Considered the crayfish capital of the world, it's no wonder that the small town of Breaux Bridge hosts a festival celebrating its most abundant food. The Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival is the go-to place for crab addicts, offering as much crab as you can eat. This festival also features a lively parade, a crab food contest, the largest collection of Cajun and Zydeco musicians gathered in one place, a dance contest, a fun cooking contest and crab etouffée, a crab race, exciting carnival rides and an interesting arts and crafts fair. If rice is your favorite food, head to the International Rice Festival in Crowley.
Established nearly 80 years ago, the International Rice Festival is one of the pillars of fall in the Louisiana festival landscape. Located in the small town of Crowley, a place known for producing the largest rice crops in the United States, it seems fitting that this place is the perfect choice to host this exceptional seasonal festival. It includes a fun-filled carnival, a crazy frog derby, an ingenious parade, live music, a festive queen parade, a rice and salsa contest and much more. The royal coronation ball of the 41st French Food Festival was held on September 20th to kick off the festivities.
Move your feet to the beat of stellar blues music at the amazing Baton Rouge Blues Festival. Established in 1981, this festival is one of the first free blues festivals in the United States and is committed to preserving what is known as the city's unique Swamp Blues music. Internationally renowned artists and acclaimed local blues legends can be found on stage at this one-of-a-kind event. The Baton Rouge Blues Festival is always packed with fun craft stalls and expert food vendors willing to tempt you with their tempting dishes.
Nestled in the pleasant setting of the Audubon Zoo, Soul Fest attracts more than 20,000 attendees to this annual spring event. This family-friendly festival is dedicated to showcasing important figures who have contributed to the rich history of the African American community. Musical artists perform a wide variety of music, from jazz and rhythm and blues to inspiring gospel and upbeat music from marching bands. Visitors can savor an abundant feast of authentic soul food and Creole cuisine, and there are also handicrafts and a cultural tent for children filled with educational and engaging activities.
Keep in mind that you can access Soul Fest with the price of a ticket to the zoo. Also known simply as Jazz Fest, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is a spectacular one-week event that features a multitude of musical artists, expert cooks, and skilled artisans showcasing their talent to 400,000 festival attendees. Every year, this fun show is held at the spacious Fair Grounds racecourse and several stages are erected to showcase excellent music. Foodies will be happy to stroll through the gardens and sample dishes from two huge food sections that offer delicious authentic Louisiana cuisine.
Shopaholics are sure to find incredible keepsakes to take home, handmade by first-rate artisans. With the indelible mark that jazz music has left on New Orleans, it's no wonder that they organize a party called Satchmo Summerfest to celebrate the king of jazz trumpet, Louis Armstrong. A native of the city, Armstrong - nicknamed Satchmo - is a revered figure and what began in 2001 as a celebration of his centennial has turned into a joyous three-day event. This festival is filled with great music such as classic and modern jazz performances, lively marching bands, an energetic parade, and special events including a Louis Armstrong birthday party, an art exhibition focusing on Louis Armstrong, and Louis Armstrong's favorite dishes.
Initially called Voodoo Music Festival, Voodoo Experience is a wild music event with an exciting atmosphere. Since its creation in 1999, this festival has established itself as one of the most in-demand events in New Orleans. With an exciting atmosphere guests can listen to exceptional music from local rock bands and international artists on two central stages along with a collection of smaller venues. Taste incredible food and explore stimulating cultural and craft activities.
Explore a large selection of jewelry books and clothing from top sellers eager to show you their products. This festival is held under tall oak trees at New Orleans Municipal Park -the largest green section in the city - making it an ideal venue for an exciting festival. Red River Revel is considered one of fall's classics; it's also considered to be the largest outdoor art festival in this region of Louisiana. Finally in Louisiana's Cajun Bayou located in Lafourche Parish you can find a mix of many local flavors at various festivals in the area that combine cultural heritage and cuisine.
From French Food Festival and Classic Creole Festival to La Fete Des Vieux Temps or “Festival of Old Times” all dishes melodies and cultural influences come alive in Louisiana Swamp. Other popular festivals such as French Quarter Festival in New Orleans Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Music Festival in Opelousas or Cajun Music & Food Festival in Lake Charles celebrate region's musical influence. Started in 1984 French Quarter Festival features largest free music show in United States. In center of Lafayette “happiest city in America” largest international music festival takes over city streets: Mardi Gras part of series cultural festivals such as Louisiana Black Heritage Festival Lake Charles African American Music Festival Xavier University New Orleans or Adai Caddo Pow Wow celebration heritage & cultural traditions native peoples northwestern region Louisiana held Robeline.
Louisiane International Festival major international music & art show held downtown Lafayette one best places experience culture & heritage Louisiana through its festivals & events.