In 1986, the beignet was named Louisiana’s official state doughnut, and the deep-fried pastry is the star of the show for one November day in City Park. Fruit, chocolate, seafood, cheese — if it fits in a little pocket of pastry, chances are someone at Beignet Fest has already stuffed it inside a beignet and sold it. The official vendor list includes some of the city’s best restaurants, and you can catch performances by local musicians, too. Proceeds from the festival go toward the Beignet Fest Foundation, which supports children with autism.
The Specs
- Around 12,000 people attended the festival in 2023.
- General admission tickets cost $20 and two tiers of VIP tickets cost $50.
- Staying in the city? Check out Fifty Grande’s best things to do in New Orleans.
FAQs
Where does the festival take place?
Beignet Fest is held in New Orleans’ City Park.
What’s the best way to get there?
City Park is easily accessible by foot, car, or public transport. If you’re flying in for the festival, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is 11.4 miles from the New Orleans City Park Festival Grounds.
Can I bring my pets?
Non-service animals are not allowed at Beignet Fest.
Are there any age restrictions?
Nope! Beignet Fest is open to all ages.
Who’s on this year’s live music lineup?
Prism Project, Imagination Movers, Sierra Green and the Giants, Amanda Shaw and the Cute Guys, Big Sam’s Funky Nation and Jon Cleary and the Absolute Monster Gentleman.