Things to Do in Louisiana This Weekend
Whether you're a culture seeker, food aficionado, outdoor adventurer or history lover, Louisiana is filled with opportunities to #FeedYourSoul.
Here's a roundup of Louisiana events and activities happening this weekend.
Fall in Louisiana brings cool evenings and warm gumbo. Festival season is in full swing, with parish fairs, fall festivals and football games filling the calendar. Get outside and explore our state parks, or stay indoors and discover one of Louisiana’s state museums.
Smoke & Barrel
November 20-23
Lake Charles
Love bourbon and barbecue? At Smoke & Barrel, sample more than 80 whiskeys, or sink your teeth into tender barbecue from top pit-masters. Whether you like your spirits with notes of vanilla and caramel or spice and oak, there's an expert pairing for you.
Get away for awhile at Golden Nugget Lake Charles or L’Auberge Casino Resort — two of the areas finest retreats. Sample dishes from gourmet restaurants, groove to live music or unwind at the spa.
White Light Night
November 21
Baton Rouge
Explore White Light Night, the biggest art festival in Baton Rouge's most eclectic neighborhood, Mid City. Mingle under glimmering lights, shop unique finds from local artists and enjoy live music.
If you love art, marvel at works from local and national artists at the Baton Rouge Gallery. This non-profit institution has heralded the humanities for more than five decades. See can’t-miss photography, sculpture, stained-glass and other exhibitions.
Christmas at Conway
November 22
Gonzales
Revel in holiday cheer with the whole family at Christmas at Conway, an afternoon extravaganza in Gonzales. Shop pop-ups from local artists, let little ones meet Ms. Claus and grab lunch from food trucks on-site.
Later, head to Tanger Outlets to wrap up your holiday gift-list. Find exclusive items from luxury shops and enjoy festive decor throughout the open-air market.
Sober Fest
November 22
New Orleans
Ask anyone what New Orleans is known for, and they'll say music. While there's hundreds of festivals, concerts and ensembles to see, alcohol-free celebrations can be difficult to find. Enter Sober Fest, a warm, engaging space designed for people practicing sobriety. And with a Kids Stage and food vendors in tow, the festival is a great option for families, too.
Later, snag a plate of pillowy beignets from the original Café Du Monde at the French Market — a sweet end to a full day.
Natchitoches Christmas Festival
November 22-January 6
Natchitoches
Did you know Natchitoches is home to one of the nation’s longest-running holiday festivals? Considering the town looks like the inside of a Hallmark snow globe, it’s no wonder. Tickets ($15, or free for children 6 and under) provide a stroll along the river, where thousands of lights refract a prismatic show soundtracked by seasonal classics.
Before you enter the festival, grab a cup of hot cocoa at StoryBrew Coffee Café. The historic shop is known for flaky, mile-high cinnamon rolls and tender, buttery scones.
Learn more about Natchitoches.
Bayou Classic
November 24-29
New Orleans
What started as a simple football game between Southern University and Grambling State University — two of Louisiana’s Historically Black institutions — has now transformed into a citywide celebration called Bayou Classic. The week promises several celebrations, including a Thanksgiving Day parade, a free fan festival and the energetic battle of the marching bands, all leading up to the big game on Saturday, Nov. 29.
If you don’t have much time between festivities, book a tour to eat, sip or stroll your way through the Crescent City. You’ll be amazed at how many cool experiences you’ll have in just one tour.
Louisiana Renaissance Festival
Throughout November
Hammond
Set your curiosity and creativity alight at the Louisiana Renaissance Festival, a gala of artists and oddities. Shop from wool weavers and welders; watch performances from fiddlers and fire handlers; and sip merlots and meads. Whatever you do, you’ll leave inspired.
Before your medieval adventure, explore the city’s rich culture. Stroll through art galleries, boutiques and antique stores, or explore Hammond Regional Art Center’s latest exhibition.
Ring in the Holidays
Visit seven spirited areas across the Holiday Trail of Lights, which feature dazzling displays, lively parades, seasonal music, live theater, magical visits from Santa and more. Enjoy the festivities from November to January!
Make Plans for Louisiana This Month
Whether it's one of our many exciting festivals or an adventure in the great outdoors, there's always something to experience in Louisiana. Be sure to check our calendar of events for the most up-to-date list of festivities.
