Over the next few months, there is a plethora of activities and events to enjoy to brighten your days (and nights). Here are a few recommendations:

Bright Lights

The beauty and wonderment of thousands of twinkly decorations are ready to be enjoyed at the St. Tammany Holiday of Lights! In Mandeville, you can walk through the displays on December 19 and 20. Or, you may wish to take in the splendor from your car during the “drive-through” nights beginning December 22 through January 1. In Madisonville, you can walk along the riverfront as its live oaks and pathways shimmer with thousands of lights. Be sure to stop by Merry Madisonville, a celebration of the season with events throughout the month. You can also check out the beautiful Twelve Days of Christmas along Covington’s historic district, now through January 6. For a complete list of holiday light events, click here.

Bright Writes

Two of my favorite written musicals are coming to stages on the Northshore! Coming up in January at Slidell Little Theatre is Sweeney Todd, the Tony award-winning musical by Stephen Sondheim. Performances run the weekends of January 16 through February 8. In Mandeville, the 30 by Ninety Theatre presents another Tony award-winning musical, Cabaret, on weekends beginning January 17 through February 1. For tickets to Slidell Little Theatre, click here. For 30 by Ninety, click here.

Bright Sights

It cannot be February without it being Mardi Gras time! In 2026, Fat Tuesday takes place on February 17, and the Northshore has a score of parades to enjoy. The first two are on January 10 with the Fools of Misrule in Covington and the Mande Kings Day in Mandeville. Over the course of the weeks leading up to Mardi Gras, 17 more parades are set for the parish. While there are too many to name here, two of my favorites are actually set for Mardi Gras day, the Covington Lions Club parade and the Krewe of Folsom parade. For a complete list of the Mardi Gras parade schedule, click here.

The Northshore has so much to enjoy. To stay up-to-date on the latest happenings, visit visitthenorthshore.com.

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!

If you love food, I mean really love food, the Northshore is the place to be. St. Tammany Parish has so many restaurants, events and festivals to celebrate the deliciousness of our area. Here are three upcoming special events to bring your food game to a new level!

Foodie Fun #1 – Crawfish Cookoff

It is all going down on Saturday, April 20, with the 19th Annual Crawfish Cookoff in Slidell. The all-you-can-eat fundraiser takes place at Fritchie Park and benefits Hospice House. The event typically ends up with over 40,000 pounds of our local delicacy consumed! If you are one of the few who doesn’t care for crawfish, there will be other food options available. For complete details, click here.

Foodie Fun #2 – Taste of Covington

This month-long toast to the amazing restaurants is back in June, and it is going to be better than ever! Whether you yearn for Italian, need a burger fix or wish to indulge in a multi-course dinner, you will find supreme delight in June. In addition to special offerings at restaurants, there are several dates to enjoy one-of-a-kind dining experiences. Plus, a unique champagne brunch will be hosted at different venues each Sunday in June. For a complete schedule of the Taste of Covington, click here.

Foodie Fun #3 – Slidell Heritage Festival

The 26th Annual Slidell Heritage Festival returns this summer to Heritage Park on Saturday, June 29. While the early celebration of America’s birthday boasts live music and fireworks, food is a big draw for the fest. Food trucks from many of our local favorites will be on hand to satisfy any taste. The festival is presented by the Rotary Clubs of Slidell and proceeds benefit area charities. Admission is $15 for ages 13 and up; free for 12 and under. For more information, click here.

These recommendations are just a sample of the Northshore’s foodie fun. We are so fortunate to call the parish our home and our food haven!

It’s a new year, and that means lots of new fun! From January through March, you have a wide choice of activities and events in St. Tammany Parish. Here are a few highlights.

Play Time

We love our arts on the Northshore, and that includes local theatre! We are fortunate to have a variety of options to enjoy a live performance of some of the most beloved plays and musicals. Slidell Little Theatre always seems to have an amazing array of comedy and drama, so there is something for everyone. Coming up in January is Shakespeare’s epic tragedy, Romeo and Juliet. Performances run the weekends of January 12 and 19. In Covington, Playmakers Theatre presents a hilarious whodunit, Murder at Weatherfield, Saturdays and Sundays in March. For tickets to Slidell Little Theatre, click here. For Playmakers, click here.

Festival Time

St. Tammany Parish boasts a plethora of festivals throughout the year, and the first few months of offerings are no exception. From the Slidell Antique Fair to the Louisiana Food Truck Festival, there is a festival for you! One of my favorites is the 2024 Abita Springs Whole Town Garage Sale and Flea Market. Residents from around the area gather to showcase their wares on the same day. If you like to search for treasure at a great price, March 30 is the date to mark on your calendar. In addition to the sale, you can peruse goods from a variety of vendors and enjoy food from local restaurants. For more information about upcoming festivals, click here.

Party Time

It cannot be the first quarter of the year without it being Mardi Gras time! This year, Fat Tuesday takes place on February 13, 2024, and the Northshore has a score of parades to enjoy. The first one is in Covington on January 6, and from there, 16 more parades are set for the parish up to Mardi Gras. While there are too many to name here, two of my favorites are actually after the official Mardi Gras date. The Krewe du Pooch in Mandeville and Krewe of Mardi Paws in Covington are being held the weekend afterward. Both events celebrate our four-legged friends in style. For a complete list of the Mardi Gras parade schedule, click here.

The Northshore has so much to enjoy. To stay up-to-date on the latest happenings, visit visitthenorthshore.com

Top o’ the morning (or evening) to you! We all know St. Tammany Parish has loads of fun opportunities from January through December. After the abundance of Mardi Gras, you may wish for some relaxation in March. If you are up for more excitement, here are three upcoming events sure to make you see green!

Lucky Button #1 – America’s Newest Sport

On Saturday, March 11, it is time to witness what all the hubbub is about pickleball! While registration to play is closed, you are invited to come out to Pelican Park in Mandeville for the Paddles on Paddy’s Day Pickleball Tournament. The day-long event offers women’s, men’s and mixed doubles, plus several skill level divisions, so everyone is sure to feel comfortable and enjoy themselves. For more information, click here.

Lucky Button #2 – Parade on in

It’s back! The Olde Towne Slidell Merchants Association is rolling out the green for the 49^th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, March 12, 1 p.m. The route begins at City Hall and features over 50 floats, walkers, horses, cars, trucks, dance teams, marching bands and more. Of course, you will have the opportunity to shop for traditional Irish stew ingredients! For more information, click here.

Lucky Button #3 – Win, Win, Win

If you really want to press your luck, you can win big at the $5,000 Drawdown to benefit the Maritime Museum Lighthouse Fundraiser on Friday, March 17, 6 p.m. For $100, you and a guest will enjoy cocktails, dinner and an entry into winning the pot of gold! Be sure to bring out your festive St. Patrick’s Day attire. For more information, click here.

While these are three options to make your March a month of good luck, there are so many more ways to see green on the Northshore. Check out louisiananorthshore.com for more!

With the new year upon us, we have the opportunity to enjoy new experiences on the Northshore. The only resolution to keep is to take advantage of them! Here are a few 2023 delights I hope to partake in:

One – A New Play

We are so fortunate to have several venues to see performances of the latest musicals, historic comedies and memorable dramas. I am a huge fan of playwright Neil Simon, so a must-see performance is Laughter on the 23^rd Floor at 30 by Ninety Theatre in Mandeville. Inspired by Simon’s youthful experience as a staff writer on Sid Caesar’s Your Show of Shows, this ensemble comedy has plenty of comic gags and hijinks as the harried writing staff frantically scrambles to top each other to garner the attention of the star, Max Prince. Performances run on weekends beginning January 21 through February 5. For tickets, click here.

Two – A New Festival

There are plenty of music festivals all over St. Tammany Parish throughout the year, and I will surely attend quite a few of those. I also want to experience some of the amazing events that feature everything from chili cook-offs to art to blooms. An upcoming weekend marked in my calendar is the Winter Camellia Festival, held January 26-29, at Mizell’s Camellia Hill Nursery in Folsom. You can enjoy the beautiful camellia gardens, along with free refreshments, children’s activities and more. For details, click here.

Three – A New Place (or More)

Over the last few years, I have traveled to the well-known and lesser-known towns in the parish. This year, I want to take a deeper dive into the history and hidden treasures of all the extraordinary places on the Northshore. From Bush’s beginnings to Madisonville’s magical ambiance, our slice of heaven in Southeast Louisiana holds much to discover.

This year is going to be spectacular on the Northshore. The more new experiences, the better!

The holiday season on the Northshore never ceases to amaze me. Whether you want to see bright lights, hear joyous sounds or taste all those delectable seasonal favorites, your senses will be pleased. Here is a list of 12 activities to enjoy in December (listed in alphabetical order to avoid any Bah Humbugs).

A Very Merry Christmas Spectacular

You are sure to get into the holiday spirit with this showcase of singing and dancing. Performances on weekends through December 11 at 30 by Ninety Theatre.

Christmas at the Southern Hotel

Marvel at the spectacular décor of the Covington hotel’s lobby and grounds. Now through January 1.

Christmas High Tea

Indulge in a special tea party, with holiday sandwiches, treats and of course, tea! English Tea Room in Covington, now through January 7.

Christmas Holiday Lights

Front Street in Slidell is transformed with thousands of sparkling lights. Now through January 1 at dusk.

Christmas in the Country

Enjoy the sights of yesteryear and shop local on historic Lee Lane in Downtown Covington. Every Saturday through December 24.

Covington’s 12 Days of Christmas Lighted Displays

One of the most spectacular sights of the season. Now through January 6, beginning at dusk, in various historic district locations.

Folsom Horse and Wagon Christmas Parade

Take a break from the holiday hustle-and-bustle as you enjoy a wonderful parade, country-style. December 10 in Downtown Folsom, 1 p.m.

Get Wrapped Up in Mandeville

Get those last-minute gifts while supporting local businesses as you shop in this charming town. Monday – Saturday until December 31.

Holiday of Lights

Koop Drive on Tammany Trace is taken over on December 9 and 10, 6 – 8:30 p.m., for family fun, including rides, games, food and more.

Miracle on 34^th Street

Experience this classic of the magic in believing, performed by the Playmakers, Inc. Community Theater in Covington. Weekend performances, now through December 18.

Nutcracker Twist

The twist on this time-honored tradition makes for great fun, performed on weekends at the Slidell Little Theatre. Now through December 18.

Winterland at the Shops

Get in some last-minute shopping at 1200 West in Mandeville, and capture a photo in front of the 40-foot, lighted willow tree. Daily at dusk, now through December 31.

While this list covers 12 activities, St. Tammany Parish offers too many to include here. For a complete list, visit here.

The month of September brings three things to mind in St. Tammany Parish: the school year is well underway, fall is in the air and musical entertainment! We have lots of live music to be enjoyed throughout the month, including these three highlights.

Jazz It Up

If you are looking for a day of true jazz, rhythm and blues, you will find it at the Sixth Annual Jazz and Blues Festival on Saturday, September 17, at Slidell’s Heritage Park. The festival runs from 12 to 8 p.m., with admission only $10 (under 12, free). In addition to live music by known regional performers, you will enjoy food and beverages from your favorite local restaurants. Proceeds benefit Notes for Education Northshore, whose mission supports local music education with grants or scholarships to young musicians. For more information about Notes for Education Northshore, click here.

Swing Around

Perhaps you love all genres of music, whether that be soul, swing or rock-and-roll? You can experience all three and more at the first concert of the Mandeville Live 2022 season on Friday, September 23. New Orleans’ band Swingaroux will take the stage, performing a variety of hits the entire family is sure to dance and sing along to! Music begins at 6:30 p.m., and admission is free. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets; food trucks will sell food and drinks. For more information about Swingaroux, click here.

Rock Out

It is time to put on your dancing shoes and become that Dancing Queen! The kickoff to Rockin’ the Rails is set for Thursday, September 29, at Rev. Peter Atkins Park in Covington, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The concert series continues every Thursday throughout October, with food trucks and fun for the entire family at the Covington Trailhead. The free concert series is provided by the City of Covington Office of Cultural Arts and Events, with some proceeds benefiting the Covington Fire Department. For the concert lineup, click here.

The Northshore is a fantastic place to enjoy live music this September. It is a great place to enjoy it the other eleven months of the year, too!

You can always find a fun time any day of the year on the Northshore, and perhaps even more so on St. Patrick’s Day! Here are three ways to enjoy a day where green looks great on you:

Lucky Fun #1 – A Parade

Even if you had your fill of Mardi Gras parades, you have another pot of gold waiting in Slidell! The Olde Towne Slidell St. Patrick’s Day Parade is back, and boy is it back in a big way. On Sunday, March 13, 1 p.m., the parade will present over 50 floats, walking groups, bikes, horses, cars, trucks, dance groups and marching bands. Did I read correctly you can also gather the ingredients for Irish Stew? Yep, with heads of cabbage, thousands of onions, potatoes, celery and carrots, so bring a tote bag to fill up. The parade begins and ends at City Hall.

Lucky Fun #2 – A Concert

We may not be able to experience the annual Covington parade this year, however you can celebrate our favorite green day at the Covington Trailhead on St. Patrick’s Day! The Second Annual “Get Your Irish On” concert with headliner “Four Unplugged” is sure to get things rocking. Add in the costume contest, games and food trucks, and the fun is basically guaranteed. The event takes place 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., and admission is free!

Lucky Fun #3 – A Beer (or Two)

St. Tammany Parish has a plethora of really cool brew pubs, and each one seems to know just how much we love beer. At The Brass Monkey Draught Emporium in Slidell, you have your choice of 36 brews on tap. Over at Old Rail Brewing Company, located across from the Mandeville Trailhead, we are sure there will be some green beer flowing. And at Chafunkta Brewing Company, also in Mandeville, it will be a shamrock-and-roll kind of day. Of course, Abita Brew Pub, with its amazing brew selection and delicious pub grub, makes our list. Each place knows how to serve up some great beers and great fun.

However you enjoy St. Patty’s Day this year, you can consider yourself lucky to enjoy it on the Northshore!

Mardi Gras is back, baby! The bead-filled fun has been going on for weeks, culminating this year on Fat Tuesday, March 1. While there is a plethora of Krewe parades to attend, the Northshore boasts some of the most enjoyable in my opinion. Here are three upcoming ones sure to please.

Krewe of Bilge (Slidell) – Saturday, February 12, noon

I love a parade, and even more so when it is on water! For over 40 years, the Krewe of Bilge participants have paraded around on boats from the middle of Slidell waterways. The route begins at Phil’s Marina Café. One of my favorite spots to catch beads (and for great people-watching) is at The Dock. Wherever you choose to mark your spot, do so early!

Krewe of Push Mow (Abita Springs) – Saturday, February 19, noon

With the theme of “A pandemic, a hurricane… what’s next for Abita,” how can you not have a blast? Float suggestions, which include aliens invading to Santa coming to town again, are sure to make this one heck of a spectator’s delight. The family-friendly parade route starts and ends at Abita Springs Middle School, with much of it on Main Street. If you have yet to attend the Push Mow parade, be sure to make plans for this year. The decorated push lawn mowers are worth the trip alone.

Covington Lions Club and Krewe of Covington (Covington) – Tuesday, March 1, 10 a.m.

On actual Mardi Gras day, you get two parades for the price of one (free)! First up is the Covington Lions Club, with close to 20 floats expected, along with antique car clubs, mounted horses and more. The route begins at the intersection of North Columbia and Jefferson Streets. Immediately following is a second parade, presented by the Krewe of Covington. The krewe was founded over 70 years ago, and it knows how to put on a show. Once this parade is over, more fun awaits at the Covington Trailhead, with live music, kids’ games and scrumptious food.

For a complete list of 2022 parades, click here. New Orleans may be more famous for Mardi Gras, but for those of us on the Northshore, we like to parade around our towns!