Part of our Louisiana guide.
Three pieces from our Louisiana coverage: coastal oyster festivals in Plaquemines Parish, New Year’s Eve in New Orleans before the Sugar Bowl, and the Kisatchie Hills Spring Houses.
Related travel guides: Mardi Gras: Magic, Music, And Mayhem In New Orleans, Savor The Magic Of Café Du Monde's Beignets And Chicory Coffee, Secrets Of Louisiana's Voodoo Bayou, Unleash Fun At Louisiana Children's Museum, and Kenner Travel Guide.
Coastal Oyster Festivals In Louisiana's Plaquemines Parish
Plaquemines Parish is Louisiana’s prime destination for fresh Gulf oysters, and its coastal oyster festivals celebrate that heritage with live music, local crafts, and tastings. These events bring together communities and visitors to honor the local seafood industry. You can sample the catch of the day while browsing artisan stalls and listening to regional bands. The festivals highlight the parish’s culture and traditions, offering a chance to experience the Gulf’s finest oysters in a festive setting.
New Orleans New Year's Eve: 8 Ways To Celebrate Pre-Sugar Bowl
New Orleans offers countless ways to ring in the New Year, and the Allstate Sugar Bowl—held shortly after—adds extra electricity to the celebrations. The city’s live music and cuisine provide a backdrop for eight distinct pre-Sugar Bowl festivities. Options include Bourbon Street countdowns, riverfront fireworks, and special restaurant menus. The Sugar Bowl itself draws thousands of fans, making hotel and event reservations essential well in advance. Whether you’re a football enthusiast or just love a lively party, the Big Easy delivers a memorable New Year’s Eve.
Kisatchie Hills Spring Houses
Built in the early 20th century, the Kisatchie Hills Spring Houses served as vital fresh-water sources for settlers. Today they stand as reminders of simpler times, surrounded by forests and trails in the heart of Louisiana. Visitors can explore these hidden natural wonders by hiking the nearby trails, which wind through the Kisatchie National Forest. The spring houses themselves are small stone structures, often tucked along creek beds. Plan a day trip to step back in time and enjoy the area’s blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The trails are well-marked, and the spring houses are accessible year-round, though spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for hiking.
