October-November Calendar

CALENDAR

Festivals for October

Festivals Acadiens et Créoles

Since the 70s, Festivals Acadiens Et Créoles has evolved into a fun-filled weekend of authentic Cajun food, dancing and art. The official opening of the festival is Oct. 12 with the ceremonial cutting of the boudin, followed by a traditional fais do-do. festivalsacadiens.com

International Rice Festival

One of Louisiana’s biggest and oldest festivals celebrating agriculture in the state, the rice-themed weekend includes parades, music, a pageant and rice-related activities. Guests can also experience an arts and crafts exhibit in conjunction with the festival and adjacent to the festival grounds. ricefestival.com

Rougarou Festival

OCT. 20-21 / Houma

Set at the end of October and themed after the mythical rougarou creature — with the head of a wolf and human body, like a werewolf — the Rougarou Festival blends Halloween fun with Cajun appreciation. The festival includes costume contests, a Krewe Ga Rou Halloween parade, music and more. rougaroufest.org

Festivals for November

Yellow Rails and Rice Festival

Festival organizers say the four-day event’s goal is “to provide participants a unique venue to view Yellow Rails while at the same time bringing birders and farmers together to realize the value to birds of the area’s ‘working wetlands.’”

Cracklin Festival

Since 1985, the Port Barre Lions Club holds the Cracklin Festival each year as an annual fundraiser for their philanthropic efforts. The highlight of the festival since its inception is the cracklin cookoff. Amateurs and professionals alike can parade their crackling-making skills in hopes of trophies and bragging rights. Guests can also experience rides, games, food and drinks, pageants and a parade. cracklinfest.com

Flea Fest

Flea Fest is a huge flea market festival that includes four acres of over 300 art and food vendors to explore. Flea Fest is set to include antiques, handcrafted items, collectibles and more, while offering a petting zoo and pony rides to include the whole family. Parking is free and Flea Fest tickets are only available at the event gates. fleafest.com