Why the LSU Rural Life Museum is Our Family’s Go-To Spot
Even though the calendar says fall, the Louisiana summer heat is still in full effect. A girl can dream though, and I am embracing the arrival of my favorite time of the year. Can you feel that? A hint of crispness in the air, the scent of pumpkin spice, and the joy of the “Ber” months finally upon us! As soon as September hits, my family gears up for a season of fun, and our favorite place to enjoy it all? The LSU Rural Life Museum! This treasure in Baton Rouge has become our go-to spot for family outings from September through December, offering unique seasonal events that are perfect for kids (and moms too!).
Why We Love the LSU Rural Life Museum in the Fall
The LSU Rural Life Museum offers a step back in time, with historic buildings, artifacts, and plenty of open space for little ones to run and explore. But what makes it extra special are the seasonal events they host during the “Ber” months. If you’re looking for wholesome, educational fun with a good dose of history, this is the place to be.
Here are a few can’t-miss events that my family loves every year:
- Harvest Days: October 5th & 6th
Harvest Days is one of our favorite family traditions. Held the first weekend of October, it’s a chance to see how rural life was lived in the 19th century. Think of it like a live-action history lesson, but way more fun! There are demonstrations of farming, woodworking, blacksmithing, and cooking using period tools and techniques. My kids love watching how corn is ground or seeing butter churned from scratch – it’s hands-on learning at its best!
Perfect for: A family day of outdoor exploration and learning. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce your kids to some old-fashioned fall traditions.
- Haunts and Haints: October 27th
If your family loves a bit of spooky fun without the over-the-top fright, Haunts and Haints is a must! This Halloween-themed event lets kids (and adults!) explore the museum grounds while learning about Louisiana’s ghostly folklore and spooky stories. There are old-fashioned games, hayrides, and trick-or-treating stations, making it a perfect pre-Halloween event that’s both spooky and sweet.
Perfect for: Little ones who love Halloween but aren’t quite ready for the haunted houses. It’s safe, fun, and packed with spooky delights!
- Rural Life Christmas: December 8th
Mark your calendars for December 8th, when the LSU Rural Life Museum transforms into a festive wonderland for Rural Life Christmas. This event is all about celebrating the holiday season the way it was done in the 1800s – think bonfires, carolers, and demonstrations of traditional holiday crafts and foods. We love taking a step back in time to see how early Louisianans celebrated Christmas, and my kids especially enjoy making old-fashioned ornaments to bring home.
Perfect for: Kicking off the holiday season with heartwarming traditions, live music, and tasty treats. It’s the perfect blend of holiday cheer and history.
