Though Mardi Gras does, in fact, dominate the calendar this month; be sure to explore events that might teach you something you never knew. In February, Bossier City offers classes on genealogy, brewing beer, a lesson in Caddo history and a special presentation on the ivory-billed woodpecker. Though there are many more offered, here is a healthy mix of Bossier events to fill your calendar. 

Pardi Gras 2020- Featuring Le Freak

Kick-off February with a Mardi Gras party. Attend this event for diverse entertainment and dress to the theme of the ’70s. Live music by Le Freak. Tickets are $55 and proceeds equally benefit the Humane Society of Northwest Louisiana, Louisiana Association for the Blind and the Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana.

When: 7 p.m. Feb. 7

Where: Horseshoe Casino

For more information, click here.

Learn to Homebrew

Be a brewmaster by learning how to make beer yourself. Flying Heart Brewing and Brewniverse team up to host this educational event. The art of brewing will be taught over two hours with additional time for tasting. 

When: 1-4 p.m. Feb. 9

Where: Flying Heart Brewing and Pub

For more information, go to their Facebook page.

Genealogy 101: Love and Marriage Edition

Prep for Valentine’s Day with a lesson on love that might run in your family. Learn how the Bossier Parish Library can help you find more information on your family through genealogy. Find out where and when your ancestors were married. You might also get information on additional details of their love story. 

When: 2 p.m. Feb. 13

Where: Bossier Parish Libraries History Center, 2206 Beckett Street

For more information, go to their Facebook page.

Koo-Hoot Kiwat: The Caddo Grass House with Jeffrey Williams

Hear the story of renewal, rebirth and how a community was strengthened. A traditional Caddo grass house was built through a partnership with the Caddo Nation and the Friends of Caddo Mounds. In 2019, a tornado hit the home, completely destroying it. Now learn about the path to rebuild.

When: 6 p.m. Feb. 13

Where: Bossier Parish Libraries History Center, 2206 Beckett Street

For more information, go to their Facebook page.

The Bitter Ball

If Valentine’s Day wasn’t your thing, celebrate bitterly with a party to honor the end of Cupid’s Day. Sip on new drinks crafted especially for the ball and enjoy these drinks and others at discounted prices. Be sure to bring a picture of your ex to shred at the shredding station.

When: 7 p.m. on Feb. 15

Where: The Queue Tavern

For more information, click here. 

Beyond Duty: Reception and Panel Discussion

View artwork illustrating the military experience in all aspects. This show presents a creative outlet for veterans and their families. During the reception, you can also hear a panel discussion by veteran artists and local military support officials.

When: 5 p.m. on Feb. 19

Where: Bossier Parish Community College

For more information, click here.

Mardi Gras Parade

Enjoy a family-friendly parade to honor the carnival season. Catch throws from several different vehicles and floats during the parade. Map out your best location with the route found here.

When: 5:30 p.m. Feb. 20

Where: Barksdale Family Housing

For more information, click here. 

Art in the Dark

Challenge your senses with a special art-themed event. Art in the Dark invites guests to immerse themselves in artwork by being blindfolded to explore. The event kicks off with a cocktail reception at 6 p.m. Tickets are $50 and benefit the Louisiana Association for the Blind.

When: 6 p.m. on Feb. 28

Where: Bossier Arts Council

For more information, click here.

Ivory-billed Woodpecker Program

What makes an ivory-billed woodpecker so special? Learn about this unique bird and its habitat with a presentation by Matt Courtman of the Louisiana Ivory-Billed Connection. Also, hear about the origin of this species and learn what the future may hold for this bird.

When: 6:15 p.m. on Feb. 28

Where: Red River National Wildlife Refuge

For more information, click here. 

Remembering James – The Life and Music of James Brown 

James Brown wasn’t just about the music. Explore the life of this talented musician and hear how the Civil Rights movement and the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King. Jr. shaped James’s work. This play stars Broadway World Awards Nominee Dedrick Weathersby. Tickets are $22.50.

When: 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Feb. 29

Where: East Bank Theatre

For more information, click here.