Things To Do on the Northshore This Fall

No matter what time of the year you visit the Northshore, it is guaranteed that you will never be bored. From the never ending lineup of festivals to the miles of beautiful scenery that stretch across the parish, you will have no trouble filling your days. Fall is an especially great time to experience everything the area has to offer thanks to the beautiful weather this season typically brings!

We've rounded up a few of our favorite activities for guests visiting this Fall.

Festivals


Girod St. Stroll - October 16

Don't miss the 5th annual Girod St. Stroll taking place only blocks from de la Bleau in the heart of Old Mandeville! Visit more than 20 stops along the stroll featuring specialty plates and signature cocktails from top local chefs. There will also be local artists selling original works and live music!


Bluesberry Music & Art Festival - October 9
Bluesberry Festival is a full-day immersive arts experience on the bank of the Bogue Falaya River in Downtown Covington! The festival will feature both national and regional musical talent, 30+ vendors showcasing their original artwork, a Beer Garden with a variety of locally crafted brews, a food truck roundup, a children's village and more!

Fall for Art - October 12

Presented by the St. Tammany Art Association, the Fall for Art annual event draws some 4,000 visitors to the area. New work by dozens of artists from around the Southeast Region are showcased. This free event includes live music at various outdoor and indoor locations, gallery openings, art demonstrations, first-rate boutique shopping, and fine dining throughout Historic Downtown Covington.

Nightmare on Columbia St. - October 23

The Covington Business Association will host the second annual Nightmare on Columbia Stroll in Downtown Covington. Costumes and revelry will abound as patrons fill the streets of Downtown Covington strolling to sample over 20 craft beers and cocktails, enjoy live music and participate in a costume contest with cash prizes!
Get your tickets here:

Three Rivers Art Fest - November 13-14
The historic downtown district of Covington takes art seriously and is home to a number of galleries representing the region's best artists. So it should come as no surprise that the town's annual Three Rivers Art Festival, held each November, also is serious enough to carefully jury the 200 artists, craftsmen, jewelers, and more invited to participate in an event that takes over several city blocks. This high quality art festival brings over 50,000 visitors each year. The Three Rivers Art Festival is the perfect place to shop for Christmas gifts!

Music


Abita Opry - October 16

Louisiana Roots music, Country, Bluegrass, Southern Gospel and Cajun music are all highlighted at the Opry, held six Saturday nights a year at the Abita Springs Town Hall, where Cajun dances are also held each month. Tickets are $20, all ages, all seats, and doors open at 5:15 pm with shows at 7 pm and free performances on the hall's front porch from 4:45-6:45 pm, weather permitting. Homemade dinners are available; proceeds benefit the town's cultural programs

Sunset at the Landing - October 15

Sunset at the Landing concerts are free, outdoor performances typically held every third Friday from March to October on Covington's former Columbia Street boat landing, now a permanent performance stage overlooking scenic Bogue Falaya River. Concerts feature regional and touring artists performing jazz, bluegrass, folk, blues and more. All are encouraged to bring refreshments and chairs or blankets for lawn seating. Some bench seating is also available.


Shopping



The Northshore is host to many wonderful shopping opportunities. From farmers markets to antique shops to upscale boutiques, you'll be sure to find something for everyone! Take a stroll through one of our historic downtown districts or visit one of our pop-up markets to see what Northshore businesses have to offer.

Mandeville Trailhead Community Market

Saturdays 9am - 1pm at the Mandeville Trailhead

Covington Farmers Market

Wednesday Market - 10am - 2pm at the Covington Trailhead
Saturday Market - 8am - 12pm at Covington City Hall

Madisonville Market

Sundays 10am - 3pm at the Madisonville Ball Park & Playground

Abita Springs Art & Farmers Market

Sundays 11am - 3pm at Abita Springs Park

Old Mandeville

Enjoy a variety of shops and restaurants in the Old Mandeville area that are within walking or biking distance from de la Bleau!


Outdoor Activities


Fontainebleau State Park

On a clear day, visitors can see the lake dotted with multi-colored sailboats of all sizes and types. The sandy beach also is a delight for sunbathers. The park's nature trail is a favorite of nature lovers. Interpretive signs along the trail will help you identify many of the common trees and shrubs. Always be on the lookout for birds and other animals, as over 400 different species live in and around Fontainebleau.

Bike the Trace 

An old railroad track that runs through St. Tammany Parish has been converted into the Tammany Trace as a part of the Rails to Trails program. The 31-mile walking, biking, and horseback riding trail winds through the picturesque Northshore with stops at more than 12 parks and trailheads that span 3 cities and 2 small towns - each donning their own beauty, history, and charm.

The Lakefront

Just steps away from your room at de la Bleau is the star of the Northshore - the stunning views of Lake Pontchartrain. The Lakefront features a 2-mile paved walking and biking path along the lake speckled with large oak trees that provide plenty of shade. Whether you prefer a refreshing morning jog or a romantic walk at sunset, the Lakefront will not disappoint!