FALL IS AROUND THE CORNER, and the festivals are back! Everyone loves a second chance, and the fan-favorite festivals are returning with all new schedules for 2021. Each organization is hoping that the largest number of people can enjoy their festivities, taking advantage of autumn’s cooler temperatures. Following is a jambalaya of sensory delights for your eyes, ears and tastebuds—in and outside of New Orleans. As we go to press, here’s the latest. Check the websites listed for ongoing updates and have a blast at the many festivals we’ve been anticipating.
than ever at the Westbank Bridge Park in Luling, where it’s been located since 2000. The festival, which has traditionally been the last full weekend in September, is hosted by The Rotary Club of St. Charles Parish to fundraise for college scholarships for local youth. They’ll have live alligators, ten different bands, carnival rides, Cajun cuisine, and more than 50 craft booths. The festival opens with music from Kevin Gullage and the Blues Groovers and closes out with Category 6. Try a little alligator étouffée, or jambalaya with a side of alligator. In the 40 years since the festival began, over $1 million in scholarships has been awarded. So, ‘pass a good time’ for a great cause. For more information, visit alligatorfestival.org.
The traditional zydeco band plays well into the wee hours on Friday night at the annual Sugar Cane Festival, held in New Iberia, Louisiana. 30
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photo: FUSION PHOTOGRAPHY
ALLIGATOR FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER 23-26 See you later, alligator? The organizers of this festival say they certainly hope not, as they’re coming back bigger
LOUISIANA SUGAR CANE FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER 23-26 The annual New Iberia festival is also the last week of September when the fields of sugar cane reach their pinnacle. This festival plays host to the 24 parishes that produce sugar in Louisiana. The fest, which began in 1937, is credited to a Californian named Charles Stevenson who ventured to New Iberia, loved the bayou and never left. He also realized the economic value of the sugar crops and the zest for life of the people in the sugar parishes, and decided to launch a festival honoring all of it. The festival kicks off on a Thursday with Farm Fest, held on the grounds of The Shadows on the Teche in downtown New Iberia. Live entertainment is provided by Alligator Blue, along with regional food and cocktails. It’s followed by three days of street fairs, Fais Do Do parties featuring live bands, a 4H livestock show, street fairs, tractor and candy toss parades, art and flower pageants,
photo: ZACK SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY
by Leslie Cardé
