Louisiana is a state that loves to have a good time, and there are festivals all year round and for every occasion. From celebrating fresh strawberries to the world-renowned Jazz Fest, here are the 10 best Louisiana festivals that will make your trip unforgettable. The granddaddy of all festivals is Mardi Gras, although music plays an important role in many other first-rate events, such as the Jazz Fest. Music, food, crafts, and elaborate costumes are expected to be staples at nearly every celebration in Louisiana.
Considered the crayfish capital of the world, it's no surprise that the small town of Breaux Bridge hosts a festival where its most abundant foods are showcased. The Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival is the ideal place for crab-loving addicts. In addition to offering crabs with everything you can eat, this festival also hosts a lively parade, a crab-eating contest, the largest collection of Cajun and Zydeco musicians gathered in one place, a dance contest, a fun cooking contest with a crab étouffée, a crab race, exciting carnival attractions and an interesting art and craft fair. If rice is one of your favorite foods, then you should head to the International Rice Festival. Established nearly 80 years ago, this event is one of the mainstays of fall in Louisiana's festival scene.
Located in the small town of Crowley, which is known for producing some of the largest rice crops in the United States, it seems fitting that this place is the perfect choice to host the International Rice Festival. This exceptional seasonal festival includes a fun-filled carnival, a crazy frog derby, an ingenious parade, live music, a festive queen parade, a cooking contest with rice and sauce and much more. Move your feet to the beat of the best blues music at the stunning 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 are 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 ready to tantalize you with their delicious foods. Ideal for the whole family, Soul Fest 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 inspirational gospel and lively music from marching bands. Visitors can enjoy a hearty feast of authentic soul food and Creole cuisine, and there are also works of art and crafts and a cultural tent for children full of educational and attractive activities. Also known simply as Jazz Fest, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is an extraordinary week-long event involving a multitude of musical artists, expert cooks and expert craftsmen who show their talent to 400,000 festival attendees. Every year, this fun show is held at the extensive Fair Grounds racecourse and several stages are set up to showcase excellent music.
Food lovers will be delighted to stroll through the gardens and try dishes from two huge sections of food featuring delicious and authentic Louisiana cuisine. With the indelible mark that jazz music has left on New Orleans, it's no surprise that the city is hosting a party called Satchmo Summerfest to celebrate the king of jazz, Louis Armstrong. A native of the city, Armstrong - nicknamed Satchmo - is a revered figure and what began in 2001 as a celebration of his 100th anniversary has turned into a joyous three-day event. This festival is full of great music such as classic and modern jazz performances, lively brass bands, an energetic parade, and special events that include a Louis Armstrong birthday party, an art show focusing on Louis Armstrong and favorite Louis Armstrong dishes. Initially called the Voodoo Music Festival, Voodoo Experience is an outrageous music event with an electrifying atmosphere. Since its creation in 1999, this festival has established itself as one of the most popular events in New Orleans.
Brimming with an exciting atmosphere, guests can listen to top-notch music from local rock bands and international artists on two central stages plus a collection of smaller venues. More than 20 countries are represented at Festival International making it one of the main multicultural events in Louisiana. Master cocktail makers from all over the world attend this event and if you love professionally prepared martinis margaritas or Tom Collins you would be foolish not to attend this event.
