Things to Do in Louisiana This Weekend
Here's a roundup of Louisiana events and activities happening this weekend.
Louisiana comes alive in spring. Magnolia blossoms unfold, Cajun-spiced crawfish boils make the air steamy and lively parades roll through the streets. It’s the season for street fairs, music festivals and farmers markets. Go on a pick-your-own berry adventure, paddle our bayous or try a new waterfront restaurant.
56th Annual Loyola Jazz Festival
March 5-7
New Orleans
There’s no better place to hear jazz than in the city where it originated — New Orleans. From small improv ensembles to vocalists backed by big brass bands, Loyola Jazz Festival promises three days of inspiring, innovative music.
While you’re in town, explore neighborhoods beyond the famous French Quarter. Uptown and the Garden District offer views of manicured mansions and stately lawns, rides on the St. Charles streetcar, shopping on Magazine Street and the Audubon Zoo, one of the country's best.
Be Moore Fest
March 7
Lake Charles
Celebrate the life of Louisiana music legend Brian Moore, whose dedication to local art, mentorship and community spirit lives on through Lake Charles' Be Moore Fest. This joyous event features live music, delicious food and family-friendly fun.
At sunset, stroll the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge. The Wetland Walkway and Blue Goose Trail offer stunning coastal landscapes and opportunities to spot alligators, waterfowl and butterflies.
Bloomin’ on the Bricks
March 7
Natchitoches
Stroll historic downtown Natchitoches at Bloomin’ on the Bricks, an annual block party celebrating all things spring. Scout unique garden decor — or even a charming new plant — to add to your backyard oasis while grooving to live music.
While you’re downtown, marvel at the city’s distinctive Creole cottages by carriage. Looking for a thrill? Take the family on a swamp tour at Gator Country.
Here’s the Beef Cook-Off
March 7
Opelousas
Consider yourself a foodie? Check out Here’s the Beef Cook-Off, a longstanding festival in the heart of Cajun country. Sample brisket, roast and — if you dare — beef tongue, a regional delicacy. To really experience Opelousas, don’t miss the old-fashioned trail ride in the morning, followed by breakfast.
While you’re in the area, listen to swamp pop at Blue Moon Saloon or Prejean’s. These Louisiana-famous joints play live Cajun bands nightly while serving up regional fare like gumbo and crawfish.
Los Isleños Fiesta 50th Anniversary
March 7-8
Chalmette
You’ve likely heard of Louisiana’s Creole culture, which was shaped, in no small part, by Spanish settlers. At Los Isleños Fiesta in Chalmette, celebrate the Canary Islands’ history and heritage — and its abiding influence on Creole traditions — at the Los Isleños Museum & Village, whose work is dedicated to preserving Isleños heritage.
After the festivities, wind down at nearby St. Bernard State Park. Located on the Mississippi River, the park’s dense, shaded forests make for a gorgeous hike.
Battle of the Gumbo Gladiators Cook-off
March 7
Shreveport
Hankering for a bowl of warm, spicy gumbo? Head to the Battle of the Gumbo Gladiators Cook-off, where teams from near and far vie for a championship title. Categories include seafood, lagniappe and chicken-and-sausage gumbo, taste-tested by more than 30 judges.
Don’t stop at gumbo: Shreveport’s culinary repertoire includes fabulous restaurants like Herby K’s, an old-school lunch counter, and Strawn’s Eat Shop, which claims to be home to the world’s first icebox pie — a true Southern staple. Need a hearty meal? Order a muffuletta from Fertitta’s Delicatessen, where briny olive tapenade balances the bite of coarse-ground mustard.
Teche Plein Air Competition
March 7-14
New Iberia
Artists flock to New Iberia for the one-of-a-kind Teche Plein Air Competition, where painters craft their masterpieces “en plein air,” or outside. Art lovers can observe painters, participate in demos and even purchase their favorite works during the awards ceremony and fine art sale.
Nearby, take a TABASCO® Factory Tour on Avery Island. The hot red sauce livens up Southern staples like gumbo, fried chicken and collard greens. Watch the bottling process from start to finish, learn how the famous sauce began and take home spicy souvenirs from the gift shop.
Plan your visit to Iberia Parish.
Uncorked
March 8
St. Francisville
Sip and savor at Uncorked, an elevated evening that centers around fine wines and spirits. Live music soundtracks the night, while local chefs serve up sumptuous small plates.
While you’re in St. Francisville, explore the city’s charming downtown district. Stop by District Mercantile, a 19th-century general store, or sink your teeth into a Bananas Foster cheesecake from The Francis.
Azalea Trail
Spring
Lafayette
Have a sunny day to spare? Explore Lafayette’s fuchsia-lined Azalea Trail. Spot the vibrant Southern perennial, which is typically in bloom from March through May, along 20 miles of historic neighborhoods.
Whether you're an outdoor adventurer, music lover or just want good food, Louisiana is filled with opportunities to #FeedYourSoul. Check our events calendar for more festivities.
