Attend Louisiana Spring Festivals | Comfort Suites, Monroe

When spring comes near, the hustle-bustle begins in Louisiana for major events and festivals. Louisiana blooms with the weather, with a curation of events in different regions celebrating one thing or another. From food to culture and world-class music, Louisiana spring festivals are a must-attend. So, this year, if you’re on a break and need to go revitalize, we’d love to recommend you these one-of-a-kind events where fun, beauty, and excitement are wrapped together.  

Just make reservations in advance at Comfort Suites in Monroe, Louisiana, and then embark on festivities around Louisiana. Experience spring like never before at the extensive list of spring events in Louisiana history in this guide.

Louisiana’s Diverse Festival Landscape

Spring in Louisiana is packed with festivals that cater to various interests. Whether it’s food, music, or historical traditions, the state has something for everyone. Here’s a look at some of the most iconic spring festivals that bring Louisiana’s culture to life.

• French Quarter Festival

The French Quarter Festival in New Orleans is one of the largest free music festivals in the South. This four-day event features hundreds of local musicians performing on multiple stages throughout the historic French Quarter. 

There are three signature events to attend in this festival: French Quarter Festival, Satchmo SummerFest, and Holidays New Orleans Style. Attendees get a taste of authentic Louisiana music, ranging from jazz and blues to Cajun and zydeco.

Apart from music, the festival is also known for its food offerings. More than 60 restaurants in New Orleans participate, serving signature dishes such as jambalaya, gumbo, and crawfish étouffée. 

For history lovers, the festival provides a deep dive into events in Louisiana history, as the French Quarter is one of the oldest and most historically significant districts in the state.

1. Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival

Springtime in Louisiana is synonymous with strawberries, and the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival is a celebration of this delicious fruit. Held in Ponchatoula at Ponchatoula’s Memorial Park and North Sixth Street, this festival features live music, amusement rides, parades, and endless strawberry-themed treats.

Visitors can indulge in strawberry shortcakes, strawberry daiquiris, and even deep-fried strawberries. It’s a paradise for food lovers and an essential stop for anyone interested in food festivals in Louisiana. You can plan an exceptional weekend getaway and participate in this festival.

2. Festival International de Louisiane

Lafayette’s Festival International de Louisiane is one of the most significant cultural events in Louisiana, bringing together artists from around the world. This five-day event celebrates the state’s Francophone heritage, with music, art, and dance performances reflecting the influence of French, Caribbean, and African cultures.

Beyond music and dance, visitors can explore art exhibits, taste international cuisine, and participate in workshops that showcase Louisiana’s Creole and Cajun traditions.

3. Crawfish Festival

No Louisiana spring festival season is complete without celebrating crawfish. The Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival is a mecca for seafood lovers, where thousands of pounds of fresh crawfish are served in various styles—boiled, fried, and even in etouffée.

Live Cajun and zydeco music set the tone for a lively atmosphere, where visitors can dance, enjoy Louisiana delicacies, and learn about the deep-rooted traditions of Cajun country. This is one of the premier food festivals in Louisiana, attracting visitors from across the nation.

4. New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

Affectionately called Jazz Fest, this festival is one of the biggest music festivals in the world. Held at the Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans, the festival showcases world-class jazz, blues, gospel, and R&B performances.

In addition to the legendary music lineup, Jazz Fest also features cultural exhibits, showcasing events in Louisiana history through crafts, storytelling, and interactive experiences. The festival is also known for its incredible food, with stalls offering everything from beignets to cochon de lait po’boys.

Experiencing Louisiana’s Culinary Delights

Louisiana’s spring festivals wouldn’t be complete without their culinary offerings. These festivals are the best places to sample authentic Creole and Cajun cuisine while discovering unique regional flavors.

• Jambalaya Festival (Gonzales, LA) – A festival dedicated to Louisiana’s signature dish, featuring cook-offs and tastings.
• NOLA Crawfish Festival – Another crawfish-focused festival that brings together live music, top chefs, and spicy boiled crawfish.
• Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival – The world’s largest celebration of crawfish, with cooking demonstrations and tastings.

These food festivals in Louisiana are a paradise for food lovers who want to indulge in some of the best flavors the state has to offer.
 

The Cultural and Historical Significance

Many of these spring festivals go beyond entertainment, serving as platforms to celebrate Louisiana’s heritage. Cultural events in Louisiana often include educational exhibits, reenactments, and guided tours that help attendees understand the state’s historical influences.

For example, the Festival International de Louisiane highlights the state’s deep connection to French and Acadian culture, while the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival pays tribute to the African American musicians who shaped jazz music. The French Quarter Festival, set in the heart of one of the oldest neighborhoods in the US, gives attendees a glimpse into events in Louisiana history that have shaped the state’s unique identity.
 

Conclusion

Louisiana spring festivals capture the essence of what makes the state truly unique—its love for music, food, and cultural heritage. Whether you’re tapping your feet to live jazz, savoring a crawfish boil, or diving into Louisiana’s historical past, these festivals offer an experience like no other. As you plan your spring travels, make sure to explore these lively celebrations and immerse yourself in the best Louisiana has to offer. From the sounds of zydeco to the flavors of jambalaya, the state’s spring festivals promise unforgettable moments for all who attend.
 

FAQs

1. What should I bring to a Louisiana spring festival?
If you’re attending any Louisiana spring festival, you should take care of the following things:

• Comfortable clothing and shoes for walking.

• Sunscreen and hats for outdoor events.

• Cash, as some vendors may not accept credit cards.

• A foldable chair or blanket for music festivals.

Keep your items safe and reserve hotel rooms nearby at a luxurious property for a comfy stay. 

2. Are Louisiana spring festivals family-friendly?
Yes! Many festivals include kid-friendly activities such as parades, carnival rides, and interactive exhibits. Festivals like the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival and the French Quarter Festival are perfect for families.

3. What is the best time to visit Louisiana for festivals?
The peak festival season in Louisiana is from March to May, when the weather is mild and pleasant. This is the best time to experience the state’s most famous cultural and food festivals in Louisiana.