In Baton Rouge, August is often the calm before the storm—or storms. After a long, hot summer, this month marks the return to school and serves as a precursor to the exhilarating entertaining season to come.

The August 1979 issue of The Register begins with “Fall Means Party Season,” a showcase of upcoming soirées and a celebration of the hostesses who bring them to life.

“Some say the warmth and geniality of the people in the section has to do with the fact that Baton Rouge not too long ago was a small town capital of Louisiana on the Mississippi,” the section introduction reads. “With a nucleus of goodwill and caring for neighbors and long-time friends, the city has grown up around this nugget of good fellowship so that those who come to make their home here feel the difference—the wonderful, likable atmosphere which seems to go on from one generation to another.”

That same likable atmosphere marked by fellowship and care lives on today. From subtle hellos on a neighborhood stroll to Saturday tailgates and the city’s finest galas, people in the Capital City boast a signature southern charm, and thus, our events do, too.

“The party season touches all of us in some way, whether we are giving a small soirée, are involved with a club’s plans for a really large bash, are working with friends for a full dress ball or are quietly suggesting in-home conversations,” the original feature notes.

While today’s fêtes may differ in style of decoration and dress from those in 1979, The Register’s words remain true: “It is going to be a great fall for those who enjoy the wonderful activity of meeting and greeting friends.”