The Magic of Louisiana Festivals

Alright y’all! It’s that time of year…

It’s Louisiana Festival Season!

Every adventurous tourist wants a travel destination that creates memories for a lifetime. In Louisiana, we pride ourselves on being different and fun loving. If your travels take you through our great state, you have a world of unforgettable sights, sounds and tastes waiting for you!

If you’re the adventurous type, and considering a vacation trip to exotic places, Louisiana should be at the top of your list. Here in Cajun country, one of the most glamorous destinations is Lafayette, which is bursting with beautiful scenery, diverse cuisines, and festive celebrations all year round. So, plan your trip to the fastest growing, happy and festive city in America.

Some of the diverse festivals that happen near Lafayette every year set the standard for good times. We have to start with the world famous:

Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is a sensational and outstanding cultural mega-festival that is held throughout the state. It’s not a single event, but rather multiple parades, gatherings, rituals and celebrations enjoyed throughout the month of February leading up the actual day of Mardi Gras. In Lafayette, LA it is celebrated in various ways — from old school traditional to high glam ballroom galas.

With the inclusion of the Courir de Mardi Gras; there are riders on horseback, parades, doubloons, beads (LOTS of beads!), marching bands, elaborate cultural dance and costumes; King cakes, and the joyous revelry of the kind hearted Cajun people. And if glamour is your thing, Mardi Gras balls in which participants complete with a decorative parade of king and queen are held by the various ‘krews’ in the area.

Festival International

Held usually at the end of April every year, Festival International de Louisiane is a music festival that makes Lafayette, LA more unique than any other city. It is one of the largest outdoor Francophone festivals in the world. And the best part about it is that it is non-ticketed. It is one of the most memorable Louisiana festivals to enjoy.

Dozens of artists coming from 15 different countries along with Lafayette’s artists as well attend the festival to perform music, and mesmerize the residents and visitors.

Zydeco Extravaganza

Another annual festival “Zydeco Extravaganza” is held in the end of May before Memorial Day bringing the sounds of addictive Creole-inspired dance music called Zydeco to Lafayette, LA. This festival portrays the mesmerizing and enthralling Zydeco music along with the vibrant festivity of Lafayette. For this festival advance tickets can also be purchased.

Zydeco Extravaganza features local food vendors serving up classic Creole and Cajun cuisine. Visitors awash in music can stroll the festival, munching on delicious sausage, boudin, red beans and rice, and delicious mouth watering funnel cakes, lemonade and Fried seafood. The festival hosts an accordion contest that sparks up the event with friendly competition.

Cajun and Zydeco Festivals

Originating from the deep love of music in Southwest Louisiana, Cajun and Zydeco music festivals are spread across the Acadiana area. These festivals focus on enhancing and preserving the rich heritage of Louisiana Cajun and Creole culture. Of course the result is fun! During the warmer months glittering and glamorous festivals spotlight both seasoned amateur and professional artists of Zydeco and Cajun music.

Festivals Acadiens et Créoles

“Festivals Acadiens et Créoles” held mostly in start of October every year.

This festival has been celebrated for 40 years in Lafayette and since that time it has been providing locals and tourists 3 days of luscious food, traditional dancing, music, crafts and celebrations.

So, whether you want to get away from it all or try a little adventure, our local festivals near Lafayette are waiting. The best news of all is that all these events and more are within a few moments drive of the Louisiana Cajun Mansion. Book your stay today and we’ll help you coordinate which festivals are available during the best times of the year. And while you’re at it, you’ll enjoy the 5-star luxury of the greatest bed and breakfast in the world.