Good morning, Lake Charles.

More than 200 Lake Charles residents have registered to join the Walk to End Alzheimer’s this weekend as they aim to raise $57,000 for research—organizers say the event marks a strong return of local support following setbacks from the pandemic.

An early-morning crash on Friday at 6:26 a.m. on East McNeese St. left 31-year-old Dominique Hilliard dead after his Dodge Challenger crossed the center line and hit another vehicle—another driver suffered non-life-threatening injuries while a juvenile was airlifted in critical condition as police continue to investigate.

The Cal Cam Fair is back for its 103rd year and brings together agriculture, craftsmanship, pageantry, and entertainment in Calcasieu and Cameron parishes—nearly 10,000 people attend to celebrate this century-old Cajun tradition.

Local vendors and contestants look forward to events like livestock shows and Mexican bullfighting as they honor a legacy that began in 1922.

The Literacy Council of Southwest Louisiana will host the second annual South Coast Book Festival at the Lake Charles Event Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept 13—this free event will feature over 60 Louisiana authors, book signings, and activities for children and adults to boost local literacy.

The city of Lake Charles reminded residents and lawn care companies that blowing yard waste into streets violated the city code—improper disposal can block drainage—and advised them to bag waste for trash pickup and place large branches curbside to avoid obstruction.

State energy official Dustin Davidson said carbon capture projects needed better public outreach as local residents grew worried about risks to groundwater and property rights.

Lawmakers debated restrictions and delayed a pipeline certificate hearing — prompting ExxonMobil’s subsidiary to withdraw its application — as opposition to the technology increased.

The 'You Matter' campaign has grown from a month-long effort into a community movement—messages of hope now appear across Lake Charles to support Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.

Local artist Christy Blalock, who shared her personal journey of recovery—showing that help is always available—helped inspire volunteers to spread the message that everyone matters.

Photographer Alana Brown has shared fall photoshoot tips for families in Lake Charles—she recommends using earth tones like mustard, orange, and green with coordinated outfits and simple props to capture natural poses during the golden hour.

Her style guide starts with the mom’s outfit and builds the look for the kids to ensure the photos pop.

Cristina Mariani Stand-Up Comedy Show

8 p.m. — Library Riot — $30 reserved seating, $20 general — Enjoy an evening of laughs with Cristina Mariani, featured on Kill Tony and Comedy Mothership.

Weber State vs. McNeese State Football Game

6 p.m. — McNeese State University Football Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Watch the McNeese Cowboys take on Weber State in an exciting home game showdown.

Homecoming 2025: Out of This World

7-10:30 p.m. — White Oak Park — Tickets $22 pre-order, $30 at the door — A fun-filled Homecoming dance for homeschooled teens with music by DJ Trey and refreshments.

Desi Banks: The Elevation Tour

7:00 – 8:30 p.m. — Rosa Hart Theatre — Last-minute tickets available — Enjoy a night of comedy with Desi Banks in Lake Charles.

The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight

8:00 – 9:30 p.m. — Rosa Hart Theatre — Ticket price unknown — Experience a spellbinding 90-minute spectacle of iconic rock music performed in a breathtaking candlelit setting.

VIP Autumn Market and Show and Shine

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — The Villages of Imperial Pointe — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant vendor market with food trucks and a showcase of impressive vehicles at the Second Annual VIP Autumn Market.

Lions vs. Cowboys Football Showdown

6-9 p.m. — McNeese State University Football Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Catch the exciting home game between the McNeese Cowboys and Southeastern Louisiana Lions!

McNeese Cowboy Club 5k Gallop Fun Run / Walk & Kids 1k Round Up

5k Fun Run & Walk for all ages organized by the McNeese Track and Field / XC Program presented by the McNeese Cowboy Club. Proceeds raised go directly back to program to help offset funding for Travel, Meals, Equipment, Insurance, Supplies for the Year. Your support is appreciated.