Things to Do in Louisiana This Weekend
Here's a roundup of Louisiana events and activities happening this weekend.
Blossoming azaleas and Cajun-spiced crawfish boils fill the air during the spring in Louisiana. Festivals celebrate just about anything under the sun — from music to food, frogs and more. Head to a local farm to pick your own fruits and veggies, paddle our bayous or try a new waterfront restaurant.
Feel Good Friday
April 3
Lake Charles
Kick off the weekend at Feel Good Friday, a lively lakefront gathering in Lake Charles with live music, pop-up vendors and plenty of food and drinks, courtesy of Crying Eagle Brewing Company. Hosted along the scenic waterfront near Children’s Museum of Southwest Louisiana, this all-ages event invites visitors to enjoy the moment.
Arrive early to explore the museum’s playground, an inclusive park designed to give every child an equal opportunity to learn and discover together. Later, stroll along the city’s Lakefront Promenade for an unforgettable sunset.
GloFest at the Bakowski Bridge of Lights
April 3
Shreveport
Experience the Texas Street Bridge awash with light and color at GloFest. Designed by local artists, the show magnifies Shreveport’s glowing creative scene. Kick back with live music and grab dinner from the food-truck court onsite.
Before you see the light show, make time for a couple of gallery tours. Artspace features exhibitions and handmade goods from regional artists, and the Multicultural Center of the South details Creole, Hispanic, Italian and Native American histories.
Learn more about Shreveport-Bossier.
Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum Easter Village
April 3-4
Monroe
Everything spring abounds at the Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum Easter Village. Your little one won’t forget the joy of decorating eggs, visiting a live bunny patch or witnessing a giant chocolate bunny. Plus, find spring-themed crafts and exhibits filled with learning and fun. Tickets are $15.
Before your village visit, earn strikes and spares at Bayou Bowl, or head to the Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo for exciting exhibits and sweet animals, like owls, monkeys and zebras.
EggstravaganZoo
April 3-5
Broussard
Catch the last pastel-streaked weekend of EggstravaganZoo, a month-long celebration at Zoosiana where Easter fun meets wild encounters. Enjoy festive activities like an Easter-themed scavenger hunt, meet the Easter Bunny or make fun crafts. Best of all, the event is included with regular admission.
Keep the family fun going at Moncus Park for open green space and playgrounds, or head to Acadiana Center for the Arts to explore rotating exhibits centering contemporary regional artists. If you’re ready to refuel, grab a casual Cajun meal at Prejean’s.
Louisiana Lao New Year Festival
April 3-5
Broussard
Celebrate the Year of the Horse at the Louisiana Lao New Year Festival. Held annually over Easter weekend, explore Laotian culture, cuisine and traditions at this three-day festival. Watch vibrant lamvong and fon dances, explore exquisite textiles and rattan goods and dine on delicious dishes like Pho.
While you’re in the area, see adorable critters at Zoosiana or catch the Easter Bunny stirring up some fun. Or savor a sunny spring day at Cypress Island Preserve, where you can hike, bike or birdwatch around Lake Martin.
French Quarter Easter Parade
April 5
New Orleans
Experience the French Quarter Easter Parade, a joyful celebration filled with glamorous attire and shades of butter yellow, sky blue and mint. This longstanding tradition was founded by local legend Chris Owens and honors her life and legacy. Whether you bring the family or go with friends, watch vibrant floats, charming performances and brassy marching bands stroll by.
Stick around the area to explore Jackson Square, known for its stunning architecture — like the St. Louis Cathedral. Nearby is the famous French Market, where you can grab delicious drinks and peruse an open-air market with handmade goods, souvenirs and tasty Louisiana spices.
Easter Buffet at Houmas House
April 5
Darrow
Celebrate Easter Sunday with an Easter buffet at Houmas House and Gardens. The decidedly Southern menu includes dishes like roast duck with praline sauce, crawfish etouffée and corn maque choux.
If you’re in for the weekend, drive the Louisiana River Road — All-American Road, which features stops like Whitney Plantation and The River Road African American Museum — two stops that offer essential context into the area’s Indigenous and Black history.
Azalea Trail
Spring
Lafayette
Have a sunny day to spare? Explore Lafayette’s fuchsia-lined Azalea Trail. Spot the vibrant Southern perennial, which is typically in bloom from March through May, along 20 miles of historic neighborhoods.
21 Beautiful State Parks & Preserves
Statewide
Louisiana is home to 21 beautiful state parks filled to the brim with fun family experiences. As temperatures rise and foliage blooms, consider the state’s exciting hiking, biking and paddle trails. Or book a getaway at one of our lovely cabins!
Whether you're an outdoor adventurer, music lover or just crave good food, Louisiana is filled with opportunities to #FeedYourSoul. Check our events calendar for more festivities.
