Good morning, Lake Charles.

Today, the Johnson Firm hosts its 3rd annual Christmas in the Courtyard event from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at 1419 Ryan Street, offering free photos with Santa, a Christmas train, a slime bar for kids, and holiday music from BonaVox and Justin Martindale over hot cocoa and cider.

Jellystone RV Park in Lake Charles will host a New Year’s celebration from Dec.

31 to Jan. 4 with glow dance parties, live music, and a fireworks show each night — families are encouraged to book RV spots or cabins before they fill up.

Tonight, McNeese basketball teams play at Townsley Law Center while Vinton hosts its Merry Christmas Celebration Saturday at Farmhouse Market with food trucks, live music by Timmy Dugas & ZydeCane, and Santa, and south Lake Charles features a Christmas bar with karaoke at the Frosty Factory.

Southwest Louisiana farmers gathered at the LSU AgCenter H.

Rouse Caffey Rice Research Station today to learn about the Farmer Bridge Program that will provide federal aid starting at the end of February (covering rice, soybean, cattle, and other crops) to help offset rising costs and trade disruptions.

The McNeese Cowboys return to Southland Conference play tonight at Townsley Law Arena against East Texas A&M after a 66-64 win over Rhode Island.

Coach Bill Armstrong said — the team is focused on a strong home defense as they prepare for upcoming league games.

After a three-week road trip, the Cowgirls return home today to open Southland play against East Texas A&M at Townsley Law Arena at 5 p.m. Coach Ayla Guzzardo says the team aims to defend its title and showcase a strong defense (doubleheader with the men’s team).

Undefeated Iowa Yellow Jackets are leaving for their first-ever state championship today in a game against North Desoto at noon at the Superdome, and a live stream of their send-off will start at 12:15.

The Iowa Yellow Jackets (13-0) are set to play No. 1 North DeSoto (13-0) for the state championship at noon today at the Superdome in New Orleans, marking the first chance in over a decade for a Calcasieu Parish team to win a state title since W.O.

Boston in 1972.

LAR's Swamp Stomp Half Marathon & Fun Run

7-11 a.m. — Graywood Golf & Racquet Club — Registration fees apply — Test your endurance at the Swamp Stomp and enjoy a fun run experience.

Candlelight Christmas Concert

7-10 p.m. — Ray's Lounge, Lake Charles, LA — Free entry — Experience a magical evening of holiday music by candlelight.

Arenacross Racing Spectacle

7-8:30 p.m. — Lake Charles Event Center — Tickets required — Experience a thrilling blend of motocross racing and freestyle MX with lights and pyrotechnics.

World Ballet Company's The Nutcracker

6-7:30 p.m. — Rosa Hart Theatre — $50-$127 — Experience a magical evening with the beloved holiday classic, The Nutcracker, performed by the World Ballet Company.

Holiday Helping Hands

11 a.m. — Panorama Music House — Free entry — Celebrate Christmas by helping serve the Southwest Louisiana community with local restaurant support.

Winter Wonderland Skate Night

Winter Wonderland Skate Night — Evening — Lake Charles Event Center — Check local listings for entry fees — Celebrate the holiday season with festive skating fun at this special event.