September 2025 Festivals in Louisiana: Top Events from New Orleans and Beyond. Louisiana brings a vibrant lineup of festivals, local gatherings, and cultural celebrations across every corner of the state. Whether you’re craving Cajun cooking in Crowley, dancing to zydeco in Opelousas, or cooling off at a back-to-school bash in Ville Platte, there’s no shortage of authentic Southern experiences to explore. Music lovers can enjoy jazz in Shreveport or Yacht Rock in New Orleans, while foodies can sample meat pies in Natchitoches or okra delicacies in Lafayette. From night markets in Bossier City to butterfly releases in Haynesville, this month showcases the state’s diversity of flavor, rhythm, and heritage. You can check out August 2025 events here.
What makes Louisiana unique this September is the mix of major signature events and hidden hometown gems. Multi-day festivals like the Louisiana Food and Wine Festival in Lake Charles and the Alligator Festival in Luling offer statewide appeal, while quirky favorites like the Bigfoot Festival in Natchitoches and the Sugar Cane Festival keep things delightfully local. With cooler evenings and packed weekends, September is the ideal month to experience the community, creativity, and culture that make Louisiana one of America’s most festival-rich states.
DISCLAIMER
Louisiana weather is subject to quick changes and last minute hurricanes. Additionally, life happens and prepare for the unexpected. Before traveling to any festivals, please be sure to double check events via the link provided as events could have been rescheduled or cancelled.
SEPTEMBER 1–7, 2025
SHRIMP AND PETROLEUM FESTIVAL
MORGAN CITY | August 27–September 1
The oldest chartered harvest festival in Louisiana, Morgan City’s Shrimp and Petroleum Festival celebrates two of the region’s economic lifelines with pageantry, parades, fireworks, culinary competitions, and live music. The event draws crowds from across the state for a blend of industry pride and bayou revelry. It’s a Labor Day tradition that bridges the coast’s working-class backbone and cultural flair. EVENT PAGE
SAINTS 5K KICKOFF RUN
NEW ORLEANS | September 6
The 13th annual Saints 5K Kickoff Run brings fans together at Champions Square for a high-energy run through downtown New Orleans, finishing inside the Caesars Superdome. With a kids fun run, live music, and fan activities, the event marks the start of football season and supports local charities.
EVENT PAGE
MARKET AT THE MARINA IX
HOUMA | September 6
Terrebonne General Health System, in partnership with the Houma Downtown Development Committee, brings you Market at the Marina. This outdoor farmers market allows our community to experience local vendors who produce fresh and healthy food and non-food health items. Our goal is to make it easy for the community to meet and engage with vendors and purchase healthy grocery and pantry items for themselves and their families.This monthly local market features fresh Gulf seafood, crafts, and music along the marina boardwalk in downtown Houma. It’s a family-friendly event that brings together farmers, artisans, and the coastal community.
EVENT INFO
BOSSIER NIGHT MARKET III
BOSSIER CITY | September 6
With over 200 vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment under string lights, the Bossier Night Market offers an open-air shopping and dining experience after dark. Free admission and parking make it one of northwest Louisiana’s most popular monthly events.
EVENT PAGE
LOUISIANA FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL
SLIDELL | September 6
Slidell hosts food trucks from around the state serving gourmet street eats with live music, kids’ zones, and craft beer. It’s a flavorful celebration of mobile cuisine and local culture.
SALA STREET FEST
WESTWEGO | September 6
This street fest showcases South Louisiana culture through art displays, live music, food booths, and community engagement. Hosted by the South Louisiana Artists group, it spotlights local talent and neighborhood pride.
EVENT PAGE
NATCHITOCHES LOUISIANA BIGFOOT FESTIVAL
NATCHITOCHES | September 5–6
Celebrate folklore, science, and fun with speakers, vendors, and themed contests exploring the myth and mystery of Bigfoot. Held in historic Natchitoches, this quirky fest draws cryptid enthusiasts from across the region.
EVENT PAGE
COUZANS KING OF THE YARD COOKOFF
NEW ORLEANS | September 6
ALL AGES. Competition Barbecue Cook-off Family Environment, Kids Friendly, Live DJ. Bring Chairs,Tables and Tents. Early Registration $30. $45@gate – Proceeds from Cook-off goes to Fatherhood Development Programs & Family Development,Compassion Outreach of America,Fathers On A Mission,and Fathers Matter
EVENT PAGE
KYLER CARES ANNUAL COOKOUT 2025
NEW ORLEANS | September 6
Kyler Cares Annual Cookout 2025. We’re back at the Audubon Zoo for another vibe-filled Kyler Cares Cookout — so come through! Join us for a day of food, fun, and community as we celebrate connection and care for youth and families living with type 1 diabetes. Expect good eats, tunes by DJ Arie, games, and a whole vibe in the beautiful surroundings of the zoo. Stay tuned for the announcement of our special live performance.
FREE Admission includes full-day access to the zoo — so come for the cookout and stay for a day out with the fam for zoo adventures!We’re even bringing along Kyler Bear & Friends for some fun photo ops.
EVENT PAGE
SEPTEMBER 8–14, 2025
MAMOU CAJUN MUSIC FESTIVAL
MAMOU | September 12–13
2025 Honoree – Mr. Fred Charlie | A full weekend of Cajun fiddles, dance halls, and fais do-do spirit in the music-rich town of Mamou. This cultural gathering keeps Louisiana’s French musical roots alive.
“In the early 1970’s, some of the citizens of Mamou grew concerned that our culture was dying. These people felt that there was a need to renew the communities interest in our culture, thus was born the Mamou Cajun Day. In its beginning, some 20 or so volunteers presented this festival, which was then sponsored by the Mamou Area Jaycees. In the early 1980’s, this group officially became the Mamou Cajun Music Festival. All proceeds received are used to prepare and present the next annual festival to ensure our Cajun Culture lives on. Our Special Thanks to all who attend and support our festival.” -Mamou Cajun Music Festival Staff
EVENT PAGE
HAYNESVILLE CELEBRATION OF BUTTERFLIES
HAYNESVILLE | September 13
A family nature festival centered on monarch butterfly conservation, with educational exhibits, children’s activities, and butterfly releases.
EVENT PAGE
CAJUN FOOD FEST & FAIS DO DO
LYDIA | September 13
Sample authentic Cajun dishes and dance into the night to zydeco and swamp pop at this Iberia Parish food and music event.
EVENT PAGE
OLDIES BUT GOODIES FEST
PORT ALLEN | September 13
Featuring classic car shows, retro bands, and nostalgic bites, this fest celebrates the golden oldies era in West Baton Rouge.
EVENT PAGE
HIGHLAND JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL
SHREVEPORT | September 13
One of north Louisiana’s top music festivals, the Highland Fest offers multiple stages of local jazz, blues, and funk along with food trucks and artisan vendors.
EVENT PAGE
A TASTE OF THE DEEP SOUTH
BATON ROUGE | September 13–14
Showcasing Southern cuisine, gospel and soul music, and Black culinary heritage, this two-day festival embraces the flavors and stories of the Deep South.
EVENT PAGE
SEPTEMBER 15–21, 2025
LOUISIANA FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL
LAKE CHARLES | September 18–21
This multi-day culinary festival brings together chefs, wineries, and food lovers for tasting events, cooking demos, and a Sunday jazz brunch. Set against the backdrop of Lake Charles, it’s a major draw for culinary tourism.
EVENT PAGE
NATCHITOCHES MEAT PIE FESTIVAL
NATCHITOCHES | September 19–20
A savory celebration of the city’s signature meat pie dish with cook-offs, music, and kids activities in historic downtown Natchitoches.
EVENT PAGE
HERO FEST
HOUMA | September 19–21
This pop culture and comic con-style event includes cosplay contests, guest panels, vendors, and gaming. It’s Houma’s go-to geek weekend.
EVENT PAGE
PIONEER HERITAGE FESTIVAL
GREENWOOD | September 20
Reenactments, traditional crafts, food, and music honor pioneer history in this family-friendly celebration just west of Shreveport.
EVENT PAGE
ANNUAL BUNCO BASH & SILENT AUCTION
BALLY’S SHREVEPORT | September 20
Join Us for the 16th Annual Bunco Bash and Silent Auction at Bally’s Casino! Experience a night of excitement and entertainment at Renzi’s 16th Annual Bunco Bash and Silent Auction, hosted at Bally’s Casino! Whether you’re a seasoned Bunco player or trying it for the first time, you’re in for an unforgettable evening featuring:
Exciting Prizes: Win amazing rewards playing Bunco – no skill required, just pure luck! Live Music: Enjoy performances. Silent Auction: Bid on unique and exclusive items. Delicious Food: Savor a variety of fantastic dishes. Support a Great Cause: All proceeds benefit Renzi Education & Art after school program. Don’t miss out on this special event! Secure your tickets today and take advantage of our early bird special.
EVENT PAGE
LOUISIANA SOULFOOD FALL FESTIVAL
SHREVEPORT | September 26-28
A feast of soul food classics, community cook-offs, and live R&B and gospel at one of Shreveport’s tastiest cultural fests.
EVENT PAGE
KOE CELTIC HERITAGE FESTIVAL
PONCHATOULA | September 20
From Krewe of Erin:
“Our motto: We Unite the Celtic Peoples. Our mission is to provide quality family entertainment for residents and visitors of all ages and cultural backgrounds, as well as expand the local economy, with a celebration of Celtic culture through community involvement, participation, and attendance at the annual Krewe of Erin St. Patrick’s parade event and Celtic Heritage Festival.”
Celebrate Irish and Celtic culture with traditional dance, music, beer gardens, and storytelling in Tangipahoa Parish.
OKRA, MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL
LAFAYETTE | September 21
Honoring the beloved Southern vegetable, this community fest features okra-themed dishes, live music, art vendors, and family games.
SEPTEMBER 22–28, 2025
FARM FEST
NEW IBERIA | September 25
Are you ready for the 7th annual Farm Fest? Mark the beginning of the annual Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival in New Iberia with family fun, live entertainment, and food and drinks. Celebrating agriculture and Acadiana traditions, Farm Fest features live music, family activities, and local cuisine in a rural fall setting.
ALLIGATOR FESTIVAL
LULING | September 25–28
This St. Charles Parish classic features fried gator, carnival rides, twelve bands, crafts, and all-ages fun on the west bank of the Mississippi.
(Locals Night – Free Entry)
Friday 6-11 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
$5 Admission Fee. Free Admission for Ages 10 and Under
NOLA INTERNATIONAL ARTS FEST
NEW ORLEANS | September 25–28
A citywide celebration of visual art, performance, and cultural heritage held at galleries and venues across New Orleans.
EVENT PAGE
RED RIVER REVEL ARTS FESTIVAL
SHREVEPORT | September 25–28
Kicking off a 10-day celebration, Revel Fest features visual art exhibits, food vendors, music stages, and children’s activities in downtown Shreveport. Vendors serve everything from funnel cakes and seafood macaroni to favorites like Natchitoches meat pies and chicken & waffles! Over 80 artists specializing in oils, acrylics, sculpture, jewelry, woodwork, glass, metal and much more! Nine days. Multiple stages. One spectacular lineup.
EVENT PAGE
BOGALUSA BLUES AND HERITAGE FESTIVAL
BOGALUSA | September 26–27
Two days of blues, funk, and soul on the banks of the Bogue Lusa Creek, with food trucks and a lively campground atmosphere. The 2025 Bogalusa Blues & Heritage Festival is scheduled for September 26th and 27th! We look forward to seeing you there.
EVENT PAGE
LOUISIANA CHICKEN FESTIVAL
DUBACH | September 26–27
Dubach serves up fried chicken, pageants, and parades in this small-town festival dedicated to the South’s most iconic dish.
EVENT PAGE
LOUISIANA SUGAR CANE FESTIVAL
NEW IBERIA | September 26–28
Parades, cooking contests, and cane-themed traditions fill downtown New Iberia with sweet southern culture.
FROM THE HOST:
“The Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival loves to celebrate our sweet commodity, SUGAR! How do we celebrate all things SUGAR? We have a parade, or 2, or 3! The last full weekend in September, you can find us rolling down Main Street in New Iberia on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday! Friday evening, we honor our farmers with the traditional Tractor Parade showcasing our parish queens. On Saturday morning we showcase our children at the Children’s Parade which is prefaced by the Sugar Daddy Car Show participants driving their entries down Main Street! On Sunday our official royalty rolls downtown honoring Queen Sugar and King Sucrose along with our parish queens representing other sugar producing parishes. We cant wait to see everyone on the parade route!”
EVENT PAGE
BAYOU BLUE FALL FESTIVAL
HOUMA | September 27
Bayou Blue Recreation Center is having its annual Fall Festival Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 9 am to 5 pm. Family fun with music, food, craft vendors, bounce houses and more! This Terrebonne Parish fest blends music, food, and fall-themed games for kids and families.
LOCATION: 200 Mazerac St Houma LA 70364 Bayou Blue Recreation Center
VENDOR INFO
YACHT ROCK MUSIC & DINNER
NEW ORLEANS | September 28
FROM THE HOST:
“Yacht Rock and Dinner in the Gardens is back! Enjoy a dinner buffet, specialty drinks, smooth tunes and one of the best vibes for grown-ups in the city. Yacht Rock and Dinner in the Gardens will be a chilled-out event where people who love the cool sounds of Yacht Rock music (classic/light rock from the late 70s and early 80s) can enjoy these sounds in a beautiful garden atmosphere. The awesome, DJ Raj Smoove is the captain of the sounds (and he always understands the assignment!)”
EVENT PAGE
SEPTEMBER 29–30, 2025
NO EVENTS LISTED FOR THIS WEEK.
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- SHRIMP AND PETROLEUM FESTIVAL
- SAINTS 5K KICKOFF RUN
- FALL FEST AT COTILE LAKE RECREATION PARK
- MARKET AT THE MARINA IX
- BOSSIER NIGHT MARKET III
- LOUISIANA FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL
- SALA STREET FEST
- NATCHITOCHES LOUISIANA BIGFOOT FESTIVAL
- COUZANS KING OF THE YARD COOKOFF
- KYLER CARES ANNUAL COOKOUT 2025
- MAMOU CAJUN MUSIC FESTIVAL
- HAYNESVILLE CELEBRATION OF BUTTERFLIES
- CAJUN FOOD FEST & FAIS DO DO
- OLDIES BUT GOODIES FEST
- HIGHLAND JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL
- A TASTE OF THE DEEP SOUTH
- LOUISIANA FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL
- NATCHITOCHES MEAT PIE FESTIVAL
- HERO FEST
- LOUISIANA SOULFOOD FALL FESTIVAL
- PIONEER HERITAGE FESTIVAL
- ANNUAL BUNCO BASH & SILENT AUCTION
- KOE CELTIC HERITAGE FESTIVAL
- GONZALES HISPANIC HERITAGE FESTIVAL
- OKRA, MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL
- ALLIGATOR FESTIVAL
- NOLA INTERNATIONAL ARTS FEST
- RED RIVER REVEL ARTS FESTIVAL
- BOGALUSA BLUES AND HERITAGE FESTIVAL
- LOUISIANA CHICKEN FESTIVAL
- LOUISIANA SUGAR CANE FESTIVAL
- RAMBLIN ON THE RED
- BAYOU BLUE FALL FESTIVAL
- YACHT ROCK MUSIC & DINNER
