Road tripping for Ponchatoula Strawberry Fest? Here’s what you need to know.
It's a berry good time!
by Mary Staes
April 3, 2019
Spring is here! We know, it doesn’t feel like it outside, but soon, it’ll be hotter than we know what to do with, so we’ll take the cool weather for now.
This year, the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival takes place April 12-14. Yes, it’s the same weekend as French Quarter Fest. 😩 But if you want a change of scenery, this fest is definitely one to hit.
Getting there
Normally, it would take about an hour to get to the fest grounds, but trust us, there’s going to be traffic. Be ready for it.
SATURDAY IS PACKED. If you’re making a day of it, get the kids up early, and hit the road. Gates open at 9 a.m., and there’s a parade that starts in downtown Ponchatoula at 9:30 a.m.
Parking
Parking is better in the north side of the festival grounds. You’ll see plenty of people parking along Highway 51 and the railroad tracks but beware. Those areas have longer walks to the fair and can get pretty packed as well.
All the vendors near the festival grounds are nonprofits, but the ones near Main Street aren’t, so be sure to support all the local organizations.
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Definitely moved to Louisiana for the sweet baby strawberries. Ya feel me?
What to pack
Don’t forget a chair or blanket, so someone in your group can stake out spots near the two music stages. You’ll want to look at who’s performing over the weekend also, and because it’s the same weekend as French Quarter Fest, and you want to party smarter, not harder.
This year’s headliners include Bag of Donuts, Category 6, Werewolf, Chase Tyler and Katie Austin.
Bring some cash. There’s no entry fee to get into the fest, but organizers have said the fest is cash only.
What not to miss
Paul’s Cafe Strawberry Daiquiris in a souvenir cup – the line is long, but it’s worth it! Also be sure to get your fill of chocolate strawberries, strawberry shortcake and fried strawberries while you’re out at the fest.
Love the fest so much you want to take part of it home? Strawberry bushes will be on sale at the fair too, so you can bring the pride of Ponchatoula right back to the city with you and try to grow your own!
Want to see the full lineup and festival events? Click here.
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