As the invigorating, crisp weather settles into Southwest Louisiana, the excitement for fall festival season begins! For an unforgettable weekend getaway filled with authentic Louisiana culture, head to Lake Charles! Fall festivals in Louisiana’s Playground are a celebration of everything – especially delicious food, drinks, and music! With most festivals happening on Saturdays, you can pack in a whole lot of fun during a long weekend getaway. Embrace the joy this fall with our must-do itinerary and create lasting memories in Lake Charles!

Crying Eagle Lunch
Seasonal brews and sensational foods at Crying Eagle Brewing Co.

Day 1: Thursday

Check-in at the hotel of your choice and embark on your Lake Charles adventure! The region features several upscale gaming resorts, with L’Auberge Casino Resort and Golden Nugget offering picturesque golf courses as part of their charm. Each resort boasts a variety of restaurants and amenities, including luxurious spas for a bit of relaxation. A little closer to downtown, the Horseshoe provides breathtaking lake views, or you can opt for the convenience of Marriott, Hilton, or other favorite hotels along Holly Hill Circle. After settling in, treat yourself to a delicious drink and bite at Crying Eagle Brewing, or enjoy the modern sports betting restaurants and bars, DraftKings and The Sportsbook, inside the resort properties.

Fishing in Lake Charles
Fishing and hunting charters in Lake Charles and along the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road.

Day 2: Friday

No visit to the Lake Area is complete without getting on the water. Licensed local guides like Captain Andrew Soileau or Captain Bradley Laningham with Cat 5 Fishing Charters are ready to take both seasoned and novice anglers on memorable half-day or full-day fishing tours. If you’re staying at L’Auberge or Golden Nugget, some captains can even pick you up directly from the dock! Be sure to bring a cooler for your haul of redfish, drum, flounder, and trout.

For lunch, head to Darrell’s for one of Southwest Louisiana’s most famous po-boys, topped with their signature jalapeño mayonnaise! After indulging in this beloved local dish, pop next door to Coffee:30 Cafe for fresh beignets to cap off your meal. Then, take a leisurely stroll through Downtown Lake Charles, where you can browse antiques, apparel for both women and men, original art, and unique Louisiana souvenirs.

Return to your hotel for a rejuvenating afternoon nap before dressing up for an exciting night out. Reserve a table at The Villa Harlequin for exquisite service and elevated Louisiana cuisine. Or, venture south to Bodega Wine Dive for a wine-tasting experience paired with delicious pasta and pizza – perfect for a ladies night out. Be sure to check the schedules at Lake Charles casino resorts for regional and national acts, and grab tickets to catch your favorite performer live!

Day 3: Saturday

Every weekend, Lake Charles offers special events and casino entertainment for you to enjoy with friends and family! The annual fall festivals below are local favorites, offering a genuine Southwest Louisiana experience. Begin your Saturday at The Bekery, a quaint French-bakery-style restaurant with unique pastries, soups, sandwiches, and more!

A great aspect of the fall festival lineup is that many events are held in Downtown Lake Charles, making dinner plans effortless with numerous delicious restaurants within walking distance, such as Pujo Street Café or 1910, both in historic buildings along Ryan Street. Alternatively, take the scenic, oak-lined Shell Beach Drive on your way back to the hotel and dine at Restaurant Calla to end an evening of celebration.

Must-Experience Fall Fests

Chuck Fest

Chuck Fest will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, in Downtown Lake Charles and will feature a full lineup of…

Luna Jazz Brunch
Jazz Brunch at Luna Bar & Grill Downtwn

Day 4: Sunday

Sunday is Funday in Louisiana’s Playground! After all the excitement, consider sleeping in before treating yourself to a late brunch to wrap up your fall festival weekend. For a lively brunch experience, head to the Zydeco Brunch at Rikenjaks, where the Creole culture will have you dancing away your brunch calories! If jazz suits your taste, Luna Bar & Grill’s Jazz Brunch features Louisiana staples, classic mimosas, and delicious Bloody Marys.

A weekend isn’t complete without an afternoon of pampering at the spa or a hike at Sam Houston Jones State Park. Extend your stay through Sunday for a true funday, filled with carefree excitement and affordable nightly rates.

And if time doesn't allow, don't worry, there is always next time.