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New Interactive Play Experience at Kenner Planetarium

Picture from City of Kenner

The Kenner Planetarium and Rivertown Space Science Complex, located at 2020 4th St, Kenner, LA 70062, is introducing an exciting limited-time attraction called the Luna Interactive Play Spot!

This high-tech playset offers interactive games for all ages and abilities, using sensor technology to detect movement. As you enter the play mat area, sensors automatically initiate engaging activities, such as memory challenges, counting games, and reaction-based play. The experience includes:

  • Brain Games
  • Fitness Games
  • Imagination Games
  • Music Games
  • Reaction Games

The City of Kenner, in partnership with Pelican Playgrounds, is bringing this innovative playset to the community. Pelican Playgrounds, a recreation design and construction company dedicated to building joy in Louisiana and Mississippi, has generously loaned the Luna Play Spot to the Planetarium for a limited time. The play equipment itself is designed by LAPPSET, a leading manufacturer of interactive play systems.

When to Visit

The Luna Interactive Play Spot is available for public use on Saturdays from 11 AM – 3 PM and is included with general admission to the Kenner Planetarium and Rivertown Space Science Complex:

$6 Adults | $5 Seniors (60+) | $5 Kids (2–12)

Don’t miss out on this immersive and educational experience before it’s gone in June 2025!

For more information, visit the Kenner Planetarium and Space Science Complex at 2020 4th St, Kenner, LA 70062, or check out their website.


2025 Mardi Gras Parade Schedule

Who’s ready to ‘Let the Good Times Roll’?! 

Carnival season has arrived, bringing parades, traditions, and festive fun! Whether you’re on the Northshore or Southshore, there’s a lineup of incredible parades heading your way. Check out this year’s schedule and start planning for all the excitement ahead!

Southshore

Metairie

Krewe of Little Rascals • Sunday, February 16th • 12:00 PM

Krewe of Excalibur • Friday, February 21st • 7:00 PM

Magical Krewe of Mad Hatters • Saturday, February 22nd • 5:00 PM

Krewe of Atlas • Sunday, February 23rd • 4:00 PM

Krewe of Symphony • Thursday, February 27th • 6:30 PM

Krewe of Athena • Sunday, March 2nd • 5:30 PM

Krewe of Centurions • Monday, March 3rd | LUNDI GRAS • 6:00 PM
Krewe of Kings follows

Krewe of Argus • Tuesday, March 4th | MARDI GRAS • 11:00 AM
Krewe of Elks Jeffersonians follows

New Orleans

Krewe of Chewbacchus • Saturday, February 1st • 7:00 PM

Krewe Bohème • Friday, February 14th • 7:00 PM

Krewe du Vieux • Saturday, February 15th • 6:30 PM
krewedelusion follows

‘tit Rəx • Sunday, February 16th • 4:30 PM

Krewe of Nefertiti • Sunday, February 16th • 1:00 PM

Krewe of Cork • Friday, February 21st • 3:00 PM

Krewe of Oshun • Friday, February 21st • 5:30 PM
Krewe of Cleopatra follows

Krewe of Pontchartrain • Saturday, February 22nd• 11:30 AM
Legion of Mars follows
Krewe of Choctaw follows
Krewe of Freret follows

Knights of Sparta • Saturday, February 22nd • 5:30 PM

Krewe of Pygmalion • Saturday, February 22nd • 6:15 PM

Krewe of Barkus • Sunday, February 23rd • 2:00 PM

The Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale • Sunday, February 23rd • 11:00 AM

Krewe of Carrollton • Sunday, February 23rd • 12:30 PM

Krewe of King Arthur • Sunday, February 23rd • 1:00 PM

Krewe of Druids • Wednesday, February 26th • 6:15 PM
Krewe of Alla follows

Knights of Babylon • Thursday, February 27th • 5:30 PM
Knights of Chaos follows

Krewe of Muses • Thursday, February 27th • 6:30 PM

Krewe of Bosom Buddies • Friday, February 28th • 11:30 AM

Krewe of Hermes • Friday, February 28th • 5:30 PM

Krewe d’Etat • Friday, February 28th • 6:30 PM
Krewe of Morpheus follows

Krewe of Iris • Saturday, March 1st • 11:00 AM

Krewe of Tucks • Saturday, March 1st • 12:00 PM

Krewe of Endymion • Saturday, March 1st • 4:00 PM

Krewe of Okeanos • Sunday, March 2nd • 11:00 AM
Krewe of Mid-City follows

Krewe of Thoth • Sunday, March 2nd • 12:00 PM

Krewe of Bacchus • Sunday, March 2nd • 5:15 PM

Krewe of Proteus • Monday, March 3rd | LUNDI GRAS • 5:15 PM

Krewe of Orpheus • Monday, March 3rd | LUNDI GRAS • 6:00 PM

Krewe of Zulu • Tuesday, March 4th | MARDI GRAS • 8:00 AM

Krewe of Rex • Tuesday, March 4th | MARDI GRAS • 10:30 AM
Krewe of Elks Orleans follows
Krewe of Crescent City follows

Kenner

Krewe of Isis • Saturday, March 1st • 6:00 PM

Westbank

The Mystic Krewe of Music • Monday, February 24th • 6:00 PM

The Krewe of Nandi • Wednesday, February 26th • 6:00 PM

Krewe of NOMTOC • Saturday, March 1st • 10:45 AM

Chalmette

Knights of Nemesis • Saturday, February 22nd • 1:00 PM

Northshore

Abita Springs

Krewe of Push Mow • Sunday, February 23rd • 2:00 PM

Bush

Krewe of Bush • Saturday, March 1st • 9:00 AM

Covington

Krewe of Majestic Parade • Saturday, January 25th • 11:00 AM

Krewe of Olympia • Saturday, February 22nd • 6:00 PM

Covington Lions Club • Tuesday, March 4th | MARDI GRAS • 10:00 AM
Carnival in Covington follows
Krewe of Bogue Falaya follows

Krewe of Mardi PAWS • Sunday, March 9th • 2:00 PM

Folsom

Krewe of Folsom • Tuesday, March 4th | MARDI GRAS • 2:00 PM

Hammond

Omega • Friday, February 21 • 6:30 PM

Madisonville

Krewe of Tchefuncte • Saturday, February 22nd • 1:00 PM

Mandeville

Krewe of Eve • Friday, February 21st • 7:00 PM

Krewe du Pooch • Saturday, March 15th • 12:00 PM

Pearl River

Krewe of Pearl River Lions Club • Sunday, February 16th • 1:00 PM

Slidell

Krewe of Titans • Friday, February 14th • 6:30 PM

Krewe of Bilge • Saturday, February 15th • 12:00 PM

Krewe of Poseidon • Saturday, February 15th • 6:00 PM

Krewe of Antheia • Sunday, February 16th • 1:00 PM

Krewe de Paws of Olde Towne • Saturday, February 22nd • 10:00 AM

Krewe of Dionysus • Sunday, February 23rd • 1:00 PM

Krewe of Selene • Friday, February 28th • 6:30 PM

Parade Into Your New Home!

From the Northshore to the Southshore, there are not only plenty of parades to experience but also plenty of properties for you to move into! See a list of our Northshore and Southshore properties and find the one that meets your needs today!


What’s Happening This Fall: Northshore Events 2024

Have Fun this Fall on the Northshore!

With October’s arrival comes festive fall weekends filled with excitement! Whether you’re into autumn vibes or something a bit spooky, there’s something for everyone to enjoy around the Northshore this month. Here are some exciting fall events happening in the area:

St. Tammany Parish Fair: October 2-6
  • A local tradition since 1910, this fair features a parade through town, Cheer/Dance Competition, Rodeo (Friday and Saturday), carnival rides, live music, livestock shows, horticultural exhibits, fair food, and much more.
Abita Fall Fest: October 11-12
  • Named Gambit’s Best Festival of 2023, the Abita Fall Fest is back to celebrate the art, music, and culture of Abita Springs, LA, with live music, delicious food, local craft vendors, and activities for all. 
Fall for Art: October 12 from 6:00 – 9:00 PM
  • The St. Tammany Art Association is hosting a celebration of music, art, and performing arts in historic downtown Covington. It will feature a sprawling Art Market along Columbia Street, live music, and demonstrations.
Covington Trailhead Movie Night: October 16 from 7:00 – 9:00 PM
  • Bring blankets and chairs to the Covington Trailhead for a free movie night featuring a screening of “Hocus Pocus”.
Madisonville Wooden Boat Festival: October 19-20 from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Presented by Maritime Museum Louisiana, this festival attracts over 100 classic boats, spectator boats, and wooden boat enthusiasts for a two-day celebration of Louisiana’s maritime culture along the Tchefuncte River, featuring live music, arts and crafts, and the Quick & Dirty Boat parade and race.
Nightmare on Columbia: October 19 from 4:00 – 10:00 PM
  • This annual event in Downtown Covington features a sip-and-stroll with costumes and drink vendors, followed by a costume contest and a free concert. From 5:00-7:30 PM, enjoy food and drinks at tents along Columbia Street, then head to Covington Trailhead from 8:00-10:00 PM for live music and the costume contest.
Folsom Fall Garden Festival: October 26 from 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM
  • Hosted annually, the Fall Garden Festival is a day of plant sales and an opportunity to talk with plant growers and learn more about Louisiana-grown plants. There will also be plate lunches available for purchase.
Field of Screams: October 26 from sunset to 10:00 PM
  • This free public event offers thrilling and chilling fun as the Blue Swamp Creek Nature Trail will be transformed into a spooky wonderland, complete with food and beverages available for purchase.
Abita Springs Trunk-or-Treat Block Party: October 31 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM
  • Abita Town Hall’s free block party will have plenty of fun, including trunk-or-treating, a hayride, costume contests, live music, a photo booth, hot dogs, cotton candy, and more.

Find your New Home on the Northshore

Are you currently living on the Northshore or looking to make it your home? Check out our list of Northshore apartment communities in the area and discover the ideal place to enjoy everything this vibrant community has to offer.

 


Fun in the Fall: Local Festivals, Activities & Events

Fun Fall Activities 2024

Jefferson Parish and surrounding areas harvest a hefty crop of fun fall activities, from spooky excitement to autumn festivities. Take a look at all there is to do this October and November!

October

      Abita Fall Fest: October 11-12

      • Named Gambit’s Best Festival of 2023, the Abita Fall Fest is back to celebrate the art, music, and culture of Abita Springs, LA, with live music, delicious food, local craft vendors, and activities for all. 

      Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival: October 11-13

      • Established in 2006, this festival showcases top performers from LA and MS. Enjoy delicious BBQ from local vendors and explore an arts market featuring handmade jewelry and crafts.

      Ghosts in the Oaks: October 17-20

      • City Park’s annual event returns this fall, featuring four nights of unlimited amusement park rides, arts & crafts, a pumpkin patch, and trick-or-treating in Storyland.

      Boo at the Zoo: October 18-20

      • Join the fun at Audubon Zoo from October 18-20 for three days of spooktacular entertainment with your favorite zoo animals!

      Rougarou Fest: October 18-20

      • This free festival brings a spooky flair to the bayous of Southeast LA. Enjoy live music, activities, Cajun food, a parade, and more, all while celebrating local folklore.

        Lafreniere Park Trunk or Treat: October 19 from 6:00 to 9:00 PM

        • Join the 5th Annual Trunk or Treat at Lafreniere Park for spooktacular fun. This event features 45 vehicles handing out free candy, plus a food court, carousel rides, spacewalks, and more.

          City of Kenner’s Trunk or Treat: October 19 at 5:00 PM

          • Get ready for a spooky good time at Muss Bertolino Stadium with trunk-or-treating and an outdoor screening of “IF.” Don’t forget to come dressed in your costume!

          Kenner Food Truck Fest: October 20 from 11:00 Am to 7:30 PM

          • The 3rd Annual Food Truck Festival hosted by the City of Kenner will feature live music, arts & crafts vendors, an activity zone, and delicious food from over 30 local food trucks, so bring your appetite!

          Elmwood Self Storage Drive Thru Trick or Treat: October 25 from 6:30-8:00 PM

          • Drive through Elmwood Self Storage’s covered and decorated drive for a free, spooky drive-thru trick-or-treat event! Stop along the way to collect candy and treats.

          Coquille Trunk-or-Treat: October 25 from 6:30-8:30 PM

          • Head to Coquille Parks and Recreation for a fun-filled trunk-or-treat celebration!

          Westwego Farmers Market Trick or Treat: October 26 from 5:00-8:00 PM.

          • This free event offers candy, live music, a costume contest, food vendors, craft vendors, and more!

          Harahan Fest: October 27 from 4:00-8:00

          • Harahan Fest promises a trunk-or-treat, live music, games, food, and endless fun for everyone.

          November

          Jean Lafitte Town Market: November 9 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

          • Enjoy live music, delicious offerings from local restaurants and seafood vendors, plus a variety of arts & crafts at the Jean Lafitte Town Market.

          Westwego Chili Cook-Off: November 9 from 10:00 Am to 2:00 PM

          • Join the 2nd Annual Wego Winter Wonderland Chili Cook-Off for a day of fun, featuring chili from local teams and live music by a local artist.

          2024 Beignet Fest: November 16 from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

          • Bring your appetite to the Annual Beignet Fest at the Festival Grounds in New Orleans City Park. Indulge in everything from traditional to savory beignets, served by local restaurants, caterers, and food trucks. The festival will also feature live music performances, an Artist Market, and more.

          Looking for a place to call home this season?

          Check out the full list of our apartment communities and find your next home today!


          Why New Orleans is a Top Choice for College Students and Graduates – and Where to Live

          With its vibrant culture and renowned academic institutions, New Orleans stands out as a top destination for college students and recent graduates. According to a recent Forbes ranking, New Orleans is among the best cities for higher education. Its rich cultural heritage, academic opportunities, and growing job market create a unique experience for those seeking more than just a degree.

          For students attending local universities, such as Tulane University, University of New Orleans, Xavier University, etc., finding the right place to live can be challenging. Many students enjoy the lively energy of downtown New Orleans, but for those looking for a suburban environment that still offers close proximity to campus, there’s good news. At 1st Lake Properties, many of our communities are located just outside the city, offering a balance of comfort and convenience.

          Why New Orleans?

          In Forbes’ analysis of the best cities for college students, New Orleans stands out for several reasons:

          • Diverse Economy: Post-graduation, the city provides numerous opportunities in industries such as tourism, healthcare, and technology.
          • Affordability: While some cities are known for high living costs, New Orleans offers a more accessible housing market, making it attractive for students and young professionals starting their careers.
          • Cultural Richness: From the French Quarter to local festivals, New Orleans’ unique culture creates a dynamic environment. Students can immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant art, food, and music scenes.

          Suburban Living Near The City

          For those who prefer to live just outside the city, our communities in Kenner, Metairie, and River Ridge are just a short drive from local colleges. This allows students to stay close to campus while enjoying a more relaxed residential atmosphere. Whether you’re a student, recent graduate, or early-career professional, our communities provide an ideal mix of comfort and convenience.

          Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds

          Living just outside of New Orleans means you can experience the best the city has to offer while avoiding some of the busier aspects of city life. Our communities are thoughtfully designed, offer great amenities, and provide convenient access to all of New Orleans’ attractions, from local hotspots to career opportunities.

          Find Your New Apartment Home

          If you’re looking for a place near a local university, our communities offer a variety of options to suit your needs. To see a list of available communities near you, click here!

          Forbes data sourced from Forbes’ Best Cities for College Students and Graduates.