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FAIRS & FESTIVALS > BESTOFNEWORLEANS.COM > MARCH 11 > 2014
Gambit’s 2014 Fairs & Festivals Guide ouisiana festivals provide lots of entertainment bang for the buck, with most offering music, food, cultural activities and fun for the kids. Because Louisianans love to celebrate their heritage, history and talents, there’s a festival almost every week of the year, many in New Orleans or within an easy drive. There are small church fairs and internationally known events like New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, French Quarter Fest, Festival International de Louisiane in Lafayette and the Voodoo Music + Art Experience. There are festivals based on every cuisine and food Louisiana produces, as well as our music and traditions. Here is a calendar of fairs, festivals and other celebrations around the state for the rest of the year. Some events have not finalized their schedules, so check their websites for more information.
COMPILED BY Frank Etheridge, Kandace Power Graves and Jeanie Riess
14-16 — Louisiana Nursery Festival (4300 Highway 112, Forest Hill, 318-748-6300; www. louisiananurseryfestival.com) — a plant sale, yard decor, garden products, lawn and golf equipment, food booths, entertainment, a parade and carnival rides. Hours 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. Admission $18 per day, $15 in advance.
15 — Earth Fest (Audubon Zoo, 6500 Magazine St., 504-4814629; www.auduboninstitute. org/earth-fest) — The annual festival features live entertainment, food vendors and arts and crafts. Businesses, nonprofit present exhibits focusing on the environment and conservation. Hours 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free with zoo admission: $17.50 adults, $13 seniors 65 and older, $12 ages 2-12, free for members. 15 — New Orleans Sacred Music Festival (New Orleans Healing Center, 2372 St. Claude Ave., 504-940-1130; www.neworleanssacredmusicfestival.com) — The third annual Sacred Music Festival features music, food, arts and crafts, educational booths, children’s activities, a fire ceremony, Native American blessing
15 — NOLA Global Youth Festival (Louis Armstrong Park, 901 N. Rampart St., 504-994-8459; www.globalyouthfestival.com) — The festival, part of NOLA Global Youth Week, features two stages of all-youth entertainment, a health fair and healthy living expo, job fair, exhibits by outreach organizations, arts and crafts vendors and more. Hours 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Admission free. 15-16 — Frisco Fest (San Francisco Plantation, 2646 Highway 44, Garyville, 985-535-2341; www. friscofest.com) — There are more than 100 arts and crafts booths, Cajun and Creole food, a cracklin cooking contest, 5K and 1-mile runs, a car show, live music, climbing wall, bungee jump and more at the 11th annual spring festival. Hours 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission free. 19, 26 — Wednesday at the Square (Lafayette Square, 500 block of St. Charles Avenue, 504585-1500; www.wednesdayatthesquare.com) — The Wednesday
19-20 — Art in Bloom (New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins C. Diboll Circle, 504-658-4100; www. noma.org) — The centerpiece of this annual festival is floral arrangements inspired by artworks at NOMA. There also are educational programs, a luncheon, fashion show and preview party. Hours 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Wed., 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Thu. Admission varies. 19-23 — Tennessee Williams/ New Orleans Literary Festival (The Hotel Monteleone, 214 Royal St., (504) 581-1144; www. tennesseewilliams.net) — The festival honors the playwright’s works and literary life in the city he called his spiritual home. It features two days of master classes, panels, theater, food and music, not to mention writing competitions, a book fair and other parties. Hours vary. Admission varies.
21-22 — Smokin’ Blues and BBQ (Downtown Hammond, 985-9698172; www.hammondbbq.com) — The annual barbecue festival turns downtown Hammond into a meat eater’s mecca. There’s becue cook-off, which features teams cooking on-site from the wee hours in the morning till judges come around. Hours TBA. Admission free. 21-23 — Amite Oyster Festival (Downtown Amite, 985-9695340; www.amiteoysterfestival. com) — Fresh oysters on the half
lights of the menu at this annual festival, which also includes a rodeo, carnival rides, arts and crafts vendors and live music. Hours 4 p.m.-midnight Fri., 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sat., noon-5 p.m. Sun. Admission free.
21-22 — Demon Fest (Northwestern State University, Iberville Field, Natchitoches, 318-357-4398; www.knwdradio.org/demonfest) —Of Montreal headlines a music lineup of mostly indie bands from across the U.S. There also will be food, drinks and activities. Hours noon-midnight. Admission $10, free for NSU/LSMSA/BPCC students with ID.
21-23 — Louisiana Swamp Stomp (Nicholls State University, 331 Madewood Drive, Thibodaux, 985-448-4965; www.nicholls. edu/swamp-stomp) — The sixth annual festival of south Louisiana culture features three days of music, zydeco dance lessons, regional foods, history and culture presentations, arts and crafts, a carnival and a gumbo cook-off on Saturday. Hours 8:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Fri., 9:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun. Admission $10 per day, $25 weekend pass.
21-22 — School House Rock (1600 Lake Ave., Metairie, 504-833-8224; www.slkfschool.com) — School House Rock celebrates the 60th birthday of St. Louis King of France School with food, music, family games, bounce houses, a rock-climbing wall and more.
22 — Bloomin’ On the Bricks (Downtown riverbank, Natchitoches, 318-352-2746; www. natchitoches.net) — The 14th annual spring garden festival is on the riverbank in the city’s historic district. There’s a plant sale, live music, food, children’s activities
> BESTOFNEWORLEANS.COM > MARCH 11 > 2014
14 — Concerts In the Courtyard (The Historic New Orleans Collection, 533 Royal St., 504-523-4662; www.hnoc.org) — The seventh annual event offers a monthly concert featuring Louisiana musicians playing in the courtyard and three complimentary beverages (beer and wine). Hours 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Admission $10, free
and a women’s circle. A portion of proceeds benefits The New Orleans Community Outreach program to provide healing center services to vulnerable residents. Hours noon-9 p.m. Admission $20, $15 in advance.
benefit the Young Leadership Council. Hours 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Admission free.
There’s also an auction. Hours 6 p.m.-11 p.m. Fri., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sat. Admission free.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
13, 20, 27 — Thursdays at Twilight (Botanical Garden’s Pavilion of the Two Sisters, City Park, 5 Victory Ave., www. neworleanscitypark.com) — The weekly concert series features music ranging from Motown to jazz, with a different musician or group each week. Hours doors open at 5 p.m. Admission $10 adults, $3 ages 5-12.
14-16 — New Orleans Home & Garden Show (Mercedes-Benz Superdome, 1500 Sugar Bowl Drive, 835-6383; www.neworleanshomeshows.com) — The event features cooking demonstrations, arts and antiques appraisals, home and garden products, special activities and more. Hours noon-8 p.m. Fri., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun. Admission $15 adult, $8 military with ID, free ages 12
evening concert series features New Orleans musicians, food
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and vendors selling lawn and garden products, ironwork, yard art and more. Hours 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission free.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
> BESTOFNEWORLEANS.COM > MARCH 11 > 2014
22 — New Orleans International Beer Festival (Champions Square, 1 Lasalle St., 504-587-3663; www.neworleansinternationalbeerfest.com) — There’s a cask beer garden, a cider garden, beer seminar, cigar and beer pairing, live music and unlimited sampling of more than 150 craft beers. Hours 2 p.m.-6 p.m. Admission $51.10 general, $30.70 designated driver, $86.85 VIP, $40.90 VIP designated driver.
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22-23 — Congo Square New World Rhythms Festival (Louis Armstrong Park, 901 N. Rampart St., 504-558-6100; www. congosquarerhythms. com) — Featuring the music and dances of Africa, the American Gulf South and the Caribbean, the family friendly festival spotlights the cultural diversity of New Orleans. Haitian, bunk, hip-hop and brass bands will perform. Sat., 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Sun. Admission free. 23 — Dog Day Afternoon Walk-a-Thon & Festival (City Park, Big Lake Lawn, 504-762-3307; www. la-spca.org/dogday) — The event features a walk-a-thon, live music, pet-oriented vendors, food, drinks, games and more. Proceeds benefit the LA/ SPCA. Hours 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission free. 28-29 — Hogs for the Cause (New Orleans City Park Festival Grounds, 504583-5550; www.hogsforthecause.org) — The festival, which benefits pediatric brain cancer outreach programs, features music performed on two stages Saturday, food and a pork cook-off. There’s also a fundraising gala Friday (see website for details). Hours 4:45 p.m.-till Fri., 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Sat. Admission $25 per day ($15 in
advance), $75 VIP pass Fri., $100 VIP pass Sat., $150 VIP pass both days. 28-30 — Festa Italiana (Rivertown, Williams Boulevard at the Mississippi River, Kenner, 504-8303720; www.italianheritagefestival.com) — The annual Italian heritage festival features live music, a genealogical work area, a large arts and crafts market, a St. Joseph’s altar, a food and drink area and kids’ activities. Hours 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Fri., noon-10 p.m. Sat., noon-9 p.m. Sun. Admission $5, free ages 12 and younger. 28-30 — Jackson Assembly Antiques and Art Show (1740 Charter Street, Jackson, 225-634-7155; www.jacksonassemblyantiquesshow.com) — The 49th annual invitational show features antique and art dealers from throughout the South. Visitors can tour the 1840 Ellis Cottage, and lunch features home cooking. Proceeds benefit historic preservation projects. Hours 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. Admission $10, good for all three days. 29-30 — Food Fest Peters St.; 504-888-7608; www.nolafoodfest. com) — Formerly called the New Orleans Roadfeaturing four blocks of food from more than three dozen home-cooking-style restaurants from all over the country. Hours 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun. Admission free. 29-30 — Spring Arts and Crafts Festival (Oak Alley Plantation, 3645 Highway 18, Vacherie, 225-265-2151; www.oakalleyplantation. com) — The juried show includes 170 vendors from across the U.S. offering art, crafts, furniture, wellness products, pickles and jellies and more. There’s also Cajun and Creole food, pony rides and kids’ activities. Hours 9 a.m.-5
p.m. daily. Admission $5, free ages 9 and younger. 29-30 — World Championship Crawfish Etouffee Cook-off (Northwest Pavilion, 651 Samuel Drive, Eunice, 337-457-2565; www.eunice-la.com) — The 29th annual festival starts with a street dance on Second Street and moves to the Northwest Pavilion Sunday for live Cajun and zydeco music, food (including crawfish, boudin and jambalaya), arts and crafts and an etouffee cook-off. Hours 7:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. Admission free.
2, 9, 16, 23, 30 — Wednesday at the Square event description. 3, 10, 17, 24 — Thursdays at Twilight — See March 13 for event description. 3-6 — Paddle Bayou Lafourche (Various locations from Donaldsonville to Lockport, 985-447-0868; www.btnep.org) — The four-day, 52-mile boating trip goes from the headwaters of Bayou Lafourche in Donaldsonville to Lockport. The trip is sponsored by the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program and paddlers will learn about the culture, heritage and ecology of the area. Paddlers can pick what days to participate. Hours vary. Registration $30-$50 per day, $110-$190 four-day package. 4-5 — Natchitoches Jazz/ R&B Festival (Downtown riverbank, Natchitoches, 318-332-1059; www.natchjazzfest.com) — Marshall Tucker Band headlines the 19th annual festival, which also offers a variety of local and regional music including rock ’n’ roll, jazz, R&B, country and soul. There also are food and drink vendors. Hours 6 p.m.-11 p.m. Fri., noon-11 p.m. Sat. Admission $5 adults, $6 students, free ages under 12 Fri.; $10 adults,
Professional networking, cocktails and shopping await attendees at Festigals in New Orleans in June.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
4-5 — T-Bois Blues Festival (T-Bois Alligator Farm, 900 Hamilton St., Larose, 985-209-3528; www.tboisbluesfestival.com) — The overnight camping festival features performances by regional and national musicians including Anders Osborne, Luther Dickinson and Honey Island Swamp Band. There’s also NOLA Brewing craft beers, crawfish boils, Cajun cuisine, alligator farm tours and more. $110 for two days
with camping, $185 VIP with camping. 5 — Crawfest 2014 (Tulane University, 6823 St. Charles Ave., 404-310-9455; www. crawfest.tulane.edu) — The Tulane student-run music food and arts festival is held on the university’s Uptown campus. The event features more than nine tons of free boiled crawfish (and free sodas and water), live music and two dozen vendors. Hours 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Admission $10. 5 — Fete Francaise (Ecole Bilingue de la Nouvelle Orleans, 821 Gen. Pershing St., 504-896-4500; www. fetefrancaise.com) — The
15th annual event features French cuisine, live music, kids’ activities, a rockclimbing wall, pony rides and more. Hours 11 a.m.6 p.m. Admission free. 5 — Taste At the Lake (West Lakeshore Center, 135 Robert E. Lee Blvd.; www.tasteatthelake. com) — The celebration of food, wine, music and community features food from local restaurants and caterers, live music and more. Hours 6:30 p.m.9:30 p.m. Admission $35 general in advance, $100 patron in advance. 5-6 — Kite Fest Louisiane (West Baton Rouge Soccer
> BESTOFNEWORLEANS.COM > MARCH 11 > 2014
$6 students, free ages under 12 Sat.; Weekend Pass (advance only, good for both days) $12 adults, $8 students, free ages under 12.
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Complex, 3383 Rosedale Road, Port Allen, 225-344-2920; www.westbatonrouge.net) — Professional kite teams perform and there’s kiteflying for visitors, live music and fireworks at the 10th annual event. Hours 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission free. 5-6 — Art in the Pass (War Memorial Park, Pass Christian, Miss., 228452-5969; www.artinthepass.com) — The annual art festival overlooks the Gulf in Pass Christian, Miss., and features arts and crafts from more than 100 artists from 14 states as well as food and drinks. Hours 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission free.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
> BESTOFNEWORLEANS.COM > MARCH 11 > 2014
5-6 — New Orleans Spring Garden Show (New Orleans Botanical Garden, City Park, 3 Victory Ave., 504-658-2900; www.neworleanscitypark.com or www.lsuagcenter. com) — The 35th annual show features dozens of exhibitors offering plants, arts and crafts, children’s activities, and gardening and decorating ideas. There also are seminars by experts, children’s
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activities and food vendors. Hours 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission $8 adults, $4 ages 5-12, free ages 4 and under and Friends of City Park. 5-10 — Dewey Balfa Cajun and Creole Heritage Week (Vermilionville Living History Museum and Folklife Park, 300 Fisher Road, Lafayette, 337-234-8360; www. lafolkroots.org) — Balfa Week is an annual cultural event featuring classes and workshops taught by Louisiana musicians. In the evenings, there are dances with Cajun and zydeco bands. Hours vary. Admission for workshops and classes varies; $10 per day for evening dances. 10-13 — A Taste of Covington (Various locations in Covington, 504-439-2543; www.atasteofcovington.com) — The four-day food, wine, music and shopping event features nine vintner’s dinners, a grand tasting, and high-end tasting, a jazz brunch and the annual Spring for Art block party in
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Zydeco and other south Louisiana music is the focus at Louisiana Swamp Stomp in Thibodaux.
downtown Covington. Hours vary. Admission varies. 10-13 — French Quarter Festival (French Quarter; www.fqfi.org) — The 31st annual festival features almost two dozen stages for music and performances stretching from the Old U.S. Mint, throughout the French Quarter and along the Mississippi Riverfront. Each day has a full and varied music schedule, plus more than 60 food vendors offering a range of cuisines, arts and crafts and children’s activities. Hours 11 a.m.7 p.m. Thu., 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sun. Admission free. 11-13 — Bayou Teche Black Bear Festival (Main Street, Franklin, 337-940-1156; www.bayoutechbearfest.org) — Celebrating the Louisiana black bear, the festival features an art exhibit and sale, seminars, children’s activities, field trips, food vendors, live music, a raffle and a fireworks
display. Hours 5:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Fri., 10 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.6 p.m. Sun. Admission free. 11-13 — Cajun Hot Sauce Festival (SugArena, New Iberia, 337-3657539; www.sugarena.com) — The family friendly festival has hotsauce competitions, jambalaya cook-offs, live entertainment, food court, crafts and more. Hours 6 p.m.-1 a.m. Fri., 4 p.m.-1 a.m. Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun. Admission free. 11-13 — Great Louisiana Birdfest (Various locations, Northshore of Lake Pontchartrain; www. northlakenature.org)—The 18th annual event is timed to coincide with the migration of numerous bird species passing through Louisiana on their way from Mexico and South America. Hours vary. Admission $20-$60 per event. 11-13 — Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival (301 N. Sixth St., Ponchatoula, 800-917-7045; www.
lastrawberryfestival.com) — The annual festival features live music, carnival rides, art and lots of the fruit for which it’s named. There are strawberry eating contests, a strawberry auction and more. Hours 4 p.m.-10 p.m. Fri., 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Sat., noon-6 p.m. Sun. Admission free. 12 — Spring for Art (Downtown Covington, 985-892-8650; www. sttammanyartassociation.org) — More than 40 galleries present works by regional artists at this street festival, which has live music, kids’ activities, food and more. Hours 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Admission free. 16-19 — Washington Catfish Festival (Washington Festival Grounds, 143 Veterans Memorial Highway, Washington, 337826-3627) — Live zydeco, Cajun, R&B and blues are highlights of the 15th annual celebration, which also features a catfish cook-off, arts and crafts, Cajun
and Creole cuisine, antiques, exhibits and more. Hours vary. Admission $10 adults, $5 children 12 and younger. 17 — Concerts In the Courtyard — See March 14 for event description. 17-19 — Great Southern Bluegrass Event (Great Southern RV Park, 30338 Highway 21, Angie, 985-516-4680; www.greatsouthernbluegrassevent.com) — The festival features bluegrass acts staged in an indoor facility. Hours 3 p.m.-till Thu., 12:30 p.m.-till Fri.Sat. Admission $20 per day Thu.Fri., $25 Sat., $55 weekend pass, free children 12 and younger. 19 — Earth Day Festival & Green Business Expo (Louis Armstrong Park, 901 N. Rampart St., 504-4843433; www.nolaearthdayfest. wordpress.com) — Live music, food, exhibits about green businesses, arts and crafts and chil-
dren’s activities are available at this ninth annual festival. Hours 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Admission free. 23-27 — Festival International de Louisiane (444 Jefferson St., Lafayette, 337-232-8086; www. festivalinternational.com) — This community-based festival, which began in 1986, celebrates the cultural heritage of south Louisiana and is the largest outdoor, free Francophone event in the U.S. Performers from Europe, Africa, Canada and the Caribbean play music alongside Louisiana natives, and there’s also food and arts and crafts. Hours vary. Admission free. 25 — Zoo-To-Do for Kids (Audubon Zoo, 6500 Magazine St., 504861-6160; www.auduboninstitute. org) — This fundraiser is designed for kids and features music, food from local restaurants, inflatable play structures, arcade games, crafts and face painting. Patron/ sponsor tickets are available. PAGE 8
FAIRS & FESTIVALS > BESTOFNEWORLEANS.COM > MARCH 11 > 2014
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Proceeds benefit zoo construction projects. Hours 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m., early admission 5:30 p.m. Admission $25 ($20 members), $40 early admission 25-26 — Parks Cracklin’ Cook-Off (Cecile Rousseau Poche Memorial Park, 103 Periou St. Parks, 337-2301860; www.parkscracklincookoff.com) — The event combines a two-day cooking contest with live music, family activities and art scholarship awards. Hours 6 p.m.-midnight Fri., 10 a.m.-midnight Sat. Admission free.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
> BESTOFNEWORLEANS.COM > MARCH 11 > 2014
25-27 — Cajun Fest 2014 (Visitation of Our Lady School, 3520 Ames Blvd., Marrero, 504-347-2203; www.cajunfest.vol.org)— There is music and food for days at this Cajun festival on the West Bank. Hours 6 p.m.-11 p.m. Fri., 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun. Admission free.
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25-27 — Etouffee Festival (Little Flower School Grounds, 370 Main St., Arnaudville, 337-754-5912; www.johnfrancisregis. net) — The 29th annual festival features etouffee of all types, carnival rides, a cook-off, live music, a parade, silent action and car/ motorcycle/truck show. Hours 5 p.m.-midnight Friday, 11 a.m.-midnight Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. Admission free. 25-27— Italian Festival (Highway 51, in front of City Hall, Tickfaw, 985-9740565; www.theitalianfestivalorg.com)—The annual festival, which has been held in Independence for the last 40 years, celebrates Italian culture and heritage with food, live music and carnival rides. A spaghetti cook-off begins at 8 a.m. Hours vary. Admission free. 25-27 — New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (Fair Grounds Race Course, 1751 Gentilly Blvd., www. nojazzfest.com) — The 45th annual festival, held the last weekend in April and the first weekend in May,
features scores of local and international musicians and other acts that perform on stages and in tents on the horseracing course and in the grandstand. Headliners include Santana, The Avett Brothers, Robert Plant, John Hiatt and more. Hours 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Admission $70 per day, $5 ages 2-10, $55 advance (before April 24), VIP packages available. 25-27 — Spring Fair Deaux Deaux (St. Joan of Arc Church and School, 529 W. Fifth St., LaPlace, 985-652-9100) — The three-day festival features games, a kids’ stage, a gourmet dinner and other food vendors. Hours 6 p.m.-11 p.m. Fri., 1 p.m.-11 Admission free. 26-27 — Angola Prison Rodeo (Louisiana State Penitentiary, Highway 66, Angola, 225-6552415; www.angolarodeo. com) — The prison’s spring rodeo features inmates participating in rodeo events such as bull riding, wild cow milking and “Guts-n-Glory.” The rodeo features prisoner arts and crafts, jewelry, furniture and more, plus food booths, pony rides,
at 2 p.m.). Admission $15 ($20 premium seating). 27 — Allons Manger Food Festival (St. Jules Catholic Church, 7165 Highway 1, Belle Rose, 225-473-8569; www.stelizabethstjules. com) — The 29th annual festival celebrates Cajun food with crawfish, oysters, turtle, shrimp and fish dishes. Creole jambalaya and desserts are available. There also is live entertainment, children’s activities and an auction of more than 100 items. Hours 10:30 a.m.-till. Admission free.
1-4 — New Orleans
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val — See April 25-27 for event description. 1-4 — Thibodaux Firemen’s Fair and Parade (1101 Tiger Drive, Thibodaux, 985-446-3247; www. thibfiredept.org) — The event offers live music, food, carnival rides, games, children’s activities, an auction and $10,000 raffle. A parade starts at 11 a.m. Sunday. Hours 5 p.m.-11 p.m. Thu., 5 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Fri., 11 a.m.-12:30 a.m. Sat., 11 a.m.9 p.m. Sun. Admission free. 2 — Zoo-To-Do (Audubon Zoo, 6500 Magazine St., 504-861-6160; www.auduboninstitute.org) — The black-tie event features food and drinks from New Orleans restaurants, mixologists, live music and a silent auction. Hours 7 p.m.-midnight. Admission $110-$175, $85-$130 early bird, VIP tickets available. 2-4 — Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival (Parc Hardy, 2090 Rees St., Breaux Bridge, 337-3326655; www.bbcrawfest. com) — Cajun, zydeco and swamp pop music fill three stages during the three-day festival. There are accordion making tions, dance contests, crawfish prepared all ways, a crawfish race, crawfish-eating contest, crawfish etouffee cook-off, carnival rides and more. Hours 4 p.m.-midnight Fri., 10 a.m.-midnight Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. Admission $5 Fri. and Sun., $10 Sat., $15 three-day pass. 3 — Celebration of Herbs & Gardens (Marie Street, Sunset, 337-662-3542; www.sunsetherbfestival. com) — The 18th annual garden festival features native plants and flowas fresh herbs, herbal products, yard art and food. There also are kids’ activities. Hours 9 a.m.3-4 — Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival (Melrose Plantation, 3533 Highway
119, Melrose, 318-379-0055; www. aphnatchitoches.net) — More than 100 artists and craftspeople display and sell their works in the gardens of the 1800s plantation. Hours 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.-
The French Market’s Creole Tomato Festival in June offers live music and lots of Creole tomatoes.
3-4, 9-11, 16-18, 23-24 — Natchez Festival of Music (Various locations, Natchez, Miss., 601-4466631; www.natchezfestivalofmusic.com) — The festival’s signature event is a May 10 50th anniversary tribute to the Beatles coming to America. Other productions and concerts, some free, are scheduled on weekends throughout May and genres include opera, musicals, jazz, swing, big band and more. There’s also a musical wine tasting. Hours vary. Admission varies. 7, 14, 21, 28 — Wednesday at — See March 19 for event description.
10 — Dragon Boat Festival (Tchefuncte River, 403 St. Francis St., Madisonville, 416-962-8899; www. gwndragonboat.com) — Teams race dragon boats in various categories. The festival also features food, arts and crafts, demonstrations and an awards ceremony. Hours 8 a.m.-till. Admission free. 10 — Pie One On at Madewood (Madewood Plantation House, 4250 Highway 308, Napoleonville, 985-369-7151; www.madewood. com) — The Best of the Bayou pie competition includes seafood, meat and fruit categories. Hours 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission free.
11 — Mother’s Day at Audubon Zoo (6500 Magazine St., 504-5814629; www.auduboninstitute. org) — Grammy Award winner Irma Thomas headlines the event, which features a range of musical acts, food vendors, arts and crafts and children’s activities. Hours 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission free with zoo admission ($17.50 adults, $13 seniors 65 and older, $12 ages 2-12, free for members). 16 — Concerts In the Court— See March 14 for 16-18 — Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo Festival (Bayou St. John, 504-488-3865; www.thebayouboogaloo.com) — It’s the ninth year for this family-friendly music festival along the banks of Bayou St. John. There are three stages for music (including a kids’ stage), food and drink vendors, an arts market and children’s activi-
ties. Hours 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Fri., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sun. Admission free. 21-24 — New Orleans Wine & Food Experience (Various locations in New Orleans; www. nowfe.com) — The 22nd annual four-day event includes a variety of events featuring more than 1,000 wines, food from two dozen restaurant events, tastings and signature events such as Royal Street Stroll and Big Gateaux Show. A portion of proceeds benefit culinary-related charities. Hours vary. Admission varies. 22-25 — Jambalaya Festival (Irma Boulevard, Gonzales, 225647-2937; www.jambalayafestival. org) — More than 20 bands play the 47th annual festival, which features jambalaya cooking contests, a car show, carnival rides and a 5K-1 mile run. Hours n/a. Admission free. 23-25 — Greek Festival (Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 1200 Robert E. Lee Blvd., 504282-0259; www.greekfestnola. com) — The 41st annual celebraand more. Hours 5 p.m.-11 p.m. Fri., 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Sun. Admission $5; free children 12 and younger. 23-25 — Krotz Springs Sportsmen’s Heritage Festival (Nall Park, 562 Front St., Krotz Springs, 337-566-3527; www. kssportsmensheritagefestival. Atchafalaya River, celebrates the wildlife and heritage of the area with a fishing tournament, wild game cook-off, live music, food, arts and crafts and more. Hours 5:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Fri., 2 p.m.11:30 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun. Admission free. 24 — Fleur de Lis Arts & Crafts Show (Natchitoches Events Center, 750 Second St., Natchitoches, 800-259-1714; www.facebook. com/fleurdelisartsandcrafts) — The indoor arts and crafts festival offers woodworking, handcrafted pottery, jewelry, clothing, jams and jellies and more from more than 100 vendors. Hours 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission free. 25 — Zydeco Extravaganza (Evangeline Downs Event Center, 2235 Creswell Lane, Opelousas, 337-594-3137; www.zydecoextra.com) — Indoor and outdoor stages host a variety of zydeco musicians at this 28th annual festival, which also features an
amateur accordion contest, food and more. Hours noon-midnight. Admission $20, $15 advance. 25-31 — Birdfoot Festival (Various locations in New Orleans, 504-451-6578; www.birdfootfestival.org) — The third annual live chamber music festival includes rehearsals open to the public, chamber music concerts featuring local, national and international musicians and a mentoring program for high school students. Some events are free. Hours vary. Admission varies. 31-June 1 — New Orleans Oyster Festival (Woldenberg Riverfront Park, 1 Canal St., 504-888-7608; www.neworleansoysterfestival. org) — Oysters prepared every way and oyster-eating and oyster-shucking contests are highlights of the two-day festival, which offers food from almost two dozen restaurants, daiquiris, beer, cooking demonstrations, a kids’ tent and more. Hours n/a. Admission free.
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> BESTOFNEWORLEANS.COM > MARCH 11 > 2014
10 — Crawfish Mambo (University of New Orleans Lakefront Campus, The Cove, 504-280-2586; www.crawfishmambo.com) — UNO International Alumni Association hosts the crawfish cook-off, with all-you-can-eat crawfish for attendees and live music. Hours 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission $25, $20 in advance.
10-11 — Natchez Arts Festival (Downtown Natchez, Miss., 504-508-6800; www.natchezartsfestival) — The fine arts festival includes exhibits and sale of artworks, live music, dance, performing arts presentations, food, educational programs and workshops. Hours 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission free.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
8-11 — Cochon de Lait Festival (Downtown Mansura, 318-9642887; www.cochondelaitfestival. com) — Mansura calls itself “The Cochon de Lait Capital,” and the 40th annual festival features live music, Cajun food, carnival rides, arts and crafts, hog-calling contests, beer drinking contests and a street dance. Hours 5 p.m.till Thu.-Fri., 7:30 a.m.-till Sat., 9 a.m.-till Sun. Admission $7 adults, $2 children.
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The Historic New Orleans Collection opens its courtyard for drinks and performances by Louisiana musicians during its monthly Concerts in the Courtyard series.
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5-7 — Creole Tomato Festival (French Market, 1008 N. Peters St., 504-5222621; www.frenchmarket. org) — The French Market festival features food booths featuring Creole tomato in recipes, as well as cooking demonstrations, live music and kids’ activities. Hours 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Admission free. 6-7 — Cookin’ On the Cane (Downtown riverbank, Natchitoches, phone n/a; www.natchitochesjaycees.com) — The festival features barbecue contests for professionals, amateurs and kids. The event also features live entertainment, food and children’s activities. Hours n/a. Admission free. 13 — Concerts In the Courtyard — See March 14 for event description. 14-15 — Louisiana CajunZydeco Festival (Louis Armstrong Park, 901 N. Rampart St., 504-558-6100;
www.cajunzydecofest. com) — The eighth annual free festival features music including Buckwheat Zydeco and BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet, food vendors with an emphasis on shrimp, an arts market and more. Hours 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sat.-Sun. Admission free. 19-22 — FestiGals (The Hotel Monteleone, 214 Royal St., 855-452-9563; www. festigals.com) — FestiGals aims to enrich women with a host of professional networking opportunities, shopping frenzies and cocktails. Hours vary. Admission $400 for all activities, individual event prices vary. 20-22 — Louisiana Catfish Festival (St. Gertrude the Great Catholic Church, 17324 Highway 631, Des Allemands; www.louisianacatfishfestival.com) — The festival includes live music, food booths, carnival rides, games, arts and crafts, a beauty pageant
and more. Hours 5 p.m.11 p.m. Fri., 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Sat., 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Sun. Admission free. 21-22 — New Orleans Pride Festival (Washington Square Park, 700 Elysian Fields Ave., 504-418-1725; www.prideneworleans. com) — The festival features live music and a parade through the French Quarter Saturday, as well as a block party on Bourbon Street on Sunday. Hours n/a. Admission free. 26-28 — Beauregard Watermelon Festival (Beauregard Parish Fairgrounds, 506 West Drive, DeRidder, 337-463-5534) — The event offers lots of opportunities to eat watermelon, plus a watermelon eating and seed spitting contests, live music, arts and crafts and carnival rides. Hours 4 p.m.-11 p.m. Thu., 4 p.m.-midnight Fri., 10 a.m.-midnight Sat. Admission n/a. 27-28 — Louisiana Peach Festival (Downtown
Ruston, 318-255-2031; www.louisianapeachfestival.org) — There are food booths, live music, arts and crafts sales, kids’ activities, a tennis tournament, parade and more. Hours 5 p.m.-till Fri., 8 a.m.6 p.m. Sat. Admission $10 Fri., $5 Sat. (evening concert $10).
4 — Celebration on the Cane — Independence Day (Downtown riverbank, Natchitoches, 800-259-1714; www.natchitoches. net) — Live entertainment
29 — Summer Wine Festival (The Shops at Canal Place, 333 Canal St., 504-458-3528; www.facc-gc. com) — The French American Chamber of Commerce, Gulf Coast Chapter (FACC-GC) presents the 14th annual festival, which
4 — Go 4th on the River (New Orleans riverfront from the French Quarter to Spanish Plaza, www.go4thontheriver.com) — The Independence Day celebration features dueling fireworks barges on the Mississippi River staging a fireworks display to patriotic music. There’s live music at Spanish Plaza from noon to 9 p.m., when fireworks start. Hours noon-10 p.m. Admission free.
with food, desserts, wines, beer and other spirits as well as a silent action. Hours 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Admission $65, $55 in advance ($45 FACC-GC members). 30-July 4 — Erath 4th of July Celebration (Downtown Erath, 337-937-5585; www.erath4.com) — The old-fashioned street fair offers carnival rides, a barbecue cook-off, a beauty pageant, parade and fireworks. Hours n/a. Admission free.
4 — Bucktown Bash (Bucktown Marina, Old Hammond Highway facebook.com/bucktownbash) — of the shrimp fleet, live entertainment, kids’ activities, arts and crafts, food from Bucktown restaurants and more. Hours ages 12 and younger.
Admission varies. 18-19 — Natchitoches/NSU Folk Festival (Prather Coliseum, 220 S. Jefferson St., Natchitoches, 318-357-4332; www.nsula.edu/ folklife) — The 35th annual festival celebrates the multicultural folk art and heritage of the area. The event features food, music, demonstrations, dance lessons, children’s activities, cultural exhibits and the Louisiana State Fiddle Championship. Hours 5 p.m.-11 p.m. Fri., 9 a.m.-10:45 p.m. Sat. Admission varies. 18-19 — Swamp Pop Music Festival (The Lamar Dixon Expo Center, 9093 S. St. Landry Ave., Gonzales, 225-769-9994; www.swamppopmusicfest.com) — There are two days of indoor music performances spotlighting swamp pop and south Louisiana music. There’s also a jambalaya cook-off, a car and truck show, motorcycle poker run and more. Hours 5 p.m.-
1-3 — Satchmo SummerFest (Old U.S. Mint, 400 Esplanade Ave., 504-522-5730; www.fqfi.org) — See July 31 for event description. 2 — White Linen Night (900 Camp St., 504-528-3805; www. cacno.org) — White Linen Night takes place in five blocks of Julia Street and is attended by about 40,000 people (many dressed in white). There’s live music, food and drinks, but the real draw is the art; more than 20 galleries and museums open their doors for revelers. Hours 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Admission free. 13-17 — Delcambre Shrimp Festival (411 Richard St., Delcambre, 337-685-2653; www. shrimpfestival.net) — The festival honors the shrimping industry with a blessing of the shrimp carnival rides, boat parades, a food court and more. Hours vary. Admission varies. 15-17 — Southern Sportsman’s Festival & Expo (Alario Center, 2000 Signette Blvd., Westwego, 504-835-6383; www.southernsportsmansfestival.com) — The event celebrates the Southern sportsman at the expo, which features product demos, seminars, family-friendly activities, regional music and food. Hours n/a. Admission n/a. 23 — Drake Salt Works Festival & Trail Ride (Downtown Goldonna, phone n/a; www.natchitoches.net) — The festival offers food, live music, children’s activities, volleyball, a treasure hunt, a parade and a trail ride. Hours n/a. Admission free. 29-30 — Cane River Zydeco Festival & Poker Run (Downtown bank of Cane River, Natchitoches,
midnight Sat. Admission free Fri., $7 Sat. 29-Sept. 1 — Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival (Downtown Morgan City, 985-385org) — Held in Morgan City’s
and arts and crafts. Hours vary. 30 — Original Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Music Festival (Zydeco Festival Park, 457 Zydeco Road, off Highway 167 N., Plaisance, 337-232-7672 or 337-942-2392; www.zydeco. celebration of zydeco. Musical offerings also include swamp pop, Cajun and Southern soul, and there’s food and more. Hours 11 a.m.-till. Admission $15 adults, $5
1 — Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival — See Aug. 29 listing for details. 12 — Scales and Ales (Audubon Aquarium of the America, 1 Canal St., 504-861-5107; www.auduboninstitute.org) — The adults-only event feature food and beverages from local restaurants and mixologists, as well as live music and a raffle. Hours 7 p.m.-midnight. Admission $45-$100. 19 — Martini Madness (Arbor Room at Popp Fountain, City friendsofcitypark.com) — The 11th annual event features food, more than two-dozen martini stations, music and more. Hours 7 p.m.-11 p.m. Admission $50, $35 for Friends of City Park. 19-20 — Natchitoches Meat Pie Festival (Downtown riverbank, Natchitoches, phone n/a; www. meatpiefestival.com) — The festival celebrates the meat pie as well as other cuisines. There’s live music, a 5K fun run along Cane River, children’s activities and more. Hours 5 p.m.-11 p.m. Fri.,
19-29 — Marthaville Good Ole Days Festival (Downtown Marthaville; www.natchitoches. net) — The city of Marthaville celebrate times past with gospel singing, live music, a parade, food and arts and crafts. Hours 9 a.m.5 p.m. Admission free. 20 — Cajun French Music Festival (Cyr Gates Community Center, 300 Parkview Drive, New Iberia, 337-364-7975) — The one-day event features live Cajun music, dancing, food, a raffle and more. Hours n/a. Admission n/a. 24-28 — Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival (Various locations, New Iberia, 337-369-9323; www.hisugar.org) — The festival celebrates rades, fais-do-do, sugar cookery, photography and art competitions, exhibits and more. Hours 26-27 — Bogalusa Blues & Heritage Festival (Cassidy Park, 129 Ben Miller Drive, Bogalusa, 985-205-1075; www.bogalusablues.com) — The two-day outdoor festival features regional music, food, arts and crafts and kids’ activities. Hours 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Admission $10, free children 12 and younger. 26-27 — Great Southern Fall Bluegrass Festival (Great Southern RV Park, 30338 Highway 21, Angie, 985-516-4680; www. greatsouthernbluegrassevent. com) — The festival features bluegrass acts staged in an indoor facility. Hours 3 p.m.-till Thu., $20 per day Thu.-Fri., $25 Sat., $55 weekend pass, free children 12 and younger. 26-28 — Cut Off Youth Center Hurricane Festival (Cut Off Youth Center, 205 W. 79th St., Cut Off, 985-632-7616; www.cutoffyouthcenter.org) — The festival features live music, Cajun food, arts and crafts, carnival rides, games and an auction. Hours 5:30 p.m.-1 a.m. Fri., 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Sat., 10:30 a.m.27 — Germantown Bluegrass Festival (Germantown Colony Museum, 121 Museum Road, Minden, 318-377-2508) — The festival features bluegrass music, crafts Admission free.
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3-6 — Essence Music Festival — (Various locations in New Orleans, www.essence.com/festival) — The 20th annual festival features Prince, Mary J. Blige, Lionel Richie and a host of other local and international musicians playing in the Superdome nightly. There also are empowerment seminars and activities at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and elsewhere. Hours vary. Admission varies.
16-20 — Tales of the Cocktail (Various locations, 504-9480511; www.talesofthecocktail. com) — The New Orleans Culinary and Cocktail Preservation Society presents the 12th annual cocktail-centric event, which offers parties, cocktail dinners, new products, competitions,
31-Aug. 3 — Satchmo SummerFest (Old U.S. Mint, 400 Esplanade Ave., 504-522-5730; www.fqfi.org) The 14th annual festival celebrating Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong offers performances by contemporary and traditional jazz artists and brass bands, seminars, New Orleans cuisine and more. Hours vary. Admission free.
318-471-9960; www.natchitoches. net) — There’s live zydeco music, a dance contest, food, motorcycle games and a poker run. Hours
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
3 — Uncle Sam Jam (Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd., Metairie, 504-838-4389; www.experiencejefferson.com) — The event features DJs in the afternoon and live bands in the evening, with a fireworks display at 9 p.m. There also are food and drink vendors. Hours 3 p.m.-9 p.m. Admission free.
5 — Lebeau Zydeco Festival (Immaculate Conception Church, 103 Lebeau Church Road, Lebeau, 337-623-0303; www.lebeauchurch.org) — The 24th annual festival features several zydeco bands, backbone dinners, dancing and food. Hours 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission $12, $6 children.
midnight Fri., noon-11:30 p.m. Sat. Admission $10 Fri., $15 Sat.
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27-Oct. 5 — West Louisiana Forestry Festival and Fair (Vernon Parish Fairgrounds, 276 H.M. Stevens Blvd., Leesville, 337-238-0647; www. facebook.com/forestryfestival) — There are carnival rides, food, live music,
german coast farmers’ market saturday mornings in Destrehan
8 a.m.-12 Noon Ormond Plantation in Destrehan
wednesday afternoons in Luling
2:30 p.m.- 6 p.m. Highway 90 in Luling visit our website to sign up for our e-newsletter & to check out our events calendar + local recipes!
and demonstrations, cooking and crafts contests, 108th annual event. Hours vary. Admission $3 adults, $2 students, free ages 5 and younger.
1-5 — Tangipahoa Parish Fair (Tangipahoa Fair Grounds, 400 Reid Ave., Amite, 985-969-6403) — The festival celebrates the culture of Tangipahoa with carnival rides, live music, dance competitions and a parade. There’s also a livestock show, beauty pageant and gumbo cookoff. Hours 11 a.m.-midnight. Admission free. 1-5 — West Louisiana Forestry Festival and Fair event description. 3-4 — Robeline Heritage Festival (El Camino Real, Highway 6, Robeline, 318663-4137; www.robelineheritage.org) — The 23rd annual festival features gospel and other live music, food, arts and crafts and more. Friday night focuses on young people, with a hayride, wiener roast and games. Hours 5 p.m.-till Fri., 10 a.m.-till Sat. Admission free.
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3-5 — Gretna Heritage Festival (Downtown Gretna, 504-361-7748; www.gretnafest.com) — There are several stages of music ranging from rock ’n’ roll to jazz, as well as arts and crafts, food vendors, a German beer garden and other activities. Hours 3 Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun. Admission $20 per day, $15 in advance; $50 weekend
pass, $40 in advance; free ages 12 and younger. 3-5 — Tour du Teche (Port Barre public boat launch, 337-789-0319; www.tourduteche.com) — The fifth annual race for canoes, kayaks and pirogues stretches 135 miles from Port Barre to Berwick. Hours 6:30 a.m.-till. Admission varies by race. 5, 12, 19 and 26 — Angola Prison Rodeo (Louisiana State Penitentiary, Highway 66, Angola, 225-6552030; www.angolarodeo. com) — The prison’s fall rodeo features inmates participating in rodeo events such as bull riding, wild cow milking and “Guts-n-Glory.” The rodeo features prisoner arts and crafts, jewelry, furniture and more, plus food booths, pony rides, Space Walks, a carousel and carnival games. Hours 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (rodeo starts ($20 premium seating). 5 — Sugar Fest (West Baton Rouge Museum, 845 N. Jefferson Ave., Port Allen, 225-336-2422; www.westbatonrougemuseum.com) — The 19th annual festival celebrates the sugar cane harvest with live Louisiana music, food, craft demonstrations, sugar grinding, wagon rides, a petting zoo, sweets cooking contests and more. Hours 11 a.m.9-11 — Atchafalaya Catfish Festival (Melville Civic Center Grounds, 1105 First St., Melville, 337-623-4226) — Catfish — fried, grilled, blackened, court bouillon and more — is the star of the 12th annual festival, which also includes three days of live music, food, carnival rides and more. There’s a parade downtown at 10 a.m. Saturday. Hours 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Thu.-Fri., 1 p.m.-10 p.m. Sat. Admission free. 10-12 — Bucktown Seafood Festival (1600 Lake
Ave., Metairie, 504-8338224; www.slkfschool. com)—The seafood festival features live bands, class performances from the St. Louis King of France School, rides and, of course, seafood. Hours p.m.-6 p.m.) Fri., 11 a.m.Sun. Admission free. 10-12 — Festivals Acadiens et Creoles (Girard Park, Lafayette, 337-2323737; www.festivalsacadiensetcreoles.com) — The annual festival pays tribute to south Louisiana cultures with live Cajun and zydeco music, authentic cuisine, cooking demonstrations, Louisiana crafts and kids’ activities. Hours 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Fri., 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Sat., 10:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sun. Admission free. 10-12 — World Championship Gumbo Cook-Off (100 W. Main St., New Iberia, 337-364-1836; www.iberiachamber.org/gumbo-cookoff) — The family-friendly food festival features a Battle of the Rouxs cooking competition, live music, a 5K run and more. Hours 10 a.m.-till. Admission free. 11 — Fall for Art (Downtown Covington, 985-892-8650; www.sttammanyartassociation.org) — More in this street festival, which offers live music, kids’ activities, food and more. Hours 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Admission free. 11-12 — Fall Garden Show (New Orleans Botanical Garden, City Park, 5 Vicwww.neworleanscitypark. com/garden) — The twoday garden show features plant sales, garden displays, speakers, kids’ activities, food, horticulture experts, arts and crafts and lawn and garden products. Hours 10 a.m.-5 p.m daily. Admission $8 adults, $4 ages 5-12, free children 5 and younger and Friends
11-12 — St. Augustine Church Fair (2262 Highway 484, Natchez, 318379-2521; www.diocesealex.org) — St. Augustine meat pies, hot tamales, Creole gumbo and roast turkey dinners are the highlights of the annual festival, but there’s also a 5K-1 mile run on Cane River Lake, live entertainment, games, cultural exhibits, a cake walk and arts and crafts. Hours 9 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Sat., 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun. Admission free. 12 — Celebracion Latina (Audubon Zoo, 6500 Magazine St., 504581-4629; www.auduboninstitute. org) — The festival explores Latin American culture with music, food and activities. Hours 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free with zoo admission ($17.50 adults, $13 seniors for members).
18-19 — Secret Gardens of the Vieux Carre (1000 Bourbon St., 504-529-9755, www.patioplanters.org)—The Patio Planters sponsor a tour of seven gardens on Saturday and seven more on Sunday. Hours noon-4 p.m. Admission $20 per day, children free. 24-25 — Ghost in the Oaks (City Park, 1 Palm Drive, 504-483-9376; www.neworleanscitypark.com — The two-night Halloween event features unlimited amusement park rides, trick-or-treating in Storyland, a pumpkin patch, arts and crafts, music and children’s activities. Hours 7 p.m.-10 p.m. (6 p.m. early admission). Admission $15 general, $12 for Friends of City Park, $20 early admission. 25 — Harvest Moon Fest (Main Street, Franklin, 337-828-3706; www.franklinharvestmoonfest. com) — The 15th annual festi-
17-19 — Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival (Lafayette Square Park, 540 St. Charles Ave., 504-5586100; www.crescentcitybluesfest. com) — The ninth annual festival offers a wide range of barbecue styles, two stages of music
25 — Rougarou Fest (Waterlife Museum, 7910 W. Park Ave., Houma, 985-580-7289; www. facebook.com/rougaroufest or www.rougaroufest.org) — The festival celebrates the folklore of southeast Louisiana with food, art and a fun-run complete with zombies and swamp monsters. Proceeds benefit the South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center, which aims to restore the coast through education. Hours 10 a.m.10 p.m. Admission free.
Admission free. 18 — Caddo-Adai Pow Wow (4460 Highway 485, Robeline, 318-472-1007; www.adaiindiannation.com) — The annual gathering celebrates Native American heritage with drummers, dancers and storytelling. There also are food vendors, traditional arts and crafts, jewelry and more. Hours
motorcycle show, a barbecue cook-off, live music, children’s activities and special retail promotions. Hours 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission free.
25 — Sweet Dough Pie Festival (St. Charles Catholic Church, 174 Church St., Grand Coteau, 337662-3058; www.sweetdoughgc. com) — Live music, blacksmith demonstrations, a pie contest and 50 arts and crafts and other
vendors participate in the third annual festival celebrating the culture and history of Grand Coteau. Hours 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission free. 25-26 — Fall Arts and Crafts Festival (Oak Alley Plantation, 3645 Highway 18, Vacherie, 225265-2151; www.oakalleyplantation. com) — The juried show includes 170 vendors from across the U.S. offering art, crafts, furniture, wellness products, pickles and jellies and more. There’s also Cajun and Creole food, pony rides, kids’ activities, a Civil War encampment site and more. Hours 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission $5, free ages 9 and younger. 25-Jan. 25, 2015 — Prospect.3: Notes for Now (Various locations around New Orleans, 212-6805305; www.prospectneworleans. org) — The third installment of Prospect New Orleans features about 40 local and international artists whose works will be exhibited at three dozen locations including public spaces. Hours vary. Admission free. 31-Nov. 1 — Swamp Pop Music Fest (Hidden Oaks Family Campground, 21544 Highway 190 E., Hammond, 985-345-9244; www. hiddenoaksfamilycampground.
com) — The two-day festival focuses on swamp pop and Louisiana musicians and also offers arts and crafts, food and more. Hours 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Admission $15 adults, $10 children. 31-Nov. 1 — Voodoo Music + Art Experience (City Park, 877-5697767; www.worshipthemusic. com) — The festival presents a variety of musical performances in a range of genres, as well as food booths and an arts market. The 2014 music lineup has not been announced. Hours TBA. Admission TBA. 31-Nov. 2 — Holy Ghost Creole Bazaar and Festival (Holy Ghost Catholic Church, 747 N. Union St., Opelousas, 337-942-2732; www. hgcatholic.org) — Zydeco music and Creole cuisine are highlighted at the 22nd annual festival, which includes a gospel choir concert, a parade, raffles, games and more. Hours 8 p.m.-midnight Fri., 10 a.m.till Sat.-Sun. Admission free. 31-Nov. 2 — Ponchatoula’s Antique Trade Days and Arts and Crafts Fair (160 S.E. Railroad Ave., Ponchatoula, 985-386-0026; www.ponchatoulachamber.com) — More than 125 vendors sell art and crafts at this biannual festival. There’s also food and
All month — Prospect.3: — See Oct. 25 1 — Asian Pacific American Society Festival (Audubon Zoo, 6500 Magazine St., 504-5814629; www.auduboninstitute. org) — This Asian heritage event features live entertainment, Asian cuisine and costumed performers. Hours 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free with zoo admission ($17.50 adults, $13 seniors 65 and older, $12 ages 2-12, free for members). 1 — Voodoo Music + Art Experience — See Oct. 31 for 1-2 — Giant Omelette Celebration (Magdaline Square, downwww.giantomelette.org) — The music, food, arts and crafts, kids’ activities and antique farm equip5,000 egg omelet. Hours 9 a.m.Admission free.
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17-18, 24-25 — Boo at the Zoo (Audubon Zoo, 6500 Magazine St., 504-581-4629; www.auduboninstitute.org) — The Halloween celebration for children 12 and younger features a haunted house, entertainment, train rides, games and prizes. Hours 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Admission $17, free for children under 1.
arts market. Hours 5:30 p.m.-8:30
Learn to do things the traditional way with demonstrations during the Natchitoches Folk Festival in July.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
14 — Art for Arts’ Sake (Various locations, 504-528-3805; www. cacno.org) — The Contemporary Arts Center hosts this citywide event that marks the opening of the visual arts season in New Orleans. The event takes place at a variety of art galleries in the city, with music, gallery exhibits, food and drink. Hours 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Admission free.
18-19 — Old Farmers Day and Horse Pulling Contest (56136 Loranger Road, 985-878-2360; www.oldfarmersday.com)— Festival goers go back in time to pioneering days, with lard cooking and cracklin’ making. There’s also cane grinding and cooking over a campfire, along with country music, pony rides and more nostalgic crafts. Hours 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. Admission $10 adults, $7 ages 6-12, free ages 5 and younger.
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a t
c i t y
p a r k
BY MEGAN BR ADEN-PERRY The area’s regular monthly arts markets often offer food, entertainment and kids’ activities, making them festive events in their own rights. Here are some in the area:
ARTS MARKET OF NEW ORLEANS
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
> BESTOFNEWORLEANS.COM > MARCH 11 > 2014
(Palmer Park, corner of South Carrollton and South Claiborne avenues; www.artscouncilofneworleans.org) — On the last Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the market showcases local and regional art of all kinds from 75 to 135 artisans. There’s food, drinks, entertainment and kids’ activities.
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COVINGTON ART MARKET (Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire St., Covington, 985-892-8650; www.sttammanyartassociation.org) — Southeast Louisiana artisans sell all types of crafts from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at this first Saturday of the month market that runs from March through May and again from October through December.
FRERET MARKET (Freret Street between Napoleon and Jefferson avenues; www.freretmarket.org) — In addition to 200 vendors selling art, gifts and prepared and fresh foods, there’s a kids’ activity area, pet adoptions and five stages of live music. The market is held from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on the first Saturday of every month except July and August.
OCH ART MARKET (1618 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., 985-250-0278; www.ochartmarket.com) — On second Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the seasonally themed market has art, food and drinks for sale. There’s also entertainment and information booths.
PIETY STREET MARKET (612 Piety St., 504-269-3982; www.612piety.com) — More than 40 vendors sell crafts, art and vintage goods from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at this second Saturday market. There’s also food, beer and live music.
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1-2 — Holy Ghost Creole Bazaar and Festival — See Oct. 31 for event description. 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 28-30 — Louisiana Renaissance Festival (46468 River Road, 985-429-9992; www.larf.org) — Designed to represent the 16th century, the Renaissance Festival has food and shopping alongside educational demonstrations of how life was once lived. Hours 9:45 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission varies. 1-2 — Ponchatoula’s AnCrafts Fair — See Oct. 31 for
6-9 — Port Barre Cracklin Festival (Veterans Park, 504 Sazian Ave., Port Barre, 337-308-1245; www.portbarrecracklinfestival. com) — There’s live music, carnival rides, food, a beauty pageant and more. Hours 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Thu., 5 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Fri., noon-11:30 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.-till Sun. Admission $5, free ages 10 and younger. 7 — Boudin, Bourbon & Beer (504-212-2222; www.boudinbourbonandbeer.com) — The outdoor food and music event offers dozens of chefs’ takes on sausage, craft beers, specialty bourbon cocktails, fine wines and Cajun and bluegrass music. Proceeds benefit the Emeril Lagasse Foundation. Hours TBA. Admission TBA.
22 — 2nd District Blues Fest (Palmer Park, Carrollton and Claiborne avenues, 504-628-8189; www.magazinestreetbluesfest. com) — Formerly called the Magazine Street Blues Festival, the sixth annual event features
more than 100 vendors. Hours 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission free.
Eve, Christmas, New Year’s Eve (and New Year’s Day).
29-Dec. 31 — Celebration in the Oaks (City Park, 1 Palm Drive, 504-483-9415; www.celebrationintheoaks.com) — The festival of lights draws about 165,000 people who walk through City Park to see the lights displays. There’s also a carousel and train ride. Hours 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Sun.-Thu., 6 p.m.-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Admission $8.
Dec. 5-7 — Plaquemines Parish Fair & Orange Festival (Fort Jackson, Buras; www.orangefestival. com) — The 68th annual festival features seafood, oranges, arts and crafts, live music, chidlren’s activities, carnival rides and a 5K run. There also are contests in orange peeling and eating, shrimp peeling and de-heading, catfish skinning, oyster shucking and duck calling. Hours TBA. Admission free.
All month — Celebration in — See Nov. 29 for
6 — Christmas Bonfire Party (Oak Alley Plantation, 3645 Highway 18, Vacherie, 225-265-2151; www.oakalleyplantation.com) — The annual celebration includes food, dance music, and a bandled procession to the levee for the lighting of the bonfire. Hours 7 p.m.-midnight. Admission $13. 6 — Christmas Festival (Downtown Natchitoches, 318-652-7078; www.natchitocheschristmas. com) — The event features a parade, fireworks, games, live entertainment, food and more. Hours 6:30 p.m.-till. Admission $8 adults, $5 ages 6-11, free ages 5 and younger; advance tickets $6 adults, $4 ages 6-11, free ages 5 and younger. 6 — Le Feu et L’Eau (Fire and Water) Festival — (NUNU Arts and Culture Collective, 1510 Bayou Courtableu Highway, Arnaudville, 337-453-3307; www.fireandwaterfestival.org) — The daylong festival showcases French culture and the creative talent of Acadiana. The event features a wide variety of artists and performers spanning a range of disciplines and genres. Hours 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Admission free.
Antiques and art from dealers around the South are highlights of the Jackson Assembly Antiques and Art Show in March.
duck race and a car show. Hours n/a. Admission free. 8-9 — Treme Creole Gumbo Festival (Louis Armstrong Park, 901 N. Rampart St., 504-558-6100; www.tremegumbofest.com) — The seventh annual festival -
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cooking contest. Hours 11 a.m.7:30 p.m. Sat.-Sun. Admission free.
live music, food vendors, a kids area, arts and crafts and more. Proceeds benefit New Orleans Police Department’s 2nd District. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Admission free. 29 — Fleur de Lis Arts & Crafts Show (Natchitoches Events Center, 750 Second St., Natchitoches, 800-259-1714; www.facebook. com/fleurdelisartsandcrafts) — The indoor arts and crafts festival offers woodworking, handcrafted pottery, jewelry, clothing, jams and jellies and more from
All month — Prospect.3: — See Oct. 25 5-Dec. 31 — Holiday In the Park (Lafreniere Park, 504-838-4389; www.lafrenierepark.org) — Drive or walk through the light displays, see Christmas characters such a Santa and Rudolph, ride a carousel, decorate an ornament to hang on a tree. Food available. Hours dusk-9:45 p.m. Sun.-Thu., dusk-11:30 p.m. Sat.-Sun. Admission $3 per car, free Christmas
6-7 — Louisiana Renais— see Nov. 1 for event description. 21 — Caroling in Jackson Square and Holiday Home Tour of the Vieux Carre (1000 Bourbon St., Suite 270, 504-529-9755; www. patioplanters.org) — The public is invited to Jackson Square to sing Christmas carols. There’s also a self-guided walking tour of historic private homes in the French Quarter, hosted by the Patio Planters. Hours 1 p.m.-4 p.m. tour, 7 p.m. caroling. Admission $20 for tour, children are free; caroling free.
> BESTOFNEWORLEANS.COM > MARCH 11 > 2014
6-8 — Rayne Frog Festival (Frog Festival Grounds, Rayne, 337-3342332; www.raynefrogfestival. com) — This celebration of the hopping amphibian is the 42nd annual festival and features frog races, frog jumping contests, food, family-friendly entertainment and more. Hours 5 p.m.midnight Thu.-Fri., 9 a.m.-midnight Sat. Admission free.
8 — Thibodeauxville Fall Festival (Downtown Thibodaux, 985-4461187; www.thibodauxchamber. com) — Three stages are set up for music performances in the historic downtown and there are more than 200 arts and crafts vendors and more than two dozen food booths, as well as a
19-23 — New Orleans Fringe Festival (Various locations in New Orleans, 504-941-3640; www.nofringe.org) — The festival features original theater performances at unusual and repurposed spaces. More than 70 groups present more than 300 performances in circus arts, puppetry, dance, musical theater, comedy, drama and more. Hours vary. Tickets $8 per show, $40 for six-show pass, $99 all-access pass.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
5-9 — Ladyfest New Orleans (Various locations in New Orleans, 504-949-3001; www. ladyfestneworleans.org) — The festival aims to celebrate and encourage the artistic and activist endeavors of women in New Orleans and features music, art, poetry, theater and more. Proceeds benefit local organizations that support the education and advancement of women. Hours TBA. Admission TBA.
8 — Patio Planters White Elephant Sale and Auction (1000 Bourbon St., Suite 270, 504-529-9755; www.patioplanters.org) — This garden sale and auction features prizes and gift certificates from businesses in the French Quarter. Proceeds benefit the Caroling in Jackson Square event. Hours 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission free.
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How Will You Spin
Your night in the
FRENCH
QUARTER? For 64 years, the best French Quarter experiences have centered around the famous Carousel Bar & Lounge. Live music. Gorgeous views of Royal Street. And the Carousel itself — where characters like Capote, Hemingway, and Tennessee Williams spun their evenings, and their stories.
214 royal street, new orleans, la
in Hotel Monteleone, new orleans • http://hotelmonteleone.com/carouselbarentertainment