Things To Do in Louisiana This Weekend
Whether you are a culture seeker, food aficionado, outdoor adventurer or history lover, Louisiana is filled with opportunities for you to #FeedYourSoul.
Here's a roundup of fun Louisiana events and activities.
With nine state museums and 21 state parks and preserves, there is no shortage of things to do every day of the year in Louisiana. Head to countless festivals. Listen to live music that will get in your bones and never leave. Enjoy world-class fishing, boating and paddling. Get up close with nature on biking and hiking trails. You'll find excellent camping and picnic areas, including well-equipped cabins and RV parks at a Louisiana state park.
Discover the history of Mardi Gras, see Louis Armstrong's cornet, relive historical moments in Louisiana sports history and so much more when you visit one of Louisiana's state museums. There are countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the culture that makes Louisiana such a special place.
These are just a few #OnlyLouisiana events happening around the state this weekend. For a full list of this weekend's events, click here!
Bastille Day Fête 2025
July 11
New Orleans
Founded by French settlers in 1718 (and home to many Cajun and Creole people), New Orleans has deep ties to all things French. Celebrate the nation’s heritage during Bastille Day Fête 2025. Dress up in a French-inspired outfit, from berets to revolutionary-chic costumes, to win fun prizes. Listen to hours of live music, play cornhole and sample delicious treats, too. Snag your tickets now.
Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to the French Quarter Visitor Center for free access to exhibits on everything from local history to food traditions. As you meander the French Quarter, you’ll find other noteworthy hangouts like the French Market for open-air shopping and Café du Monde, known for their powdered-sugar-covered beignets.
San Fermin in Nueva Orleans
July 11-13
New Orleans
Modeled after Navarre, Spain’s Enciero de Pamplona, San Fermin in Nueva Orleans brings the running of the bulls tradition down South. Join thousands of red-scarved runners and roller-skaters as they zoom through the city in search of the finish line.
Later, attend the La Fiesta de Pantalones and enjoy live music, beer, sangria and burlesque shows. While you’re there, take note of the French Quarter’s distinct charm, world-class restaurants and rich history.
Washington Parish Watermelon Festival
July 11-13
Franklin
What food better captures the feeling of summer than sweet, juicy watermelon? Share your love of this iconic red fruit during the Washington Parish Watermelon Festival. Each day features different events including a stick horse rodeo, a competitive car show, a fireworks show and a watermelon-eating contest.
Once you’ve satisfied your watermelon cravings, load up the coolers, pack some sunscreen and get ready to chill out — literally. The cool waters of the Bogue Chitto River, perfect for tubing or kayaking, help beat the heat. Gear up at Louisiana River Adventures in nearby Franklinton.
Plan your next visit to Washington Parish.
Creative Workshops Roundup
July 12
Shreveport
Unleash your artistic side with a roundup of creative workshops in Shreveport. Discover the thrill of glassblowing as you create your own souvenirs during family-friendly sessions at High Gravity Glassworks. Or enjoy a besties’ day out as you make scented keepsakes during a candle-pouring experience at Clean Slate Botanicals.
Get inspired by local artists at the Bossier City Farmers Market, where you’ll find breathtaking art to hang at home, along with fragrant soaps and a range of farm-fresh fruits and veggies. Later, visit the R.W. Norton Art Gallery to meander its lush garden grounds and its incredible collection of paintings, sculptures and artifacts.
Explore Shreveport-Bossier City.
Native American Crafts Workshop
July 12
Natchitoches
Experience the joy of crafting while learning about the cultures of Indigenous people during the Native American Crafts Workshop. Kids and adults will enjoy creating fun projects as four Native American tradition bearers share their expert knowledge in skills like beadwork and basketry. The event is free to the public with all crafting materials already provided.
Start your day with whipped-cream-topped coffees and sweet milk teas from StoryBrew Coffee Cafe. Or savor a sit-down breakfast of shrimp and grits or thick slices of French toast at Legacy Cafe. Then, take a self-guided walking tour of filming sites from movies like “Steel Magnolias” (1989) or putt your way through a pirate-themed golf course at Dark Woods Adventure Park.
Popup Book Fair
July 12
Berwick
Calling all bibliophiles! Get ready to experience a book extravaganza at the Popup Book Fair in Berwick. Come with your reading besties to browse genre-spanning titles from fantasy thrillers to beach reads. It’s the perfect opportunity to find your next summer read or discover a new binge-worthy series.
Play and stay close to Berwick at spots like Lake End Park for days lounging on a sandy beach and cruising nature trails, followed by nights at waterfront cabins or campsites. The Wedell-Williams Aviation & Cypress Sawmill Museum offers a glimpse into Louisiana’s lumber industry and aviation pioneers, while The Rig Museum invites guests to step aboard an authentic offshore drilling rig.
Stitching Circle @ AMoA
July 12
Alexandria
Passionate about knitting? Come and work on your latest project with like-minded enthusiasts during the Stitching Circle @ AMoA. Get inspiration from the galleries’ incredible works and share tips, tricks and patterns with new friends. The event is hosted by the Alexandria Museum of Art as part of their free-admission program, Second Saturdays.
Afterwards, reward your hard work with craft brews paired with sharable plates of poutine at Huckleberry Brewing Company. Or grab food to-go and cruise over to Kincaid Lake Recreation Area. Enjoy some Vitamin D with your meal after walking lakeside trails or paddling along the shoreline.
Juice Fest
July 13
Houma
Enjoy an evening of family-friendly fun during the fourth annual Juice Fest. Created by local Deejay Juice, the event highlights music, food, family and community. The kids’ zone awaits younger guests with bubbles, face painting, cornhole and prizes, while adults will relish mouthwatering food-truck menus and live performances, including musical guests and dance shows. This is an alcohol-free event.
Arrive before the festivities to explore the sights, food and culture of Houma. The best Sundays begin with great music and food, like brunch at Lumiere Blues & Jazz Bistro with menu options like seafood gumbo, praline cheesecake and classic muffulettas. On Saturdays, take to the local waterways for adventurous swamp tours, leisurely paddling or charter fishing experiences — with both freshwater and saltwater angling opportunities.
Make Plans for Louisiana This Month
Whether it's one of our many exciting festivals or an adventure in the great outdoors, there is always something unique to experience in Louisiana. Be sure to check our calendar of events for the most up-to-date list of festivities.
