February
Mardi Gras River Style
Louisiana’s River Parishes celebrates the state’s biggest event, Mardi Gras, just like the area celebrates life, joyful and full of flavor! Five family-friendly daytime parades filled with colorful floats take place during the peak of carnival season, giving parade goers plenty of chances to experience the thrill of catching beads.
Parades include the Krewe of Lul Parade in Luling; the Krewe of Towahpahsah Parade in Reserve; the Krewe of Dage Parade in LaPlace; the Krewe of Des Allemands Parade in Des Allemands; and the Krewe of Mac Parade in Gramercy and Lutcher.
330 Belle Terre Blvd
LaPlace, LA 70068
(866) 204-7782
April
Heritage Day
Held during the lovely Louisiana springtime, Destrehan Plantation’s Heritage Day is a window into the many changes and challenges that occurred in the Bayou State during the 19th Century, including the Louisiana Purchase, destructive hurricanes, the yellow fever pandemic, and the Civil War. Enjoy fascinating demonstrations, intriguing reenactments, entertaining period music, and festive dancing.
13034 River Road
Destrehan, Louisiana 70047
(985) 764-9315
September
Louisiana Catfish Festival
Since 1975, thousands of visitors and locals come out annually for this local festival, which celebrates the ingredient that put the community of Des Allemands on the map, fresh, succulent catfish.
The free, daylong event held on the grounds of St. Gertrude the Great Catholic Church features live music from back-to-back bands, dancing, carnival rides, catfish platters, catfish po’boys, catfish boulettes (spicy fried patties), and all manner of other Cajun and Creole fare.17324 LA 631
Des Allemands, LA 70030
(985) 758-7542
Alligator Festival
A festival featuring live alligators? You bet! But there’s so much more to this annual gathering. Held on the last full weekend in September, enjoy live bands, carnival rides, craft booths, great Cajun food—including dishes made with alligator—and fabulous souvenirs.
13825 River Road
Luling, LA 70070
(866) 204-7782
October
Andouille Festival
For nearly a half-century, this vibrant three-day gathering in St. John the Baptist Parish honors the local tradition of authentic andouille. Savor lip-smacking smoked sausage, enjoy live music, carnival rides, Cajun and Creole food, sweets, a gospel music tent, Second Line Parade, and a fun run.
2900 U.S. Hwy 51
LaPlace, LA 70068
(985) 652-9569
December
Festival of the Bonfires
Few Christmas traditions are quite like this one. Community members build bonfires in traditional pyramids, in the shape of animals, and local buildings, then set them on fire to light the way for Santa Claus. Bonfires take place at different times during the month, including Christmas Eve. Catch other festival activities like food, crafts, vendors, and live music.
LA HWY 3193
Lutcher, LA
(866) 204-7782
