Mardi Gras parades, art exhibitions, outdoor markets, concerts and annual events are just some of the ways to honor African-American heritage and culture in Monroe-West Monroe, Louisiana. From the festivities of the Nineteenth of June to the Mardi Gras parades and cultural festivals, there is no shortage of ways to celebrate the music, food and traditions that have made the state what it is today. The Essence Music Festival is one of the most popular events in the world designed for African-American audiences, and is unique among major events in New Orleans and across the country. The festival has become, in the words of its founders, “the largest African-American music and empowerment event in the country, drawing more than 200,000 people to New Orleans every year.” Most pet krewes have canine varieties, but some, such as the Krewe de Barkus and Meoux in Shreveport and the Krewe of Paw in Monroe, parade all kinds of animals with their owners.
Mardi Gras In Monroe-West Monroe you can find colorful, lively parades and all the sights and sounds of Mardi Gras during two weekends in February. The big event, named after the indigenous music of New Orleans, takes place over two weekends, always the last weekend of April and the first weekend of May. With events as important as the Mardi Gras parades in Krewe of Janus and Twin Cities Krewe de Riviere, outdoor concerts in Landry Vineyard, Christmas on the River and sporting events, there's always something to do in this North Louisiana vacation destination. The picturesque Kiroli Park provides a picturesque backdrop to the event, which is held in the evening for three days at the end of April.
Join Rho Omega and his friends at Festival Plaza for a three-day festival that pays homage to African-American heritage and culture to celebrate Nineteenth of June, one of the largest in the South and which attracts about 25,000 visitors a year. In Monroe, the June 26 Freedom Day parade, organized by the Monroe Region Black Chamber of Commerce, pays homage to African-American history. With a parade through downtown Many, a worship and worship show, a singing show, storytelling, games and a car show, this festival is the ideal venue in central Louisiana. The winners of each event go on to compete in the United States State Games, a national event that attracts athletes from more than 30 states.
