A winter tradition
Gather with the community to celebrate the Festival of Lights from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday in and around North Boulevard Town Square. Tree lighting, ice skating, fireworks, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the nearby Old State Capitol and an artists' village are only the start of the fun. downtownbatonrouge.org .
Unforgettable evening
"Every Ribbon Has a Name" is the theme of the World AIDS Day Gala 2025, starting at 6 p.m. Saturday at Capitol Park Museum and featuring performances, tributes and storytelling. The event is free, but a suggested donation of $50 will support BR Pride and the fight against HIV stigma. eventeny.com .
Visit for free
Soak in some culture and learn about the river at Free First Sunday this weekend at the Louisiana Art & Science Museu

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