Shrimp and Petroleum Festival: A Celebration of Louisiana’s Rich Culture

The Shrimp and Petroleum Festival is an annual event held in Morgan City, Louisiana, that celebrates the state’s unique culture and heritage. The festival, which began in 1936, is a tribute to the two industries that have played a significant role in the state’s economy: shrimp fishing and petroleum production. The festival is a four-day event that features live music, food, carnival rides, and a parade. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of the Shrimp and Petroleum Festival and what visitors can expect from this exciting event.

The History of the Shrimp and Petroleum Festival

The Shrimp and Petroleum Festival was first held in 1936 as a way to celebrate the opening of the Morgan City Harbor. The harbor was a significant development for the city, as it allowed for easier access to the Gulf of Mexico and increased the city’s economic opportunities. The festival was initially called the “Louisiana Shrimp Festival” and was a one-day event that featured a shrimp cook-off and a parade.

Over the years, the festival grew in popularity and expanded to include more events and activities. In 1967, the festival was renamed the “Shrimp and Petroleum Festival” to recognize the importance of the petroleum industry to the state’s economy. Today, the festival is a four-day event that attracts visitors from all over the country.

What to Expect at the Shrimp and Petroleum Festival

Live Music

One of the highlights of the Shrimp and Petroleum Festival is the live music. The festival features a variety of musical acts, including local bands and nationally known performers. Visitors can enjoy everything from Cajun and zydeco music to rock and country. The music is played on multiple stages throughout the festival grounds, so there is always something to listen to.

Food

No festival in Louisiana would be complete without delicious food, and the Shrimp and Petroleum Festival is no exception. Visitors can sample a variety of seafood dishes, including boiled shrimp, fried shrimp, shrimp étouffée, and shrimp po’boys. There are also plenty of other food options, including Cajun favorites like jambalaya and gumbo. And of course, no festival would be complete without sweet treats like funnel cakes and cotton candy.

Carnival Rides

The Shrimp and Petroleum Festival is also a great place for families with children. The festival features a variety of carnival rides, including a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and a roller coaster. There are also games and other attractions for kids of all ages.

Parade

The highlight of the Shrimp and Petroleum Festival is the parade, which takes place on the final day of the festival. The parade features floats, marching bands, and other performers. The parade route winds through the streets of Morgan City, and thousands of people line the streets to watch.

Conclusion

The Shrimp and Petroleum Festival is a celebration of Louisiana’s rich culture and heritage. The festival is a great place to enjoy live music, delicious food, carnival rides, and a parade. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor from out of town, the Shrimp and Petroleum Festival is an event that you won’t want to miss.

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