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People standing in the street with hands raised with a Mardi Gras float passing by

Your Ultimate Guide to Shreveport-Bossier Mardi Gras 2026

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Throw me something’ mister!

If you think Mardi Gras only happens in New Orleans, you’re missing out. Shreveport-Bossier hosts some of the most vibrant, family-friendly Mardi Gras celebrations in Louisiana, and I’m here to tell you why you need to experience it for yourself.

My family has been passing a good time at Shreveport-Bossier Mardi Gras activities for years, and every season brings new memories, new throws, and new reasons to love the traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned parade-goer or planning your first Mardi Gras experience, this guide will help you make the most of the 2026 season.

What Makes Shreveport-Bossier Mardi Gras Parades Special?

Let me be clear: Shreveport-Bossier Mardi Gras is different from the New Orleans experience, and that’s okay.

Here’s what sets it apart:

A woman (Robin Williams) showing off the Moon Pie and Hot Dog she caught in the Krewe of Highland Mardi Gras Parade
Moon Pies & Hotdog!

It’s Family-Friendly: There are designated family zones at the major parades so that you can bring your kids, your parents, and your grandmother without worrying about the chaos and adult content that can dominate some parades. This is Mardi Gras you can enjoy with the whole family.

It’s Accessible: No paying premium prices for balcony access. In Shreveport-Bossier, you can find great parade spots without breaking the bank or losing your mind.

A pecan with a face painted in black and white with a bow tie added, and facial and head hair
Blanc de Noir Pecan

It’s Community-Focused: These parades celebrate local culture, local people, and local creativity. You’ll see your neighbors on floats, recognize local businesses in the throws, and feel the genuine community spirit that makes Northwest Louisiana special.

The Throws Are Fun: Shreveport-Bossier throws are super fun. Where else will you catch a hot dog cooked right on a float? We also have specialty beads, stuffed animals, moon pies, and unique items you won’t see anywhere else. Nod to those painted Blanc et Noir Marching Society pecans.

The 2026 Parade Schedule: Mark Your Calendar

This year’s Mardi Gras season runs from mid-January through mid-February, with parades happening almost every weekend. I’ve pulled the info from the Visit Shreveport-Bossier Mardi Gras Site. Here’s what you need to know:

Krewe of Sobek – Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 1:00 PM

  • Location: Louisiana State Fair Grounds, Shreveport
  • Kick off the season with Sobek! This parade sets the tone for the entire Mardi Gras season and brings out enthusiastic crowds ready to celebrate. Get there early because the fairgrounds fill up quickly.

Krewe of Harambee – Monday, January 19, 2026, at 1:00 PM (MLK Day)

  • Location: Downtown Shreveport
  • This is one of my absolute favorite parades. The Krewe of Harambee parade honors African American culture and celebrates unity and diversity in our community. The energy at this parade is incredible. The music is soulful, the floats are vibrant, and there’s a sense of community celebration that you don’t want to miss. I love supporting the African American community through this parade, and I always leave feeling uplifted and connected to my neighbors. The Harambee parade embodies what Mardi Gras should be about: bringing people together in joy and celebration.
  • Pro tip: Downtown Shreveport can get crowded for this parade, so arrive early to secure a good spot.

Krewe of Centaur – Saturday, February 7, 2026

  • Location: Downtown Shreveport
  • This is Louisiana’s largest Mardi Gras krewe, and they don’t disappoint. The Centaur parade is massive, with elaborate floats, incredible throws, and the kind of spectacle that makes Mardi Gras magical. Plan to spend hours here because you’ll need to secure your spot before the parade ever arrives. Plan to tailgate and get to know your neighbors.
  • Make sure you seek out the Family Zones if you’re bringing the little ones.

Krewe of Gemini – Saturday, February 14, 2026 (Valentine’s Day!)

  • Location: Downtown Shreveport
  • Mardi Gras on Valentine’s Day? Yes, please! The Krewe of Gemini brings romance and revelry together with a fantastic parade that lights up downtown. This is a great date night option or a fun outing with friends.
  • Make sure you seek out the Family Zones if you’re bringing the little ones.

Krewe of Highland – Sunday, February 15, 2026

  • Location: Highland Historic District
  • Save room in your schedule for Highland because this is my other absolute favorite parade. The Krewe of Highland is uniquely fun, quirky, and local in the best possible way.
A woman (Robin Williams) kneeling behind a table with all of the throws she caught in the Krewe of Highland parade

Here’s why I love Highland:

  • The Throws Are fun: Highland has the best throws in Shreveport-Bossier, hands down. We’re talking unique, creative items you won’t see at any other parade. Forget generic beads. Highland throws are worth catching. Catch the coveted hot dog being grilled right on the float for lunch right on the route! Heck, you can catch a whole meal at Highland: Ramen Noodles, Hot Dogs, Moon Pies, Twinkies, Fruit Snacks . . . hey, I didn’t say nutritious meals. 🙂
  • The Atmosphere Is Perfect: The parade winds through the beautiful Highland neighborhood, giving it an intimate, community feel that the downtown parades can’t quite capture.
  • I Have a Secret Weapon: My partner lives on the Highland parade route, which means no worries about finding a spot or arriving hours early. We set invite friends over for food and fellowship and walk down to enjoy the parade with zero stress. It’s the perfect way to experience Mardi Gras.
  • The Creativity Is Next Level: Highland embraces the weird, the wonderful, and the uniquely Shreveport. Expect a sense of fun that fills the entire event.

Essential Mardi Gras Gear: What You Might Need

After years of parade-going, I’ve learned what’s essential and what’s just extra stuff to carry. Here’s what you might need:

The Non-Negotiable Items:

A Good Folding Camping Chair

This is number one for a reason. You will be waiting for that parade for hours. Hours! Your back will thank you for bringing a comfortable chair.

  • What to look for: Folding camping chair that’s lightweight enough to carry but sturdy enough to sit in for multiple hours. Get one with a cup holder because you’ll want somewhere to put your drink.
  • Cost Range: $5-150+
  • Worth it? Absolutely essential
  • Pro tip: Write your name on your chair with a permanent marker. Chairs have a way of wandering off in the crowd.

Recommendations:

A Breathable Rain Jacket

Louisiana weather in January and February is unpredictable. You might start the parade in sunshine and end it in a downpour. A little rain won’t stop the parade, but lightning will, so be prepared for anything.

  • What to look for: Waterproof rain jacket that’s packable and breathable. Louisiana humidity means you don’t want something that will turn you into a sweaty mess. You can buy a cheap $2 rain poncho, but I don’t recommend it.
  • Cost: $10-150
  • Worth it? Yes, especially in February
  • Weather reality check: I’ve been to parades in 85-degree sunshine and parades in 30-degree drizzle. Sometimes on the same day. Layers are your friend.

Recommendations:

All Your Tailgate Supplies

You know what your favorites are, but of course, I will give you suggestions of some things that are typically in my parade kit.

Recommendations:

Cost for the whole kit: $50-150 depending on what you already have

Worth it? These items get used for every parade season

The Nice-to-Haves

Recommendations:

  • Wagon or Cart: If you’re bringing kids or lots of supplies, a folding wagon makes life so much easier. (I love my little red folding canvas wagon!)
  • Extending Grabber: For catching those high throws. Some people swear by these. I prefer the old-fashioned “jump and reach” method, but to each their own. Most people I know like an upside down umbrella! (The grabber can double as a trash picker-upper on the walk home!)
  • Costume/Purple, Green, Gold Attire: Not required, but wearing Mardi Gras colors adds to the fun. Thrift stores are goldmines for cheap, festive clothing.
  • Shoes that might get muddy

Insider Tips for the Best Mardi Gras Experience

After years of parade-going, here’s what I’ve learned:

Arriving Early Is Non-Negotiable

If you haven’t paid for a reserved spot, you need to get there early to find a good space. Most people like to get there several hours early and tailgate all day. My suggestion is to arrive before the roads close, otherwise you will be walking a fair distance to find a spot. Yes, this means a lot of waiting. That’s why you bring the chair, the cooler, and good company.

Scout Your Spot in Advance

Not all parade spots are created equal. Here’s what to look for:

Spots to Avoid:

  • Too close to where floats turn (throws go wide)
  • Areas marked “No Throw Zone”
  • Behind tall fences or barriers
  • Areas with no bathroom access nearby

Make Friends With Your Neighbors

The people sitting next to you will be your parade family for several hours. Chat with them. Share snacks. Help their kids catch throws. This is community building at its finest.

Know the Throw Etiquette

  • Don’t push kids out of the way (seriously, don’t be that person)
  • If someone’s kid drops their catch, help them get it
  • Don’t hog all the throws. Spread the joy.
  • If you catch something clearly meant for someone else, pass it along
  • Adults: Let the kids get the good stuff. You’re here for the experience; they’re here for the treasures.
  • Don’t leave your trash behind.

Plan for Parking and Bathrooms

Parking: Downtown parades have paid parking lots and garages. Get there early because they fill up. Some people park in nearby neighborhoods and walk, but be respectful of residents, and don’t park on people’s grass!!

Bathrooms: Scout out public facilities before the parade starts. Most businesses are not going to allow bathroom use during the parades. There are port-a-potties on the route, but some are reserved by the spot owner. Make sure that the facility is marked as a public potty. I once paid a guy 3 bucks to use his pee-can. 🙂

  • Bring More Bags Than You Think You Need
  • Those throws add up fast. I usually bring:
  • One large garbage bag for beads
  • Several reusable shopping bags for stuffed animals and specialty items
  • A backpack for valuables and essentials
  • Dress in Layers
  • Morning might be cold. Afternoon might be warm. By evening, you might be cold again. Layers let you adjust without suffering.
  • Stay Hydrated and Fed
  • Bring snacks and water. Yes, there are food trucks and vendors, but lines can be long and you might not want to lose your spot. Make sure to read rules of the parade about what you can and cannot bring.

What to Do With All Those Throws

Let’s be honest: After a few parades, you’ll have more beads than you know what to do with. Here are some ideas:

  • Keep the Special Ones: Specialty beads, unique throws, and anything meaningful gets saved.
  • Donate: Many organizations collect Mardi Gras beads for next season or for charity. Check with local schools, churches, or community centers.
  • Get Creative: Beads can be used for craft projects, garden decorations, or art installations.
  • Recycle: Some krewes collect and reuse beads. It’s environmentally friendly and keeps the tradition going.

Beyond the Parades: Other Mardi Gras Events

While parades are the main attraction, Shreveport-Bossier offers other Mardi Gras experiences:

The Red River Mardi Gras Bash (VIP Experience)

If you want to take your Mardi Gras experience to the next level, the Red River Mardi Gras Bash is the way to do it. Visit Shreveport-Bossier hosts this annual VIP event during the Krewe of Centaur and Krewe of Gemini parades.

What’s Included (Adult Tickets: $70):

  • Reserved, front-row viewing of the parades (no fighting for space!)
  • Cajun buffet
  • Beer and wine selections
  • Specialty beads
  • Private restrooms (this alone is worth the price)
  • Live entertainment
  • Cajun dance lessons
  • Themed games and activities
  • Behind-the-scenes tours and meet the Krewe royalty

Why I Recommend It:

If you’re visiting from out of town, traveling with a group, or just want a more comfortable parade experience, the Mardi Gras Bash solves every parade-going problem. You get guaranteed front-row spots, food and drinks without leaving your area, and actual bathrooms instead of trying to find a friendly business that will let you use theirs.

The price might seem steep compared to free parade viewing, but think about what you’d spend on food, drinks, and the stress of finding a good spot. Plus, the behind-the-scenes access and Krewe meet-and-greets are experiences you can’t get anywhere else.

2026 Dates:

  • Saturday, February 7, 2026 (Krewe of Centaur)
  • Saturday, February 14, 2026 (Krewe of Gemini)

Children ages 6+ are $25, and kids under 5 are free. You can purchase tickets online.

Pro tip: If you’re bringing a group or planning this as a special occasion, the Bash takes care of all the logistics and lets you focus on enjoying the experience.

Other Mardi Gras Experiences:

  • Mardi Gras Balls: Many krewes host formal balls. These are typically by invitation, but they’re spectacular if you can attend.
  • King Cake Tours: Visit Lilah’s King Cakes for behind-the-scenes tours to see how authentic king cakes are made. Then taste-test king cakes from local bakeries throughout the season to find your favorite.
  • Mardi Gras Shopping: Tubbs Hardware & Cajun Gifts has Mardi Gras souvenirs and parade essentials if you need last-minute supplies or want to take home some authentic Louisiana Mardi Gras gear.
  • Support local Artists:
    • The Agora Borealis: Store and gallery featuring the works of local artists in multiple mediums, from paintings to carvings, furniture and sculptures.
    • Birdwell’s: a collection of southern style. A home & gifting shopping experience inspired by traditions and trends with a southern flair.
    • C&C Mercantile & Lighting: Located in historic Downtown Shreveport. A family owned Shreveport business. (Art by Lauren Ross)
    • The Grove Shreveport: An artist collection under one roof. Whether you’re looking for something practical or stylish, you’ll find something to suit your needs.
    • Karen La Beau: My Life on Canvas: a self-taught, third-generation artist, author, and cultural bearer, with a mission to preserve the richness of Black Southern life through vibrant storytelling.
  • Live Music: Bars and venues throughout Shreveport-Bossier host Mardi Gras-themed events with live music throughout the season.

Why You Should Experience Shreveport-Bossier Mardi Gras

If you’ve never been to a Shreveport-Bossier Mardi Gras parade, you’re missing out on a genuine Louisiana tradition that’s accessible, family-friendly, and full of community spirit.

You don’t need a week off work or a massive budget. You just need a chair, some friends, and a willingness to have fun.

The throws are fun, the atmosphere is welcoming, and the sense of community is real. Whether you’re catching beads at Highland, celebrating culture at Harambee, or marveling at the spectacle of Centaur, Shreveport-Bossier Mardi Gras offers something special.

So mark your calendar, gather your supplies, and get ready to laissez les bons temps rouler, Shreveport-Bossier style!

Your Turn

Have you been to Shreveport-Bossier Mardi Gras? What’s your favorite parade? Do you have any insider tips I missed? Drop a comment below and share your Mardi Gras experiences!

And if you’ve never been, which parade are you planning to attend this year?

That Just Happened! (And it’s about to happen again…)

For More Information:

Mardi Gras safety reminder: Please drink responsibly if you’re consuming alcohol, and never drink and drive. Designate a driver or use ride-sharing services to get home safely.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely use or believe would be helpful.

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Super Salads with no cides at Cotton Street Farms!

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Michael Billings grew up in Shreveport, LA and after high school left to travel the world. He came back to town to be a dad and he wasn’t finding opportunities that fit his interests. His dad suggested that he make his own opportunity. That’s exactly what he did when he founded the hydroponic Cotton Street Farms.

Michael Billings

Michael Billings cutting herbs at Cotton Street Farm

Michael Billings making Salad from Cotton Street Farm

packaging a salad from Cotton Street Farm

Michael Billings making Salad from Cotton Street Farm

Hydroponic plants at Cotton Street Farms

Hydroponic plants at Cotton Street Farms

Michael Billings

Michael Billings making Salad from Cotton Street Farm

Michael’s family was involved in alternative farming for 20 years. His dad taught him how to take something traditional and make it benefit and useful to himself. Mike said that it is not always practical to grow plants indoors commercially. But, he says if you have a business model that caters to your community, and you have interesting quality products, he is showing that you can grow food indoors in the middle of the city, even in a depressed city. You could go to the big chain grocery store or you could go to Cotton Street Farms, spend the same amount of money and leave with a way more tasty product. It’s the best smelling, tasting, cleanest produce that you can find within hundreds of miles. He says his system uses clean water, organic fertilizers, no pesticides, no fungicides, no herbicides . . . no cides! It will blow you mind walking in the door. Cotton Street Farms control the atmosphere, humidity and lighting frequency. Everything done is for the highest benefit of the plant and it just grows big, strong, colorful, and tasty.

Micheal is working to develop a local educational program, that businesses can sponsor, to help bring grow kits to schools and teach children about growing their own food with no cost to the school. In fact, Michael says that if anyone wants to help, there are many volunteer opportunities at the farm. He said he can always use help.

Michael says he has been growing in the current location for about 9 months. The day Ed and I stopped by, there were rows of beautiful green leafy foods. Kale, Swiss Chard, multiple types of Basil, Bok Choy, Dill and Cilantro. Michael said “Let me make you a salad” and we said “heck yeah!”, he then proceeded in putting together an absolutely beautiful array of greens AND flowers to top it off. I’ve never been much for eating flowers, but he gave me a taste of a light purple flower called a borage. It had the most wonderfully light, cucumber-y flavor. I was instantly a fan. Michael said he is working on a new section of a variety of edible flowers. I’m intrigued and am excited to try new (to me) tastes. In addition to leafy greens, Cotton Street Farm has jalapeño peppers, fruits and berries on the way. I encourage you to stop by and pick up your own super salad with no cides.

Cotton Street Farms is located at 406 Cotton Street, in downtown Shreveport, Louisiana. Follow Cotton Street Farms on all their channels:

Website
Facebook
Instagram

That Just Happened!!
Robin Williams

You like Quesadillas? Head over to Dillas in Shreveport!

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Pete John of Dillas Primo QuesadillasIf you know Pete John, you know he has his finger on the pulse of all that’s cool in the fast-casual food world. Dillas Prima Quesadillas is his latest venture. Pete celebrated with a joint ribbon cutting between the Bossier Chamber of Commerce and the Shreveport Chamber of Commerce on Dec 14, 2018.

Dillas was founded by Kyle Gordon in Dallas, TX, sparked by his love of Quesadillas and a dream to open his own restaurant. Pete John and his wife had been looking for a fun and cool new restaurant to bring to the Shreveport-Bossier area. Dillas fit the bill.

 

Pete has always shown great interest in community involvement and he continues that tradition with Dillas. The goal at Dillas is to be YOUR community restaurant, not just a restaurant in the community. When Dillas becomes part of a community, they look to elevate the community pillars and impact the neighbors in a positive way.

If you like Quesadillas, then you definitely need to head over to Dillas Primo Quesadillas, located 855 Pierremont Rd, Ste 135, Shreveport, LA. Their hours are from 10:30 am – 10:00 pm every day, except holidays. Catering services are available.

That Just Happened!!
Robin Williams

Dillas Primo Quesadillas Ribbon Cutting

Joint Bossier Chamber and Shreveport Chamber Ribbon Cutting

Dillas Quesadillas in Shreveport  Dillas Menu  Fun at the Dillas Ribbon Cutting

Dillas Prima Quesadillas Shreveport, LA Ribbon Cutting

#Eat318 – 318 Restaurant Week Begins Tuesday, March 13 in Shreveport-Bossier

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318 Restaurant Week318 Restaurant Week is upon us and I can’t wait to see my social media feeds fill up with delicious foodstuff. Tejas Kitchen Bar Patio in Shreveport helped kick off the week long event with a media preview. I was lucky enough to attend.

If you’re like me, I love to try new restaurants and find out which are sourcing food from local farms. This week gives a chance to try something new with affordable specials that make it a bit easier on the pocketbook.

Menu listings More than 35 local restaurants have cooked up lunch and dinner specials for 318 Restaurant Week. My advice is to preview the list and make a game plan of your “must do” events. Many evening dinner specials are almost sold-out, so if you want to attend, stop reading this and go make your reservation.

Thanks so much to the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau and all of the spectacular sponsors who made this week possible. I don’t want to hear anyone say there’s nothing to do in SB!

Chris Jay

Let me know what you intend to try and tell me how it turns out for ya! Oh, hey, don’t forget to follow the 318 Restaurant Week Facebook Page.

That Just Happened!!

Robin Williams

Get Fresh!!

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Benton residents, Greg and Jessica Bennett, are getting fresh! Their new restaurant, Get Fresh Deli & Frozen Yogurt, had a Bossier Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting to celebrate their grand opening today, July 7, 2017. Get Fresh is a locally family owned deli, with an awesome menu. Greg says the Turkey, Avocado BLT is a favorite. Twelve flavors of frozen yogurt, sandwiches, wraps, salads and pizza round out the deliciousness. Catering is available and Greg is looking forward to connecting with the community.

Get Fresh Deli & Frozen Yogurt is located in the Bella Terra shopping center at 187 Burt Blvd in Benton, LA. Stop by soon and let them know I sent ya.

That Just Happened!!
Robin Williams

Who’s Hungry? 318 Restaurant Week Live FB Media Launch

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microphone photoYou have had invitations in the past to attend press conferences, right? How often did you forget about it or you just weren’t able to attend? Well, in Shreveport-Bossier we wanted to do something different with a press conference announcing 318 Restaurant Week. We thought how about a live Facebook press conference? One that you don’t even have to leave your office to be in attendance. Cool, huh?

Yep, that’s what we are doing today. A press conference that starts on the Shreveport Downtown Development Authority Facebook page and then progressively tags over to five other social media influencers from around Shreveport-Bossier. We think this is a first, and we need your help! We need an audience. By clicking on each of the live feeds as they happen, you will be part of our audience. Because it’s a first, bear with us if there are any glitches. Just play along! And please, comment on the live feed so that we know you are there!

Who's Hungry?

Don’t miss the live Facebook event – it all starts at 10/11/16 at 11:00 am on the Shreveport DDA‘s page and then will progress to each of the following pages:

Loving This Life Jada at 11:05 am
Tiana Kennell at 11:10 am
Shreveport-Bossier ~ Louisiana’s Other Side at 11:15 am
That Just Happened – Social Robin at 11:20 am
Clint McCommon at 11:25 am
And big finale:
The Shreveport Times at 11:30 am

Make sure you like each of the mentioned page so you can get the live feed! Tune in, comment and share!

And also like the 318 Restaurant Week page and RSVP to the Facebook Event.

Let’s make 318 Restaurant Week delicious!

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This is my son, Chase. He’s going to be joining me at 11:20 for my part in this big announcement. Won’t you join us?

#EAT318

 

This is going to happen!!
Robin Williams
Holiday Lanes

Post Update: 10/11/16 at 4:45 pm

If you missed the event and still want to check it out, click on this link on Facebook to view all of the live feeds (and share). It was a super fun event and I can’t wait for #EAT318.

To Market I Did Not Go

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market_bagDDHow many times have you said you were going to the Farmer’s Market to purchase locally grown fresh foods and then forgot? Yeah, for me, too many times. Well I’ve got a great suggestion for those of you in the Shreveport-Bossier area. Delta Delivered. This is an awesome service that delivers local and organic meals and groceries. lemon cucumberToday, to market I did not go, but I received my first Market Bag full of fresh fruits and veggies. It came just in time to use for dinner. I already had a pork roast in the oven and was trying to decide what to add to the meal. Inside the bag I found lettuce, peppers, a variety of tomatoes, corn, eggplant, zucchini, squash, blue berries, peaches, an onion, and one item that I’ve never seen before. My friend Jada also received a bag and she flushed out the question on social media. We now believe it is a lemon cucumber.

saladFrom the bag, I was able to add a nice garden salad to my pork roast dinner, along with lovely sautéed zucchini. It was almost as if someone went to a garden, picked the veggies and dropped them off to my door. Actually, I think that is exactly what happened.

zuchinniDelta Delivered sells and delivers fruits, veggies, berries, meats, coffee, prepared meals, soaps and flowers right to your door. They source locally from the following vendors:

We are all busy with family, work, fun and play. This is a convenient service that helps balance your time and interest in eating healthy and fresh local products.

Want more information about Delta Delivered? Check them out:

That just happened.
Robin Williams,
Marketing Maven at Holiday Lanes

Disclaimer: I received products for review in exchange for writing this blog, although all opinions are my own.

Komé Austin

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My daughter and I wanted sushi, but when we couldn’t find parking in downtown Austin, we headed back to our hotel with the idea in mind to just stop wherever we see a place. We landed at Komé. Woah! This is the good stuff. Lucky us!   

  

  

salmon sashimi

  

salmon box roll

  

kayaka udon

   

apple pie spring roll with miso caramel ice cream

 

Interested, follow Komé:  Facebook  | Twitter  | Instagram |  Website

That just happened,

Robin Williams,
Marketing Maven at Holiday Lanes

Grilled Cheese in Bossier City Please!

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TOM+CHEE Opening Day - Grand Opening

TOM+CHEE Opening Day – Grand Opening

If you like grilled cheese and live in or near Bossier City, Louisiana, you are in luck. TOM+CHEE had their grand opening today. Oh, and they have so much more than just grilled cheese. Grilled Cheese Donuts? Yes, that’s a thing.

TOM+CHEE Opening Day - Francisees & Founder

TOM+CHEE Opening Day – Francisees & Founder

You may have heard about their awesome story and followed their success on the ABC TV Show “Shark Tank”, or one of several other tv shows that have featured them. In the event you haven’t heard about TOM+CHEE, let me fill you in a bit. Trew Quackenbush is the founder and master cheese mind behind it all. Corey Ward is the marketing guru that creates the fun atmosphere. Together they have made a dream come true. What started as a food tent in a Cincinnati public square ice skating rink, has now become a cheese empire. Trew began working at 15 in a family burger joint and had a dream of one day owning his own restaurant. At a backyard barbecue, Corey and Trew made plans to get the cheese grilled. Starting with $2400, the company is now a multi-million dollar franchised phenomenon.

TOM+CHEE Opening Day - First Customers

TOM+CHEE Opening Day – First Customers

I had a few moments to speak to Trew at the grand opening of the Bossier City store. It’s super amazing to see this guy, who is probably worth millions, interacting with his newest franchised team. He is down-to-earth, approachable and seems to have a fun spirit. It made me so excited to know that there really are people who care behind franchises. Chris Currie and Josh Woodard are the franchisee owners of the Bossier City restaurant. As the “Marketing Maven” for Holiday Lanes, I enjoyed see their polo uniform shirts embroidered with their titles. Josh – “The Head Cheese” and Christ – “The Jedi Master”. What fun!

TOM+CHEE Opening Day - line is a good sign

TOM+CHEE Opening Day – line is a good sign

TOM+CHEE is located at 4200 Airline Drive, Bossier City. Their hours are Monday-Thursday: 10am-9pm; Friday-Saturday: 10am-10pm; and Sunday: 11am-5pm.

Make sure you follow TOM+CHEE on their local social media sites:

TOM+CHEE Opening Day - Founder Trew Quackenbush & me

TOM+CHEE Opening Day – Founder Trew Quackenbush & me

Interested in more about TOM+CHEE? Here are a few links:

That just happened,

Robin Williams,
Marketing Maven at Holiday Lanes

New Orleans Flavor

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Copeland’s of New Orleans unveiled the new prototype restaurant in Shreveport for restaurants in six states, which include Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, Georgia, Maryland and Florida. The Shreveport renovation includes over $1 million and revamps the restaurant both inside and out. Mr. Al Copeland, Jr., Chairman of the Board for Al Copeland Investments, was in attendance and told us that the renovation is designed to bring the New Orleans flavor to Shreveport. The atmosphere will now have a more Southern Plantation feel and will blend well with the flavors of the signature foods served within the restaurant. A new bakery display case greets you as you enter the restaurant. The bar has been renovated with a sophisticated look. The addition of a private dining room with seating for 65 makes for a great location for business meetings and parties. Mr. Copeland said “This is an exciting time for the Copeland Family of Restaurants and Copeland’s of New Orleans in Shreveport as we launch our new prototype.”

One of the perks of being involved in the community is getting invitations to these awesome events, especially events that include food. So, let’s speak of the food . . . on display was a scrumptious smorgasbord of culinary treasures. There was Buffalo Spring Rolls, Crawfish Bow-tie Pasta, Shrimp Pasta, Stuffed Mushrooms, Biscuits from scratch, Red Beans with Rice, Steamed Vegetables, and among other dishes, Bayou Broccoli, which by the way is fried broccoli – yum! I’m not usually a salad girl, but my favorite item on the table was the Apple Almond Blue Salad (Fresh apple, toasted almonds, crumbled Bleu cheese, sun dried tomato, red onion, mixed greens, Honey Balsamic vinaigrette.) OH MY – this was fabulous! Of course a visit to Copeland’s would be incomplete without dessert. I had the Bananas Foster, but was checking out the white chocolate bread pudding. Oh so many choices, and just not enough time or tummy space. Several of the secrets behind the great flavors at Copeland’s is that they prepare from scratch with fresh ingredients, sauces are stock-based, homemade from natural drippings and fresh vegetables. The chefs at Copeland’s use only fresh, never frozen vegetables, steak, fish and chicken. “We take pride in our fresh-from-scratch New Orleans flavors and we are committed to serving our guests” said Mr. Copeland.

Copeland’s of New Orleans is located at 1665 E. Bert Kouns Industrial Loop in Shreveport, LA. (near Youree Drive) The restaurant is managed by Steven Thrash and is open Monday through Thursday, 11 am to 10 pm, Friday and Saturday 11 am to 11 pm, and on Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm. This location will feature a Sunday Jazz Brunch from 10 am to 3 pm. Stop by to taste some of the New Orleans flavor and make sure you tell them you read my blog.

See ya around Bossier,

Robin Williams,
Bossier Chamber of Commerce Diplomat & Marketing Maven at Holiday Lanes