April is here and there is no shortage of ways to play in Louisiana’s Playground. Each week is packed with activities from live entertainment and performing arts to thrilling athletic events. Plan to dance into the night at the final installment of Live at the Lakefront, celebrate aging in the “hippest” fashion at the Hip Pop'n Granny Brunch, or wind down in the park during the return of Movies Under the Stars. Start planning your playdate now!
April 1-7, 2024
CYPHACON
Lake Charles Event Center
900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601 | April 5-7,2024
Get ready to live out the sci-fi fanatic’s dream at Cyphacon! The Sci-Fi, Anime & Gaming fandom celebration unites the actors, writers, vendors, and fans at the Lake Charles Event Center. Dress in your best gear to compete in the Cosplay Contest. Don’t forget to bring your souvenirs to be signed during the meet and greets. Learn more about Cyphacon on Episode 37 of Louisiana’s Playground Podcast.
Rum Revival
Golden Nugget Lake Charles
2550 Golden Nugget Blvd, Lake Charles, LA 70601 | April 6, 2024
Smoke and Barrel’s Rum Revival returns to celebrate the colorful ties of Caribbean culture to the Gulf Coast! Slip on your tropical attire and sip on various cocktails, rums, and tequila. The collection of drinks has been deliciously paired with authentic Caribbean dishes crafted by some of Southwest Louisiana’s most talented chefs. The premium tasting event is taking place at Golden Nugget Lake Charles.
Solar Eclipse Shootout-Nauti Water Racing’s Lone Star Series
North Beach
1205 N. Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601 | April 6-7, 2024
What better way to witness the excitement of the solar eclipse than a front-row seat to the Nauti Water Racing Solar Eclipse Shootout in Lake Charles, LA! Join thrill-seeking challengers as they compete in high-speed water races under the backdrop of a solar eclipse. Don't forget your eclipse glasses and don’t miss this electrifying event!
Nellie Lutcher Fest
Nellie Lutcher Memorial Park
702 Enterprise Blvd, Lake Charles, LA 70601 | April 7, 2024
The inaugural festival pays tribute to the Lake Charles-born jazz legend, Nellie Lutcher by honoring her with a newly constructed park in the heart of the Nellie Lutcher cultural district. The park will serve as a prime location for artists and performances. The free festival will feature live music, food trucks, vendors, and the unveiling of the park’s mural showcasing Nellie’s musical legacy. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and prepare for an afternoon cultural experience like no other.
April 8-14, 2024
Louisiana Railroad Days Festival
DeQuincy Railroad Museum Park
400 Lake Charles Avenue, DeQuincy, LA 70633 | April 11-13, 2024
Celebrate the birth and legacy of the town of DeQuincy because of the booming railroad industry of the late 1800s! The festival celebrating its 41st year returns to the DeQuincy Railroad Museum Park with carnival rides, delicious food booths, arts and crafts vendors, a parade, and loads of performances.
Parker McCollum
Lake Charles Event Center
900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601 | April 12, 2024
Get ready to “Burn It Down” with Parker McCollum during the Lake Charles stop on his national tour! The 57th annual Country Music Awards Best New Artist award winner will be gracing the stage at the Lake Charles Event Center with an electric performance featuring his newest singles and familiar favorites.
April 15-21, 2024
The Original Harlem Globetrotters World Tour
Lake Charles Event Center
900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601 | April 18, 2024
Slam dunks, full-court shots, high-speed dribbling, and insane acrobatics are in store for the Lake Charles stop on the Harlem Globetrotters World Tour. The incredible athletes bring basketball prowess and insane athleticism for non-stop entertainment. See the action up close at the Lake Charles Event Center.
Melissa Etheridge: I’m Not Broken Tour
Golden Nugget Lake Charles
2550 Golden Nugget Blvd, Lake Charles, LA 70601 | April 19, 2024
Grammy-winning rock songstress, Melissa Etheridge will take the stage at the Golden Nugget this month where fans will take a journey through her discography of popular songs detailing her life including her difficult battle with breast cancer. Etheridge is no stranger to speaking out about her experiences and personal journey in her confessional style show.
This Is Home Fest
Lake Charles Event Center Amphitheater
900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601 | April 20, 2024
Delight in the unique culture of Southwest Louisiana by celebrating the elements that make our region feel like home. Visit food, clothing, and craft vendors while grooving to musicians of various genres. With the designated Kids Zone, proximity to Millennium Park, petting zoo, and nursing and changing stations even the littlest festival-goers can join in on the fun! Savor a delicious platter or two of crawfish to the sounds of musicians ranging from local talent to national touring acts including Southwest Louisiana’s own Rusty Metoyer and the Zydeco Krush and headliner Big Sam’s Funky Nation. Learn more about This Is Home Fest on Episode 40 of Louisiana’s Playground Podcast.
April 22-30, 2024
Spring Art Walk
Downtown Lake Charles
Ryan Street and Surrounding Areas | April 27, 2024
Celebrate the eclectic art scene in Southwest Louisiana at the annual Spring Art Walk. Visit each of the pop-up galleries and support local artists at the market. While browsing each booth, get front-row seats to the live musical performances and dance demonstrations all while dining on delicious eats from local restaurants and food trucks.
This is just a taste of the exciting events happening this month! Pack your dancing shoes, sunscreen, and appetite, then explore our full event calendar for more fun-filled activities. For additional ways to play check out Top Things to Do This Spring.
