Explore Baton Rouge: Things to Do at Rural Life Museum

The LSU Rural Life Museum is proud to present its 2025 theme,
"Women's Work: History Through Her Story."

This year-long exploration celebrates the impactful contributions of women to Louisiana’s history and culture, spanning traditional roles in the home, political movements, wartime efforts, activism, cultural heritage, and the workforce.

Programming will include the annual Ione E. Burden Symposium, performances, author talks, exhibitions, and hands-on demonstrations.

Through these events, we will shine a light on the resilience, artistry, and leadership of Louisiana women, offering a deeper understanding of how their work has shaped society, influenced change, and left a lasting legacy.

A Rural Life Christmas

📅 Sunday, December 7, 2025

🕚 Daytime Portion: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Celebrate the season at the LSU Rural Life Museum’s 19th-century Louisiana Christmas event. Enjoy live music, skilled artisans, storytellers, and costumed re-enactors bringing holiday traditions to life.

Families can meet Papa Noël, explore festive activities, and immerse themselves in the joyful spirit of the season.

🕚 Daytime Portion Admission:

Ages 0–3: Free
Ages 4–11: $6
Ages 12+: $12

Purchase Tickets Here!

LSU Rural Life Museum Christmas event called "A Rural Life Christmas" taking place on December 7th, 2025. The daytime portion is from 11 AM to 5PM and the evening portion is from 5 PM to 7 PM

Picture for promotion of Rural Life Museum's event called Wassailing In Windrush

Wassailing in Windrush

📅 Sunday, December 7, 2025
🕚 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Windrush Gardens – LSU Rural Life Museum

Experience the magic of the holiday season with an enchanting evening of old-world charm at Wassailing in Windrush. Wander the beautifully illuminated Windrush Gardens, where glowing pathways and historic scenery set the stage for a night of festive warmth and tradition.

Enjoy fireside gatherings, sip and savor seasonal food and drink inspired by centuries-old holiday customs, and take in the soothing sounds of live traditional and seasonal music. This intimate celebration invites guests to slow down, connect, and revel in the spirit of the season with friends and family.

Featuring:
✨ Culinary Delights: Tastings of traditional and historically inspired holiday morsels.

🎶 Live Music: Performances by the Greater King David Choir and James Linden Hogg.

🌟 Holiday Atmosphere: Illuminated garden paths, warming fires, and charming seasonal ambiance.

General Admission: $65
Friends & Docents: $60

Purchase Tickets Here!

This is a pet-free event. Please leave your four legged companions at home.

Proceeds support the Friends of LSU Rural Life Museum and the museum’s preservation and educational mission.

Please note: This event requires a separate ticket from Rural Life Christmas.

Louisiana Lights

📅 November 28 – December 30, 2025

Experience the magic of the season at Louisiana Lights, a breathtaking holiday display that transforms Windrush Gardens into a glowing winter wonderland. Wander through enchanting garden rooms illuminated with dazzling lights, where the beauty of nature and the legacy of Steele Burden shine in perfect harmony.

This multi-night event is the perfect way to celebrate the holidays with family and friends, offering a serene and festive escape for all ages.