Business Details
32 Years
experience
Gretna Fest 2026 | Experience the Culture, Music & Fun in Gretna, LA
Gretna Fest was founded in 1994 as a community-driven celebration of Gretna's unique culture and small-town charm. Our mission has always been to create a family-friendly, casual atmosphere where locals and visitors can enjoy world-class music, delicious food, and vibrant arts. Over three decades, we've grown into one of Louisiana's premier festivals while maintaining our commitment to showcasing both national headliners and local talent. We feature multiple stages with diverse musical genres, over 100 food and beverage vendors, arts and crafts exhibitions, and family-friendly activities. Our festival grounds span historic downtown Gretna, offering attendees the chance to explore local architecture and businesses.With VIP options, free admission for children under 13, and a focus on accessibility, we strive to make this experience welcoming for all. Our dedicated team works year-round to curate an unforgettable lineup and ensure seamless operations. As part of the Gretna Economic Development Association, we contribute to the region's cultural and economic vitality. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime attendee, our goal is to create lasting memories through music, community, and Southern hospitality.
Services
Live Music Performances
Food & Beverage Vendors
Arts & Crafts Market
Kids Activity Center
VIP Experiences
Historic Tours
Street Performances
Local Business Access
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of experience producing Louisiana's premier cultural festival
- Our lineup features 50+ acts across 5 stages including top national and local artists
- We provide family-friendly programming with dedicated kids' activities and free admission for children under 13
- Our festival grounds span historic downtown Gretna with unique architecture and local business access
- We maintain a 4:1 attendee-to-staff ratio for optimal safety and guest experience
What people say
Amazing musical variety
Great local food options
Family-friendly vibe
Historic setting
Well-organized
Services
Live Music Performances
Gretna Fest features 50+ musical acts across five stages including headliners like Sam Hunt and Trombone Shorty. Performances span multiple genres from country and rock to zydeco and jazz. The festival showcases both international artists and local talent through three full days of continuous entertainment.
Food & Beverage Vendors
Over 100 vendors offer diverse culinary options ranging from traditional Louisiana cuisine to international dishes. Attendees can enjoy craft cocktails, local brews, and specialty beverages throughout the festival grounds. The food program emphasizes regional flavors while accommodating various dietary preferences and restrictions.
Arts & Crafts Market
The festival hosts a curated selection of arts and crafts vendors displaying handmade goods, local artwork, and unique merchandise. This marketplace provides opportunities to purchase one-of-a-kind items directly from creators while supporting regional artisans and small businesses.
Kids Activity Center
Designed for younger attendees, this area features interactive games, educational activities, and supervised entertainment. The program includes music-themed workshops, craft stations, and safe play areas that allow families to enjoy the festival together while keeping children engaged.
VIP Experiences
VIP packages offer exclusive amenities including main stage viewing decks, private lounges with air conditioning, premium restroom facilities, and dedicated service staff. Packages range from individual upgrades to private suites accommodating groups with customized hospitality options throughout the festival weekend.
People
Belinda Constant
Mayor of Gretna
Mayor Constant has led Gretna since 2018, championing cultural initiatives that highlight the city's unique heritage. She oversees festival planning and community engagement efforts.
Lauren Lee
Local Performer
Award-winning regional musician who has performed at Gretna Fest since 2015. Her band regularly opens festival stages with contemporary Louisiana music.
Questions
What are the festival dates and times?
Gretna Fest 2025 runs October 3-5. Gates open Friday at 3:45 PM, Saturday at 11 AM, and Sunday at 11 AM.
Are children allowed at the festival?
Yes! Children 12 and under receive free general admission. We offer a dedicated Kids Activity Center with supervised programming.
What payment methods are accepted?
Vendors accept major credit cards, but we recommend bringing cash for convenience. ATMs are available on-site.
Is re-entry permitted with a single-day pass?
Yes, single-day pass holders can re-enter by obtaining a wristband stamp at exit points during operating hours.
Are pets allowed at the festival?
Only service animals are permitted on festival grounds for safety and accessibility reasons.
What happens if it rains?
Gretna Fest is an outdoor event held rain or shine. We recommend checking weather forecasts and bringing appropriate gear.
Reviews (7)
D. Arso-Frison
Nov 21, 2019
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Nice atmosphere, great people and vendors,
Music was amazing and my kids were able to feed butterflies nice touch. The fair rides were okay...they had a clown and some local celebrities.
Music was amazing and my kids were able to feed butterflies nice touch. The fair rides were okay...they had a clown and some local celebrities.
Diana Boudreaux
Oct 25, 2019
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Awesome venue beside the river. They provide plenty of covered seating to enjoy the many food options. Music was top notch too.
Franklin Gilley
Sep 06, 2019
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Not cheap anymore but I still like to go sometimes if I like the bands. It really is too bad they don't run the ferry anymore, that was such an epic ride, down on the bow for 25 minutes, under the CCC bridges. They really have to move the Latin village or put up better signage, you can't see it on the other side of the Levy.
Good Vibrations Healing
Sep 14, 2018
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The Gretna Heritage Festival is a wonderful collection of food, music and venders. I go every year and it's my favorite one to go to. You can spend 3 days bouncing around from stage to stage looking for your favorite bands.
Sandra T.
Oct 06, 2017
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Really enjoyed sitting on the Levee listening to Oat Benetar and the B-52's! I enjoyed the vendors and all the food selections! It was a family feel event and everyone had a great time! I enjoyed all the different stages and the set up/layout was perfect! The bands were awesome and looking forward for next year's event!
Jen L.
Oct 02, 2017
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OK. So I am lame. I have been invited to house parties near the festival area for years, but I've never gone. This year with the Sunday closers being Pat Benatar followed by the B-52s. Yep I'm there. Small pet peeve. There is no way to buy advance tickets locally without all the ticketmaster fees so my $20 advance ticket instantly became a $31 & change one. Wait to pay the $25 in cash a the door and risk a line... Lots of food options and drink options. I enjoyed my frozen sangria and I should have made it back to whatever bar/restaurant was offering spooky batched cocktails.
Review M.
Oct 01, 2017
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Crowded spaces, fair food, smelly port of pottys , only partially offset with concert talent, cheap beer, and typically cooler temps.
