The Fourth Annual Spring Garden & Pet Show brought 3,000 people to the historic grounds of Destrehan Plantation on River Road last weekend. The event raised about $18,000 for the preservation of the plantation and its museum.
This event was presented in partnership with the LSU AgCenter and Louisiana Master Gardeners and featured more than 80 vendors offering houseplants, rare varieties, fruit trees, garden art, and pet accessories. The event also included an arts and craft tent, petting zoo and bungee jump for kids.
Melissa Monica, a spokesperson for Destrehan Plantation, said each vendor brought their own passion and each presenter had their own expertise.
“What moved me most, though, were the animal rescue groups,” Monica said. “Their joy in being part of the event – and their dedication to giving every pet a chance at a better life is incredibly touching.”
She said her favorite moment of the weekend was watching an attendee’s dachshund come face-to-face with one of Josephy Roy’s tortoises from Roots & Reptiles of Baton Rouge.
Monica said early this year that the Spring Garden and Pet Show has a meaningful economic and tourism impact on the parish and Destrehan Plantation.
“It draws visitors from across the region to support local vendors, experience the historic grounds, and spend the day in the community,” she said. “This positions the plantation as an active destination, introducing new audiences to the property, encouraging repeat visits, and strengthening partnerships that support long-term preservation.”
