Your Guide To Indulging In Louisiana's Seasonal Flavours

Each of the seasons in Louisiana is dedicated to celebrating speciality food and bringing together local culture and traditions. From oyster season to Mardi Gras, each festival presents the state’s diverse flavours through a shared cultural experience. Indulge in the authentic flavours of Louisiana through the seasons with your loved ones.

Crawfish Season 

The crawfish are abundant in Louisiana from late winter through early spring. Whether you are a purist and like to boil them or your taste buds are more decadent and prefer a crawfish Étouffée, these crustaceans are delicious and served up by the pound. 

Where to Find

For the best flavours, try the Bayou Country Crawfish Trail in the Houma area, Crawfish House and Grill in Opelousas, Mo' Crawfish in Eunice, Crawfish Town USA in Henderson, Crawdaddy's Kitchen in Shreveport, Ben Christmas Crawfish in Ruston, and many other places in between.

Crab Season 

 

Louisiana blue crabs are quite a delicacy and can be found late spring through early fall. Found in dishes ranging from crab dip appetisers such as the Creole Crab Dip and marinated crab claws to crab and shrimp gumbo, Louisiana blue crabs are a sweet, succulent treat. 

Where to Find

K.W.K. Crabs in Des Allemands, Seafood Connection in New Iberia, Seafood Palace in Lake Charles, Christian Brothers Seafood in Gonzales, Pat's Seafood Market & Cajun Deli in Covington and Anthony's Steak & Seafood in Shreveport are just a sampling.

Shrimp Season 

Brown shrimp are available May through July, and white shrimp are available August through December. Check the label when you purchase shrimp to ensure you are getting Louisiana-caught or domestic shrimp, which are tested to ensure the quality and safety of the shrimp. Shrimp can be found in much of Louisiana's cooking, from breakfast to dinner, and in recipes such as Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp. 

Where to Find

Find shrimp at Roberto's River Road Restaurant in Sunshine, Tony's Seafood in Baton Rouge, Orlandeaux's in Shreveport, Zimmer's Seafood in New Orleans, B & C Seafood Riverside Market & Cajun Restaurant in Vacherie, Bino's Seafood in Bogalusa and at many more places around the state.

Oyster Season 

October through April is the prime season for these succulent, large Gulf Coast delicacies; however, they are available year-round. Whether you prefer your oysters served freshly shucked with Tabasco and lemon or you like to get fancy with Oysters Rockefeller, Louisiana will be your oyster heaven. 

Where to Find

Find oysters along the Louisiana Oyster Trail in Jefferson Parish, Buster's Place Restaurant & Oyster Bar in Covington, Shucks! The Louisiana Seafood House in Abbeville, Boutin's Seafood, Steakhouse & Oyster Bar in Carencro, Mama's Oyster House in Natchitoches or Phil's Oyster Bar & Seafood Restaurant in Baton Rouge.

Snoball Season 

Snoballs are most popular in the summer as a cool and refreshing treat to help beat the heat. Similar to a snowcone but with lighter and fluffier ice, snoballs are beloved by locals of all ages, and there are dozens of flavours for everyone's taste! Flavours range from fruity classics like strawberries to sweet favourites like wedding cakes. Some stands even serve them stuffed with ice cream, and be sure to get extra condensed milk on top! 

Where to Find

Savour snoballs from Hansen's Sno-Bliz and Plum St. Snowballs in New Orleans, Snowball Factory in New Iberia, Debbie's Snowballs in Monroe, Sneaux on the Geaux in Alexandria and many places in between.

Mardi Gras Season 

Mardi Gras season takes place every year, from January through February or March, where food is a central experience. Learn about different versions of king cake, a Mardi Gras speciality, across the entire state of Louisiana.

Where to Find

You might start with the iconic New Orleans Mardi Gras, but you absolutely must check out Mardi Gras festivities in North Louisiana, Central Louisiana, and South Louisiana. 

Tailgating Season 

The Tailgating Season (a.k.a Football Season) is a wonderful fall and winter activity full of excitement and incredible food! From the LSU Tigers to the New Orleans Saints, Louisiana supports its favourite teams with delicacies served up anywhere from the neighbourhood bar to the stadium parking lot. 

Where to Find

The Louisiana Tailgating Season is a must-visit family-friendly experience that hits just about every college across the state, as well as all over New Orleans each year.