If you’re looking for a fun time in 2024, you 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 exclusively for the grown-ups, The Pelican State has a lot to offer. Below is a list of a few festivals to consider attending this year.
Cultural Festivals
Mardi Gras
January–February 18, 2024
Mardi Gras may be a single day marking the end of lent, but in Louisiana, it’s a season. Across the state, you’ll find parades and celebrations thrown from January until Ash Wednesday dawns.
See the unique celebrations outside of New Orleans starting on February 2.
In New Orleans, the season begins on January 6 with four parades. If you aren’t in a krewe (social clubs that sponsor parades) yourself, there is probably one fit for you to join. There are krewes for fans of sci-fi (Krewe of Chewbacchus), fans of 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 for over 150 years.
See the Mardi Gras celebrations happening in New Orleans starting January 6.
New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival
April 25–May 7, 2024
New Orleans, Louisiana
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 become the festival’s primary calling card thanks to headliners like Foo Fighters, Christina Aguilera, and Red Hot Chili Peppers performing. 2024’s event will feature The Rolling Stones as its headline act.
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
July 4–July 8, 2024
New Orleans, Louisiana
essence.com/essencefestival2023 (keep an eye on that link for 2024 updates)
The Essence Festival has grown quite a bit from what was originally scheduled as a one-time event. 2024 marks its 30th anniversary. The festival remains 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 will serve up tons of tasty treats in 2024.
48th Annual Louisiana Crawfish Festival
March 21–24, 2024
Chalmette, Louisiana
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 as well. 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 toward funding various local charities including Giving Hope, Children’s Hospital, and more.
Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival
April 12–14, 2024
Ponchatoula, Louisiana
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.
74th Annual Louisiana Peach Festival
June 1, 2024
Ruston, Louisiana
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, various peach-themed events, food and art vendors, and live music.
While you’re driving across the great state of Louisiana to experience our eclectic selection of festivals, make sure that your vehicle is covered with a high-quality auto insurance policy. Get a free online quote now.