Good morning, Monroe.

Feed the Forgotten distributed free Thanksgiving meals and hygiene kits to people facing homelessness on Desiard Street in Monroe—Founder Justin Ward said the group will host another giveaway for Christmas to help more neighbors in need.

Greater Free Gift Missionary Baptist Church opened on Thanksgiving morning in Monroe to offer worship and free take-home meals for local community members.

Pastor Rodney McFarland has organized the event for over three decades—attendees like Andrea Spurloc expressed deep gratitude for the extra family support provided on this special day.

Jo-el’s in the Garden District served free Thanksgiving meals for the 11th year, ensuring no one in need spent the holiday hungry or alone.

Volunteers delivered meals to local families across Monroe & nearby areas.

Biedenharn Museum and Gardens — a local treasure — is hosting several events to celebrate the holiday season.

The organizers say the series will offer community members unique opportunities to enjoy local traditions.

At ULM, a long-standing Thanksgiving tradition gives international students who cannot travel home a chance to enjoy a warm meal and the holiday spirit on campus—ensuring they experience the comfort of a shared celebration.

Food safety experts stress that clean—separate, cook, and chill—guidelines must be followed to keep holiday meals safe, noting that a frozen turkey needs four to five days in the refrigerator to thaw.

They add that avoiding rinsing raw poultry, using separate cutting boards, and cooling leftovers within two hours can help prevent bacteria growth.

TCB Nutcracker Tea & Matinee

9:30 AM – 12:00 PM — Monroe Civic Center — Children 2 and under are free — Enjoy breakfast with Clara and the Nutcracker cast followed by a delightful matinee performance.

Monroe Jingle Bell Run

7-11 a.m. — Forsythe Park — Registration fee applies — Celebrate the season with a festive 5K and Half-Marathon while promoting community fitness.

Newsong Christmas Volunteer Event

3:30-7 p.m. — Ouachita Parish High School — Free entry — Spread some holiday cheer by volunteering at this community-driven Christmas event.

The Nutcracker - World Ballet Company Performance

6-7:30 p.m. — WL Jack Howard Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of Christmas with this enchanting ballet filled with beautifully choreographed performances and a whimsical storyline.