Red River Revel Update

RED RIVER REVELU p d a te

Emily Hamann

This year was quite a special year for the Revel as it was the first year back since COVID-19 caused its closure in 2020. Excitement was high this year as patrons returned for all of their favorite activities, vendors, food, and live music. Last year’s fall season just didn’t quite feel right without this local gem of a festival.

This week-long celebration of arts, music, and of course, food manages to draw in thousands of patrons to see, shop, and taste from many vendors from old and new. As many already know, the Revel serves as a consistent contributing factor to the League’s Fund Development. The funds raised also allow the League to support many of its other programs throughout the community. “The Revel is a great way to serve the League and the community of Shreveport/ Bossier. It’s an excellent opportunity to tell people about the JLSB, listen to great music, and indulge in tasty treats,” says Nominating Chairman, Courtney McBee.

The Revel is perhaps one of the most anticipated volunteer opportunities in the League. It gives members a chance to meet other members, immerse themselves in the local culture, and give back to the community all at once. “Selling Pepsis and seeing everyone together at Festival Plaza for the Red River Revel reminded me of my Provisional year and how welcoming the Actives were as I got to know not only the Junior League but Shreveport-Bossier. I’m so thankful for JLSB helping me feel at home here in Shreveport, and I was so glad to be surrounded by my fellow JLSB members and our SBC community!” says Communications Vice President, Kirsten Shrewsberry.

Alongside many new faces of local and distant vendors, the tried and true Junior League activities and booths stood strong as they returned better than ever!

Patrons quenched their thirst at one of the two staple Pepsi drink booths and were greeted by the smiling faces of Provisional and Active members alike. “I would say for the Pepsi booth, I enjoyed getting to spend time with other JLSB members at differing points in their membership. It really is great getting to know other professional women from so many different backgrounds. Also, the Pepsi booth was so much fun! Live music, funnel cakes, and good vibes! Is there a better way to spend an afternoon?” says Provisional Member Cassie Key.

The Pepsi booth is always a fun one, especially for Provisionals, as it allows volunteers a great view of the stage, the chance to meet many new people, and run into friends and family along the way!

In the Children’s area, families enjoyed a recently added fall-themed booth that you may recognize, the Junior League Pumpkin Patch. This mini patch only seemed natural given the popularity of the JLSB Pumpkin Patch at Provenance. So a huge thanks goes out to all of the volunteers who went out of their way to make sure that mini-patch stayed stocked!

As well as the Pumpkin Patch, Junior League members ran the ever-popular fan favorite, Artist for a Day booth. It was met yet again with resounding success! “I had the opportunity to work a shift at the Artist for a Day station. I loved this station so much! We got to work with children to create one of a kind masterpieces with pumpkin painting and door hangers. It was so rewarding watching the kids get excited over their creations. This is definitely an area that I would like to serve in again.” says Provisional Member, Tiffany Sandifer. Since 1976, the Red River Revel, has served as the Bicentennial gift to the City of Shreveport. While this might be a well-known fact to our members, be sure to tell friends and family, as it is often a pleasant surprise!