Daily
Baton Rouge
Friday, January 2nd, 2026
Good morning, Baton Rouge. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 2nd of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ At Woman's Hospital, Baton Rouge welcomed its first baby of the new year when Blossom was born at 12:01 a.m. on Jan. 1; she weighed 6 lbs (3.8 oz) and her family received a gift basket with baby essentials to mark the milestone. The Advocate
- ➤ In 2025, Baton Rouge faced major events including historic snowfall, shifts in college football coaching, and a rejected tax plan amid ongoing investigations into tragic incidents. The review captures a turbulent year — a turning point as the community reflects on change. WAFB 9
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Since 1975, Mike Anderson's Seafood has served Baton Rouge with treasured Louisiana flavors after former LSU linebacker Mike Anderson started a roadside po-boy stand on Highland Road. The family-run business still crafts signature dishes like the Guitreau and Mike's Special at its current location. WBRZ
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Locals can enjoy multiple Mardi Gras parades starting Jan. 4 and running through Feb. 22 *featuring* events in Donaldsonville, St. Francisville, Scotlandville, downtown Baton Rouge, and more; festivities culminate with Fat Tuesday on Feb. 17. WVLA
- ➤ The Louisiana Old Governor’s Mansion will unveil its new 'Three Decades of Change' exhibit on Sunday, Jan. 4 from noon to 4 p.m. as part of the First Free Sunday initiative, showcasing the state’s transformation under nine governors over 30 years. WVLA
- ➤ Mardi Gras parades are set to light up the Baton Rouge area with the Krewe of Dville kicking off in Donaldsonville on Jan. 4 at 2 p.m. while more parades in Morgan City, Baldwin, Berwick, Patterson, Siracusaville, Franklin, and Hammond are scheduled for February. WBRZ
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Zachary Fire Department announced Fire Chief Danny Kimble retired after 15 years leading the team. He joined after 30 years with Baton Rouge Fire Department and oversaw staff increases, new equipment, and a new station. WVLA
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Woman's Hospital welcomed its first baby of 2026, marking a hopeful start for the hospital. The newborn arrived recently, affirming its commitment to family care. WBRZ
- ➤ Woman’s Hospital welcomed its first baby of the New Year when Baby Blossom was born at 12:01 a.m. to parents Gabrielle and Gerard; the newborn weighed 6 lbs, 3.8 oz and measured 19 inches long (the family also received a basket filled with books, baby essentials, and a New Year onesie). WAFB 9
- ➤ Woman’s Hospital delivered its first baby of 2026 on Jan. 1 at 12:01 a.m. in Baton Rouge; Gabrielle and Gerard welcomed Baby Blossom who weighed 6 lbs, 3.8 oz (19 inches long) and both mother and baby are doing well while celebrating the milestone with a gift basket. WVLA
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ LSU star linebacker Whit Weeks will return for his 4th-season with the Tigers, joining a revamped coaching staff led by Lane Kiffin. The team will open its season at home on Saturday, Sept. 5 against Clemson. WAFB 9
- ➤ LSU men's and women's basketball teams enter conference play with strong transfer classes and record-setting scores; the men's squad aims to break into the top 25 despite an injury setback, while the women's team remains undefeated with 12 wins and a streak of eight 100+ point games. 225 Magazine
- ➤ LSU linebacker and defensive captain Whit Weeks (who missed four games last season due to an ankle injury) announced on Jan. 1 that he will return for his senior year in Baton Rouge under head coach Lane Kiffin, and he looks forward to playing in purple and gold this season. WBRZ
- ➤ LSU star Flau’jae Johnson is building her legacy in Baton Rouge as she leads her team on the court & pursues her music career with new singles and high-profile collaborations. She says hard work and inspiration fuel both her game and creative side. 225 Magazine
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Surreal In The Stacks Craft Event
4:30-7:30 p.m. — East Baton Rouge Parish Library — Free entry — Get creative and craft your own surreal costume at this imaginative community event.
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The Louisiana Marathon
8 AM – 1 PM — A. Z. Young Park — $25-$170 — Celebrate 15 years of Louisiana spirit with a vibrant marathon experience featuring various race categories.
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Louisiana Marathon 2026
7 a.m. — Louisiana Marathon — Check for registration fees — Experience the thrill of running in the heart of Baton Rouge.
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La Zenda Norteña Concert
9 p.m. — Avanti Night Club — Ticket prices available — Experience a high-energy live performance by La Zenda Norteña De Mario Madrigal in a vibrant setting.
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11th Home & Remodeling Show with Ralph's Market Food Fest
10 AM - 5 PM — Lamar Dixon Expo Center — $6 admission, free for kids under 13 — Discover home innovations and savor delicious food samples from Ralph's Market.
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Mississippi State Bulldogs vs. LSU Tigers Basketball
6-8 p.m. — Pete Maravich Assembly Center — Tickets starting at $3 — Catch the thrilling college basketball matchup between the Bulldogs and the Tigers.
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Honey Gold: Immersive Audiovisual Experience
5:30-7:30 p.m. — City Club of Baton Rouge — Light snacks and mocktails available — Experience a transformative audiovisual journey designed to foster meditation and creativity.
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