Visit Baton Rouge Festivals & Cultural Events Support Fund Program

We want to make sure that visitors know about the events that are taking place in 2027.

If you have an event and are interested in reaching visitors, the first step to making that happen is to add your visitor-driven event(s) to our calendar, https://www.visitbatonrouge.com/submit-event/. This is the first resource our staff relies on when promoting events. The sooner you are able to input your confirmed event details, the more time we will have to promote this through our marketing channels and efforts.

The Festivals & Cultural Events Support Fund provides financial support for 2027 festivals and events that celebrate Baton Rouge's culture and heritage through local entertainment, artisans, and cuisine. Funded events must serve both Greater Baton Rouge residents and visitors who travel, for the sense of authenticity and hospitality that our destination exudes.

Applications open Thursday, October 1, 2026, and are due Friday, October 30, 2026, by 3:00 p.m.

Eligible events:

  • Festivals and events that feature local artisans, entertainment, cuisine, and attractions highlighting Baton Rouge's culture and heritage.
  • Events that showcase local musicians, makers, farmers, and artists.

Ineligible events:

  • Workshops, exhibits, and showcases
  • Educational programs
  • Sporting events and races
  • Conferences and business expositions
  • School fairs and functions
  • Networking and corporate events

Questions about eligibility? Contact festivals@visitbatonrouge.com before applying.

Requirements for applying to our Support Fund Program:

  • Application must be submitted by October 30, 2026.
  • Festival/Event directly supports tourism, economic impact, and growth in East Baton Rouge Parish.
  • Festival/Event must be held in East Baton Rouge Parish.
    Event must take place in 2027.
  • Festival/Event organizer agrees that Visit Baton Rouge will be recognized as a sponsor.
  • Deliverables, Final Report and Invoice on proper letterhead required to receive sponsorship check no later than 30 days after event end date.
  • Visit Baton Rouge logo, provided by Visit Baton Rouge, will be present on materials and signage as appropriate and wherever sponsors are recognized.
  • Deliverables must include proof of logo usage throughout the event, i.e. photos taken as the event takes place.

Please note – Funding is determined by a committee and funding is not guaranteed. Failure to provide substantial deliverables, may result in a decrease in funding.

Applicants will be notified via email from festivals@visitbatonrouge.com by January 2027.

For more information or questions, please contact:

Sarah Noles, Destination Experience & Program Manager

festivals@visitbatonrouge.com

(225) 382-3586

Fallon Tullier, Research & Technology Manager

festivals@visitbatonrouge.com

(225) 382-3561