Things To Do in Louisiana This Weekend

With 9 State Museums and 22 State Parks & Preserves, there is no shortage of things to do every day of the year in Louisiana.

Enjoy world-class fishing, boating and paddling. Get up close with nature on biking and hiking trails. You'll find excellent camping and picnic areas, including well-equipped cabins and RV parks and so much more at a Louisiana State Park.

When you're ready to travel, discover the history of Mardi Gras, see Louis Armstrong's cornet, relive historic moments in Louisiana sports history and so much more when you visit a Louisiana State Museum. The Cabildo in New Orleans' Jackson Square is not only home to Napoleon's Death Mask but once served as the Spanish seat of government in the United States. There are countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the culture that makes Louisiana such a special place.

Here are just a few events happening around the state this weekend for you to experience #OnlyLouisiana:

Be a Fan Week – May 1 - 9, 2021

Shreveport: There are no shortage of reasons to visit Shreveport and Bossier City, no matter the time of year, but this week you have more than usual to choose from. That’s what Be a Fan Week is all about: bringing exclusive experiences, a digital scavenger hunt and discounted attractions to visitors in northwest Louisiana. The May Downtown Shreveport Artwalk is part of the fun, as are the Slow Roll through Downtown Shreveport, Chalk is Cheap at East Bank District and Picture Me Posing at American Rose Center. These events plus discounts galore mean visitors can experience the region’s cultural riches without breaking the bank.

Sightseeing Carriage Tours of Covington - May 7 - 9, 2021

Covington: See downtown Covington in comfort and style, courtesy of Royal Carriages. The mule-drawn carriage company is well-known for its tours of New Orleans’ French Quarter, and now, you can ride past Covington’s historical buildings beneath the canopies of oak trees, with an expert local guide who will let you in on some of the city’s secrets. Choose from a 30-minute or hourlong ride. 

Brennan's Restaurant's Turtles on Parade – May 8, 2021

New Orleans: One of the classic “grand dames” of Creole restaurants is Brennan’s, a French Quarter restaurant that is perhaps most famous for originating the bananas foster dessert. Another tradition that is perhaps a little less known — but beloved nonetheless — is Turtles on Parade. This annual event celebrates the 10 turtles that live in the restaurant’s courtyard fountain. There are parade floats and a “blessing of the turtles” ceremony, and a festive brunch. 

GNARFEST – May 8, 2021

Hammond: Among Louisiana’s craft breweries, Gnarly Barley Brewing stands out. Brews like Catahoula Common and Jucifer IPA have garnered acclaim among beer fans far beyond the state lines, and in 2018 was named one of the fastest-growing breweries in the country. Gnarly Barley celebrates its success annually with GNARFEST, a party that includes newly released beers, food from Fat Jose’s Taco Truck, Champ’s Crawfish Boil and Mr. Milkshake, and live music. Party’s happening at Gnarly Barley’s taproom, affectionately known as the Gnar Bar.

Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band at The Grouse Room – May 9, 2021

Lafayette: Chubby Carrier is royalty among Louisiana’s zydeco artists. The Church Point native is a third-generation zydeco musician who still lives in Cajun country and has shared stages with some of the biggest names in popular music. This weekend, the 2011 Grammy winner and his band come to Lafayette’s The Grouse Room. 

Learn more about upcoming things to do around Louisiana here on our calendar of events.