Pelican Park's New Outdoor Stage Set to Elevate Mandeville's Cultural Landscape

Mandeville, Louisiana, is about to experience a cultural renaissance as Pelican Park prepares to unveil its brand-new outdoor events stage. This exciting addition to the 550-acre recreational hub promises to transform the area into a vibrant hub for musical performances, cultural events, and community gatherings.

Unlocking a New Era of Artistic Expression in Mandeville

A Versatile Stage for Diverse Performances

The upcoming outdoor stage at Pelican Park will serve as a versatile platform for a wide range of musical genres, from classical and jazz to big band and contemporary hits. Designed by RCL Consultants LLC and constructed by Sieverding Construction Inc., the stage boasts an impressive 1,216 square feet of usable space, capable of accommodating up to 60 seats for orchestras and larger bands. This state-of-the-art facility will enable the community to experience a diverse array of live performances, catering to the diverse musical tastes of Mandeville residents and visitors alike.

Fostering Cultural Enrichment and Entertainment

The new outdoor stage is poised to become a hub for cultural enrichment and entertainment in the Mandeville area. Suzanne Fisher Reeder, the executive director of St. Tammany Parish Recreation District 1, which operates Pelican Park, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, "This new stage will be a hub for cultural enrichment and entertainment." The upcoming performance season, set to run through March, will feature a diverse lineup of musical genres, providing the community with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the arts and experience the vibrant cultural offerings of the region.

Expanding Pelican Park's Recreational Offerings

The addition of the outdoor stage is the latest development in Pelican Park's ongoing transformation. In 2018, the park's board of directors and former director Kathy Foley embarked on a plan to convert an unused baseball field into a hub for exercise, activity, and leisure. This 5-acre area, dubbed "The Groves," now boasts a walking trail, outdoor fitness equipment, a three-quarter-acre pond, pickleball courts, and other amenities, attracting a new generation of park visitors.

A Destination for Community Gatherings and Special Events

Beyond its role as a performance venue, the new outdoor stage will also serve as a versatile space for community gatherings and special events. The stage will be available for rentals and other special events through an application process, allowing local organizations, businesses, and individuals to host a wide range of events, from weddings and corporate functions to community festivals and fundraisers.

Pelican Park: A Thriving Sports and Leisure Mecca

Pelican Park has long been a hub for sports and leisure activities in the Mandeville area. Opened in 1990, the 550-acre park has grown into a true recreational mecca, boasting 32 athletic fields, multiple gymnasiums, a dog park, miles of paved roadways, and a 46,000-square-foot events center. Operated by the Recreation District 1, a free-standing agency governed by a seven-member board of commissioners, the park is funded by a property tax paid by residents living within the district, which includes Mandeville and surrounding areas.

Unlocking the Potential of Pelican Park

The new outdoor stage at Pelican Park represents a significant investment in the community's cultural and recreational infrastructure. By providing a dedicated space for musical performances, cultural events, and community gatherings, the stage will help to unlock the full potential of Pelican Park, transforming it into a vibrant hub that caters to the diverse interests and needs of Mandeville residents and visitors alike.