Explore Baton Rouge: Things to Do at Rural Life Museum

Building Community, Building Louisiana: The People of the Rural Life Museum

The LSU Rural Life Museum is proud to present its 2026 theme, Community: The Fabric of our Nation.
"Building Community, Building Louisiana: The People of the Rural Life Museum."

As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation, we honor the everyday people who built Louisiana by highlighting the communities represented at the LSU Rural Life Museum. Through families' historical accounts and objects in the collection, this year's exhibit will focus on the people who called the museum's historic structures home.

Programming will include performances, author talks, exhibitions, and hands-on demonstrations.

The exhibition will be on display from February through October 2026.

Included with museum admission.

An Evening at Windrush

Friday, April 24, 2026
6:30 - 9:00 PM

Join us for an unforgettable evening of music, drinks, and delicious food set admist the magical Windrush Gardens. You will be treated to delectable cocktails and music in Windrush, followed by a seated Southern supper prepared by the renowned Chef John Folse.

All proceeds benefit the Friends of the LSU Rural Life Museum. For event table sponsorship or additional information, please contact the museum directly by calling (225) 765-2437 or by emailing rlm@lsu.edu.

Tickets are available to purchase here or in person at the museum.

College of pictures from the event An Evening at Windrush

Ron Zappe International Beerfest XXI

Saturday, May 2nd, 2026
3:00 - 6:00 PM

Join the Friends of LSU Rural Life Museum and Utz Brands for the Ron Zappe International Beerfest! Enjoy tastings of more than two hundred domestic and international beers and ales at this Baton Rouge tradition -- which also features more than a few home brews. They are always crowd pleasers!

The 21st annual Ron Zappe International Beerfest will be held Saturday, May 2, from 3:00 until 6:00 pm. Proceeds from this annual event benefits the LSU Rural Life Museum and supports its mission rooted in research, education, and preservation.

This event is for patrons 21 years of age and older. Proper photo identification is required to purchase tickets and to enter the event. Parents, please find a sitter for your youngsters and furry friends alike. No children or pets will be admitted to the museum grounds. There is also no outside beverages, coolers, backpacks or bags allowed.

Non- alcoholic beverages and food will be available. Tickets are limited to 2000.

Purchase tickets online here!

The LSU Rural Life Museum is proud to present its 2026 theme, Community: The Fabric of our Nation."Building Community, Building Louisiana: The People of the Rural Life Museum."