Pearls of Purpose to host Witches Ride of Minden

A new all-ladies group, Pearls of Purpose, is set to bring a Witches Ride to Minden, in what promises to be a whimsical and festive community event. Pearls of Purpose, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, aims to host family-friendly gatherings throughout north Louisiana, supporting local charities and community endeavors. The group’s founders, Sarah Watson Overall of Minden and Amber Ryals Bryant of Ruston, along with the Pearls of Purpose board members, are working tirelessly to make this inaugural event a success.

The Witches Ride has its origins in Seaside, FL, over 30 years ago and has since gained popularity across the southeast. Following the footsteps of neighboring towns, Pearls of Purpose saw the opportunity to bring this enchanting experience to Minden. The ride, taking place on Thursday, October 19 in downtown Minden, will feature women (ages 18 and up) from across north Louisiana donning their spookiest and most festive attire. Participants are invited to join the parade, while families, including spouses and children, can join as parade watchers or partake in the festivities at the block party.

The block party, to be held immediately after the Witches Ride, will be a vibrant celebration with complimentary bites, a cash bar, music, a kid’s area, and a screening of the classic film “Hocus Pocus.” Tickets for the ride and block party are priced at $45, while non-riders can attend the block party for $10. Children can enter the block party for free.

The proceeds from the event will be dedicated to two important causes. The funds will go toward supporting the development of Miller Quarters, which will also serve as the location for the Witches Ride’s start, finish, and block party. Additionally, the non-profit organization We’re Here, We Care will receive support, with a plan to collaborate closely with the organization and its founder, Patrick White, to provide bicycles for children during the Christmas season.

Katie Theriot, the point of contact for the event, stated, “Since we announced this event on social media, we have seen a huge amount of interest from people across various towns, including Shreveport, Bossier, Benton, Haughton, Minden, Magnolia, and Rayville. Women and their groups of friends are excited and planning to attend this inaugural event!”

For those interested in attending the Witches Ride and block party, tickets can be purchased online through the group’s social media channels on Facebook and Instagram (@witchesrideminden), or in-person at Red Blooms and Say Baby in Minden, and Simply Chic in Bossier.

The event organizers are also collaborating with local establishments to offer discounted rates to out-of-town guests. Huffman Manor, Huffman House, the Villas at Spanish Court as well as other Air Bnbs by Sara McDaniel will be participating in the effort to accommodate visitors from afar.

For further information or inquiries, please contact Katie Theriot at 318-278-1881 or via email at [email protected]. The Pearls of Purpose team is thrilled to host this event and is optimistic about the success it will achieve, spreading joy and support throughout the Minden community.