Jeff Davis Parish in Louisiana is a vibrant community that offers a wide range of events throughout the year. From cultural festivals to food and music celebrations, there is always something going on in the parish. With a heavy emphasis on fun and plenty of activities for Mardi Gras, Louisiana's most famous holiday. Venture to the slightly tame yet, equally fun and family- friendly local farmers markets. All events are dedicated to bringing family, friends, and neighbors together!
Festival season in Louisiana lasts all year and Jeff Davis Parish always has something to celebrate. The Parish’s small communities also throw some wonderful, family-friendly events year-round listed below. Be sure to visit the Parish's Event Calendar for all the calendar of events to keep you up to date.
Every other Saturday, enjoy an authentic Cajun Music Jam at the Jeff Davis Parish Visitor Center and Gator Chateau. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Bring your instrument to jam, dance or just enjoy the music. Don’t forget to hold a baby gator before you leave!
Jeff Davis Parish Tourist Center / Gator Chateau
100 Rue de l’Acadie
I-10 at Hwy 26
Jennings, LA 70546
An event of epic proportions, the Welsh Mardi Gras, hosts a month of fun for all. Beginning with the Carnival Ball, followed by a kids run, and culminating in a traditional run, parade and street dance, this event spans over the course of a month and offers something for the whole family.
Welsh, LA 70591
There's no better way to celebrate Mardi Gras than in the small towns of Louisiana. Offering multiple events over the span of 2 months, the Lake Arthur Area Mardi Gras festivities kick off in January with the Gueydan Run, Parade, and Ball. Following weekends offer more events including those in Lake Arthur and Jennings.
Lake Arthur Park
Lake Arthur, LA 70549
Watch local kids from Pre-K through 2nd grade compete in the annual Jeff Davis Parish Special Olympics Young Athletes Fun Day. Sponsored by Special Olympics Louisiana, this event will give you an opportunity to support athletes from all walks of life.
Jennings High School Gymnasium
2310 N. Sherman Street
Jennings, LA 70546
Lake Arthur Area Mardi Gras Run and Parade Offering multiple events over the span of 2 months, festivities continue in February with events in Lake Arthur and Jennings. Cheer on the costumed runners and horseback riders “begging” for
Gumbo ingredients, laugh with the kids chasing chickens during the traditional Courir de Mardi Gras. Afterwards, watch the creative and festive floats go by during the parades.
Lake Arthur Park & Boardwalk
Lake Arthur, LA 70549
Downtown Jennings - Main Street
Jennings, LA 70546
Enjoy the unique sounds of squeezebox accordions and appreciate one of the best traditions in southern Louisiana. This annual music performance doubles as a contest for musicians of all ages who play Cajun single-row diatonic accordions. The sell-out show features contestants from all over Louisiana to compete in a Jennings tradition.
The Historic Strand Theatre
432 North Main St.
Jennings, LA 70546
STOL stands for Short Take Off and Landing and … excitement! Watch as pilots take the air during the day in a series of competitions showcasing their skills. Sports announcers will narrate the events and there is even a meet and greet with the pilots. Evenings feature live music and crawfish boils. On-site camping is available.
Jennings Airport (3R7)
Jennings, LA 70546
If you're a fan of birding, don't miss out on the Yellow Rails & Rice Festival, which is held throughout the farms and prairies of Jeff Davis Parish. Spot famous flocks of Yellow Rails, get an intimate look into rice harvesting operations, and mingle with fellow nature lovers at the Yellow Rails and Rice Festival during Louisiana’s (late) second rice harvest. If you love birdwatching, come to catch a rare glimpse of these tiny marshland birds only found in second crop rice fields. Friendly outdoor fun for all!
Lake Arthur, LA 70549
Last Resort Custom Car and Truck Show Beginning in October 2008 as a one-day event, the Last Resort is Louisiana’s largest and best custom automotive and camping event. With the goal of providing a laid-back custom show that could be enjoyed by the whole family, this event now spans four days and includes vendors, vehicles, and an awards show.
Louisiana Oil and Gas Park
100 Rue de l’Acadie
I-10 at Hwy 26
Jennings, LA 70546
Each year, the public is invited to join in on the festivities of the majestic Stearman End of the Season Fly-in event. You’ll have a chance to view and appreciate magnificent World War II aircraft up close and personal. The pilots are even on-hand to chat about these special aircrafts.
Jennings Airport (3R7)
Jennings, LA 70546
Battle of the BowsThe can’t miss Cajun fiddle competition is a unique way to experience the music of southern Louisiana. Whether you’re listening to a 7-year-old showcase their impressive skills or an experienced adult fiddle play, there’s nothing quite like this event! This annual music performance doubles as a contest for musicians.
The Historic Strand Theatre
432 North Main St.
Jennings, LA 70546
Come one, come all and enjoy this fabulous Christmas festival. Fun for the whole family including hot chocolate with Santa, shopping, parade, hayrides, fireworks display and more! Locals and visitors both flock to this one-of-a-kind holiday kickoff.
Downtown Jennings and I-10 Park
Jennings, LA 70546
