Date Archives: January 2023

Mardi Gras 2023 is coming Tuesday, February 21. But Mardi Gras season isn't just about the big day. Our Realtors® know you have to start preparing early. This is one of the best times of year to go to Lake Charles open houses or visit Lake Charles homes for sale because magic is already in the air.

After all, Lake Charles is home to the biggest celebrations outside of New Orleans.

With only about a month left to go, there are still plenty of amazing things to see and do. Lake Charles goes all out for Mardi Gras each and every year. We have our own traditions and even our own incredible parades. You can be a part of it all this year.

Let's take a closer look at spectacular Mardi Gras celebrations in Lake Charles:

• Taste of Mardi Gras Party – 900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601
  Taste of Mardi Gras Party takes place on February 15 from 6 p.m. through 9 o'clock. Guests enter for just $30 and will enjoy food and fun at the spacious Lake Charles Civic Center. Door prizes will also be available, and there is a cash bar. It's a terrific way to kick off your season of celebration.
  
  
• Mardi Gras Annual Lighted Boat Parade – 900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601
  See the Lakefront Promenade like you've never seen it before. Mardi Gras Annual Lighted Boat Parade is a truly breathtaking sight. A totally free event, it kicks off at 6 p.m. on February 16. Dozens of lighted boats take to the water in an annual outpouring of local spirit unique to Lake Charles.
  
  
• Mardi Gras Merchants' Parade – Ryan Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601
  Welcome to the first land parade of the season. Mardi Gras Merchants' Parade is a chance to meet new friends and buy unique souvenirs. This glowing night parade is sponsored by businesses and nonprofits, with the major contributors decorating incredible floats. It happens on February 17 at seven o'clock.
  
  
• Krewe of Barkus Parade – 900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601
  Krewe of Barkus Parade is one you just can't miss: A parade of costumed pets and whimsical owners. It starts from the Lake Charles Civic Center and begins the morning of February 18. At the day's end, the #1 best costume winner will be crowned "Mystical Dog" of the Krewe of Barkus.
  
  
• World Famous Cajun Extravaganza and Gumbo Cook-Off – 900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601
  The World Famous Cajun Extravaganza and Gumbo Cook-Off is back for another year. There's no charge at the door for this mouth-watering contest, which runs bright and early from 7 a.m. through to 2 p.m. on February 18.
  
  
• Mardi Gras Children's Day & Children's Day Parade – 900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601
  Mardi Gras Children's Day & Children's Day Parade is the day to celebrate the youth with a family-friendly day of interactive arts and crafts for kids aged 3 to 11. It gets rolling at 11:00 on February 19, and the parade starts at 3:30.
  
  
• Mardi Gras Royal Gala – 900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601
  It's the big night before the big day. Mardi Gras Royal Gala arrives on Monday, February 20. During this lavish parade, each Krewe will show off their handcrafted floats and their costumed royalty. There will be live music and dancing befitting the second-largest Mardi Gras in all of Louisiana.

Contact us to find out more about real estate in Lake Charles.

New year, new yoga studio? Yoga offers a great workout that's accessible for everyone, and the start of a new year is the perfect time to embrace this healthy habit. Whether you're already an experienced yogi or you're just getting started on your yoga journey, there are a ton of great yoga studios around Lafayette where you can take the next steps. Our Realtors® have all of the details on 5 of the best yoga studios near Lafayette for you to enjoy in 2023.

• GoodWolf Power Yoga – 1921 Kaliste Saloom Rd., Ste. 208A, Lafayette, LA 70508
  For yoga sessions built to benefit both body and mind near Lafayette homes for sale, it's tough to top the experience at GoodWolf Power Yoga. Teacher Baron Baptiste provides instruction through the Baptiste Power Yoga methodology, which his father Walt Baptiste developed in the 1940s. This style of teaching blends yoga with meditation and self-inquiry to create a truly holistic experience with each session. There are more than 15 types of classes here, with something for every taste and experience level.
  
  
• The Space Yoga Studio – 411 Rena Dr., Lafayette, LA 70503
  If you're new to yoga and would like to learn the basics in an encouraging, inclusive, empowering environment, classes at The Space Yoga Studio are the perfect place to start. The talented team of instructors here strives to inspire with every class and provides a space where you can truly be yourself. There are some great beginner classes here if you're just getting into yoga, along with a wide variety of fitness-focused classes.
  
  
• Acadiana Yoga & Wellness – 913 Harding St., Lafayette, LA 70503
  With yoga classes for all experience levels, as well as pilates classes, special events, educational workshops, and teacher training, Acadiana Yoga & Wellness offers so many ways to help you be your best self. For new students, there's a special program available to help you experience all that this excellent studio has to offer. For $30, you can enjoy 30 days of yoga – more than enough time to get a taste of the huge variety of classes offered here.
  
  
• Zen Den – 135 Arnould Blvd., Lafayette, LA 70506
  Featuring small class sizes, excellent instruction, a wide variety of hot yoga classes, and an atmosphere that inspires mindfulness, the Zen Den is a place that aims to bring out the best in its students. While you can choose to pay a one-time fee for any class, the best way to experience the Zen Den is with a membership. By paying a monthly membership fee, you have constant access to all of the 10+ classes which are on the schedule most weeks.
  
  
• Little Creek Yoga – 708 Jefferson Blvd., Lafayette, LA 70501
  Located in a beautiful historic home, Little Creek Yoga is the first donation-based studio in the Lafayette area, striving to make yoga affordable and accessible for everyone. While there's a suggested donation of $10-$20 per class, there's no requirement, and participants are encouraged to contribute what they can afford. Enjoy Yoga Basics with Sally, Open Studio Time with Katie, Restorative Yoga with Grace, Tai Chi with Ashley, or Recovery Dharma which is taught by various members of the community.

Searching for a home near your favorite yoga studio? Our local real estate team is here to help, and we have plenty of Lafayette open houses to help you find the right match. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Lafayette, LA, area.

The culinary scene in our corner of Louisiana always impresses! January 20th marks National Cheese Lover's Day and offers the perfect excuse to try out a new restaurant serving up cheesy favorites. Celebrate this delicious occasion with some of the best cheesy dishes in Baton Rouge. Our Realtors® suggest checking out some of these Baton Rouge eateries. 

• Bites & Boards - 8201 Village Plaza Ct. #1A, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  Bites & Boards is a popular cheese boutique that serves cheese, meat, wine, and other charcuterie favorites. You can order cheese boards and boxes of various sizes and flavors to celebrate National Cheese Lover's Day at home or at your preferred gathering spot. Or, take a break from browsing Baton Rouge homes for sale and learn how to make your own delicious cheese board. Bites & Boards hosts private classes to teach you the tricks you need to know to make a memorable cheese board. These private sessions are an excellent alternative for a friend's night out or birthday gathering. 

• The Chimes - 3357 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  The Chimes Restaurant & Tap Room is a fine dining establishment that offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Bring the family after checking out Baton Rouge open houses for a meal full of flavorful, cheese-filled dishes. Start your meal with cheese fries layered with toppings or with an order of mozzarella cheese logs. The crawfish mac and cheese puts a Cajun spin on this popular cheesy dish. Or, try a bowl of tasty cheesy grits. In addition to Highland Rd., The Chimes also has a location at 10870 Coursey Blvd.

• Cheesecake Bistro by Copeland's - 6171 Bluebonnet Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70809
  While Cheesecake Bistro by Copeland's is known for their cheesecake, this isn't the only thing on the menu perfect for marking National Cheese Lover's Day. Chicken parmesan, French onion soup, and crawfish ravioli are just a few selections that feature cheese. When you're ready to order dessert, you can pair a slice of original cheesecake with your choice of toppings, including brownies, strawberries, and white chocolate raspberry sauce. Chef-crafted cheesecake flavors, like red velvet, killed by chocolate, and black and white tuxedo, are also offered.

• Curbside Burgers - 4158 Government St., Baton Rouge, LA 70806
  If you prefer to pair your cheese with a juicy hamburger. Curbside Burgers is the place to go. Several varieties include cheese, including the classic cheeseburger, the bacon cheeseburger, and the Smokin' Joe (adds fried onion strings and smoke sauce to a bacon cheeseburger). The spicy chicken sandwich also includes cheese. You can even customize your tots or fries with your preferred cheese topping, like pepper jack fondue or shredded cheese. 

• Our Mom's Restaurant and Bar - 250 West Lee Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70820
  Our Mom's Restaurant and Bar serves several dishes that incorporate cheese, including burgers, chicken sandwiches, and poboys. Begin your meal with one of their cheesy appetizers, like Your Mom's Cheese fries (includes bacon, jalapenos, and a blend of cheeses) or the chili mac fries (topped with Our Mom's Restaurant and Bar's homemade chili and mac and cheese). 

Ready to live near your favorite Baton Rouge restaurants? Contact us to get started!

Is your home due for an interior refresh in 2023? If you're not sure where to start, looking into the year's hottest interior design trends can be a major source of inspiration.  

Not to mention adopting the latest trends will help keep a modern vibe in your interior and also ensure your home is looking good when it comes time to sell.

Our Realtors® love looking ahead to up-and-coming design trends, and we expect to see both new concepts, as well as old trends re-emerging. Here are some of our top predictions:

• We'll Continue to Bring the Outdoors Inside
  It doesn't look like this trend is going anywhere any time soon. From incorporating natural elements into finishes to prioritizing those softer green and earthy tones, an emphasis on natural elements will continue into next year.
  
  
• Think More Color and Energy
  Minimalism has been in-style for the last five to ten years, and we're now seeing many homeowners shift away from plains and neutrals back towards a delightful combination of color and energy. Bright colors and energetic patterns will be a major theme. We also expect to see the much-anticipated return of wallpaper, which will give designers more ability to integrate unique patterns and color schemes. 
  
  
• Upcycling Will Be Big
  As the cost of home goods remains elevated, consumers will be looking for cost-effective ways to furnish and decorate their homes. Upcycling, which involves reusing, repurposing, or refurnishing old household items, will be a big trend. We also expect to see more people incorporating vintage store finds into their decor.
  
  
• Checkerboard Patterns Will Re-Emerge
  This one might be a bit of a long shot, but we have noticed an increase in checkerboard patterns lately. From kitchen tile to outdoor patio rugs, checkerboard patterns that were highly popular in the 1980s seem to be making a comeback.
  
  
• Open Floor Plans Will Remain a Priority
  People still love the openness and connection offered by an open floor plan, so connected kitchens, dining rooms, and living rooms will continue to be a big deal next year. The other big benefit of open floor plans is they can significantly increase energy efficiency, which will be a big focus as well.
  
  
• Art Deco is Coming Back
  We've started to see signs of this in 2022, but art deco is coming back in a big way. Expect to see more wallpaper with bold, sleek geometric designs in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. We've even seen it pop up in several New Orleans homes for sale. 

We really love this year's interior design trends, and we're excited to see the unique ways homeowners incorporate them into their interiors. One of the many perks of homeownership is getting to decorate your space however you want to truly make it your own! Contact us today for more interior design tips or tips for staging your home for sale in 2023. Our team can also help you explore New Orleans open houses so you can find a home to decorate with your favorite styles.

Our Realtors® are passionate about showing off Lafayette homes for sale and holding the best Lafayette open houses. But even a dedicated team like ours needs some interests outside work. Pickleball is one of them – and it's taking the Lafayette area by storm.

Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and even ping-pong. It can be enjoyed either indoors or outdoors on a court 44 feet long. The width of the court can vary based on the type of competition. A paddle sport with a plastic ball, pickleball is versatile: It can be played as singles or doubles, and it has very simple rules.

Experts consider pickleball to be the fastest-growing sport in America. It is easily picked up by players of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels, including children and seniors. Over the last few years, it's popped up all over Lafayette, too. There are so many opportunities to try it out you might wonder where to start.

Let's get the inside scoop on pickleball in Lafayette.

• Thomas Park Recreation Center – 301 Geraldine Drive, Lafayette, LA 70503
  One of two local recreational facilities used by the "Agin' Cajuns" senior pickleball committee, Thomas Park Recreation Center is the centerpiece of Lafayette's municipal Thomas Park. It is open from Monday through Friday, starting at 8 a.m., with a two-hour break at noon. The exterior tennis courts can be used for pickleball games on Mondays and Fridays from 3 p.m. through to the park's closure at 9 o'clock.
  
  
• Comeaux Recreation Center – 411 West Bluebird Street, Lafayette, LA 70508
  Comeaux Recreation Center is a popular place for both youth and adult sports and practice. Monday to Friday, it opens from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. On Saturday, it welcomes visitors from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pickleball is available in season – from May through August – on Wednesdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The pickleball courts have attracted so many players that plans are in the works to light them soon.
  
  
• George Dupuis Recreational Center at Brown Park – 1212 East Pont Des Mouton Road, Lafayette, LA 70507
  With four indoor courts to choose from, George Dupuis Recreational Center at Brown Park is a terrific place to try out pickleball when other local options are full or unavailable. The lighted tennis courts are great for pickleball. There's also a weight room, indoor gym, and a unique "Timber Challenge" workout station. You can hit the 1-mile jogging trail to warm up or cool down after your exciting pickleball game!
  
  
• AA Comeaux Park – 300 Comeaux Memorial Drive, Abbeville, LA 70510
  AA Comeaux Park is the centerpiece park of the community of Abbeville, founded in 1850. It has a wide range of sports fields and courts to choose from. You can participate in baseball, softball, tennis, soccer, and walking on the track. Pickleball is a more recent addition to the slate of activities that's gotten more popular with each passing season. The park isn't far from Abbeville homes for sale.
  
  
• Youngsville Sports Complex – 801 Savoy Road, Youngsville, LA 70592
  When you need a reliable place for pickleball just a short journey from Youngsville homes for sale, you need look no further than the Youngsville Sports Complex. Billing itself as "Louisiana's Premier Sports and Recreation Facility," it provides convenient court reservations for tennis, pickleball, and even beach volleyball. Competitive adult pickleball is held at the indoor Recreation Center.

Contact us to find out more about Lafayette real estate.

What's better for you than a brisk walk outdoors? How about a walk with your devoted pet? Join our Realtors® in observing Walk Your Dog Month during January. Take a stroll with your beloved pooch at one of these great locations near Baton Rouge homes for sale.

• Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center - 10503 N. Oak Hills Pkwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  With 103 acres filled with plants and wildlife, Bluebonnet Nature Center offers much to see on every visit. More than a mile of gravel paths and boardwalks wind through the grounds that feature a number of different types of habitats. Snakes, turtles, rabbits, deer, and otters are only a few of the wildlife species that have been spotted, along with hundreds of bird species. Contact the center for information about Dog Days, when visitors may bring their pets along. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $3 for adults and $2 for ages 3-17.
  
  
• Milford Wampole Memorial Park - 901 Stanford Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  Tucked alongside the LSU Lakes, Milford Wampole Memorial Park is a charming spot for the whole family. The park has undergone a number of recent improvements, including a new asphalt parking lot that allows for more green space. Benches and a water fountain have been added to complement the quarter-mile of walking trails. Wampole Memorial Park is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
  
  
• City-Brooks Community Park - 1515 Dalyrmple Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  Fido loves you, but he likes to socialize with other pets as well. Give him some quality time at Raising Cane's Dog Park, the off-leash site at City-Brooks Community Park. Of course, the two of you can also enjoy walks together along the park's greenway trail that connects to City Park Lake, where bank fishing is permitted. Hours are sunrise to sunset, seven days a week.
  
  
• Burbank Dog Park - 12400 Burbank Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  Burbank Dog Park, adjacent to the popular sports complex of the same name, consists of a spacious six-acre section where dogs can romp freely. There are separate areas for large and small dogs, along with pavilions. When you're ready for a break from the other pets, stroll down the quarter-mile dog walk. Take your pet for a spin through the washing station to get him squeaky clean before heading home. Burbank Dog Park is open from sunrise to sunset, Tuesday through Sunday.
  
  
• LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens - 4560 Essen Ln., Baton Rouge, LA 70809
  The LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens form an incredible natural oasis in the heart of Baton Rouge. Burton Woods, which makes up one-third of the center's 440 acres, features Trees and Trails and three miles of pathways that serve recreational and educational purposes. The trails also lead to the Barton Arboretum, home to the serene Palmetto Walk and the stunning Crowder Camellia Collection. Several specialty gardens include the interactive Children's Garden, the colorful Rose Garden, and the exotic Tropical Garden, filled with gingers, bromeliads, and plumeria. Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the grounds, which are open daily from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Admission is free.

Looking for a new home for you and your four-legged pal? Contact us at Latter & Blum for the latest information on Baton Rouge open houses. 

King cake is an important part of any Mardi Gras season, and our Realtors® know plenty of local spots where you can order one!

If you're here to visit New Orleans homes for sale, why not enjoy one of the biggest events of the year: Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday? No Mardi Gras is complete without a king cake, and after a full day of New Orleans open houses, you might just find you want some to keep your energy up.

Luckily, there are hundreds of local bakeries throughout New Orleans and neighboring communities that are glad to help you sate your craving. King cake is a sweet pastry with lots of icing, sprinkles, and luster dust. For a truly authentic king cake, there's no place better than the heart of New Orleans itself.

Let's drop by just a few of the many places you can get real king cake in New Orleans:

• La Boulangerie – 4600 Magazine Street #1518, New Orleans, LA 70115
  The culinary scene in New Orleans is inseparable from its French history, and La Boulangerie ("the bakery") takes it to the next level. Using authentic French baking techniques right down to the flour, bakers here take pride in the art of bread. The king cake is just one of the diverse array of specialties you'll enjoy with your choice of coffee, tea, and other refreshing beverages.
  
  
• Bittersweet Confections – 725 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA 70130
  Another Magazine Street favorite for those who appreciate all things carbohydrates! Bittersweet Confections is anything but bitter when you want a moist and delicious king cake of your very own. Modest and unassuming at first glance, it wins kudos for its custom cakes and handmade truffles. Its custom Mardi Gras cake can rise to a maximum size of ten inches, feeding up to 30 partygoers.
  
  
• Croissant D'Or Patisserie – 617 Ursulines Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70116
  Croissant D'Or Patisserie exudes class with everything from the striking stained glass accents in the cafe to the beautifully lighted and presented display case with the morning's products. Croissants, cakes, tortes, and cookies are always on the menu. There's even a curated assortment of classic French quiche dishes, plus omelets and continental breakfast. King cake can be ordered special during the Mardi Gras season.
  
  
• O'Delice French Bakery – 6033 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA 70118
  O'Delice French Bakery is a cozy little shop and one of the best-kept secrets in New Orleans when it comes to brilliant baked goods. Stop in for a chat, a croissant, and a freshly brewed cafe, and you'll soon become a regular. Savor the fresh, one-of-a-kind selections, including a rotating menu of cakes. The praline cheesecake is popular all year round, while the king cake is among the city's most colorful.
  
  
• Laurel Street Bakery – 2701 South Broad Street, New Orleans, LA 70125
  Laurel Street Bakery is one of the top New Orleans bakeries outside Magazine Street. With fresh bagels, breakfast, and lunch every day, there is truly never a bad time to visit. Fans wait for an extensive holiday menu to drop every year, including the king cake. King cakes ship all over the United States, so you can share them with loved ones from far and wide. The traditional bread pudding is another "can't miss."

Contact us to learn about New Orleans real estate opportunities.

It's no secret that we love our pets! We've all seen dog and cat ownership spiral till almost everyone has one, not to mention small creatures like birds, rabbits, rodents, and reptiles. Whatever the pet, you'll need accommodations for it in that home you're looking at among Lafayette homes for sale. 

What will you do to make things just right for Fifi or Fido in your home? After all, you want to ensure your pets have the best life possible. But you also will need to ensure your home stays bright, shiny, and clean smelling so that human visitors (and occupants) are comfortable.

To that end, here's some good advice from our Realtors® on how to make your home more pet friendly.

1. Vacuuming frequently is essential. 
   This is particularly important if you have fur- or feather-bearing pets. Also, you may need to practice frequent vacuuming around a litter box or a cage where pets such as birds or hamsters, or gerbils throw out seed or bedding. If you have a cat or dog, it's essential to get one of the modern new vacuum cleaners designed to suction up animal hair. You'll be glad you did, as pet hair also has pet dander in it -- an allergen. Pet hair can also give off an odor; plus, it attracts dirt, so it can compromise your upholstered furniture.
   
   
2. Keeping your pets clean helps you maintain your home better. 
   You can't wash them every day, but give your dog a bath at least once a week and do brush your dog daily, so you're removing hair before it's shed. Trim nails if you're up to it, or take the dogs to a groomer and let them grind the nails (this will spare some wear and tear on furniture and floors). If your cat will let you give it a bath, great. If your feline resists, professional groomers can probably get it done or show you how. Clipping cat nails might be a veterinarian's job. With other pets, give them plenty of water to do their washing. Birds love splashing around and preening, cleaning their feathers. Do change materials in cages as often as needed.
   
   
3. Wash bedding at least once a week. 
   Pet bedding gets an odor if left unwashed. Wash it frequently so you can also eliminate pet dander. For non-felines and non-canines, clean cages according to recommendations for the particular pet.
   
   
4. Choose pet-resistant fabrics when buying furniture.
   Leather is a good choice, and though it can be scratched, it is usually strong enough to hold up against pets. Otherwise, avoid silk and velvet. Washable slipcovers are also a good idea.
   
   
5. Invest in a portable upholstery cleaner.
   You know that even the best-behaved pets sometimes get sick and lose control, so make sure to have a portable cleaning solution on hand, using it as soon as the mess occurs. Also, try an enzymatic spot cleaner to get rid of stains and odors.

Need more hints on how to make your home more pet friendly? Or looking for Lafayette open houses to help you with your search for a home your pets will love? Contact us today. 

Can you believe that the Louisiana Marathon is already around the corner? Whether you've been training to participate in the race or you're looking forward to enjoying the festivities as a spectator, there's so much to look forward to with the Louisiana Marathon this year. Our Realtors® have exciting details on what to expect from the Louisiana Marathon in 2023.

Location: 660 N. 4th St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802

Dates: January 14-15, 2023

Admission: Free for Spectators, Race Entry Fees Vary by Distance

• Full Marathon
  The full marathon is the cornerstone of the whole race weekend for both spectators and the many runners who've been training for the Louisiana Marathon all year long. The course winds through downtown Baton Rouge, along the river, through the LSU campus, and through some of the most historic neighborhoods near Baton Rouge homes for sale. This marathon is also an official qualifier for the Boston Marathon, boasting one of the highest qualifying rates of any marathon in the country thanks to the flat, fast, and very runner-friendly course. The full marathon kicks off on January 15, 2023, at 7:00 AM.

• Half Marathon and Quarter Marathon
  If you've been training hard but don't quite feel ready for the full marathon, the Louisiana Marathon offers a variety of other race lengths that offer a fun, inviting challenge while helping you continue to develop your running skills. Both the half and quarter marathons follow similar paths to the main marathon, just shorter in length. The half marathon starts at the same time as the full marathon on Sunday, while the quarter marathon will be on Saturday, January 14, 2023, at 8:00 AM.

• Louisiana Marathon 5k and Kids "Marathon."
  The Louisiana Marathon features something for everyone, including shorter races ideal for newer runners or anyone who wants to get the whole family involved in the fun. Whether you're aiming to set a personal best or you just want to participate in the race weekend while enjoying the atmosphere, the fast, scenic 5k course is sure to please. The kids are sure to love participating in the kid's marathon, a one-mile run that ends with a trip to the fun Kids Zone. The 5k kicks off alongside the quarter marathon on Saturday morning, while the kid's marathon starts right after the 5k ends at 10:15 AM on Saturday.

• How to Sign Up or Donate
  If you're interested in participating in any of the races that we've covered, there's still time to sign up and secure your spot. You can easily sign up through the Louisiana Marathon website, with registration ending on the day of each race. You can also make a donation on the website toward the charitable causes supported by the Louisiana Marathon.

• Spectator Info for the Louisiana Marathon
  The Louisiana Marathon is a great event for spectators, too! There's no cost to watch the event, whether you're cheering on a specific participant or supporting every runner who passes by you. Check the course information for the Saturday Races and Sunday Races to find the best spots for spectating on each day, then head out early on race day to get the best views.

Are you searching for a home that allows you to enjoy excellent Baton Rouge events like the Louisiana Marathon all year long? Our local real estate team is here to help you find the perfect match with Baton Rouge open houses and so much more. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Baton Rouge, LA, area.

No one loves a parade more than the New Orleans area, which has elevated these events to an art form. Join our Realtors® by getting in the Mardi Gras frame of mind with these January parades taking place around New Orleans homes for sale. 

• Funky Uptown Krewe - Bourrée, 1510 S. Carrollton Ave., New Orleans, LA 70118
  Appropriately, Funky Uptown Krewe has chosen "Everybody Get Your Funk On!" as the theme for this year's Mardi Gras parade on Friday, January 6. Kick things off with a fresh fruit daiquiri from Bourrée at the pre-party. At 7 p.m., the procession heads out along the St. Charles streetcar line. The Krewe will be tossing bedazzled vinyl records along with cups and koozies while DJ Mannie Fresh spins hot tunes from the streetcar. End up at Fat Harry's around 8:30 p.m. to keep the party going. 
  
  
• Krewe de Joan d'Arc - Bienville & N. Front, New Orleans, LA 70130
  Krewe de Joan d'Arc is named for the martyred saint who liberated NOLA's namesake city of Orleans, France. Their annual parade on January 6 serves as a tribute to her birthday as well as a prelude to Mardi Gras. Parade participants and viewers don medieval garb similar to that worn during Joan of Arc's time in the 1400s. The procession pauses at the New Orleans Collection Williams Foundation Building for a celebratory toast, as well as for a sword-blessing ceremony at Saint Louis Cathedral. In conclusion, everyone gathers to sing "Happy Birthday" in front of the Joan of Arc statue on Decatur. Festivities begin at 7 p.m.
  
  
• Phunny Phorty Phellows - S. Carrollton & Willow, New Orleans, LA 70118
  While the Phunny Phorty Phellows, or PPP, made their first appearance in 1878, they lasted only 20 years before reforming in 1981. Satire, the krewe's defining tradition, is reflected in their costumes, which often take aim at current issues. At 7 p.m. on January 6, after making their regular Carnival Countdown, PPP sets out for a lively ride on the St. Charles streetcar. During the trip, the Queen and "Boss" are determined by whoever finds the babies in two king cakes that are passed around. Music is provided by the Storyville Stompers on the streetcar ride, followed by the Coronation Ball with entertainment from Benny Grunch and the Bunch.
  
  
• Intergalactic Krewe of Chewbacchus - St. Claude Ave.  & Homer Plessy Way, New Orleans, LA 70117
  With participants dressed as aliens, superheroes, and Trekkies, the Mardi Gras parade of the Intergalactic Krewe of Chewbacchus resembles a galaxy far, far away. The krewe's 900 members are organized into more than 150 sub-krewes dedicated to various science fiction, fantasy, and horror themes. Sustainability is a priority, with nearly 100 parade vehicles designed to be pushed, pulled, or pedaled without reliance on fuel. Throws such as bandoliers and pocket shrines are handmade from recycled and upcycled materials. Join in the fun at 7 p.m. on Saturday, January 28, and "Let the Wookiee Win!"
  
  
• Krewe of Nefertiti -  Bullard Ave. & Lake Forest Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70128
  Looking for a parade that the whole family can enjoy? Mark your calendar for 1 p.m. on Sunday, January 29, when the Krewe of Nefertiti takes to the streets. The all-female krewe serves the NOLA community through volunteer service and fundraising. Kids love the bejeweled throws that are tossed to the crowd from the parade's 14 floats.

After touring New Orleans open houses, a visit to a Mardi Gras parade is a great way to experience community spirit. Contact us at Latter & Blum for more information.