Rapides Parish Fair Opens Today for Five-Day Run in Alexandria
Rapides Parish Fair Association
The 2026 Rapides Parish Fair opens today, Wednesday, Oct. 14, and continues through Sunday, Oct. 18, at the fairgrounds, 8149 Highway 71 South in Alexandria, just past LSU of Alexandria. The five-day event features carnival rides, games, food vendors, live entertainment and agricultural activities, including 4-H livestock competitions and the Red River Rumble livestock show. General admission is $2 for ages 6 and older, while children 5 and younger are admitted free. Proceeds support local 4-H and FFA programs, including youth livestock premiums, along with assistance for senior citizens, individuals with disabilities and nursing homes.
Rapides Parish Schools Begin Fall Break Thursday
Rapides Parish School Board
Rapides Parish public schools will observe fall break Thursday and Friday, Oct. 15-16, according to the district’s 2026-27 calendar. The break follows parent-teacher conferences scheduled Oct. 12-14. Students will also be out of class Monday, Oct. 19, while teachers participate in a professional development day. Regular classes are scheduled to resume Tuesday, Oct. 20. The district’s first nine-week grading period ended Oct. 8. Families are encouraged to review individual school communications for any additional information concerning conferences, activities and the return to classes.
Alexandria to Launch Free Outdoor Movie Series Thursday
Explore Alexandria Pineville
The City of Alexandria will introduce Screen on the Green, a free outdoor movie series, Thursday, Oct. 15, at Big Island Field. The series will feature three Thursday evening screenings during October, beginning with “Shrek” on Oct. 15. “The Sandlot” follows Oct. 22, and “E.T.” concludes the series Oct. 29. The outdoor screenings are intended to provide family-friendly entertainment during the fall season. Admission is free, and attendees can bring blankets for outdoor seating. The series is among several community activities scheduled throughout Alexandria and Pineville during October.
Fall ArtWalk Returns to Downtown Alexandria Friday
Arts Council of Central Louisiana
The Arts Council of Central Louisiana will present its annual Fall ArtWalk on Friday, Oct. 16, from 5-9 p.m. in downtown Alexandria’s Cultural Arts District, near Third and Murray streets. The family-friendly event will feature local artists demonstrating and selling their work, including original paintings, jewelry, sculptures, pottery, children’s clothing, home decor and handmade products. Food vendors will also participate, and a community stage will showcase local talent. The event provides an opportunity for residents to meet regional artists, explore locally produced artwork and visit downtown Alexandria during an evening of arts and entertainment.
Exotic Reptile and Pet Show Coming to Alexandria This Weekend
HERPS Exotic Reptile & Pet Shows
The HERPS Exotic Reptile and Pet Show returns to Alexandria on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 17-18, at the Randolph Riverfront Center, 707 Second St. The event will feature reptiles, amphibians, small mammals, invertebrates, animal supplies and accessories from participating vendors. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Single-day admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 5-12. Children 4 and younger are admitted free. Two-day passes are also available. Tickets may be purchased at the door using cash or a card.
Alexandria International Airport Offers Tips for Holiday Air Travel
Alexandria International Airport
With the holiday travel season approaching, Alexandria International Airport (AEX) is encouraging passengers to plan ahead for a smoother travel experience. Airport officials recommend booking flights early, comparing travel dates and reviewing ticket restrictions to avoid unexpected fees. Travelers are also encouraged to book directly with airlines, use airline mobile apps for flight updates and allow sufficient time between connecting flights. Passengers departing AEX should arrive 90 minutes to two hours before their scheduled flights to allow time for parking, check-in and security screening. The airport also reminds travelers that many airlines stop accepting checked luggage 45 minutes before departure.
Rapides Parish Police Jury Advises Motorists of Ongoing Road Construction
Rapides Parish Police Jury
The Rapides Parish Police Jury is advising motorists to expect traffic delays as road construction continues at several locations throughout the parish. Asphalt construction is underway on West River Road, extending approximately three miles west from its intersection with Louisiana Highway 113. Munson Road is undergoing asphalt road widening, while portions of Downs Lane are receiving asphalt patching and overlay improvements. The Police Jury advises that these projects will continue until further notice. Motorists traveling through the affected areas should use caution and allow additional time for delays.
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