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Ouachita Live returns to downtown West Monroe: A night of music, fun, and community spirits

adrienne_lafrance

Downtown West Monroe is hosting Ouachita Live this Friday night. The event will feature music, fun, and community spirit.

The festivities will kick off at 4:30 PM with a Pie Baking Contest, where participants of all ages can showcase their culinary skills. Contestants are invited to bring their sweet dessert pies, with entries accepted until 5:30 PM. With a $10 entry fee per pie, participants can enter up to two pies. The pies will be judged, and attendees will have the opportunity to purchase slices once judging is complete. All proceeds from the pie sales will benefit the Downtown West Monroe Revitalization Group nonprofit.

There will also be a Spirits & Whiskey Tasting from 6-8PM. It will be $25 per person for entry and Choice Brands will be presenting their sampling of fine spirits in celebration of the upcoming NELA Celtic Fest. You must have a valid ID and be 21 or older to participate.

Following the pie contest, the All-Ages Rhythm Workshop will take place from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM, featuring Ruston’s own Lady Chops, Elizabeth Vidos. Known for her high-energy performances and mastery of over 15 instruments, Lady Chops promises to engage audiences of all ages with an interactive and entertaining show.

As the night comes, at 6:30-9 PM, Billy Allen and the Pollies, will take the stage. Hailing from Muscle Shoals, Alabama, the band has recently released their new album, Black Noise, produced by Jay Burgess and Ben Tanner, the latter being the former keyboardist for the Alabama Shakes. Their sound is reminiscent of the beloved Alabama Shakes, and their performance is expected to be amazing.

Ouachita Live occurs monthly from March through October, each time bringing together the community for a night of entertainment and camaraderie. Organizers encourage attendees to bring their chairs and enjoy the evening. While the event is free, donations are welcomed to support local artists and future events.

Mark your calendars for this Friday, starting at 4:30 PM and continuing until 9 PM. For more information about the event and a complete list of activities, visit the Downtown West Monroe Facebook page.

Thomas is a senior at the University of Louisiana Monroe where he is chasing a Bachelor of Communication Arts with a concentration of integrated media