The Natchitoches area contains many notable locations that students at Northwestern State University like to visit for fun. Many of these locations provide entertainment and allow for socializing with peers, specifically during the evening hours, which has contributed to the development of a sense of nightlife within the community.
Places such as Antoon’s Bar and The Dirty South provide avenues for students to socialize, dance, listen to music and even play a game of pool. Mama’s Oyster House, a popular restaurant on Front Street, hosts karaoke nights every Wednesday and live music on Fridays and Saturdays.
Hannah Kennedy is a sophomore psychology major who enjoys going to Mama’s Oyster House for their late-night karaoke. “I like going out because it allows me to make new memories and friendships with people from NSU who I might not see on a daily basis,” Kennedy said.
Parkway Cinema 6, located on Keyser Avenue, is a popular destination for those looking for a more relaxed evening with friends. The cinema allows students to get off campus and have a fun time with friends, seeing both new and old films. Many organizations, including NSU’s own University Programming Council, partner with the cinema to encourage those in the community to go out and enjoy all that the theater has to offer.
Other alternatives to enjoying nightlife include activities and events that NSU and other organizations on campus host. In particular, many of NSU’s Greek organizations host various nightlife events throughout the semester. However, no matter where the event is, NSU and Natchitoches have ample locations to enjoy a night on the town.
“Everyone should get out and do something at least once during their time in college,” Kennedy said. “You might just make your new favorite story to tell.”