Programs & Events This Month at BREC.

Check out some of our exciting upcoming events and programs. Click the event name to get more info.
For a full list, visit our events calendar.

Call for Artists: Art for Animals Festival

BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo

This is an open call to artists in Greater Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 14 years or older, for the Baton Rouge Zoo’s 2nd Annual Art for Animals Exhibition. We are looking for artwork in any style inspired by nature, wildlife, zoology, wild animals, conservation, and similar topics. The artwork must be original, not from a kit or copied from other works of art. Click Here

Closes Dec. 9

Revive Your Mind Nature Hike

Cohn Arboretum

Forest bathing, Nature Rx, Ecotherapy…it’s been called many things, but the message is the same. NATURE is good for you! If life has you spinning and you feel out of balance, the Revive Your Mind Nature Hike is for you. We will hike off the beaten path at one of BREC's Conservation Areas using the outdoors as a window to relax, slow down, and take a break by practicing mindful and purposeful observation. Join us to get a well-deserved dose of nature at its finest. This program is geared towards adults, but people 13 and older are welcome to attend with an adult. Click here.

Nov. 2 / 9:30-11:30 a.m.

The Edge of Night

Highland Road Park Observatory

Which stars are seen first? Are Mercury and Venus or the Moon out? Is that moving object a plane, a satellite or space debris? There is no other time like twilight. Bring it into your life! Come join HRPO as they have you look up to see how the sky is brought to life at the edge of night. Click here.

Nov. 8 / 4:45-6:45 p.m. 

Guided Trail Rides

Farr Park Equestrian Center

Enjoy a one-hour gentle ride through the park or in the indoor arena on one of the BREC horses. This fun activity is perfect for families, groups and friends. Trail rides are by appointment only, and all riders must be at least 9 years old. Click here.

Nov. 9 +16  / 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Veteran’s Day at the Zoo

BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo

Join us as we recognize and honor both those actively serving and those who have served in the armed forces.

 Military veterans and active military: Complimentary admission for you and up to five guests when presenting a valid military ID on 11/9.

 Non-military: Regular zoo admission applies 

Click here.

Nov. 9 / 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., grounds close at 5 p.m.

Zoo and Me Morning

BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo

This program is designed for 3 to 5-year-old children accompanied by a parent or guardian. Every Zoo & Me Morning incorporates exciting activities including animal encounters, art projects, "Zooper" snacks and many other hands-on projects that you and your child can enjoy together. Click here.

Nov. 12 9.30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Sweet Tooth Designs

Highland Road Community Park

Learn the basics of decorating and creating a work of art cookie while enjoying a delicious cookie treat. All participants will get to take their cookie home to show their family. Click here.

Nov. 14  / 6-7 p.m.

Swamp Art Show Field Days

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

Those interested in working on entry pieces for upcoming Swamp Art Show Series shows can visit the swamp on this day for inspiration (FOR FREE!). Whether your gear includes canvases or cameras, come out and enjoy this paint-out and field-shoot day. Bring your own supplies – we’ll provide workspace indoors and out for you to create your masterpieces! Click here.

Nov. 16-17

Stamp’n for Two

Baringer Road Art Center 

This class is designed for adults, tweens or teens. The pair will spend the morning designing and carving an animal design stamp into a rubber block. After carving out their image they will use ink pads to print their unique image. Unlimited creativity for both! Taught by professional artist, Holly Stone-Barker. Click here.

Nov. 16 / 10 a.m.-noon

Sweet Tooth Designs

Church St. Park

Learn the basics of decorating and creating a work of art cookie while enjoying a delicious cookie treat. All participants will get to take their cookie home to show their family. Click here.

Nov. 20 / 6-7 p.m.

Hooper Hustle

Hooper Road Park

Get ready to test your mountain bike skills at the Hooper Hustle! This classic mountain bike race has two rider categories: Novice and Advanced. Registration is $35 and prizes will be awarded! Hang around after the race for some food, music, and awards. Register by October 20 to get a race t-shirt. Click here.

Nov. 23 / 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Privet Pull-ooza

Bayou Manchac Park

Join BREC's Conservation team removing invasive privet at Bayou Manchac Park! Volunteers of all experience levels will work together to restore native habitat by pulling invasive species. BREC will provide gloves, snacks, and all necessary tools. Click here.

Nov. 23 / 9 a.m.-noon

Fall Holiday Camps

Various Locations

Click here.

Nov. 25-27 / 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Zoo Lights

BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo

Get into the holiday spirit with Zoo Lights at BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo! Wander through a magical wonderland of twinkling lights, festive displays, and animal encounters. Open from November 29th to December 30th (closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Day). Click here.

Nov. 29-Dec. 30 (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day) / 5:30-8 p.m., grounds close at 9 p.m.