First Person: Susan Bourgeois, Louisiana Secretary of Economic Development
March 2026
Bright Bites: Fresh Fruit Takes the Spotlight in Spring Desserts
March 2026
Rum Revival, Southwest Louisiana’s premier Caribbean inspired rum and tequila tasting event, is returning to Golden Nugget Lake Charles on Saturday, March 28.
Featuring an expansive tasting of premium rums, tequilas, handcrafted cocktails and Caribbean-inspired cuisine from local restaurants, this year’s event promises an unforgettable celebration of island flavor, music and culture.
Attendees will enjoy live music from The Good Dudes, a high-energy seven-piece band from Lafayette known across South Louisiana for their electrifying blend of blues-rock, funk, soul and New Orleans-inspired grooves. With a powerful horn section, gritty guitar lines and dynamic stage presence, The Good Dudes have become a festival favorite, bringing nonstop energy and crowd-moving performances wherever they play.
“Rum Revival is about spotlighting premium and aged rums and tequilas,” said Saige Mestayer, marketing and campaign director for SNB Events. “The event pairs these exceptional spirits with smoked Caribbean-inspired cuisine, cigars and live music, creating a one-of-a-kind experience for our guests. We also love to encourage the island-inspired vibe in attire—think linen pants, flowy dresses and tropical florals—to match the festive, Havana Nights–style atmosphere of the evening.”
Last year, Rum Revival featured over 80 different rum and tequila labels, and this year there will be just as many new and upcoming brands alongside some of the favorites guests already know and love. Brands pour straight samples as well as tropical cocktails featuring their rums and tequilas in addition to complimentary beer and wine for guests!
In addition to spirits tastings, Rum Revival will showcase Caribbean-inspired dishes curated by some of Southwest Louisiana’s favorite restaurants—all paired with tropical and classic cocktails designed to deliver Havana Nights–style vibes, island flair and an upscale-meets-festive atmosphere.
To purchase tickets, visit smokeandbarrel.org/spring26.
