South Louisiana is known for good beer, good people and good music, but there is much more available for those seeking a good time.
Baton Rouge hosts exceptional bands and DJs, endless karaoke, dance parties and hilarious comedy acts. 600 Main, a dance club located where its name suggests, appeals to the masses by putting on a variety of events.
“We try to appeal to everyone,” said Sara Meighan, owner of the night club. “Our goal was to bring something different to Baton Rouge because if you’re not different, you are just competing with everyone.”
Every Friday is “La Noche Dulce,” or the Sweet Night, where a DJ showcases Latin music of all genres. Free salsa lessons are included in paid admission.
“Everyone from ages 19 to 50 show up,” Meighan said. “But we also have 90s Night every Thursday which usually brings in a younger crowd.”
On the club’s list of upcoming events include Fashion on Main and Purple and Gold Fashion Show.
Meighan said local boutiques provide clothes and local DJs provide the music. Fleur de Tease, a burlesque show, will be showing Aug. 9.
“The girls are putting on a Vegas show girl routine,” Meighan said. “They will have three more events here in the fall.”
Another club which features DJs geared toward a dance floor is Splash on Highland Road.
The Varsity Theatre, Chelsea’s Cafe and the Spanish Moon showcase a plethora of renowned local and national bands. The Varsity has hosted acts from Meriwether to Billy Bob Thorton. Chelsea’s Cafe has booked the Michael Foster Project every Wednesday for almost a year.
“I like the Spanish Moon. I last saw Antenna Inn when school was in,” said Shanna McMullen, nursing junior. “But my favorite was Of Montreal a long time ago.”
While most venues have a “ladies night” when valid females do not pay cover or for drinks, the Texas Club has a genuine ladies night in the form of its Male Revue. The Male Revue is held most Fridays and is an evening of male professional entertainers. It started in 1984.
Karaoke is also a popular past time of locals. Many bars – including Walk-Ons, Brightside Bar and Grill, Mellow Mushroom and Mike’s Daiquiri and Grill – have karaoke night during the week.
Comedy has fought to find a home in Baton Rouge. However, Phil Brady’s Bar and Grill, the Funny Bone and local acts have a firm standing in nightlife.
The Family Dinner, a group of improvisational comedians, perform Fridays at Perk’s Coffee and Tea on Perkins Road. Salami Vice Productions, whose founders are former members of the Family Dinner, host stand-up comedians at North Gate Tavern on Mondays and at Fred’s Bar and Grill on Thursdays.
—-Contact Ashley Norsworthy at [email protected]