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Unmissable Summer Cajun Food & Music Festivals in Southwest Louisiana

Note: Dates reference 2017 events. These popular annual festivals continue—verify current schedules on official websites for the latest details.

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Southwest Louisiana, especially Lake Charles, is a premier destination for festival enthusiasts and Cajun cuisine lovers. These four exceptional summer Cajun festivals combine mouthwatering food, vibrant music, and cultural heritage for an unforgettable experience.

St. Margaret’s Crawfish and Music Festival – May 13, 2017
Beat the rising summer heat with a traditional crawfish boil bursting with spicy Cajun flavors. Dance the afternoon away to live bands including Rusty Metoyer and The Zydeco Krush, Josh Blakesley, and The Tugboats. Pack blankets, lawn chairs, dancing shoes, and a big appetite! Visit www.smccfest.com for more information.

Unmissable Summer Cajun Food & Music Festivals in Southwest Louisiana

Gulf Coast Shrimp & Jazz Festival – June 24, 2017
Shrimp and summer are a perfect match, elevated by world-class jazz. Enjoy blues, smooth jazz, be-bop, jazz-funk, Latin jazz, and soul jazz. Family-friendly with a kids' zone, diverse shrimp dishes, and jazz workshops to keep everyone engaged.

Cajun Food & Music Festival – July 14-15, 2017
Indulge in gumbo, jambalaya, étouffée, and more Cajun specialties. This festival preserves Cajun traditions through authentic music, dancing, and food. Local musicians will have you on your feet, or join the Waltz or Two-Step contests. Practice your moves with this “How To” video.

Marshland Festival – July 28-29, 2017
Featuring top Cajun and Zydeco bands, a business expo, arts & crafts, kids' activities, and flavorful local cuisine. Taste Southwest Louisiana's renowned food and music scene in one lively event.

Unmissable Summer Cajun Food & Music Festivals in Southwest Louisiana

Arts & Crabs Fest – August 19, 2017
Satisfy your crab cravings with unique dishes from local chefs competing for the Best Crab Dish Award. Pair with beer tastings, live regional music, an art market, and live demonstrations. Tickets available at www.eventbrite.com.

Southwest Louisiana buzzes with events year-round. Download our free Events App for a full summer lineup. Share your festival adventures with #VisitLakeCharles.

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