Mouthwatering bowls of gumbo, trunk or treats, and McNeese State football games await this October in Lake Charles! Celebrate the return of popular festivals and events like Rouge et Blanc, Chuck Fest, and the CYPHACON Halloween Pub Crawl or unwind and experience the serenity and wildlife along the Creole Nature Trail All-American. No matter how you choose to play, October offers plenty of chances to experience the joy in Louisiana's Playground. Check out our picks below!

Festivals

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Oktoberfest | October 4

You don’t have to travel to Bavaria to celebrate Oktoberfest. Grab your lederhosen and dirndls and saunter over to Crying Eagle Brewing-University for the Crying Eagle Oktoberfest Beer Festival. Feast on the tasty food specials perfectly paired with traditional Oktoberfest-themed beers, then spend the day playing classic Oktoberfest games!

 

West Fest | October 5

Head to Pinderosa Park for West Fest─an afternoon of talented performances, delicious food trucks, local artisans, jump houses and more. Grab your lawn chairs, blankets, and ice chests and get ready to dance the night away celebrating Westlake's hospitality!

 

Nellie Fest | October 5

Celebrate the legacy of Lake Charles native and jazz singer Nellie Lutcher at her annual birthday celebration, Nellie Fest! Picnic in Nellie Lutcher Memorial Park and shop from local vendors or dance to the sounds of Jairus Daigle, Miles McCombs, JB Saax, and Reed the Keys on the iconic piano keys stage.

Nellie Lutcher
Arts & Culture

Nellie Lutcher's Musical Journey

  • 5 minute read

While her beginnings were humble, Lake Charles native, Nellie Lutcher's talents ensured that her lifestyle would be anything but ordinary. Lutcher graced the stage nationally and internationally for nearly a century and left lasting impacts on musical history. Her accomplishments were…

Rouge et Blanc | October 11

Spend the afternoon under the oaks at Rouge et Blanc Wine and Food Festival. Sip and socialize with wine experts and renowned area chefs in the charming McNeese State University Quad. The tasting event serves as Banner's flagship fundraiser, bringing diverse arts and cultural programs to the five-parish area.

 

Chuck Fest | October 18

Hit the streets of Downtown Lake Charles for the 11th anniversary of Chuck Fest! What began as a birthday celebration for Luna Bar and Grill-Downtown has evolved into an annual celebration of the best elements of Southwest Louisiana. From noon to midnight festival goers can take their pick of delicious food, endless drinks, and great Louisiana-based entertainment!

 

Stars and Stripes in the Park Classic Car Show | October 18

Browse an extensive collection of new and classic cars, trucks, hot rods and more at the 14th annual Stars and Stripes in the Park Classic Car Show held on the grounds of The Grove at Heritage Square. Enjoy delicious food, live performances, and exciting competitions including the chance to be the featured vehicle on the 2026 event flyer!

 

Charpentier District Front Porch Series | October 23 - November 13

Beginning October 23, enjoy four consecutive Thursday evenings of soulful performances. Camp out on the lawns of charming homes throughout the Charpentier Historic District at the return of the Charpentier District Front Porch series.

Sporting Events

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McNeese vs. Southeastern Louisiana and Houston Christian

Grab your blue and gold gear and head to Navarre Stadium for McNeese State University's next home game against Southeastern Louisiana and the homecoming game against Houston Christian!

Get there early and pre-game at the McNeese Cowboy Block Party or game-day tailgates where you'll be greeted with delicious food, drinks, and hospitality as fans prepare to cheer on the Pokes! View Schedule ►

 

Louisiana's Playground 4-Person Scramble | October 10

Whether you’re an avid golfer or just looking for a chance to visit Mallard Golf club, the Louisiana's Playground 4-Person Scramble will not disappoint! Gather your team and secure your spot to support fundraising for local youth golf development opportunities.

Concerts & Casino Entertainment

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From local musicians to award-winning performers, Southwest Louisiana is a great place to attend a concert! Our live music venues offer an all-star entertainment lineup each month.

Catch Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band with special guest Bobby Rush, country singers Travis Tritt and Chase Rice, and Blackberry Smoke at the Golden Nugget. Spend the evening singing along with Jamey Johnson at L'Auberge Casino Resort.

Rock out with Cody Jinks on his Hippies and Cowboys tour with special guest Ward Davis at the Lake Charles Event Center.

Also In October

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This is just a taste of the exciting events happening this month! Browse recurring weekly events like comedy nights, local tournaments, live music at restaurants, dance classes, art exhibits, and more. 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 Halloween in Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana and Top Things to Do This Fall.