While March kicks off with high energy Mardi Gras parades and events, it's also a colorful transition into springtime and crawfish season in Louisiana's Playground. Get ready for warmer weather and natural beauty along the Creole Nature Trail-All American Road and the start of the spring festival season. From Marsh Madness basketball and sidesplitting comedy events to cultural celebrations, there is plenty of joy to pack in! Check out our top picks below!
Mardi Gras Events
Back to Top of ListThis year Mardi Gras celebrations begin on February 28 until Mardi Gras on Tuesday, March 3 and there are plenty of activities and parades leading up to the big day. Check out the full Mardi Gras parade schedule here. From Mardi Gras Children's Day to Jeeps on Parade to the Krewe of Krewes Parade on Tuesday, read more on Fat Tuesday festivities here.
Festivals and Expos
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Black Heritage Festival
As Mardi Gras season comes to an end, spring festival season kicks off with cultural celebrations each week! Celebrate Black culture and community at the Black Heritage Festival in Lake Charles featuring three days of entertainment! Seniors can enjoy a lively game of bingo on March 13, then on Saturday and Sunday, Black Heritage Day and the Gospel Extravaganza honor rich traditions through live musical performances, art expos, and empowerment sessions.
Lake Chuckle Comedy Festival
The Lake Charles comedy scene is thriving and you're guaranteed a chuckle or two at the inaugural Lake Chuckle Comedy Festival on March 13-15. This hilarious three-day event spotlights top comedians and rising stars for a weekend of entertaining stand-up and improv leading up to Wingin' It! A Comedy Food Game Show at OB's Bar and Grill where the funnier you are the spicier the wings get! Whether you're a seasoned comedy fan or just looking for a fun night out, this festival will deliver big laughs and lighthearted vibes in Southwest Louisiana!
St. Patrick's Day Festival
Head over to MacFarlane's Celtic Pub to join the St. Patrick's Day Festival craic on March 17! Start the day with a delicious brunch beginning at 11 AM, then spend the day shopping, dancing, tasting delicious Irish themed food and seafood, and indulging in bold, flavorful shots! As the sun sets, the fire dancers will take center stage for an awe-inspiring performance that's oh so hot! Check out all St. Patrick's Day Events here.
Iowa Rabbit Festival
Celebrate the economic and culinary impact of rabbits at the annual Iowa Rabbit Festival. This family-friendly festival originates from Iowa, LA but has expanded to the Burton Complex in Lake Charles. Dance along with local and regional musical artists, browse craft and food vendors, and brave exciting carnival rides. Not only does the festival feature delicious rabbit centered dishes and family-friendly fun, it benefits local youth and not-for-profit organizations in the community of Iowa. So spend the weekend savoring delicious flavors and delight in giving back!
SWLA Garden Conference & Expo
Head back to the Burton Complex on March 27-29 for the SWLA Garden Conference & Expo. No green thumb? No worries─ even newer plant enthusiasts will appreciate the beautiful blooms and hordes of herbs on display. Be one of the first to browse the show and win auction items at the Preview Dinner on Thursday, March 27, or enjoy the full experience on Friday and Saturday. Revitalize your home's landscaping with new flowers and shrubs or bring your sick leaves in for a diagnostic session. With over 60 vendors to choose from your lawn and garden will be brighter than ever!
Casino and Event Center Entertainment
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From local musicians to award-winning performers, Southwest Louisiana is a great place to attend a concert or comedy show! This month marks the return of Live at the Lakefront, a free outdoor concert series at the Arcade Amphitheater featuring local musicians and artists. Get ready for 90 minutes of hilarious improv comedy as the current cast members of Whose Line Is It Anyway? take the Lake Charles Event Center stage for Whose Live Anyway? Audience participation is a must, so bring your wit and you may even end up in the show!
Our casino resorts offer an all-star entertainment lineup each month! This month catch Kansas at L'Auberge Casino Resort , then enjoy Grammy Award-winning recording artists Gladys Knight and Babyface, La Nueva Generación Tour, and comedian Marlon Wayans on the Golden Nugget stage.
Sporting Events
Back to Top of ListJersey Mike's Southland Conference Basketball Tournament
Secure your tickets early for the Southland Conference Basketball Tournament at the Legacy Center on March 9-13! The games tip off with the Men's Tournament on Sunday followed by Men's and Women's games on Monday and Tuesday. The men's championship game is slated for Wednesday followed by the women's championship on Thursday with times to be determined. Champions crowned here will move on to the 2025 NCAA tournaments in April!
LHSAA Marsh Madness Boy's Basketball State Championship
Marsh Madness returns to Louisiana's Playground for six days of fast paced top-tier high school athleticism. The best of the best teams from all over Louisiana will compete for the crown at the Burton Complex.
Also In March
Back to Top of ListThis is just a taste of the exciting events happening this month! Check out additional March events below and browse our event calendar for more fun-filled activities to pack in this month!