Downtown Art Gallery Crawl

February 1st

The Downtown Art Gallery Crawl is held bi-monthly on the first Thursday of that month in Downtown Monroe and West Monroe. This is an evening of art, food, music, and fun with friends!

A Display of Artwork by Monti Sharp

February 2nd-16th

Renowned artist Monti Sharp is returning with an extensive art display hosted by the Northeast Louisiana Delta African American Heritage Museum. Having mesmerized audiences from Monroe Little Theatre to the stages of New York City and Los Angeles, Monti's artistic journey has left an indelible mark. This heartwarming homecoming exhibition marks a pivotal moment in Monti Sharp's artistic narrative, inviting the community to engage with the evolution of this local talent. Doors open Tuesday-Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The exhibition kicks off with an Artist Reception on February 2nd from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Events

February 3rd

This day is filled with Mardi Gras magic! First, join the Krewe of Janus for the Children's Mardi Gras Parade at 10:00 AM. Then, make your way to Antique Alley for the Annual Krewe of PAWS Pet Parade at 1:00 PM. This event features food trucks, vendors, and music! At 2:30 PM see Mardi Gras colors fly as the Jester Jog 5k participants run a portion of the parade route. Last but certainly not least, watch the mesmerizing Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Parade roll through Downtown Monroe and West Monroe. This year's theme is Jammin' with Janus so get ready to jam out! The parade rolls out at 6:00 PM.

Outdoor World Series Expo and Boat Show

February 16-18th

The Outdoor World Series Expo is a new event created to bridge the world of the Great Outdoors by bringing the leading outdoor brands to you. Surround yourself with fellow outdoor enthusiasts, industry experts, and top-notch exhibitors, all sharing a passion for everything outdoors. From fishing (crappie, catfish, and bass) to hunting and camping, they are all here for you under one roof at the Monroe Civic Center.

Dancing with the Louisiana Stars

February 23rd

Join Louisiana Delta Ballet for their annual Dancing with the Louisiana Stars fundraiser at the Monroe Civic Center. Local celebrities will be paired up with dancers to compete with a choreographed routine for the championship title. Food will be catered from local restaurants. The crowd can pay to vote for their favorite contestant. Don't miss out on this exciting night!

Tour of Layton Castle

February 24th

Explore Layton Castle and learn about its evolution from a creole cottage to a castle. Learn about Swiss immigrant Judge Henry Bry and his role in helping to develop Northern Louisiana and beyond. What role did he play in Fort Miro changing its name to Monroe? One of the few historic homes in the United States still lived in by descendants of the first European settlers to the area. The tour includes visiting the family floor with its Victorian parlor, library full of 1800s books, Audubon dining room and more.

Black Heritage Parade

February 24th

The 40th Annual Black Heritage Parade hosted by the Renaissance Movement Committee is a parade that celebrates and honors the rich cultural and historical contributions of the Black community. The parade provides a platform to highlight achievements, milestones, and the diverse cultures within the Black community. In addition to cultural displays, the Black Heritage Parade includes floats, marching bands, and community organizations. The 2024 parade theme is: Black Excellence: Past, Present, and Future. It will start at 10:00 AM.

Trey Altick Louisiana Prep Baseball Classic

February 29th-March 2nd

The Trey Altick Louisiana Prep Classic includes dozens of teams playing in eight different venues throughout the area. All the proceeds from the gate and concessions are put back into each of the local school’s baseball programs that host the tournament. Facilities include: Embanato Field, Ouachita Parish High School, Ouachita Christian High School, Sterlington Sports Complex, West Monroe High School, and West Ouachita High School.