Cook-off for kids

Heritage Ranch’s second annual barbecue cook-off fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, from 2:30 to 6 p.m. at the facility in Zachary. Attendees will enjoy all-you-can-eat barbecue, drinks, live music, raffle packages, a petting zoo, pony rides and more. Heritage Ranch provides family-style housing, counseling and comprehensive case management to boys ages 13-17 in the Greater Baton Rouge area. Tickets can be purchased online here or at the event. Read more about Heritage Ranch’s mission in an inRegister article written during the program’s earlier phases here.

Baton Rouge Blues Festival

This family-friendly event will have attendees enjoying blues music from legends and newcomers alike. It’s happening April 11 at 11 a.m. at Repentance Park and Galvez Plaza downtown. Launched in 1981, the local blues festival is one of the oldest of its kind in the country. For more information, including a complete lineup, click here. And check out a recent story from The New York Times that explores Baton Rouge’s still-colorful blues scene.

Pinwheels for Prevention

Even if you don’t have a green thumb, your gardening skills are perfect for “Pinwheels for Prevention” in April. Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana needs volunteers to help plant thousands of pinwheels for this annual event that raises awareness of child abuse and garners donations to fund the nonprofit group’s support programs. Baton Rouge’s event begins at 10:30 a.m. April 7 on the State Capitol lawns, 900 N. Third St. near Spanish Town Road. A proclamation presentation happens at 11 a.m. Get involved by contacting Amanda Brunson at 225-925-9520 or [email protected]. To learn more about the organization, visit pcal.org.