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Slidell Celebrates 30th Anniversary of Arts Evening on Saturday, April 5

The City of Slidell proudly announces the 30th Annual Arts Evening, taking place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 5 to 9 p.m. in historic Olde Towne Slidell. This milestone celebration features over 50 artists displaying their works at more than 30 locations throughout the historic arts district. This family-friendly event offers free admission.

“For three decades, Arts Evening has been one of Slidell’s premier art events,” says Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert. “I encourage everyone to come experience the magic of this special evening as we celebrate art, music, and community in Olde Towne. Whether you’re a longtime resident or first-time visitor, you’ll discover why this event has become a Slidell tradition!”

Visitors will experience a blend of visual arts, live entertainment, fine and casual dining, great drinks, and antique and boutique shopping, all throughout Olde Towne.

Live entertainment will fill the streets of Olde Towne during Arts Evening, with eight dynamic musical acts performing throughout the district. Acoustics Unlimited will perform at Bistreaux 55, while Audio Beach will rock out near the Brass Monkey and Olde Towne Pizza Co. Borchert Law welcomes the swingin’ sounds of Christy and the Rascals, and the Northshore Community Orchestra Jazz Ensemble will perform at Green Oaks Apothecary. Overboard will entertain under Antique Umbrella Alley near Camellia City Pizza, while the Ozone Music Songwriters Showcase presents local talent (Greg Barnhill, Hannah Belle, Laine Bleu, Stephen and Madison McDonald, Caroline Tebbs) on the stage at Triangle Square. Sara, Jim and Jeff will entertain at Pontchartrain Investment Management, and SteveA performs a solo set by the Olde Towne Slidell Main Street booth on First Street. These performances represent a diverse mix of musical styles, from jazz and acoustic to contemporary and classical, ensuring there’s something for every musical taste.

And speaking of taste, during Arts Evening, visitors can enjoy many different dining and drinking establishments throughout Olde Towne. The district’s vibrant culinary and cocktail scene includes Bistreaux 55, Brass Monkey, Camellia City Pizza, The Golden Goat, Heidelberg’s Bar, KY’s, Luna Tequila Whiskey and Ashe, Olde Town Soda Shop, Olde Towne Pizza, Olde Towne Tavern, Roots Plants + Coffee, Tacos & Beer, and Triangle Square. These establishments will be offering their regular menus along with special Arts Evening offerings, providing everything from casual bites to fine dining experiences, craft cocktails to specialty coffees.

Participating businesses and artists include:

  • American Legion Post 374 – Artist Michele Maiarot
  • Antiques & Art on First – Artist Shana Marshall
  • Arcade on Carey – St. Tammany Fire District 1 Autism Awareness Vehicle
  • Bistreaux 55 – Music by Acoustic Unlimited. Artist Bonnie Bourgeois
  • Borchert Law – Music by Christy and the Rascals. Artists John Paul Duet, Kylah Odle, Michael Reed, Joshua Wichterich
  • Brass Monkey – Music by Audio Beach
  • Bridge Street Ink
  • Camellia City Pizza – Music by Overboard
  • Christina’s Therapeutic Touch – Artist Vivian Hava
  • The Earthly Elephant – Delicate Decomposition
  • Expo Signs – Artists Linda Bickel, Connie Born, Larisa Clevinger, Matt Litchliter
  • The Golden Goat
  • Green Oaks Apothecary – Music by Northshore Community Orchestra. Artists Jasmyne Alexander, Jill Anderson, Jackie Begue, Stephanie Carrana, Amanda Douglas, Amy Exsterstein, Whitney Ferguson, David Guastella, Jessica Moody, Lyla Normand, Jena Smith Pendarvis, Lauren Penton-Taylor, Brittnie Perkins, Makayla Perkins, Ernest Robert, Aeva Santini, Lauren Swift, Terie Trenchard, Venitas Valentine
  • Heidelberg’s
  • Hingle Boys TCG & Hobby
  • KY’s – Music by Lauren Murphy Duo
  • Lowry-Dunham, Case & Vivien – Artists Elsa Baker, John Case, Lizzie Shelby D’Aquin, Oksana Fogg, Charlotte Lowry-Collins, CJ Sherrif-Rosen, Dustin Young
  • Luna Tequila
  • Northlake Outfitters – Artist Charles Gudaitis
  • Old Town Soda Shop
  • Olde Towne Book Shop – Artists Suzie Hunt, Cher Levis, Dustin Young
  • Olde Towne Pizza
  • Olde Towne Slidell Main Street at Crippin Cottage – Music by SteveA. Artists Lori Anselmo, Aaliyah Atamanyuk, Katie Esposito, Hannah Morris, Joe Young
  • Olde Towne Tavern
  • Pontchartrain Investment Management – Music by Sara, Jim and Jeff. Artists John Berry, Mary Rich
  • Roots Plants + Coffee – Duffy Austin, Swamp Sprouts Art
  • Slidell Museum – Artist T. Martin
  • Tacos & Beer
  • Triangle Square – Music by Ozone Music Foundation (including Greg Barnhill, Laine Bleu, Audrey St. Cyr, Brandon Hogue, Paul Dominigue). Artist Cindy Strecker
  • Whiskey and Ashe

This year’s Arts Evening Poster Artist, Cindy Strecker, will be selling signed event posters at Triangle Square. Strecker has developed a masterful command of multiple mediums including watercolor, acrylics, oils, colored pencil, and pen and ink. Her versatile portfolio spans both two-dimensional and three-dimensional artwork, featuring subjects ranging from pet portraits to nature and coastal wildlife. As a self-taught artist, Strecker’s natural talent and dedication to her craft have shaped her artistic vision. She shares her passion for art through private art classes, nurturing creativity in others. for kopre information about Strecker, visit www.flyingfishart.com.

Arts Evening showcases Slidell’s commitment to supporting the arts and fostering community engagement. For additional information about this event, please contact the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375. Updates and details about City of Slidell events can be found at MySlidell.com or by following the “City of Slidell, Louisiana” on Facebook.

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Slidell’s High Schools Take the Spotlight at Bayou Jam on March 30

Following last weekend’s amazing performance by Witness, the spring concert series continues this Sunday, March 30, with the Bayou Jam High School Band & Choir Showcase from 5 to 7 p.m. This free concert features Slidell’s talented student musicians and vocalists from the Northshore High School Jazz Band, Slidell High School Choir, Slidell High School Jazz Band, plus special guest band Audrie & The Saints.

“I invite everyone to come out to Heritage Park this Sunday for a special Bayou Jam concert,” says Mayor Bill Borchert. “After such an incredible turnout last weekend, we’re excited to showcase the remarkable musical talent being developed in our local high schools. These young musicians represent the very bright future of Slidell.”

The concert will feature music ensembles under the direction of three of St. Tammany’s finest music educators. The Slidell High School Jazz Band (under the direction of Landon Blocker) and the Northshore High School Jazz Band (directed by Jess Lambert) will showcase their impressive musical talents. The Slidell High School Choir (led by Melanie St. Cyr) rounds out this impressive lineup of student entertainers.

A special highlight of the evening will be Audrie & The Saints, a dynamic ensemble composed entirely of former Slidell High School talented music students. Formed in late 2024 for the St. Margaret Mary Slidell Food n’ Fun Fest, this remarkable group of musicians has been captivating audiences ever since. Led by the talented Audrie Saint, the band features Ronnie Williams on guitar, Chloe Canulette on keyboard, Aurora Knock on bass and acoustic, Connor Lasalla on bongos, and Aiden Sweetland on drums. The group’s impressive vocal harmonies are brought to life by background vocalists Abbey Caruso, Annie Schneideu, Julia Bay, and Hayley Bauer. These close-knit friends share an infectious passion for live performance, delivering an exciting repertoire that spans from classic 70’s disco to today’s contemporary hits. Their enthusiasm and musical prowess promise to make this year’s Bayou Jam an unforgettable experience.

All concerts will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. in Heritage Park. Attendees are encouraged to bring their chairs and blankets. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. In case of inclement weather, cancellation decisions will be announced by noon on the day of the event through the city’s website and Facebook page.

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

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T-Mobile Awards Olde Towne Slidell Main Street $50,000 Hometown Grant to Transform Carey Street Park

The City of Slidell and Olde Towne Slidell Main Street have been selected as a recipient of T-Mobile’s Hometown Grant Program, receiving $50,000 to renovate Carey Street Park in Olde Towne. The official check presentation ceremony will take place during the Bayou Jam Concert with Witness on Sunday, March 23. The check will be presented at 4:45 followed by the free concert at 5 p.m.

“We appreciate our corporate citizens like T-Mobile, especially when they choose to reinvest in our community,” said Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert. “Like T-Mobile, the City of Slidell is about connecting people to our community. This T-Mobile Hometown Grant will enable the City of Slidell, and our Main Street program, to expand and enhance Carey Street Park, creating a welcoming area in Olde Towne Slidell to help connect neighbors with each other and our local businesses. Thank you T-Mobile for reinvesting in Slidell.”

T-Mobile’s Hometown Grant Program is a five-year initiative to support small towns and rural communities across America. The program provides up to $50,000 in funding for community development projects, with grant applications reviewed based on detail, community impact, feasibility, and other considerations. T-Mobile has awarded over $16 million in Hometown Grants to 375 communities across 48 states and Puerto Rico.

The Carey Street Park renovation project will transform an underutilized green space into a vibrant community gathering place. The project aligns with T-Mobile’s partnership with Main Street America to advance shared prosperity and improve quality of life through place-based economic development.

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Olde Towne Street Closures Announced for Parades on Saturday, Feb. 22

The City of Slidell announces temporary street closures in Olde Towne Slidell for the Krewe de Paws and Mona Lisa and MoonPie parades on Saturday, February 22. The closures will affect multiple streets beginning at 6:00 a.m.

The street closures will remain in effect throughout the day for both the Krewe de Paws parade, scheduled for 10:00 a.m., and the Krewe of Mona Lisa and MoonPie parade, set to roll at 7:00 p.m. Streets will reopen to normal traffic following the conclusion of the evening parade.

“We’re implementing these closures to ensure the safety of both parade participants and spectators,” said Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert “We encourage residents to plan alternate routes and arrive early to enjoy these parades.”


 

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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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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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Mayor Greg Cromer and Peggy Cromer Present the 2024 Ugly Sweater Gala – Glow Party Edition

Mayor Greg Cromer and Peggy Cromer invite you to join them for a dazzling night of holiday fun at the 2024 Ugly Sweater Gala – Glow Party Edition! This exciting event will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM at the Slidell Municipal Auditorium. Break out your most festive (and glowing!) ugly sweater and get ready for an evening of live music, delicious food, and charity, all while shining under the neon lights of this year’s glow-themed party!

Guests will be treated to performances by The Victory Belles, known for their lively renditions of vintage hits, and Rhythm Chasers, who will keep everyone dancing throughout the night. Enjoy complimentary beer, wine, and food, with a cash bar available for additional drink options.

Tickets are $50 and available on Eventbrite, with proceeds benefitting Peggy’s Playground, a project dedicated adding safe and inclusive play equipment and shading at the playground in Heritage Park for children in our community.

This year, there are also sponsorship opportunities for local businesses and individuals looking to support this important cause while gaining visibility at this high-profile event.

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable evening of fun and philanthropy! Put on your brightest ugly sweater and celebrate the season with friends, music, and a good cause.

For more information on tickets, sponsorships, or how to get involved, please contact Peggy Cromer at 985-640-8308 or via email at cromegg1@yahoo.com.

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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

[pdf-embedder url=”http://myslidell.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2024-Christmas-Parade-Application.pdf” title=”2024 Christmas Parade Application”]

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St. Patrick’s Day Parade is March 10 – Olde Towne Street Closures Announced

In preparation for the Olde Towne Merchant Association’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade at 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 10, several streets in the Olde Towne area will start closing at 6:00 a.m.

For public safety, any vehicle that is left parked along the parade route after 6 a.m. on Sunday, March 10, will be towed at the owner’s expense.

This includes sections of:

  • Bouscaren St.
  • First St.
  • Erlanger Ave.
  • Fremaux Ave.
  • Teddy Ave.
  • Front St.
  • Carey St.
  • Cousin St.
  • Robert St.
  • Brakefield St.
  • Guzman St.
  • Bryan St.
  • Cleveland Ave.
  • Bilten Ave.
  • Mayfield Ave.
  • Old Spanish Trail
  • Lee St.
  • College St.
  • William Tell St.
  • Ciruti St.

Please refer to the parade route map to see the affected streets.

The Slidell Police Department will begin closing down streets along the parade route to vehicular traffic at a later time. Please do not congregate in the streets until all the streets are closed.

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UPDATE: Bayou Jam Concert with Fat City Swing Orchestra Postponed Due to Weather

UPDATE, 3/22/24, 8:30 a.m.: Due to the weather, the Bayou Jam Concert with Fat City Swing has been cancelled. We will reschedule for another date.

Get ready for another exciting season of great Bayou Jam concerts in Heritage Park!  The spring concert series returns on Friday, March. 22, with a performance by Fat City Swing Orchestra starting at 6 p.m. Admission is free.

“Bayou Jam concerts have become a beloved tradition for our citizens that unites our city through the power of music and community,” said Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer. “I invite you to join us at Heritage Park for fantastic Friday nights filled with music and fun!”

Mark your calendars for these upcoming concerts at Heritage Park:

  • Fat City Swing Orchestra – Friday, March 22
  • Clifton Brown and the Rusty Bucket Band – Friday, April 5
  • Slidell’s Highschool Band and Choir Showcase – Friday, April 19
  • Some Enchanted Evening with the Northshore Community Orchestra – Saturday, April 27 (5 to 7 p.m.)

Bayou Jam concerts will be held on Fridays from 6 to 8 p.m. Guests are invited to bring their chairs, blankets, ice chests and picnic baskets to the park to enjoy the free concerts.

Fat City Swing Orchestra is comprised of some of the best jazz musicians in the New Orleans area. Jon and Wesley Mannino founded the band to keep their family’s musical legacy alive. This 16 piece big band plays all your favorite jazz and swing tunes. For ore information about the band, visit their website at FatCitySwingBand.com and view some of their past musical performances on YouTube.

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

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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