Facts About The Strawberry Festival In Louisiana
The Strawberry Festival in Louisiana is one of the most anticipated events in the state. The festival is held annually in the town of Ponchatoula, which is known as the Strawberry Capital of the World. The festival has been around for over 40 years and attracts visitors from all over the country. Here are some interesting facts about the Strawberry Festival in Louisiana that you may not know.
The History of the Strawberry Festival
The first Strawberry Festival in Ponchatoula was held in 1972. The festival was organized by a group of local residents who wanted to promote the town's strawberry industry. The festival was an immediate success and has been held every year since then. Today, the festival attracts over 300,000 visitors each year.
The Festival's Activities
The Strawberry Festival offers a wide variety of activities for visitors of all ages. There are carnival rides, live music, a parade, a beauty pageant, and of course, plenty of strawberries. Visitors can sample a variety of strawberry-themed dishes such as strawberry shortcake, strawberry daiquiris, and strawberry ice cream. The festival also features a strawberry-eating contest, where contestants compete to see who can eat the most strawberries in a certain amount of time.
The Festival's Impact on the Local Economy
The Strawberry Festival has a significant impact on the local economy. The festival brings in millions of dollars in revenue for local businesses. Hotels, restaurants, and shops in the area see a significant increase in sales during the festival. Additionally, the festival provides an opportunity for local farmers to sell their strawberries and other produce to visitors.
The Festival's Charity Work
The Strawberry Festival is not just a celebration of strawberries, it is also a charitable event. The festival's organizers donate a portion of the proceeds from the festival to local charities. Over the years, the festival has raised millions of dollars for organizations such as the American Cancer Society, the March of Dimes, and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
The Festival's Strawberry Queen
One of the highlights of the Strawberry Festival is the crowning of the Strawberry Queen. The Strawberry Queen is a young woman from the Ponchatoula area who is selected based on her poise, personality, and knowledge of the town's strawberry industry. The Strawberry Queen serves as a representative of the festival and participates in various events throughout the year.
The Festival's Future
The Strawberry Festival has been a beloved tradition in Ponchatoula for over 40 years. The festival's organizers are committed to ensuring that the festival continues for many years to come. They are constantly looking for ways to improve the festival and make it even more enjoyable for visitors. With its rich history, exciting activities, and charitable work, the Strawberry Festival in Louisiana is sure to remain a popular event for years to come.
