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Slidell’s 2025 Parade Schedule

Dear Citizens,

As we enter Mardi Gras season, I would like to invite you, your family, and your friends to come experience Mardi Gras in Slidell. Grab your lawn chairs, ice chests, and king cakes, and head out to the parade route to enjoy all the parades rolling through Slidell:

Friday, Feb. 14 • 6:30 p.m.
Krewe of Titans

Saturday, Feb. 15 • 12:00 p.m.
Krewe of Bilge (Eden Isles)

Saturday, Feb. 15 • 6:00 p.m.
Krewe of Poseidon

Sunday, Feb. 16 • 1:00 p.m.
Krewe of Antheia

Saturday, Feb. 22 • 10:00 a.m.
Krewe de Paws (Olde Towne)

Saturday, Feb. 22 • 7:00 p.m.
Mona Lisa and MoonPie (Olde Towne)

Sunday, Feb. 23 • 1:00 p.m.
Krewe of Dionysus

Friday, Feb. 28 • 6:30 p.m.
Krewe of Selene

Tuesday, March 4 • 10:00 a.m.
Krewe of Kidz (Olde Towne)

Sunday, March 9 • 1:00 p.m.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade (Olde Towne)

I am proud that many families choose to celebrate Mardi Gras here in Slidell. It’s wonderful to see so many smiling faces along the parade route. I ask that everyone be respectful and help us maintain the fun, family-friendly environment that people enjoy in Slidell.

Come enjoy the best that Slidell has to offer during Mardi Gras season.

Laissez les bons temps rouler!

Mayor Bill Borchert

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Section of Bayou Lane Closed for Slidell’s Bayou Christmas

In preparation for the Bayou Jam Christmas Spectacular featuring Vince Vance and the Valiants and Slidell’s Bayou Christmas, a portion of Bayou Lane, from Pennsylvania Avenue to the Heritage Park Boat Launch, will be closed from 4:00 p.m. on Friday, December 13, to 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 14.

Attendees should park at the Heritage Park Parking Lot, located at the corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and Bayou Lane. The Heritage Park Boat Launch will remain accessible but will close early at 4:00 p.m. on both December 13 and December 14.

Kick off the holiday weekend with the Bayou Jam Christmas Spectacular on Friday night. Vince Vance and the Valiants will deliver a lively performance of classic hits and holiday favorites. The concert begins at 6:00 p.m. in Heritage Park and promises an evening of unforgettable music and festive cheer. Free admission

Also happening this weekend at Heritage park, Slidell’s Bayou Christmas transforms Heritage Park into a magical holiday wonderland. Visitors can enjoy animated light displays, free pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus (from 6:30 to 9 p.m.) Slidell’s Nativity created by Lori Anselmo, delicious food, kiddie rides, and even ice skating rink. Admission is free.

The City of Slidell invites everyone to join these cherished community events and thanks the public for their cooperation during this festive weekend.

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Celebrate the 11th Annual Slidell’s Bayou Christmas at Heritage Park

The City of Slidell is excited to invite residents and visitors to the 11th Annual Slidell’s Bayou Christmas, a magical holiday event held at Heritage Park on December 13–14 and 20–23. This free event will take place from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. and offers a festive lineup of activities, entertainment, and holiday fun for the entire family.

“Slidell’s Bayou Christmas is a community tradition that brings families together to celebrate the holiday season,” said Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer. “We owe a special thanks to Tommy Benasco and all of the Bayou Christmas volunteers for their dedication and years of service in making this event such a success. Their hard work and holiday spirit continue to make this a magical experience for everyone.”

The event kicks off on Friday, Dec. 13, with the Bayou Jam Christmas Spectacular, featuring the King of Christmas, Vince Vance and the Valiants starting at 6:00 p.m. On Saturday, December 14, the holiday fun continues with Community Caroling hosted by the Slidell Women’s Civic Club at 6:30 p.m., followed by a special Slidell Movie Nights screening of the Christmas movie classic Elf at 7:30 p.m.

A highlight of Slidell’s Bayou Christmas is the nightly appearance of Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will be available from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. to take free photos with children. Families can also enjoy animated light displays, a skating rink, kiddie rides, and Slidell’s Nativity created by local artist Lori Anselmo. Art and craft vendors, as well as food and drink stands, will offer festive treats and unique holiday shopping opportunities.

On Dec. 20, guests can enjoy performances by Royal Legacy Dance, Lakeside Christian, Carolyn Park, St. Margaret Mary Dance, St. Margaret Mary Cheer, and Just Dance, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The entertainment continues on Dec. 21 with Bayou Gems, Wonder Made Dance, Bayou Woods, and Lake Castle, also starting at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 22 features performances by Slidell Jr. High, Bonnie Ecole Starlettes, Bonnie Ecole Twinkle Toes, Royal Diamond Diva, and Rick Weems. The final night, December 23, includes performances by Slidell Boys & Girls Club at 6:30 p.m. and The Dance Project at 7:00 p.m.

Heritage Park is located at 1701 Bayou Lane in Slidell. Guests are encouraged to park in the shell lot located at the corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and Bayou Lane for convenient access to the event.

For more information about Slidell’s Bayou Christmas, visit the “Slidell’s Bayou Christmas” Facebook page or contact the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375.

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Slidell Celebrates the Holiday Season with Festive Events

The City of Slidell is lighting up the holiday season with exciting family events that promise to bring cheer and joy to the community. From light displays and live performances to family-friendly activities, Slidell is the place to celebrate the spirit of Christmas. All events offer free admission.

“The Christmas season is a time for our community to come together and celebrate,” said Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer. “Christmas is my favorite time of year, where we get to spend cherished time with family and friends. I invite everyone to join us for these Christmas events and experience the joy of the holiday season in Slidell.”

Christmas Under the Stars

  • When: Dec. 6 – Jan. 2, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Where: Griffith Park (333 Erlanger Street)
    A treasured Slidell tradition, featuring Big Santa, the life-size Christmas Cottages by Lori Anselmo, Santa’s Magical Mailbox, Christmas Playhouses by the Rosies, and the new Community Christmas Tree.
  • Special Event: Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus on Dec. 6 and Dec. 7, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Christmas on Front

  • When: Dec. 6 – Jan. 2
  • Where: Front Street
    A drive-through animated light display for the whole family.

Parade of Trees

  • When: Dec. 6 – Jan. 2
  • Where: Carey Street Park (corner of Carey and Robert streets in Olde Towne)
    Christmas trees decorated by local schools, churches, and community organizations will be on display for all to enjoy.

Slidell’s Bayou Christmas

  • When: Dec. 13-14 & Dec. 20-23, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Where: Heritage Park (1701 Bayou Lane)
    This event features animated light displays, Slidell’s Nativity by Lori Anselmo, live entertainment, craft vendors, food and drinks, kiddie rides, and an ice skating rink.

Bayou Jam Christmas Spectacular with Vince Vance and the Valiants

  • When: Friday, Dec. 13, 6:00 PM
  • Where: Heritage Park
    Kick off Slidell’s Bayou Christmas with a high-energy concert from Vince Vance and the Valiants.

Community Caroling with the Slidell Women’s Civic Club

  • When: Saturday, Dec. 14, 6:30 PM
  • Where: Heritage Park
    Gather with the community to sing along to beloved Christmas carols.

Slidell Movie Nights presents “Elf”

  • When: Saturday, Dec. 14, 7:30 PM
  • Where: Heritage Park
    Enjoy the holiday classic “Elf” under the stars with family and friends.

Holiday Concert with the Northshore Community Orchestra

  • When: Thursday, Dec. 19, 7:00 PM
  • Where: Slidell Auditorium (2056 Second Street)
    An evening of live holiday music performed by the Northshore Community Orchestra.

The City of Slidell would like to thank our media sponsors for supporting the arts in Slidell, including Edge of the Lake Magazine, Inside Northside, Lake 94.7, Plus Publications, The Slidell Independent, Slidell Savings Magazine, and Sophisticated Woman Magazine.

For more information about these events, please call the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375. For the latest information about City of Slidell news and events, visit MySlidell.com or follow the “City of Slidell, Louisiana” on Facebook.

 

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UPDATE: Veterans Day Concert on Nov. 10 moves to the Slidell Auditorium

UPDATE: Due to the anticipated weather this weekend from Hurricane Rafael, the Veterans Day Concert is moving to the Slidell Municipal Auditorium, located at 2056 Second Street. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Admission is free.

The City of Slidell is honored to host a Veterans Day Concert featuring the Northshore Community Orchestra on Sunday, November 10, at 5 p.m. at Heritage Park.

“We invite everyone to join us for this special evening as we come together to honor our veterans,” said Mayor Greg Cromer. “This concert is a way for our community to celebrate the sacrifices of those who have served our country. Let us remember their bravery, dedication, and service. My thanks to the Northshore Community Orchestra for providing this concert for our citizens.”

The Northshore Community Orchestra, established in 1987, is St. Tammany Parish’s only symphony orchestra where both youth and adults can embrace music as a lifelong pursuit. It is composed of a diverse group of musicians from Slidell, St. Tammany Parish, the Greater New Orleans area, and south Mississippi. Its members, from students to retirees, represent a wide variety of backgrounds, including students, medical professionals, engineers, tradespeople, military members, educators, and even multi-generational families who play together.

Under the direction of Mrs. Susan Messina – a Slidell native and music educator with over 30 years of experience – the orchestra performs a wide range of music, from classical and jazz to pop, folk, movie themes, and Broadway hits. The orchestra regularly performs in community events, including Some Enchanted Evening and the City of Slidell’s Holiday Concert.

Guests are encouraged to bring their ice chests, chairs and blankets, and Dat Fiya Food Truck will be on-site with food and drinks available for purchase.

For more information about this event, please call the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375. For the latest information about City of Slidell news and events, visit MySlidell.com or follow the “City of Slidell, Louisiana” on Facebook.

In the event of inclement weather, please check the city’s website or Facebook page for the latest information. Cancellation decisions will be made by 1 p.m. on the day of the event.

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Bayou Lane Road Closure in Heritage Park for Christmas Decoration Installation

The City of Slidell announces the temporary closure of Bayou Lane, the road running through Heritage Park from Pennsylvania Avenue to the Heritage Park Boat Launch, starting at 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 2. This closure is necessary to allow city crews to install festive Christmas decorations in preparation for the annual Slidell’s Bayou Christmas celebration.

Crews will work diligently to complete the installation, with the road anticipated to reopen on Saturday, November 9 at 6:00 a.m. While Bayou Lane will be closed to through traffic during this time, the Heritage Park Boat Launch will remain open and accessible to the public.

The City of Slidell appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation as we prepare to bring the holiday spirit to Heritage Park. We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors to enjoy Slidell’s Bayou Christmas and other holiday events in Heritage Park.

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Slidell celebrates the Grand Opening of new Slidell Pickleball Courts

On Wednesday, October 23, 2024, Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer, joined by members of the Slidell City Council, elected officials, city administration, and the local community, celebrated the grand opening of the brand-new Slidell Pickleball Courts at John Slidell Park.

The much-anticipated project, which includes 12 state-of-the-art pickleball courts, was designed by Kyle & Associates and constructed by Cobalt Construction, Inc. The total investment in the facility was $1,049,520.

“We are excited to bring this new recreational facility to Slidell,” said Mayor Cromer. “These pickleball courts are a great addition to our city, and we are thrilled to provide a fun and healthy activity for our residents of all ages. Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, and we’re proud to offer this facility to our community.”

Located at John Slidell Park, the courts are expected to attract both local players and visitors, enhancing Slidell’s recreational offerings and providing a space for community events, tournaments, and casual play.

The completion of the pickleball courts is a major milestone in Slidell’s ongoing commitment to improving local parks and recreation infrastructure. The new facility offers an opportunity for residents to engage in physical activity, socialize, and enjoy the outdoors.

For more information about the pickleball courts, please visit the City of Slidell’s official website at MySlidell.com or contact the Parks and Recreation Department at (985) 646-4371.

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Registration now open for the Olde Towne Slidell Community Christmas Golf Cart Parade

Calling all golf carts! Mayor Cromer is inviting you to be a part of the Olde Towne Slidell Community Christmas Golf Cart Parade. All you have to do is decorate a golf cart and you and your family and friends can be a part of the fun. This year’s parade is Saturday, November 30th starting at 5 p.m. in Olde Towne. Registration is free but limited to the first 100 golf carts.  See the form below for more information. You can also download and print the form located here

2024 Christmas Parade Application
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Slidell breaks ground on new multi-use fields at Duckworth Park

On Monday, September 9, 2024, Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer was joined by members of the Slidell City Council and city administrators to break ground on the Ducksworth Park Multi-Use Fields Project. This project involves the reconstruction of an existing multi-use field (325’x370’) at Ducksworth Park as well as the addition of a new multi-use field (150’x200’).

All South Consulting Engineers is serving as the design consultant and Warner Construction, Inc. is the contractor for this project.

The estimated cost of this project is $676,466 and it is funded with a 50/50 grant between Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism’s Land and Water Conservation Fund.

Barring any weather delays or unforeseen circumstances, it should take roughly 130 days for construction with an anticipated completion date of January 2025.

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UPDATED: Big Al and the Heavyweights Bayou Jam Concert Cancelled Due to Weather

 

UPDATED:

***The Bayou Jam concert scheduled for, Friday, Sept. 13, has been cancelled due to Hurricane Francine and possible electrical issues caused by the flooding of Heritage Park. The concert will be rescheduled for a later date.***

 

Get ready for another exciting season of live music at Heritage Park as the City of Slidell’s popular Bayou Jam fall concert series kicks off on Friday, September 13, with a performance by Big Al and the Heavyweights. The concert begins at 5 p.m., and admission is free.

“Bayou Jam concerts are a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together,” said Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer. “We encourage everyone to bring their families and friends to enjoy a night of great music in Heritage Park. It’s the perfect way to kick off your weekend right here in Slidell.”

The schedule for the 2024 fall Bayou Jam concert series:
• Friday, Sept. 13 – Big Al and the Heavyweights
• Friday, Sept. 27 – Typically Booked
• Friday, Oct. 11 – The New Orleans Mystics

Big Al and the Heavyweights, originally known as the Unknown Blues Band, began performing in 1996. The founding members included Al Lauro, renowned guitarist Warren Haynes, and pianist Rick Gergen. Over the years, while some of the original members have changed, Big Al has maintained a strong lineup featuring Gergen, guitarist and vocalist Marcel Anton, Dennis Cedeno, and harp player and vocalist Dale Robinson. The band has been spreading the blues across the country, with their latest album, “Love One Another,” recorded at Suite Mix Studios in Slidell. Their live performances are known for being family-friendly, energetic, and full of fun. For more details, you can visit their website at BigAl.net.

Typically Booked is a dynamic six-piece cover band known for their high-energy performances, featuring captivating vocals, layered harmonies, and engaging saxophone solos. Their versatility spans a wide variety of genres and dance favorites, from the 1950s to today’s hits. While they cover multiple generations, the band focuses on upbeat millennial classics from the ’90s and ’00s, making them a favorite at celebrations throughout the New Orleans area. They’ve performed for notable organizations such as Ochsner, the American Cancer Society, and even for the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans on game day. For more information, visit TypicallyBooked.com.

The New Orleans Mystics are a versatile singing group that performs a wide range of genres, including oldies, Motown, Top 40, R&B, disco, jazz, rock, and more, while staying true to their rhythm and blues roots. Formed in 1972, they have captivated audiences worldwide with their energetic choreography, powerful vocals, and dazzling outfits. Their performances continue to entertain crowds with their timeless appeal. For more information, visit theneworleansmystics.com.

Concertgoers are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets, ice chests, and picnic baskets to enjoy these free, family-friendly events in the beautiful setting of Heritage Park.

The Bayou Jam Concert Series is produced by the City of Slidell’s Department of Cultural & Public Affairs with support from the Parks & Recreation and Public Operations departments. These concerts are part of Olde Towne Slidell Main Street and the Louisiana Cultural District, sponsored by the City’s Cultural Season Sponsors, including Edge of the Lake Magazine, Inside Northside, The Slidell Independent, Slidell Savings Magazine, and Sophisticated Woman.

For more information about the Bayou Jam concert series, please contact the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375. Stay updated on City of Slidell news and events by visiting MySlidell.com and following us on the “City of Slidell” Facebook page.

In case of inclement weather, please check the city’s website or Facebook page for the latest updates. Cancellation decisions will be made by 1 p.m. on the day of the event.

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