Free things to do in Shreveport-Bossier aren't hard to find if you know where to look, and the holiday season is the perfect time to experience budget-friendly entertainment. For art enthusiasts the R.W. Norton Art Gallery will host a 1st Saturday Tour on Dec. 3. This tour is free and visitors can explore historical works of art that are Christmas and winter themed while taking in one of the largest collections of Remington and Russell artwork in North America.

For off-the-beaten-path family fun, the Christmas on Caddo Fireworks Festival, 3 p.m., Dec. 3, is the largest free holiday fireworks display in Northwest Louisiana. Enjoy down home foods, arts, crafts, activities and starting at 3 p.m., sit back and listen to some tunes at a free live concert. The fireworks show over the majestic Caddo Lake at Earl Williamson Park in Oil City starts around 6 p.m. Click here for more information and directions.

Another free festival is the Benton Christmas on the Square Festival and Parade starting at 10 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 10. This event has activities the entire family can enjoy together including a 5K run, a children's area with inflatables and face painting, baking contests and, of course, the only Christmas parade in Bossier Parish. This year, the stars of the History Channel's "Swamp People" will be making a special appearance at the festival. Click here for event information. Admission is free for each event, but bring some cash for one-of-a-kind gifts and food.


Shreveport-Bossier Offers Unique Holiday Shopping Experiences

Chances are most holiday shoppers are planning their strategies for pre-Christmas sprees right about now. For those looking for unique gifts, holiday markets may be the best place to find that special something that no one else has. The 37th Annual Les Boutiques de Noël is a one-stop shopping extravaganza benefitting the Shreveport-Bossier Opera Guild. Come shop at this philanthropic market, located at the Bossier Civic Center on Thursday, Nov. 17-Saturday, Nov. 19. Click here for more information.

Another holiday market will begin the day after Thanksgiving making for a different Black Friday shopping experience. At Mistletoe and More, Friday, Nov. 25-Sunday, Nov. 27, browse through 147 booths of holiday décor, jewelry and other unique gifts. This event is also located at the Bossier Civic Center. Click here for hours and admission. Shreveport-Bossier has other great places to shop like the Louisiana Boardwalk, Line Avenue Shopping District, The Shoppes at Bellemead and much more. Click here to see all that Shreveport-Bossier has for shoppers.


Safe Holiday Travels to One and All

With airline fees and ticket costs on the rise many holiday travelers are driving to see relatives or simply staying closer to home in general. One of the most important things to keep in mind regardless of holiday plans is safety. The Christmas season, while filled with joy and cheer can also be an extremely dangerous time of year if care is not taken. These are some tips that will keep you safe and sound during this holiday season.

Check all tires, fluids and vehicle maintenance before traveling on road trips. Have an emergency kit, maps and cell phone chargers available for easy accessibility. When driving, be sure to keep doors locked and windows closed especially when in unfamiliar areas. Be aware of surroundings, and keep an eye on luggage when entering and exiting hotels. Park in well-lit areas, and be sure to store purses and other valuable items out of sight. For more information about safe traveling click here.


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The Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau's website reflects what Shreveport-Bossier: Louisiana's Other Side is all about – lively arts, culture, food, music and entertainment done the way only northwest Louisiana can.

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