Regular Events

January

Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade

The parade begins at 1:00 p.m. and starts at Opelousas Farmer’s Market, 828 E Landry St, Opelousas, and ends at the Opelousas Court House, 118 South Court Street, Opelousas. The parade is free and everyone is invited to join in. A special memorial program begins at 2 p.m. at the Holy Ghost Catholic Church, 732 North Union Street, Opelousas. FMI 337-945-5064.

Gumbo Cook-off

The Gumbo Foundation and supporting sponsors present The Gumbo Cook-Off the last Saturday of January each year in downtown Opelousas.  Every year, the foundation rounds up gumbo cooking enthusiasts who are willing to battle for the paddle for “best gumbo.”.  All the proceeds from the cook-off benefit a child and family who are burdened with medical and related expenses.

February / March

Opelousas Imperial Mardi Gras Parade

Held on Fat Tuesday, the Opelousas Imperial Mardi Gras Parade rolls from East Landry to Liberty Street. The parade rolls at 11 a.m. Lineup is at 10 a.m. FMI 337-948-4367.

Annual Here’s the Beef Cook-off

Pit masters and beef lovers prepare their best beef dishes.  Held at the Yambilee grounds, the cook-off, along with the music starts at 10:00 a.m. and lasts till 4:30 p.m. FMI 337-945-0364.

June

Juneteenth Folklife Celebration

This celebration is an African American cultural event highlighting its contributions to Southwest Louisiana through food, folk art demonstrations, music and liturgical. Held the Saturday before Father’s Day.

August / September

Zydeco Breakfast

Before heading to the Original Southwest LA Zydeco Festival on Labor Day weekend, stop by the heart of downtown Opelousas for live music and breakfast items available at nearby cafes.

Original Southwest LA Zydeco Music Festival

Opelousas is designated Zydeco Music Capital of the World. The music festival is held each Labor Day Weekend.

October

St Landry Parish Catholic Church Voices of the Past Cemetery Tours

Held the second and third weekends in October, local actors bring historical characters to life through tours at the St. Landry Church Cemetery.

November

Holy Ghost Creole Bazaar & Festival

Held the first full weekend in November, the festival celebrates Creole culture.

Nativity Scene & Oaks Lighting

Celebrate the unveiling and lighting of the historic Nativity Scene and live oaks on the St. Landry Parish Courthouse Square, located at 118 South Court Street in downtown Opelousas. The event is held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving.   

December

Children’s Christmas Parade

Held the second Thursday in December, this annual holiday event features colorfully lit Christmas themed floats, marching bands, costumed characters, and of course everyone’s favorite, Santa Claus!

Monthly

La Table Francaise

Held the last Wednesday of the month at Le Vieux Village, attendees are invited to grab a cup of coffee and join in on Louisiana French conversation.

Spring & Fall

Music & Market

This event celebrates the spring and fall bounties of fresh, homegrown produce with local musical talents. Held on Friday’s from 5:30 –8:30 p.m. during the spring and fall.

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