Fall Festivals & Events

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Jefferson Parish knows how to have fun all year round, but fall is a special time for both residents and visitors alike. We mark the end of another long, hot summer with a variety of outdoor festivals celebrating food, music, heritage, and more! If you've ever visited during the spring and summer months, you'll know that our "festival season" is jam-packed. However, as the weather cools, there are just as many family-friendly outdoor festivals in autumn, when otherwise sleepy towns come alive. Learn more about a few of our favorites below!

The Gretna Heritage Festival, one of our largest music festivals of the year, takes place in historic downtown Gretna right on the Mississippi River. The festival also honors their diverse cultural backgrounds with a variety of exciting “villages”, such as their German and Italian villages, which features food and entertainment from each culture represented.

Indulge in unlimited taco tastings and signature cocktails from the city's best restaurants at Top Taco, held every late October at Lafreniere Park. This festival is a taco lover's dream, with over 50 local restaurants competing for the coveted "best of" title in various categories including traditional, creative, and vegetarian tacos. In addition to the mouth-watering tacos, festival-goers can enjoy margaritas, tequila tastings, and live entertainment. The event also features a VIP lounge with exclusive food and drink offerings, making it a must-attend for foodies and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

The Westbank Heritage Festival is a vibrant celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the Westbank community. Held annually at the Alario Center, this festival features live music from local and regional artists, delicious food, and numerious local vendors. The event also includes fun activities for children, such as carnival rides and games. The festival showcases the unique traditions and cultural diversity of the area, bringing together residents and visitors for a weekend of entertainment and community spirit.

Jefferson Parish offers a variety of exciting events around Halloween. Thrill-seekers can enjoy Zombie Paintball at NOLA Motorsports, while families can participate in Trunk or Treats and visit pumpkin patches around the parish. The Malloween at Lakeside Shopping Center or the Gretna Pumpkin Patch also provide family-friendly fun. Neighborhoods boast decorated houses, and outdoor Halloween movie nights offer cozy film viewings during the cooler months. For intense scares, the New Orleans Nightmare Haunted House, one of the best in the U.S., is a must-visit. 

You're never short on enjoyable activities thanks to the cooler weather in Fall. Take a pause from the festival fun by hiking the wetland trails at Barataria Preserve, biking or walking the paths at Bucktown Harbor, or enjoying a dozen raw oysters at one of the many restaurants along the Louisiana Oyster Trail. No matter which events you choose to partake in, plan to immerse yourself in local foods, traditions, and cultures!