Pictured from left, Phil Robertson, Jase Robertson, Si Robertson and Willie Robertson from the A&E series, "Duck Dynasty". (AP)
Have yourself a merry, ducky Christmas. Let your heart be light - by taking a trip to West Monroe, Louisiana this holiday season.
The home of the Robertson family of A&E reality show fame “Duck Dynasty” has become a huge tourist draw over the years. On any given day the Official Duck Commander hometown tour takes visitors to 26 locations featured on the show, including the Duck Commander Store and Warehouse, Haskell’s Donuts, Debbie’s Snowballs, and Danken Trail.
But now town is pulling out all the stops for some serious holiday festivities.
Throughout December there will be a host of events, which include meet and greets featuring the stars themselves, a massive laser light show--and lots and lots of camouflage.
“Duck Dynasty” stars to spread Christmas cheer
Get involved in the fun on Saturday, Dec. 14, as Monroe’s Downtown RiverMarket presents “A Very Merry Commander Christmas” --an event featuring appearances by members of the Robertson family.
Think you look good in camouflage? Get working on growing out your beard and don’t pack your razor, as organizers hold a stars of “Duck Dynasty” look-a-like contest.
Get your game face on for the Duck Commander Duck Derby on the Ouachita River. In the afternoon, approximately 10,000 plastic ducks will float down from near the Endom Bridge for the duck race. Prizes will be awarded.
Later in the day, Louisiana’s favorite first family - as they're known - will serve as the grand marshals.
A boat flotilla will make its way to The Downtown RiverMarket, culminating in a laser light show and live music.
“The whole family is excited to ride down the river in the ‘Duck the Halls’ flotilla, and then for the grand finale, the night ends with the biggest laser light show our area has ever seen,” said Korie Robertson wife of the A&E star Willie Robertson. “It is going to be a great day for families to come out and enjoy.”
Not only is it guaranteed to be a fun day, Robertson says she’s excited to be part of the event because it benefits the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana.
“Christmas is about family, giving to others, and enjoying time together, but most importantly, Christmas is about celebrating Jesus' birth,” Robertson said.
Taking a taste of Monroe home
Monroe has more to offer this holiday season than A Very Merry Commander Christmas. Make your holiday trip complete with some Commander Christmas shopping.
You can visit the family’s new shop to find great, unique gifts for those on your list this year.
“Rebecca, our oldest daughter, and I just opened a fun new clothing and gift boutique, Duck and Dressing, that we are really excited about, and, of course, fans are always welcome to stop by our warehouse and visit the Duck Commander store,” Robertson said.
Hungry after shopping? You can even try Willie and Miss Kay’s recipes during your trip at Willie’s Duck Diner
Robertson says besides Willie’s, Cotton is their go-to restaurant.
“It's in downtown Monroe in a cool, old building that overlooks the Ouachita River,” Robertson said. “You have to try the duck wraps and the duck fat fries; so good!”
For a sweet snack, stop by Not Just Pie, where Robertson recommends the delicious blueberry creme pie.
Duck the Halls everywhere
For those who won’t be able to travel down to Louisiana to see for yourself how the Robertson family celebrates Christmas, pick up their newly released album - Duck the Halls (available on iTunes). While the family is known for making duck calls, the church-going family obviously has musical talent as well.
“It accomplished all of our goals of mixing in the traditional Christmas songs, bringing in some fun new ones, and just allowing people into what a Robertson family Christmas is all about...faith, family and fun,” Robertson said. “We had a blast doing this as a family and we hope people will make great Christmas memories listening to it with theirs!”
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