The 54th annual event returns to Destrehan Plantation Nov. 14-15 with arts and crafts, antiques, expanded food offerings, and family activities.
New vendors, expanded food offerings, and two days of shopping and entertainment will highlight the 54th annual Fall Festival at Destrehan Plantation, where organizers expect thousands of visitors to gather beneath the historic property’s oak trees Nov. 14-15.
The festival will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day and feature more than 150 vendors, antiques, children’s activities, live music, and a food court offering Southern and international cuisine.
The event welcomed more than 8,000 visitors last year, according to Melissa Monica, public and media relations coordinator and spokesperson for Destrehan Plantation.
“We look forward to welcoming returning guests and first-time visitors for a weekend of shopping, food, music, and family fun,” Monica said.
This year’s festival will introduce several new vendors, including businesses that previously participated in the plantation’s Spring Garden and Pet Show. Those vendors will offer houseplants, bird feeders, and yard décor, while two new children’s vendors will feature 3D animated sculptures, light-up balloons, and bubble toys.
Organizers are also welcoming M7 Creations, which participated in the spring show. The business specializes in metal yard sculptures featuring animals, birds, flowers, religious designs, signs, nautical pieces, and Louisiana-themed creations.
The festival selects vendors based on the quality and uniqueness of their products. Applicants submit photographs of their work or links to their websites or Etsy shops.
Visitors can browse handmade jewelry, pottery, woodcrafts, seasonal decorations, plants, clothing, specialty foods and spices.
“We look for quality craftsmanship and distinctive products to create a varied shopping experience,” Monica said.
The festival’s food court is expanding this year, with 11 vendors serving a variety of dishes. The New Orleans Filipino American Lions Club will offer funnel cakes, deep-fried Oreos, Asian-style grilled chicken, shrimp and crawfish spinach boats, and loaded fries.
Smoothin & Groovin will serve fresh fruit smoothies, açaí bowls, and Italian ice.
Returning favorites will include Cochon de lait po’boys from Love at First Bite, the ghetto burger from Akasia’s Cafe, seafood balls from Queen Ursula Highly Flavored, the onion mum from Fils-Asian Kitchen, loaded mac & cheese with brisket from Big Bertha Barbeque & Seafood, Mexican Street Tacos from GiGi’s Cafe, and the plantation’s Indigo Cafe, which will also be open, serving its club royal with hot roast beef.
Beverages will include sodas, water, beer, wine, and the plantation’s signature Plantation Punch.
“With so many delicious choices, we encourage returning guests to try something new this year!” Monica said.
Live music will be featured both days. Ryan Foret and Foret Tradition will perform Saturday, Nov. 14, and the Peyton Falgoust Band will take the stage Sunday, Nov. 15. Both performances run from 12:30 to 4 p.m.
Families can also enjoy pony rides, face painting, and a bungee jump. Visitors looking for a quieter experience can relax in the picnic area and listen to live music.
Monica encouraged visitors to explore the antique vendors inside the historic Mule Barn and consider taking a guided tour of the plantation house.
Beyond shopping and entertainment, the festival gives visitors a chance to learn about the historic property and its preservation efforts while supporting artists and small businesses.
“The festival brings our community together to celebrate creativity, food, music, and history,” Monica said. “It introduces visitors to Destrehan Plantation’s preservation and educational mission while giving artists, craftspeople, and small businesses an opportunity to reach new customers.”
The variety of attractions has helped the festival remain popular with families over the years, Monica said.
“There’s something for every age and interest, from art, crafts, and antiques to food, live music, and children’s activities—all beneath our beautiful oak trees,” she said. “That mix of variety, value, and a welcoming atmosphere keeps families coming back and making new memories together.”
Admission is $8 for adults and teens. Children 12 and younger are admitted free. Guided house tours cost $15 per person, with free admission for children 12 and younger. Parking is free, and you can buy advance tickets through the plantation’s website.
Organizers encourage visitors to wear comfortable shoes and allow plenty of time to explore the grounds.
Destrehan Plantation is located at 13034 River Road in Destrehan. For more information, visit www.destrehanplantation.org or call 985-764-9315.
