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t i r Esp ançais Fr Louisiana places to enjoy French culture and cuisine
Mississippi's coastal fun + historic attractions throughout the state October-December Louisiana event guide Tips for holiday travel RV rentals vs. hotels: finding the right accommodations
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Sunday, October 25, 2026
Stade de France, Paris
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Drew Brees holds aloft the Lombardi Trophy at Sun Life Stadium in Miami. Brees threw for 288 yards and two touchdowns in a dominating performance against the Colts.
across Louisiana By Amanda McElfresh amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
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or the first time in nearly 20 years, travelers are able to ride daily trains along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The Amtrak Mardi Gras Service operates twice daily in each direction, with morning and evening departures from New Orleans and Mobile. Along the way, the trains stop in Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi and Pascagoula. French influence has shaped Louisiana for centuries, leaving its mark on the state’s language, architecture, food and traditions. Louisiana French and Creole remain part of the state’s living cultural heritage, and many organizations continue efforts to promote French language and culture. So, if you can’t make it to see the Saints take on the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Stade de France on October 25, these Louisiana destinations offer the chance to experience that connection close to home.
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Explore New Orleans’ French Quarter
Start with one of Louisiana’s most recognizable destinations. A walk through the French Quarter offers a chance to experience centuries of history through architecture, courtyards, restaurants and public spaces. Make Jackson Square part of the itinerary, then visit The Historic New Orleans Collection on Royal Street for a deeper look at the history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South.
Spend a day in St. Martinville
Sometimes called “Le Petit Paris,” St. Martinville offers several stops within a small area for visitors interested in Louisiana’s Francophone heritage. At Acadian Memorial and Museum, exhibits tell the story of Acadian exiles who settled in Louisiana, with French and English interpretation available. Nearby, visitors can see the Evangeline Oak and St. Martin de Tours Catholic Church, whose history is closely tied to the Acadian community.
Discover Creole history along River Road
At Laura Plantation: Louisiana's Créole Heritage Site in Vacherie, guided tours explore the history of a Creole sugar plantation through architecture, family stories and the documented experiences of enslaved people. French-language tours are also offered at select times, adding another dimension for visitors interested in Louisiana’s linguistic heritage.
Connect with Louisiana’s French-speaking community
French in Louisiana isn’t simply a piece of the past. The language remains part of communities across the state, and CODOFIL promotes opportunities to use it through French Tables, festivals, education and other cultural programs. Louisiana currently has 36 French immersion schools serving more than 5,500 students, according to CODOFIL.
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From cozy cottages to luxury homes, Reed Real Estate offers
Planning a holiday trip? These tips can reduce stress and make the journey easier
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oliday travel can bring excitement, but crowded airports, busy highways and packed schedules can also make it challenging. Whether you’re flying across the country, driving a few hours to visit relatives or planning a long holiday getaway, preparation can make the journey easier. Building flexibility into an itinerary, packing strategically and planning for delays can help you spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the holidays.
Give yourself more time Travelers heading to an airport should allow extra time for traffic, parking, security and getting to the gate. Those driving should consider where they may encounter congestion and avoid scheduling arrival times so tightly that a minor delay disrupts the day. When possible, flexibility can make a major difference. Traveling a day or two outside the busiest periods or choosing an earlier flight may provide additional options.
Book early, but compare the full cost Holiday demand can put pressure on flights, hotels and rental cars, particularly around popular travel dates. Making reservations early can give you more choices in departure times, accommodations and seating. Price, however, is only one factor to consider. A cheaper flight with a long layover or inconvenient departure time may not be the best value. When comparing options, consider baggage fees, airport parking, transportation and other expenses that can raise the total cost. Hotel guests should look for parking or resort fees, while people booking short-term rentals should check cleaning and service charges before making a final decision.
Pack with delays in mind Packing light can simplify holiday travel, particularly for airline passengers who want to avoid checking luggage. But, keep essential items like medication, identification, travel documents, chargers and money close at hand. Airline travelers may also want to pack a change of clothes and basic toiletries in their carry-on. Families traveling with children can benefit from having snacks, entertainment and extra clothes readily available. Prepare the car before a road trip Before leaving, check tires, fluids, lights and windshield wipers, particularly if the trip includes long distances or colder climates. Keep a phone charger, water and basic emergency supplies in the vehicle. Travelers
for every Gulf Coast getaway
F heading into areas where winter weather is possible should monitor conditions along the entire route. It can also help to identify fuel stops, restaurants and rest areas in advance, especially in unfamiliar or rural areas. Watch the weather Check forecasts several days before departure and continue monitoring conditions as the trip approaches. Airline passengers should watch for notifications from their carrier, while drivers may need to adjust departure times or routes. If severe weather threatens, changing plans earlier may provide more alternatives than waiting until there are cancellations or dangerous road conditions. Make a backup plan Before leaving, know your alternatives. Airline passengers can familiarize themselves with later flights or connecting options, while drivers can identify alternate routes and possible overnight stops. Keep reservation information and important phone numbers easy to access, and make sure phones and devices are charged. Most importantly, leave some breathing room in the itinerary. Holiday travel often comes with unexpected variables, and a little extra flexibility can make a delay easier to manage.
or more than 30 years, Reed Real Estate has welcomed vacationers to Alabama’s Gulf Coast with the goal of helping families make lifelong beach memories with relatives of all ages, and even their four-legged companions. Reed Real Estate’s connection to Fort Morgan dates to 1972, when Frank and Lynn Reed built their home on the peninsula. Frank helped neighbors rebuild after Hurricane Frederic in 1979, and that work grew into the business, which opened in 1988. The company remains a multigenerational family operation led by broker Jill Manning. Fort Morgan’s old-fashioned coastal atmosphere and relaxed, pet-friendly vibe make it easy to plan a vacation. Because Gulf Shores is a short drive away, guests can mix quiet beach days with restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Several Reed rentals are Gulf-front homes, ranging from cozy retreats to multi-bedroom properties for larger parties. Travelers can choose homes featuring private pools or hot tubs, elevated
decks, en suite bathrooms and full kitchens. Homes with elevators or ramps are available, as are budget-friendly options. Dozens of Reed properties are pet-friendly. For quieter water views, Reed manages bayfront or lagoon-view properties with access to fishing, kayaking and birdwatching. The company has expanded its upscale offerings through its acquisition of Fort Morgan Property Management, now operating as Fort Morgan Properties by Reed Real Estate. Visit www.gulfrentals.com to learn more.
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From coastal fun to historic sites, there’s something for everyone in
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rom the beaches of the coast to the literary landmarks of Oxford, Mississippi offers destinations for history buffs, music fans, families and travelers looking for a fall getaway. Here are a few places to add to your itinerary.
Enjoy the Gulf Coast
Warm temperatures mean that beach season continues well into the fall. Coastal Mississippi combines miles of shoreline with seafood, museums, outdoor recreation and entertainment. In Gulfport, Mississippi Aquarium showcases more than 200 animal species, making it a great stop for families. Head east to Biloxi to visit the historic Biloxi Lighthouse or learn about the region’s shrimping, fishing, boatbuilding and maritime traditions at the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum. Visitors can also spend a night or two at one of the many casino resorts, which offer gaming, restaurants, pools, live music, spa treatments and resort amenities.
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Spend a literary weekend in Oxford
The home of Ole Miss is known for football crowds (and an animosity toward a certain LSU head football coach), but the north Mississippi city offers plenty beyond game day. Literature lovers can tour Rowan Oak, the former home of Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner, before heading downtown to browse Square Books. Oxford’s historic Courthouse Square is surrounded by restaurants, shops and entertainment, making the walkable downtown an easy place to spend a fall afternoon. September through November is among the city’s most popular seasons for visitors.
Step into history in Natchez
Perched above the Mississippi River, Natchez offers historic architecture, cultural attractions and scenic views. Fall is particularly fitting for a visit: the city’s 2026 Fall Pilgrimage runs through Oct. 17, with opportunities to tour historic properties. One of the city’s most distinctive landmarks is Longwood, an octagonal mansion famous for its unfinished interior. Travelers can dig deeper into the city’s complex past through Natchez National Historical Park, which interprets stories involving slavery, the cotton economy and the lives of free and enslaved people.
Follow the music to the Mississippi Delta
Mississippi’s influence on American music is difficult to overstate, and the Delta is the place to explore that legacy. In Cleveland, GRAMMY Museum Mississippi uses interactive exhibits to highlight Mississippi musicians and the state’s contributions to popular music. Travelers can continue to explore blues history in communities such as Clarksdale and Indianola, as well as the Mississippi Blues Trail, one of several heritage trails connecting important people and places across the state.
Explore Civil War history in Vicksburg
Farther north along the Mississippi River, Vicksburg National Military Park preserves the landscape associated with the pivotal 1863 Vicksburg Campaign and Siege of Vicksburg. Visitors can explore monuments, historic earthworks and the Vicksburg National Cemetery. The park is also home to the U.S.S. Cairo Museum, where visitors can see the remains of a Civil War ironclad gunboat and artifacts recovered with it.
Discover the birthplace of Elvis in Tupelo
At the Elvis Presley Birthplace, visitors can tour the two-room house where Elvis was born and explore exhibits about his childhood and early musical influences. Tupelo is also headquarters for the Natchez Trace Parkway. The scenic 444-mile route runs through Mississippi and into Tennessee, providing plenty of opportunities to pair history and culture with a fall drive.
e v a S F e t a D e th
Your guide to Louisiana’s fall and holiday events rom food festivals and live music to holiday lights and centuries-old traditions, Louisiana’s calendar is packed with reasons to hit the road this fall. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or looking for a quick day trip, communities across the state will celebrate the season nearly every weekend. Here are some special events to add to your calendar.
Oct. 15–18 | Crowley
INTERNATIONAL RICE FESTIVAL
One of Louisiana’s longstanding agricultural celebrations returns to downtown Crowley with parades, music, food and events celebrating the rice industry. Oct. 16–18 | LaPlace
ANDOUILLE FESTIVAL
Celebrate St. John the Baptist Parish’s famous smoked sausage with food, music and entertainment.
Oct. 16–18 | New Orleans
Oct. 24–25 | St. Francisville
YELLOW LEAF ART FESTIVAL
Artists and musicians gather in historic St. Francisville for an outdoor celebration of art and creativity.
Oct. 22–Nov. 1| Baton Rouge
GREATER BATON ROUGE STATE FAIR
The annual fair brings carnival rides, games, food and entertainment to the Capital Region. Oct. 23–25 | Larose
FRENCH FOOD FESTIVAL
Head down the bayou for Cajun specialties, live entertainment and a celebration of the food traditions of Louisiana’s coastal communities.
Oct. 23–25 | Houma
ROUGAROU FEST
Louisiana folklore gets a Halloween twist at this free festival celebrating the legendary Rougarou with costumes, culture, music and family-friendly fun.
This western Louisiana festival draws inspirati with reenactments, historical demonstrations, a parade, live music and Western-themed activities.
Nov. 6–8 | Covington
OZONE SONGWRITER FESTIVAL
More than 100 musicians are expected to bring original music to downtown Covington, with performances at the Covington Trailhead and venues around the historic district. Nov. 12–15 | Port Barre
LOUISIANA BOOK FESTIVAL
The 22nd annual literary festival takes over downtown Baton Rouge with authors, presentations, performances and activities for readers of all ages. This year’s One Book, One Festival selection is Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire. Oct. 31 | Grand Coteau
SWEET DOUGH PIE FESTIVAL
Celebrate one of Acadiana’s traditional desserts with sweet dough pies, food, arts and crafts and cultural activities.
The Cajun favorite gets its own celebration in St. Landry Parish during this four-day festival. Nov. 14–15 | Covington
COVINGTON THREE RIVERS ART FESTIVAL
About 200 juried artists transform Columbia Street into an outdoor gallery featuring painting, photography, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, woodworking and other art forms.
Nov. 21–Jan. 6| Natchitoches
NATCHITOCHES FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
Louisiana’s oldest city marks the 100th season of its famous Christmas celebration in 2026. More than 300,000 lights and 100-plus set pieces illuminate the historic district, with fireworks, music and special events scheduled throughout the season. Nov. 27–Jan. 1 | New Orleans
CELEBRATION IN THE OAKS
New Orleans City Park becomes a holiday light destination for its annual Celebration in the Oaks, a tradition dating to the 1980s.
Oct. 31–Nov. 1 |Slidell
NOLA ZYDECO FEST
Heritage Park becomes a celebration of Louisiana Creole culture with zydeco music, dancing, Louisiana food, cultural experiences and family activities.
Nov. 6–8 | Colfax
LOUISIANA PECAN FESTIVAL
The 58th festival celebrates one of Louisiana’s agricultural staples with a parade, live music, contests, carnival activities and more.
Dec. 3–5 | Alexandria
ALEXWINTERFÊTE
Downtown Alexandria welcomes the holidays with three days of festivities during one of Central Louisiana’s signature seasonal events. Dec. 11–13 | Lutcher
FESTIVAL OF THE BONFIRES
Experience one of the River Parishes’ most distinctive holiday traditions with food, live entertainment, crafts, carnival rides, fireworks and ceremonial bonfire lightings.
PORT BARRE CRACKLIN FESTIVAL
Oct. 31 | Baton Rouge
NOLA FUNK FEST
This music festival celebrates Louisiana’s contributions to funk and its broader musical history.
Nov. 6–8 | Florien
SABINE FREE STATE FESTIVAL
Dec. 1–23 | Lafayette
NOEL ACADIEN AU VILLAGE
Acadian Village transforms for the holidays during this Acadiana tradition, giving visitors a chance to combine Christmas festivities with a glimpse of the region’s Cajun heritage. Dec. 1–30 | Baton Rouge
LOUISIANA LIGHTS
The Burden Museum & Gardens hosts a walk-through holiday light experience throughout December.
Dec. 24 | River Parishes
CHRISTMAS EVE BONFIRES ON THE LEVEE
The season culminates when bonfires along the Mississippi River levees are lit at 7 p.m., continuing the regional tradition associated with lighting the way for Papa Noël. Dec. 31 | Baton Rouge
RED STICK REVELRY
Downtown Baton Rouge closes out 2026 with its New Year’s Eve celebration and the midnight lowering of the illuminated Red Stick.
Finding the right accommodations can shape your travel experience
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hoosing a destination may be the fun part of planning a vacation, but deciding where to stay can have a big influence on the experience. Hotels, short-term rentals and recreational vehicles each offer different advantages, and the best fit often depends on the length of the trip, number of travelers, desired amenities and how much flexibility a group wants.
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Hotels offer convenience and built-in services
Hotels remain an easy choice for travelers who value convenience. Depending on the property, guests may have access to housekeeping, front-desk assistance, pools, fitness centers, restaurants, complimentary breakfast and other services. Hotels can be especially convenient for shorter trips, couples or solo travelers who expect to spend much of their time sightseeing. Locations near downtown districts, attractions or airports can also reduce transportation time. The tradeoff is space. A standard hotel room may feel cramped for families or groups, and eating every meal at restaurants can add to travel costs. Parking, resort fees and other charges may affect the final price, making it important to compare the full cost rather than the advertised nightly rate. Short-term rentals provide more room to spread out For families and larger groups, short-term rentals can offer shared space paired with privacy. A house or condominium may include multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, a kitchen, laundry facilities and living areas where everyone can gather. Kitchens can be particularly useful for families with young children, travelers with dietary needs or groups hoping to prepare some meals themselves. Rentals can also provide a more residential experience, whether that means staying in a neighborhood, booking a beachfront home or finding a secluded mountain cabin. However, travelers should read listings and policies carefully. Cleaning and service fees can raise the total cost, while cancellation policies, check-in procedures and house rules vary by property. Unlike hotels, rentals may not have staff immediately available when something goes wrong.
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RVs put flexibility at the center of the trip
RV travel can make it easier to visit several destinations without repeatedly packing and unpacking. Campgrounds may also place travelers close to beaches, state and national parks and other outdoor attractions. Having a kitchen, sleeping space and personal belongings along for the ride can provide a sense of home throughout a longer journey. But RV travel requires additional planning. Travelers need to account for campground reservations, fuel, hookups, parking and vehicle size. Those renting an RV for the first time should also become comfortable operating the vehicle and handling campsite setup. Cost is another consideration, since mileage charges and rental costs can add up. It’s all about finding the right fit Ultimately, no single type of accommodation works best for every vacation. Before booking, travelers should consider not only the nightly price but also space, location, transportation, meals, fees and convenience. The right choice best matches how travelers actually plan to spend their vacation.
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