Inside Scoop

Ozone Songwriter Festival on the Northshore 2022 | November 3–6 The 5th

Annual Ozone Songwriter Festival returns with a free celebration of music featuring local, regional and national songwriters of all styles. The festival highlights the original music by both amateur and professional songwriters, giving opportunities to perform, network and grow in their craft. The full schedule of performers and show times, plus festival map with stage locations, is available at ozonemusic.org. Multiple locations in Mandeville and Slidell.

Animals in Art Exhibit | Friday, Nov. 4, 6–9 p.m.

Join the Giddy Up and Far Horizons Collective for an evening filled with live music, local food, artisan booths and a gallery exhibit featuring local artists pieces involving animals. 82286 and 82292 Hwy. 25, Folsom.

Abita Fall Fest 2022 | November 4–5

Abita Brewing Company invites you to a fun family event with live music on two stages, food and drinks and the Kid Zone with lots of activities and entertainment. Chairs and blankets are welcome. Don’t miss Abita Fall Fest After Dark on Friday night featuring music by Rebirth Brass Band, Flow Tribe and Brasshearts Brass Band. For the complete schedule and tickets visit abitafallfest.com. Tickets are available as single-day, two-day and VIP passes. Kids under 10 are free. 22044 Main St.,Abita Springs, 773-8539.

Friday Nites on the Square Concert Series: Tyler Kinchen & The Right Pieces | Friday, Nov. 4, 5:30–8:30 p.m.

Bring your lawn chairs and dancing shoes, but no ice chests. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from local food trucks and vendors. The concert is free and open to the public. 2022 event proceeds will benefit The Terra Bella Institute and the 2022 partner charity, the Wounded War Heroes. 111 Terra Bella Blvd., Covington, 871-7171. terrabellavillage.com/news-events .

Covington Art Market: Art Under the Oaks | Nov. 5 and Dec. 3, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Covington Art Market is a great opportunity for fine artists seeking a venue to sell their artwork. Painters, photographers, mixed media artists, illustrators, potters, sculptors and more are all encouraged to participate. STAA Artist Membership is required to participate. Parking is free throughout the walkable district, and admission is free. Old Covington Courthouse, 510 E. Boston St., Covington, 892-8650, sttammany.art/arts-market

Men Who Cook | Sunday, Nov. 6, 4–7 p.m.

Local “celebrities” (community leaders) team up with local restaurants to see who can create the best dish, all while raising money for Hope House! Men Who Cook is the primary annual fundraiser for Children’s Advocacy Center –Hope House, a local nonprofit that provides hope, healing and justice for victims of child abuse on the Northshore. Cost: $80 for individuals / $150 for couples. Rooftop of the Justice Center parking garage, Covington, support.cachopehouse.org/event/2022-menwho-cook-tickets/e428050

Festival of the Lake presented by Our Lady of the Lake, Mandeville | November 11–13

Founded in 1982, the annual fundraising event features food from local restaurants and Our Lady of the Lake parishioners, live music, rides, games and inflatables, school performances, a car show, a craft beer competition, the Festival Race and Fun Run and Battle of the Bands. Admission is free; tickets for games, food and beverages are available in advance or at the gate. Visit the church’s website for entry information and details on each event at festivalofthelake.com. 312 Lafitte St., Mandeville, 626-3144

Covington Three Rivers Art Festival | November 12–13, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Stroll the city’s Cultural Arts District and shop at more than 200 artist tents lining both sides of Columbia Street. You’ll find original artworks by artists from across the United States who work in all kinds of media: paintings and drawings, photography, ceramics, sculptures and kinetic art as well as functional pottery, fine jewelry, handmade clothing and accessories and more. Admission is free. 200 to 600 blocks of Columbia Street, Covington, 789- 7183, facebook.com/Threeriversart

Dew Drop Jazz Hall Concert: Charlie & The Tropicales | Saturday, Nov. 12, 6:30 p.m.

New Orleans-based trombonist Charlie Halloran brings the sounds of 1950s Trinidad and the French Caribbean to stage with his hot new band, Charlie & The Tropicales. Hear scorching calypsos and West Indies biguines, all relevant to New Orleans’ connection to its Caribbean roots. Admission is $10 for adults, free for students and children. A limited amount of seating is available inside. Those who prefer to socialize while they listen are welcome to bring a lawn chair and enjoy the show outdoors under live oaks and stars. Beverage and home-cooked food by the First Free Mission Baptist Church will be available for purchase. Doors open at 6 p.m. 430 Lamarque St., Mandeville, dewdropjazzhall.com

Pelican Park Jeep Jamboree | Saturday, Nov. 12, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

There will be Jeep activities, kids’ batterypowered Jeep Obstacle Course--kids provide their own battery powered vehicle--Jeep contests, sound contests, food trucks, indoor food court, vendors and awards. If you have a show Jeep and would like to register, Pelican Park has Outdoor Show with paved parking and indoor premier show parking. The event is free to the public to view. Register at pelicanpark.com. Pelican Park, 63350 Pelican Drive, Mandeville, 626-7997

Unleashed! Rescue Me Gala for Northshore Humane Society Saturday, Nov. 12, 7–11 p.m.

You do not want to miss out on this fun, yacht-themed evening benefiting the homeless animals of Northshore Humane Society. Guests will revel in a sailing-themed party with an action-packed evening featuring the area’s finest restaurants, cocktails, live music by Four Unplugged, silent and live auctions, wine collectors’ cork pull and more. Sponsorships and reserved tables are available with advance purchase through Susie Kaznowitz. Individual tickets are $125. Pontchartrain Yacht Club, 140 Jackson Ave., Mandeville, 892-7387, https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ unleashed-rescue-me-gala-2022-northshorehumane-society-tickets-395906074727

A Tribute to Elvis Louisiana Bayou King Festival | November 17–20

Enjoy four days of non-stop entertainment! Watch eight world-class Elvis Tribute Artists recreate 11 full Elvis concerts, a Gospel and inspirational performance, a tribute to the movie years, the 1968 “Leather Special”, 1970 Las Vegas concerts, the Louisiana Hayride, and other productions and recreations of Elvis’ electrifying concerts and performances. The Elvis Tribute Contest will feature 10 – 20 contestants, all backed by a 16-piece band, The King Creole Orchestra. Ticket prices vary between $25-$400; single-day and multi-day passes are available. Fuhrmann Auditorium , 128 W. 23rd Ave., Covington, 892-1873. louisianabayoukingfest.com

The Lobby Lounge 2022 Concert Series: Amanda Shaw | Thursday, Nov. 17, 7–9 p.m.

The Harbor Center in Slidell presents the 2022 “Up Close and Musical” concert series with Amanda Shaw at The Lobby Lounge. The Louisiana-raised musician has carved out her place in Cajun culture, becoming one of the most recognizable brands in Louisiana music. Admission is $20-$100, in advance only at eventbrite.com/e/amanda-shaw-live-at-thelobby-lounge-tickets-244614076287 The Harbor Center, 100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell, 781-3650, harborcenter.org

Honey Island Swamp Fest 2022 | November 18–19, Friday 5–11 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.–11 p.m.

Join the Town of Pearl River and Deep South Entertainment for the Honey Island Swamp Fest. The music festival features a Monster Truck show and rides, mechanical bull and mini bike races, rat ride and a car exhibit and an arts and crafts area. Admission is $20 for ages 13 and up, free for kids 12 and under. This is a rain-or-shine event, so wear your boots and bring your chairs and canopies. 39576 Pump Slough Road, Pearl River, facebook.com/honeyislandswampfest/

Just Between Friends Northshore Kids’ Consignment Sale | November 18–19, 9 a.m.–7 p.m.

Just Between Friends Northshore invites moms, dads and expecting parents (or grands!) to a holiday kids’ consignment sale featuring gifts, holiday clothing (Christmas/Hanukkah and Mardi Gras), toys, books and lots of baby gear and equipment, all at 50-90% of retail prices, both new items and gently used items, all sold by local families. Visit northshore.jbfsale.com for more info or to register to consign or shop. Admission is $3 at the door or free when you register for your admission pass. The Castine Center, 63350 Pelican Drive, Mandeville, 377-9872.

Third Sunday Concert at Christ Episcopal Sundays, Nov. 20 & Dec 18, 5 p.m.

Now in its 32nd year, the Third Sunday Concert Series is an outreach of Christ Episcopal Church. The one-hour concerts are free and open to the public and are followed by a wine and hors d’oeuvres reception in the Parish Hall. Performances begin at 5 p.m. in the main church building. Nov. 20: The Mid-City Aces; Dec. 18: Louisiana Christmas Brass. Christ Episcopal Church, 120 S. New Hampshire St., Covington, 892-3177, christchurchcovington.com/concert_series

Tammany Turkey Trot | Thursday, Nov. 24, 8 a.m.

The Tammany Turkey Trot takes to the streets of Covington again on Thanksgiving morning. Ready to experience the history of downtown Covington or show it off to your visiting family and friends? Here’s your chance to #EarnYourTurkey! The 5K Run/Walk, $40. The 5 Mile Run/ Walk, $45. Both races start at 8 a.m. 701 N Columbia St., Covington, (504) 952-2899, tammanyturkeytrot.com

Olde Towne Christmas Market 2022 | November 26–27, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Get a jump on your holiday shopping at the 11th Annual Olde Towne Christmas Market! Browse beautiful antique shops on First Street, eat some delicious food, and shop the local art, craft, and retail vendors with unique items ideal for gifting. First and Erlanger Streets in Olde Towne Slidell, 710-8323, facebook.com/events/1014411292557732

Northlake Performing Arts Society Chorus Concerts: “O Wondrous Night” December 2 & 4, Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday 3 p.m.

The Northlake Performing Arts Society was founded in 1995 to establish a venue for fine choral arts performance. Over the years, the NPAS Chorus has developed into an organization known for musical excellence and a high level of professionalism by singers from a wide range of professions, experience, musical training and ages, which blend together in a singular passion for beautiful music. Visit npassingers.org for tickets. Christ Episicopal School, 80 Christwood Blvd., Covington, 792-1392.

Christmas Under the Stars | December 2, 3, 9 & 10, 6–9 p.m.

A celebration of twinkling lights, festive decorations, life-size Christmas cottages and other family fun. Admission to all displays and activities is free. Griffith Park, 333 Erlanger St., Slidell, 646-4375, myslidell.com

Sips of the Season Stroll 2022 | Friday, Dec. 2, 5–9 p.m.

Grab your friends and join in the Christmas merriment as you stroll Girod Street at dusk, stopping into the brightly decorated shops and restaurants. Strollers purchase mugs for $25* (cash or check only), which is your admission and souvenir to keep, to be filled at each stop, along with a card listing businesses dispensing the holiday-themed libations. Only 1,450 mugs will be sold. Mugs available for purchase at three locations in Old Mandeville only (no online sales): Das Schulerhaus Gift Gallery & Christmas Boutique, Cameo Boutique and The Book and the Bean, 235 Girod St. Old Mandeville, 727-7778, oldmandevillebusiness.org

38th Annual Christmas Extravaganza Arts & Crafts Expo | December 2–4, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Some 400 vendors from a multi-state area have anything you will want to fill your Christmas list with unique products made by artists and craftspersons. Mediums include woodwork, original art, jewelry, leather crafts, clothing, metal art, candles, stained glass, floral, furniture, home decor, gifts and more. Enjoy great Louisiana & Southern dishes, including hot homemade fudge, glazed nuts and Emma’s pralines. The children’s village has jumps and rides, and Santa will be there for holiday pictures.Admission at the gate is $5 for persons age 13 and up, free for kids 12 and under. St. Tammany Parish Fairgrounds, 1301 N Columbia St., Covington, 966-7863, steinhauerproductions.com

Deck the Rails at Covington Trailhead | Saturday, Dec. 3, starting at 5 p.m.

Enjoy Christmas Caroling by the Northlake Performing Arts Society chorale, Christmas craft activities, a visit from Santa Claus and individually wrapped holiday treats, courtesy of the Kiwanis Club. All activities are free and open to the public. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and be sure to bring your camera for pictures with Santa! Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire St., Covington, 892-1873, covla.com

Merry Madisonville 2022 | Saturday, Dec. 3, 1 p.m.

Ring in the holiday season with the 14th-annual Merry Madisonville at Madisonville’s ballpark and playground. A parade kicks off a day of fun for the entire family, including light displays, entertainment by local schools, hot cocoa and more! Bring your camera for pictures with Santa. 1007 Pine St., Madisonville, 845-7311, townofmadisonville.org.

Winter on the Water Santa Street & Boat Parade | Saturday, Dec. 3, 4 p.m.

Kick off the holidays with a celebration of winter and Christmas on the Mandeville lakefront, beginning with the Santa Street Parade at 4 p.m. The parade starts at Pontchartrain Yacht Club and rolls to the gazebo. A boat parade follows at 5:30 p.m. There will be live music, face painting, a bell chorus, Santa Claus, and lighting of the beautiful live oaks. Admission is free. 2623 Lakeshore Dr., Mandeville, 624-3147, cityofmandeville.com >>

History and Holly 2022 Tour of Homes | Sunday, Dec. 4, 2–5 p.m.

Walk the pedestrian-friendly route, touring festively adorned homes, sipping wine (provided) and enjoying the sounds of the season from the strolling carolers. Tickets are limited. Buy your wristbands at Southern Hotel or Braswell Drugs, then simply start at any home on the tour. On event day, exchange your online ticket for a required wristband at Fuhrmann Auditorium. 317 N. Jefferson Ave., Covington, 892-1873, CovingtonHeritageFoundation.com

Santa on Trails 5K Run/Walk | Sunday, Dec. 4, 9 a.m.

Run/walk this 5K in a Santa suit and bring a toy for the children of the New Orleans Mission shelter. Registration opens at 7:30 a.m. All ages welcome, and all participants will get a Santa beard, a hat and a cool t- shirt, food and refreshments from the New Orleans Mission, a handmade medal and lots of hugs and smiles. Runners must bring their own water bottles. Participants must bring a new, unwrapped toy for the children at the shelter. Free for spectators (+$3 park entry fee); $40 entry fee ($45 after Nov. 14). Fontainebleau State Park, 62883 Hwy. 1089, Mandeville, (504) 390-8807, q50races.com/2018/12/02/q50-races-santa-ontrails-12142019/

Covington’s 12 Days of Christmas Lighted Displays 2022 | Dec. 9–Jan. 6

From a partridge in a pear tree to 12 drummers drumming, downtown Covington will be aglow with holiday images this December. Twelve lighted silhouettes depicting larger-than-life images from the traditional Old English Christmas carol, 12 Days of Christmas, are exhibited at various locales in the downtown historic district. The public can stroll through the city to view familiar images from the well-known Christmas carol. The images will be illuminated seven days a week from dusk to dawn. Downtown Covington, 892-1873, covla.com

Breakfast with Santa | Saturday, Dec. 10, 9–11 a.m.

Pelican Park invites you to make this holiday season special for your child (ages 2-10 years old) by participating in their Breakfast with Santa. Each child will be served breakfast by Liz’s Where Y’at Diner’s fun elves. Children can also visit multiple craft and game stations, write and decorate a letter to Santa, take a picture with Santa and tell him their wishes! Children must be registered to attend; chairs fill up fast so make sure to register early. Free for registered children ages 2-10, $5 per adult.. The Castine Center, 63350 Pelican Blvd., Mandeville, 626-7997, pelicanpark.com

Christmas Past Festival | Saturday, Dec. 10, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

As one of the Northshore’s most popular holiday events, the Christmas Past Festival is a fantastic way to get the whole family in the holiday spirit while supporting local businesses. The event features 75 artists, craftspeople and merchants from across the Greater New Orleans area, as well as a children’s arts and crafts area, local food vendors and singing/roaming holiday characters. Admission is free, and attendees are encouraged to get in the holiday spirit – costumes and holiday attire add to the festive atmosphere! Old Mandeville, 373-5271, oldmandevillebusiness.org

Folsom Horse & Wagon Christmas Parade | Saturday, Dec. 10, 1 p.m.

Bring the entire family to the heart of St. Tammany’s horse country as Santa arrives in a horse-drawn wagon. Parade-goers will enjoy the Antique Tractor Exhibit and contests for Most Original Wagon, Best Dressed Horse & Rider, caroling and, of course, Santa Claus! Folsom, 237-5608, facebook.com/folsomchristmasparade

SantaPaws Pics | Saturday, Dec. 10, 1 p.m.

Santa will visit with your furry family member and take a picture with your whole family, too. Find more info about the free event at pelicanpark. com. Pelican Park’s Landing Pavillion, 63350 Pelican Blvd., Mandeville, 626-7997

Sugar Plum Holiday Market | Saturday, Dec. 10, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

More than 300 shoppers are expected to attend and peruse 20 Northshore small business vendors with unique gifts and treasures. The popular “Storytime and Cookies with Mrs. Claus” will return to entertain children as families shop. Tickets are $10 for VIP and $5 for general admission. The Castine Center, 63350 Pelican Dr., Mandeville, 237-4067, jlgc.net/ sugar-plum-market

Enchanted Brunch at La Carreta | Sunday, Dec. 11, 11 a.m.

Come to La Carreta in Mandeville for a magical brunch with the Frozen sisters & their snowy friend. Children will receive a drink and meal of their choosing from the kid’s menu and can participate in an interactive meet and greet with Elsa, Anna and Olaf. Adults will receive a drink and the choice of a taco, enchilada or flauta dinner. Service gratuity will be included. Purchase tickets at shop1200west.com/ enchanted-brunch 1200 West Causeway Approach, Mandeville, (504) 885-0202

Holiday Concert with Northshore Community Orchestra | Saturday, Dec. 17, 6 p.m.

Seating is available on a first-come, firstseated basis. Admission is free, but donations to support the Northshore Community Orchestra are appreciated.The Northshore Community Orchestra (formerly the Slidell Youth & Community Orchestra) is the only symphony orchestra in St. Tammany Parish in which both youths and adults can make learning and performing music a lifelong endeavor. Slidell Municipal Auditorium, 2056 Second St., Slidell, 646-4375, northshoreorchestra.org Be Like Ashlie Gala Saturday, Sept. 24, 7-10pm. Please join us at the Cohesive Unit’s Inaugural Fundraising evet, in partnership with the Black Tie Foundation, to raise funds for the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center by attending the “Be Like Ashlie” Gala! Tickets are $100 per person and must be purchased in advance. They include a night of delicious food, open bar, and music! There will also be a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, and other fun games. Cocktail attire is encouraged. The Fleur De Lis Event Center, Mandeville, us.givergy.com/BeLikeAshlie

Mandeville Trailhead Holiday Market | Saturday, Dec. 17, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

The Mandeville Trailhead Community Market, the weekly market offering produce, prepared goods, artisan crafts and live music, expands for the holidays to give shoppers extra time to find that perfect handmade gift. The event will include face painting, pictures with Santa Claus and live music. Free and open to the public. Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte St., Mandeville, 624-3147, experiencemandeville.org