Louisiana has over 400 annual festivals that celebrate the state's unique culture, heritage, traditions, and natural resources. The festivals benefit the economy through tourism and spending, while preserving customs and educating locals and visitors. The most well-known festival is Mardi Gras, held annually in New Orleans before Lent, featuring parades, throws to crowds, and drawing over 3 million people and $1 billion to the economy. Another major festival is Jazz and Heritage Festival, celebrating Louisiana's music and cultural influences through live performances, food, art, and more.

1. Festivals in Louisiana

2. A festival is a time or day of feasting or celebration usually established by customs or traditions. What is a festival?

3. Louisiana has over 400 annual fairs and festivals that occur throughout the year in different parts of the state. Louisiana Festivals

7. Presenting: The Most Well-Known Louisiana Festival… M a r d i G r a s

8. Mardi Gras ***Mardi Gras is French for “Fat Tuesday” ***Held every year in New Orleans, LA ***February or March ***Celebrates the final day before the Christian fast of Lent ***First parade held in 1837

9. Mardi Gras ***Colors are purple, green and gold ***Celebrations include parades with elaborately decorated floats ridden by costumed members who toss trinkets to the crowds ***”Throws” include strings of plastic beads, cups, doubloons, and more .

10. Benefits of Mardi Gras ***Draws 3 million (3,000,000) people ***Gains $1,000,000 billion for the local economy ***Educates local residents and tourists about Louisiana history and culture ***Allows residents time to celebrate personal heritage and traditions

11. Jazz and Heritage Festival

12. ***Held annually in New Orleans in April or May ***Celebrates the music of Louisiana and the music Louisiana has influenced including the following: Jazz Blues Funk Rock Cajun Zydeco ***Festivities include music and food as well as crafts, paintings, dancing and more Jazz and Heritage Fest