fifteenth year, and it is going to be so tasty! The Red Beans ‘n’ Rice Cookoff is set for two dates, July 29 for West St. Tammany and August 5 for East St. Tammany. This yummy event marks the official rollout of United Way of Southeast Louisiana’s fundraising campaign. The West event is at the Greater Covington Center; the East event will be held at the Slidell Auditorium. Both events run 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for all the red beans and rice you can eat, with funds raised to support suicide prevention, mental health services and other United Way programs in St. Tammany Parish. For tickets, click here.
Summer is the time to enjoy great family fun, and the Northshore has you covered in red, white and blue!