As winter fades and the azaleas burst into color, Louisiana’s capital city comes alive with a vibrant array of spring festivals that showcase the area’s rich culture, music, and culinary traditions. From festive holiday celebrations to blues beats and crawfish feasts, the city offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike.
225 Fest: February 28, 2026
225Fest offers an innovative festival experience that showcases local talent, craftsmanship, and flavors, allowing revelers to enjoy food trucks, live performances, an art walk, panel discussions, kids’ activities, and more.
Wearin’ of the Green: March 14, 2026
Don your shamrock-inspired apparel and embrace the luck of the Irish for the annual Baton Rouge St. Patrick’s Day parade, featuring marching bands, bagpipers, and colorful “krewes” parading down tree-lined streets.
Louisiana Red Beans and Rice Heritage and Music Festival: March 20-22, 2026
This family-friendly weekend brings together chefs, home cooks, and food enthusiasts to showcase their best red beans and rice recipes alongside live music, a car and motorcycle show, a night market, energetic zydeco and line dancing, a Kid Zone, a parade, and more.
Crawfête: March 22, 2026
Enjoy all-you-can-eat boiled crawfish, creative crawfish dishes from top local chefs, live music, and a friendly competition for the best boil — all while supporting the Baton Rouge Epicurean Society. Grab your tickets here!
Holi Festival: March 28, 2026
Get ready for a burst of color, culture, and celebration at Repentance Park! The festival of colors returns, bringing joyful color throws, energetic live entertainment, and delicious food. Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of Indian heritage this season!
Baton Rouge Blues Fest: April 17-18, 2026
At one of the oldest blues festivals in the country, you can celebrate the unique Swamp Blues style that originated in Baton Rouge in the 1950s. This free, family-friendly live music event brings together musicians and music lovers from near and far.
Crawfish King Cook-Off: May 1, 2026
Spring in Baton Rouge wouldn’t be complete without indulging in local culinary traditions. For a truly tasty experience, make your way to this delicious fest that celebrates the region’s favorite crustacean in a lively cook-off competition.
Hot Art, Cool Nights: May 8, 2026
Art lovers won’t want to miss Hot Art, Cool Nights. This free event, organized by the Mid-City Merchants Association, spans a 2.5-mile stretch of Government Street, featuring original art, live music, and authentic eats.
Night Market BTR: May 19, 2026
Celebrate the Year of the Fire Horse at Night Market BTR! This open-air market showcases Asian culture with over 100 local vendors, tasty food trucks, live music, and fun for the whole family under the stars.
Baton Rouge Soul Food Festival: May 21, 23 & 24, 2026
This judged culinary competition features entrees, side dishes, and desserts that showcase the South’s distinctive flavors. Here you can sample mouthwatering food, enjoy live performances of blues and soul music, and stroll the Vendor’s Village, which offers unique goods and crafts.
Live After Five: TBA
Baton Rouge’s premier live music event series returns each spring, inviting visitors and locals to jam out during free concerts in downtown Baton Rouge’s North Boulevard Town Square. Many local restaurants join in the celebration, offering specials guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds.
Celebrate an Unforgettable Festival Season
From Mardi Gras to blues festivals, crawfish cook-offs, and art walks, Baton Rouge’s spring festival season offers something for everyone. Here you can delight in this eclectic city’s diverse cultural heritage and community spirit while enjoying incomparable experiences that will keep you coming back for more!