Courtesy of LSU Ag Center
The Louisiana Pecan Festival, held annually in Colfax on the first full weekend of November, celebrates the region’s rich pecan history. Pecan Festival President Danielle Yerby says the festival attracts around 65,000 visitors for this three-day event offering food, entertainment, and activities honoring the pecan, a staple of the local economy and culture.
“Pecans are native to the area. Most of our crop farmers are also pecan farmers, and it was just a natural fit, and we’ve been cracking ever since.”
Established in 1969, the festival originated as part of Grant Parish’s Centennial Celebration and was officially organized by Louisiana Pecan Festival Incorporated. Expanded to three days in the 1990s, Yerby says the festival now includes a Children’s Day with games, arts and crafts, cooking contests, a parade, and a Saturday fireworks display.
“There’s just a little bit of everything for families to enjoy, and like I said we are free and open to the public.”
Visitors can enjoy homemade pecan treats, jams, and other local goods at The Country Store. The event is accessible, with handicapped parking and wheelchair-friendly areas. The Louisiana Pecan Festival continues to celebrate the area’s heritage, drawing families and visitors from across the country.
“It’s a huge homecoming. When people say are you coming home for the festival? Are you going to be taking off for the festival? They know exactly what you’re talking about. They’re not meaning any other festival but the Pecan Festival.”
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