Calling all rice lovers! Every year, during the third full weekend in October, Crowley, Louisiana, transforms into a haven for all things rice at the International Rice Festival. This year’s festival, held from October 17th through 20th, promises to be a jam-packed celebration of the grain that defines our community.
A Legacy of Honoring Rice
The International Rice Festival is steeped in tradition. Established in 1937, it’s not only Louisiana’s oldest agricultural festival, but also one of the biggest. Originally named the National Rice Festival, it was renamed “International” in 1946 to reflect its growing importance. Throughout the years, the festival has served as a platform to honor the rice industry’s hardworking farmers and emphasize the significance of rice as a global food source.
A Weekend Full of Fun for All Ages
Get ready for a fun-filled weekend with something for everyone! Two stages will come alive with non-stop entertainment featuring renowned artists like Percy Sledge, Joe Diffie, and Shenandoah. Local Louisiana favorites Wayne Toups, Geno Delafosse, Chubby Carrier, and Dustin Sonnier will also be gracing the stage, along with many more talented performers.
Activities Galore: From Classic Cars to Culinary Delights
The festival offers a variety of activities beyond the music. Take a stroll through the gleaming rows of classic cars at the Classic Car Show, test your endurance at the Crowley High 5k Run Walk, or put your musical skills to the test at the Fiddle and Accordion Contest.
Must-See Events: Pageantry, Competition, and Louisiana Flair
Don’t miss the crowd-pleasing staples that capture the unique spirit of Louisiana:
- Rice Festival Queen’s Contest: Witness the crowning of the festival’s royalty, a charming tradition that celebrates grace and community spirit.
- Rice Eating Contest: Cheer on the brave souls who compete to devour rice in record time. It’s a hilarious and fast-paced competition that’s sure to leave you both impressed and hungry!
- Frog Derby: A unique Louisiana tradition sure to entertain. Watch these lively amphibians race it out for amphibian glory!
- Parades: Witness two vibrant parades – a Children’s Parade on Friday, where the next generation gets to strut their stuff, and a Grand Parade on Saturday, featuring elaborate floats, marching bands, and dazzling displays that celebrate rice country.
A Celebration of Community: Honoring the Grain that Binds Us
The 2020 festival’s cancellation due to the pandemic served as a reminder of the importance of this community gathering.The International Rice Festival is more than just a celebration of rice; it’s a celebration of Crowley itself. Rice is the foundation of our family farms, local businesses, and the very heart of our community’s economy.
Beyond the Festival: Exploring Crowley and Beyond
While the festival is the main event, don’t forget to explore the charming town of Crowley. Visit the Rice Interpretive Center to learn more about the history of rice farming in Louisiana. Take a walk through the historic downtown district and soak up the local atmosphere. Sample some delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine at one of Crowley’s many restaurants,where rice is sure to be a starring ingredient!
So, mark your calendars for October 17th-20th and join us at the International Rice Festival in Crowley for a weekend of delicious food, foot-stomping music, unforgettable memories, and a deeper appreciation for the “golden grain” that sustains us all.
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