Expecting to draw nearly 10,000 visitors, Destrehan Plantation’s 47th Annual Fall Festival will offer more crafters, entertainment and food than in previous years.
Tracy Smith, the plantation’s interim executive director, said the festival typically averages 8,500 to 9,000 visitors, but they are expecting a bigger crowd with good weather.
The festival will be held 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 9 and 10 on the plantation grounds, located at 13034 River Road in Destrehan.
Among the festival’s features will be about 120 arts and crafters selling their wares, some 35 more than last year, Smith said. Exotic woodwork, scented candles, original jewelry, Louisiana-themed prints, canvas paintings and exclusive houseware items are some of the highlights.
“Forty-seven years of having a successful event is why we have so many crafters,” Smith said. “It’s a very popular event.”
A tasty menu will include pralines, barbequed pulled pork, ribs, steak on a stick, shrimp tacos and more.
Children’s activities include pony rides, face painting and interactive games in the schoolhouse.
The mule barn promises to captivate the antique collector with distinctive pieces brought by antique dealers throughout Louisiana.
Historical interpreters provide tours of the plantation home throughout the day for an additional $5 per person. Craft artisans demonstrate trades and domestic duties utilized in the early 1800s, while visitors can also learn more about the 1811 slave revolt.
A bigger band lineup includes Ryan Foret & Foret Tradition, who will perform Saturday, Nov. 9, from noon to 3 p.m. Groovy 7 will take the stage Sunday from noon to 3 p.m.
Cajun and creole food lovers can dine in the picnic area while enjoying live entertainment.
Admission for a full day is $8 per adult or teen and children 12 years and under get in free.
Parking is available behind the plantation and on the levee if weather permits.
Letting the good times roll
- The Destrehan Plantation annual Fall Festival was founded in 1972.
- The festival is the main fundraising event for the River Road Historical Society for Destrehan Plantation site development and expansion.
- The festival was cancelled in 2016 because of limited parking. A year later, it returned with an additional eight acres for parking.
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