Get Your Sugar Fix At The Strawberry Festival In Louisiana

Are you looking for a berry good time? The Strawberry Festival in Louisiana is one of the largest food festivals in Louisiana, drawing over 300,000 people to Ponchatoula every year to savor all things strawberry related. And since Ponchatoula is known as the "Strawberry Capital of the World," it’s only fitting that this charming city would host Louisiana’s largest free harvest festival.

Since its humble beginnings in 1972, the Strawberry Festival has grown into one of the most cherished festivals in the state.

The festival kicks off on Friday, April 14, 2023, at Memorial Park and continues on through the weekend.

The parade is a time-honored tradition, and you won’t want to miss it.

Just when you thought Mardi Gras was over, you’re treated to yet another parade! The parade rolls on Saturday, April 15 at 9:30 A.M.

After you’ve caught some berry good throws, head into the festival to continue the fun.

The festival is free to enter, so you just pay for any carnival rides, food, and drinks that you want.

Bring some chairs and/or a blanket so you can catch some of the live musical performances going on throughout the whole weekend. Check out the line-up to see when your favorite band is taking the stage.

The best part of any festival is the food, and the Strawberry Festival hits a homer in this category.

From corn dogs to seafood baked potatoes, you’ll find both carnival classics and Louisiana fare here.

Of course, there will be plenty of strawberry dishes for you to try...

...and drinks, too!

Strawberries are the perfect addition to daiquiris and beers, and you’ll find plenty of strawberry-infused beverages to wet your whistle.

Thrill-seekers, don’t worry. There’s an entire corner of the festival dedicated to adrenaline-pumping rides that you’re sure to enjoy.

There are also several riders for the youngest thrill-seekers, too.

Be sure to swing through the arts and crafts tents, where you’ll find dozens of small businesses and local vendors selling everything from candles to earrings.

Naturally, you'll want to pick up a box or two of locally-grown strawberries.

There are several farmers that will be out selling their berries, so come out and support our local farmers and stock up on juicy, delicious Louisiana strawberries.

Visit the festival's website for more information, and mark your calendars! Speaking of local farmers, Mrs. Heather's is a nearby farm that is also participating in the festival, but you may want to carve out some time to check out this awesome, family-friendly farm that's a strawberry farm in the spring and then transforms into a magical pumpkin farm in the fall.