Worth The Road Trip :: Festival Season In South Louisiana
I saw recently that a year in south Louisiana can be divided three ways: Football season, Mardi Gras, and Festival season! And here we are in the full swing of festival fun. It is a tradition of our family to attend festivals both in Baton Rouge and south Louisiana. Giving my kiddos a front seat to the one-of-a-kind culture of this beautiful state is one of the perks of being a mom in Baton Rouge.
Here is what we plan to check out this festival season.
Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival, April 12th-April 14th – Ponchatoula
The Strawberry Festival in Ponchatoula, Louisiana, is a delightful celebration of all things strawberry, where locals and visitors alike come together to revel in the sweet abundance of this beloved fruit. Held annually in the “Strawberry Capital of the World,” Ponchatoula, this festival pays homage to the region’s rich agricultural heritage and the delicious strawberries that have become synonymous with the area.
With the background of picturesque strawberry fields and rolling hills, the Strawberry Festival in Ponchatoula is a vibrant spectacle of color, flavor, and community spirit. As one of Louisiana’s premier agricultural festivals, it draws crowds from far and wide to indulge in a plethora of strawberry-themed treats, entertainment, and activities.
The star of the show, of course, is the strawberries themselves, and festival-goers can delight in an array of delectable strawberry creations crafted by local vendors and artisans. From classic favorites like strawberry shortcake and strawberry ice cream to more inventive offerings like strawberry lemonade, strawberry cheesecake, and even strawberry-infused savory dishes, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this luscious fruit.
In addition to the mouthwatering culinary offerings, the Strawberry Festival boasts a lively lineup of entertainment and attractions for all ages. Multiple stages showcase live music performances by local bands, as well as national and regional acts spanning various genres, including country, rock, blues, and zydeco.
For the little ones, there are carnival rides, games, and interactive activities to keep them entertained, while arts and crafts vendors offer a treasure trove of handmade goods and strawberry-themed souvenirs to peruse.
One of the highlights of the Strawberry Festival is the annual parade, featuring elaborate floats adorned with strawberries, marching bands, dance troupes, and community groups parading through the streets of Ponchatoula in a jubilant display of hometown pride and celebration.
Above all, the Strawberry Festival in Ponchatoula is a testament to the enduring bond between the community and the land, celebrating the bounty of nature and the agricultural heritage that defines the region. It’s a time-honored tradition that brings people together to savor the simple pleasures of good food, good music, and good company amidst the scenic beauty of Louisiana’s strawberry country.
Festival International de Louisiane, April 24th-April 28th – Lafayette
My husband is from Lafayette, and I say every year I am going to Festival International, but it is happening this year. The Festival International de Louisiane is a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity, music, arts, and cuisine held annually in Lafayette, Louisiana. As one of the largest international music and arts festivals in the United States, it attracts visitors from around the world to experience the unique blend of Cajun, Creole, and international cultures that define South Louisiana.
Music is at the heart of the festival, with multiple stages showcasing an eclectic mix of musical genres, including Cajun, zydeco, blues, jazz, rock, reggae, Latin, African, and more. Renowned musicians from Louisiana, the United States, and around the world take to the stages, creating a vibrant symphony of rhythms and melodies that fill the streets with energy and excitement.
Culinary enthusiasts are in for a treat at the Festival International de Louisiane, as food vendors serve up a delectable array of dishes representing the diverse culinary traditions of Louisiana and beyond. From savory Cajun and Creole delicacies to exotic international flavors, there’s something to satisfy every palate, making the festival a feast for the senses.
Crawfish Festival, May 3rd-May 5th – Breaux Bridge
The Crawfish Festival in Breaux Bridge is a quintessential Louisiana event that celebrates the beloved crustacean, crawfish, in all its delicious glory. Located in the “Crawfish Capital of the World,” Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, this festival is a culinary extravaganza and cultural celebration rolled into one, drawing visitors from near and far to indulge in all things crawfish.
Nestled along the banks of the Bayou Teche, the Crawfish Festival in Breaux Bridge transforms the quaint town into a bustling hub of activity, with the tantalizing aroma of boiled crawfish filling the air. As one of Louisiana’s premier crawfish festivals, it attracts seafood enthusiasts, music lovers, and families alike for a weekend of gastronomic delights and entertainment.
At the heart of the festival is, of course, the crawfish, and visitors can feast on these succulent crustaceans prepared in a variety of ways – boiled, fried, etouffee, pies, and more. Local chefs and vendors showcase their culinary skills, offering up mouthwatering crawfish dishes alongside other Cajun and Creole delicacies, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
Live music permeates the festival grounds, with multiple stages hosting an impressive lineup of Cajun, zydeco, blues, and rock bands, as well as local musicians and artists. Festival-goers can dance the day away to the infectious rhythms of Louisiana’s vibrant music scene, creating a festive atmosphere that keeps spirits high throughout the weekend.
In addition to the delicious food and live music, the Crawfish Festival in Breaux Bridge features a variety of activities and attractions for all ages. Arts and crafts vendors showcase their handmade creations, while cultural demonstrations offer insight into the traditions and heritage of the region. Kids can enjoy carnival rides, games, and interactive activities, ensuring there’s plenty of fun for the whole family.
Rayne Frog Festival, May 9th-May 11th – Rayne
The Rayne Frog Festival in Rayne, Louisiana, is a charming and quirky celebration of the city’s unique connection to frogs. Held annually in the “Frog Capital of the World,” this festival pays homage to Rayne’s history as a center for frog farming and the local industry’s role in the community.
In the heart of Cajun Country, the Rayne Frog Festival welcomes visitors from near and far to experience the whimsical charm and lively spirit of this beloved event. Set against the backdrop of downtown Rayne, the festival grounds come alive with colorful decorations, lively music, and the distinct croaking of frogs.
One of the highlights of the Rayne Frog Festival is the frog jumping contest, where participants compete to see whose frog can leap the farthest. This traditional event harkens back to Rayne’s history as a hub for frog farming and showcases the agility and athleticism of these remarkable creatures.
In addition to the frog-related activities, the Rayne Frog Festival offers a diverse lineup of entertainment and attractions for all ages. Live music performances, carnival rides, arts and crafts vendors, and delicious food options ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The Rayne Frog Festival is also a celebration of community and culture, bringing together residents and visitors alike to celebrate the unique heritage and identity of Rayne. It’s a time-honored tradition that fosters a sense of pride and camaraderie among locals while welcoming outsiders to experience the hospitality and charm of this charming Louisiana town.
