Lake Charles didn’t gain the title of “Louisiana’s Playground” by coincidence. From the ring to the chutes to the court and the field, we’ve got you covered on what to do this month. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or a local looking for action, saddle up and strap your gloves on for a jam-packed month of sporting events.
August is already swinging with American Kombat Alliance (AKA) 49 at the Golden Nugget on Saturday, August 16th. Expect an exciting evening of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), featuring regional and local fighters. With the high-energy action that AKA is known for, these fighters are looking to make their marks. Even better, the night will be held in the luxurious, vibrant atmosphere of the Golden Nugget, ensuring this night will be one to remember. The doors open at 6 PM, and fights kick off at 7 PM. Tickets can be found here. With all sorts of ticket packages including ringside tables and floor seats, it’s bound to be a good time. They’re selling quickly so be sure to grab them!
August is a busy month for the McNeese Cowboys and Cowgirls as football and volleyball seasons are coming in hot. The Cowgirls are set to play the annual Blue and Gold scrimmages this August at the Townsley Law Arena on Wednesday the 13th, Saturday the 16th, and Wednesday the 20th. These are great chances to get a first look at the Cowgirls’ talent for the 2025 season, and even better, they’re free! So grab your friends, kids, neighbors, or whoever you want to bring, and get over to the Townsley Law Arena! More information on times and the full Cowgirl schedule can be found here.
The McNeese Cowboy Football team hosts the Louisiana Christian Wildcats for the first home game of the season at the newly-named Navarre Stadium on Saturday, August 30th. Kickoff is at 6 PM, but I strongly recommend arriving earlier and spending the afternoon tailgating! Students get into these games for free with a valid student ID, and adult tickets start at $10 each. Tickets vary in price depending on group size and other terms. Get your tickets here and check out the rest of the Cowboy schedule here.
But of course, what’s the start of football season in Southwest Louisiana without multiple celebrations? The second annual McNeese Fan Fest is slated for August 16th at 6 PM in Navarre Stadium. Kicking off with the Cowboys’ final preseason scrimmage, followed by a meet and greet of the players and coaches, is your first chance to witness the legendary comeback of head coach Matt Viator and the 2025 McNeese Cowboy Football team! Viator was head coach for the Cowboys from 2006-2015, leading them to four conference titles and five playoff appearances, and setting a record of 78 wins. ICYMI, Poke Nation is thrilled to welcome Coach Viator home, and we’ve got high hopes for him. During the fan fest scrimmage, fans can partake in the fun around the stadium with inflatable jumps, face painting, sponsor booths, food trucks, snow cone stands, local artisans, small businesses, and more! This isn’t just an opportunity to celebrate McNeese football, but a true opportunity to celebrate the community! Get all the info you need here. The event is free to the public and I’ve heard there’s going to be a great crowd – see you there!
On Thursday, August 28th, the Calcasieu Area Council, Scouting South Louisiana, is doing something never done before. The Roast of Heath Schroyer! Bringing together the who’s who of corporate and community leaders to honor a standout local hero. Guests will enjoy a fun night of food, drinks, laughs, and the warm satisfaction of knowing you’re doing something good!! All proceeds go to benefit the Calcasieu Area Council of Scouting America. Doors open at 6 PM at the Townsley Law Arena at McNeese, and the show will start around 7 PM. There’s no way I’m missing this one! Check it out here.
And finally, you know it’s not Cowboy Football season without the Friday night block parties! McNeese has outdone themselves with the lineup this year, kicking off the first home game with the epic Wayne Toups on Friday, August 29th in the Townsley Law Arena. Featuring free live music, tons of food trucks and vendors, and all the Cowboy Pride you could imagine! Fans are even invited to BYOB. Doors open at 6 PM and music starts at 7 PM. See the entire block party schedule here. And if you don’t leave singing “Take My Hand” at the top of your lungs, did you even go?
Looking for a unique and enriching event for the family? The SERA Black Rodeo will be throwing down at the Lake Charles Event Center on August 30th at 7:30 PM, with doors opening at 6 PM. Hosted by the Southeastern Rodeo Association, their mission is all about providing affordable, high-quality family entertainment. Professional cowboys will compete in events such as Bronc Riding, Steer Wrestling, Calf Roping, Ladies Barrel Racing, Ladies Steer Undecorating, Team Roping, Bull Riding, and Junior Barrel Racing for kids. The SERA is also committed to keeping the cowboy way of life and upholding the important contributions the African American Cowboys played in helping tame the Old West. There’s nothing better than supporting an organization committed to keeping history alive and having a good time! Grab your tickets here and get your cowboy boots! I’ll see you there!
More sporting events and details can be found on our calendar of events! For the need-to-know information, big-game updates, and successes of the sporting world in SWLA, be sure to check out Where Champions are Crowned, released on the first of each month on visitlakecharles.org. Let’s Play!
