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Louisiana Festival Calendar

Anyone looking for a fun time in 2023 needn’t venture too far, as Louisiana plays host to some of the country’s biggest and best festivals. Whether you’re searching for good food, great music, family fun, or something for the grown-ups, Louisiana has a lot to offer. If you aren’t sure where to go or what to do, below is a list of a few festivals to consider attending this year. 

Cultural Festivals

Mardi Gras

January-February 21, 2023

Instead of a single day that marks the end of Lent, Mardi Gras in Louisiana is a season. Across the state, parades and celebrations are thrown starting in January and last until Ash Wednesday dawns.

See the unique celebrations outside of New Orleans starting on February 10.

In New Orleans, the season will begin on January 6 with four parades. If you aren’t in a krewe (social clubs that sponsor parades) yourself, there is likely one fit for you. There are krewes for fans of sci-fi (Krewe of Chewbacchus), dogs (Krewe du Pooch), women (Krewe of Pandora), and many more.

Most people’s idea of a Mardi Gras parade stems from the famed Krewe of Rex Parade. This krewe lays claim to the traditional colors of green, gold, and purple and recently had its 150th anniversary.

See the Mardi Gras celebrations happening in New Orleans starting January 6.

New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival

April 28–May 7, 2023

New Orleans, Louisiana
nojazzfest.com

The festival locally known as Jazz Fest is among the biggest cultural events in the state, attracting visitors from across the globe. Live music has largely become the festival’s main calling card due to headliners like Foo Fighters, Christina Aguilera, and Red Hot Chili Peppers performing at past events.

While Jazz Fest is world-renowned for its celebration of music, it also gathers thousands of artists of all types. Those wanting more than the good tunes will find talented artists showcasing their skills and craftsmanship in food, leather goods, jewelry, metal works, and much more during the festival’s ten days. 

Essence Festival of Culture

June 29–July 3, 2022

New Orleans, Louisiana
essence.com/essencefestival2023

Originally started as a one-time event in 1995, Essence Festival has grown quite a bit over the last 28 years. The festival is now the largest African-American cultural and music event in the country, boasting an annual attendance of over 500,000. Essence Fest features an impressive musical lineup with some of the biggest names in soul, jazz, hip-hop, and R&B. Beyond the outstanding music on tap, the festival offers experiences focusing on food, films, and fitness to name just a few.

Food Festivals

The culinary culture of Louisiana is known worldwide, and our state serves up tons of options for all tastes in 2023.

47th Annual Louisiana Crawfish Festival

March 23–26, 2023

Chalmette, Louisiana
louisianacrawfishfestival.com

The crawfish almost acts as a state mascot, and this festival does a fantastic job highlighting Louisiana’s favorite crustacean. Like most festivals, food isn’t the only thing on the menu, there’s live music and carnival rides. The Louisiana Crawfish Festival is not only a good time for the whole family, but a generous time. A large portion of the proceeds goes towards funding various local charities.

Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival 

April 14–16, 2023
Ponchatoula, Louisiana
lastrawberryfestival.com

For families looking for some fruity fun off the beaten path, there’s the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival. Billed as “the strawberry capital of the world,” Ponchatoula is home to Louisiana’s largest free harvest festival. There are booths that feature various strawberry-based treats, live music, and a parade that runs through downtown. Those up to the challenge should come hungry for the annual strawberry eating contest.

73rd Annual Louisiana Peach Festival

June 3, 2023

Ruston, Louisiana
lapeachfest.com

If you’re a fan of furrier fruit, the Louisiana Peach Festival has you covered. The annual event takes place in charming downtown Ruston, and unlike the previously listed festivals, Peach Fest is only one day. Despite the limited time in comparison, it’s still jammed with plenty of things to do for a fun-filled day with friends and family. The festival includes loads of kid’s activities, a variety of peach-themed events, food and art vendors, and live music. 


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