Posted by: Mae Mayeux

 

Louisiana’s rich culinary heritage is truly something to celebrate. That’s why the state hosts a wide variety of food festivals to honor our unique regional cuisine and the passionate people who make it. Jambalaya, crawfish, gumbo, po-boys, rice, andouille sausage; name a food and there is likely a festival centered around it. Here are six incredible Louisiana food festivals we think are worth the trip. For lodging during your stay, don’t forget to book a room at one of the Louisiana Bed & Breakfast Association many properties located in all corners of our food-loving state.

 

Acadiana Po-Boy Festival

The Acadiana Po-Boy Festival is a fun and free festival dedicated entirely to the humble po-boy sandwich. The main draw of the festival is over 20 food vendors selling their version of a po-boy. Whether the chefs make traditional versions or experiment with something a little more modern, all creations are guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. Attendees with big appetites can even participate in the Po-Boy Eating Contest! Held at the Parc San Souci in Downtown Lafayette, the festival also includes 30 arts & crafts vendors, kids activities, and live entertainment.

 

Bridge City Gumbo Festival

Bridge City considers itself the Gumbo Capital of the World. That’s why it hosts the Bridge City Gumbo Festival every October. During the festival, over 2,000 gallons of both seafood and chicken/sausage gumbo will be prepared. The festival also champions local chefs by holding a Gumbo Cooking Contest, inviting everyone to enter. In addition to the mouthwatering gumbo, attendees can also enjoy other delicious Cajun cuisine, including jambalaya, New Orleans-style red beans and rice with sausage, fried seafood, homemade cakes and candies, and more. In addition, there will be performances by local and visiting bands who play Cajun, Country, Zydeco, Jazz, Blues and Rock ‘n Roll.

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Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival

Whether you like your crawfish fried, boiled, in a pie, in a soup, or on a sandwich, the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival has got you covered. This huge food and music festival attracts thousands of attendees looking to eat delicious food and hear great music. The Crawfish Festival has become one of the largest gatherings of Cajun musicians in the world. This is a great chance to hear incredible Cajun, Zydeco, and Swamp Pop tunes while feasting on some of the freshest crawfish you’ll ever taste. The festival also hosts dance contests, cooking demonstrations, arts & crafts vendors, and a parade.

 

Giant Omelette Celebration

At the Giant Omelette Celebration in Abbeville, expert chef’s gather to cook one of the world’s largest omelettes using a 12-foot skillet and over 5,000 fresh eggs. Once their work is complete, attendees are encouraged to sample the massive creation. This cherished local event features delicious food, live music, and a variety of arts & craft vendors. For more information, read our blog post on the event.

 

Franklin Parish Catfish Festival

Franklin Parish Catfish Festival dates back to 1986, when the region experienced the emergence of the new aquaculture industry centered around farm-raised catfish. The industry gave Franklin Parish an economic boost and inspired the annual Catfish Festival, held every April. In addition to selling fresh and delicious catfish dishes, the festival also features an  antique car show, softball tournament, 5K run, and performances by award-winning musicians.

 

Fete Rouge

If you are looking for a more upscale food festival, consider the Fete Rouge. The Fete Rouge is sponsored by the Baton Rouge Epicurean Society and is considered the finest food and wine festival in the city. Over 40 local chefs will gather to prepare their best dishes in the hopes of winning the Gold Medal, People’s Choice Award, or Best in Show. Attendees get to sample their creations along with over 200 wines from all around the world, all while enjoying live music and entertainment.

Planning a trip to one (or all) of these mouthwatering food festivals? Book a stay at one of the Louisiana Bed & Breakfast Association's many unique and charming properties located all across the state.