Louisiana Tech will play Coastal Carolina in the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl Tues Dec 30 at 2pm at Independence Stadium. The events leading up to the game begin today including a Mardi Gras Preview Parade rolling at 6:30pm at the Louisiana Boardwalk followed by Battle of the Bands (7:15pm at East Bank Plaza), fireworks (7:45pm, Hurricane Alley) and Concert with Parish County Line at 8pm. On Tuesday, the day gets started with the Coca-Cola Fan Fest at the State Fair Grounds from 9:30am til 12:30pm.

Louisiana is rolling into the Rose Parade on Jan 1 at 10am with a float that celebrates one of our most iconic dishes, Gumbo. “Gulf to Gumbo” features a shrimp boat, fresh Louisiana seafood and a larger-than-life pelican chef bringing it all together. Providing the mid-parade entertainment will be rising country singer and “American Idol” runner-up John Foster, a Louisiana native.

Bossier Mardi Gras Night Market Sat Jan 31 3-8pm. Parade rolls at 7:30pm. Free admission, Free parking and Free throws! 200+ Vendors & 15+ food trucks.

Study finds link between phone use after age 50 and a lower risk of cognitive decline.