First Weekend of May
Breaux Bridge
Crawfish Festival
The World's Largest Crawfish Festival in the Crawfish Capital of the World
A Louisiana Tradition Since 1960
Three days of food, music, and Cajun culture
Every year, the small town of Breaux Bridge transforms into the epicenter of crawfish celebration as over 100,000 visitors descend upon this charming Cajun community for the world-famous Crawfish Festival.
What started as a simple community gathering in 1960 has grown into an internationally recognized event that celebrates the humble crawfish and the rich culture of Louisiana's Acadiana region. The festival honors Breaux Bridge's official designation as the "Crawfish Capital of the World" - a title the town has proudly held since 1959.
Over the three-day celebration, visitors consume more than 100,000 pounds of crawfish prepared in every way imaginable: boiled, fried, in etouffee, bisque, pies, and countless other dishes. Live Cajun and Zydeco music fills the air from two stages, while the famous crawfish races keep crowds entertained throughout the weekend.
Festival Highlights
What to expect at the Crawfish Festival
Endless Crawfish
Over 100,000 pounds of crawfish served every way imaginable - boiled, fried, in etouffee, bisque, pies, and more creative preparations.
Live Music
Two stages featuring continuous live Cajun and Zydeco music from local favorites and regional headliners throughout the weekend.
Crawfish Races
The famous crawfish races are a festival tradition! Watch as contestants cheer their crustacean competitors to the finish line.
Contests & Competitions
Crawfish eating contests, crawfish peeling races, Cajun dance competitions, and more keep the crowds entertained all weekend.
Parade
The Saturday morning parade winds through downtown Breaux Bridge with floats, marching bands, and plenty of beads to catch.
Arts & Crafts
Browse the arts and crafts village featuring local artisans, handmade goods, and unique Louisiana souvenirs.
Festival Schedule
Plan your visit to the Crawfish Festival
Friday
5:00 PM - 11:00 PM
- Festival gates open
- Live music on both stages
- Crawfish vendors serving
- Arts & crafts village open
- Carnival rides operating
Saturday
10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Main parade through downtown (10 AM)
- Crawfish eating contest (2 PM)
- Crawfish races (Noon & 4 PM)
- Dance contests (6 PM)
- Headline performances (8 PM)
Sunday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Gospel music (10 AM)
- Family activities
- Final crawfish races (2 PM)
- Awards ceremony (4 PM)
- Closing performances
* Schedule subject to change. Check the official website for the most current information.
Getting There
Location, parking, and transportation information
Parking
Free parking is available at designated lots around downtown Breaux Bridge. Shuttle service runs continuously from parking areas to the festival grounds. Follow signs as you enter town for parking directions.
From Lafayette
Breaux Bridge is just 10 minutes from downtown Lafayette. Take I-10 East to Exit 109 (Henderson/Breaux Bridge). Follow LA-328 south into town.
Accommodations
Book early! Hotels in Breaux Bridge and nearby Lafayette fill up quickly during festival weekend. Check our lodging page for local options.
View AccommodationsFrequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the Crawfish Festival
When is the Crawfish Festival?
The Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival is held annually on the first full weekend of May. Gates open Friday evening and the festival runs through Sunday.
How much is admission?
General admission prices vary by day. Children under 12 are free with a paying adult. Check the official website for current pricing and ticket options.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
No outside food or beverages are allowed inside the festival grounds. There are numerous food vendors offering crawfish prepared every way imaginable, plus other Cajun favorites.
Is parking available?
Yes, parking is available near Parc Hardy. Additional parking is available at designated lots around downtown with shuttle service to the festival grounds.
Is the festival family-friendly?
Absolutely! The Crawfish Festival is a family event with activities for all ages, including carnival rides, crawfish races, and special children's areas.
What should I wear?
Dress casually and comfortably. Louisiana weather in May can be warm and humid, so light clothing is recommended. Closed-toe shoes are suggested for the crawfish eating areas.
See You at the Festival!
Mark your calendar for the first weekend of May and join us for the world's largest celebration of the mighty crawfish.