Regardless of what time of year you choose to travel, the semi-tropical climate, endless stream of activities, and countless historic sites make Louisiana a vacationer's dream. From Mardi Gras to the bayous, and plantations to the national park, Louisiana has something to offer everyone. Despite the state's numerous attractions, the time of year you choose to visit may affect the availability of various sites, activities, and events.
Often, vacationers have a set time in which they must plan their trip. Be it a school holiday, a set work vacation, or a previously planned reunion with family or friends, time is often the number one consideration when planning a vacation. The good news is that no matter what time of year you're considering travel, Louisiana is a great place to go. For those who can vacation whenever they like, the following seasonal breakdown will be sure to help in the decision-making process.
Spring
Because of Louisiana's proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, normal temperatures in the spring range from the 50s into the 70s Fahrenheit; sometimes later in the season, temperatures even reach into the 80s. Travelers during this season should come prepared to experience a range of weather. Packing a sweater or a light jacket for travel during the spring is a must. Springtime provides optimal weather for outdoor activities in Louisiana because it's not too hot and not too cold. This is the perfect time for walking tours and boat trips.
Springtime festivals and events in Louisiana include the Acadiana Medieval Faire, Plaquemines Parish Seafood Festival, Cankton Wagon Festival and Trail Ride, the Louisiana Opry (which also runs throughout the summer and into the fall), Louisiana Doll Festival, and La Grande Boucherie Creole de Mallet.
Summer
The summer months in Louisiana are hot and humid. During the day, temperatures reach well into the 90s Fahrenheit; at night, lows in the upper 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit provide a welcome reprieve. If you'll be traveling to Louisiana in the summer, you'll need to pack warm-weather clothing, with perhaps a sweater for the nighttime. Don't forget that hurricane season begins on June 1, so you'll want to have a back-up plan and an emergency plan should a hurricane strike before or during your vacation.
Many fun events take place during the summer, including Honky Tonkin' at Nu Nu's Nightlife in Arnaudville, JAMbalaya in Arnaudville, The Antique Roadsheaux, Pontchartrain Vineyards Jazz'n the Vibes (which carries into the fall), Hot Air Ballooning Championship, and the Delcambry Shrimp Festival. To beat the heat, head indoors to air-conditioned attractions, like one of the state's many acclaimed museums.
Fall
Louisiana in the fall is much like Louisiana in the spring. Temperatures again range between the 50 and 70s Fahrenheit, growing cooler as fall approaches winter. Like spring, this is another great time, weather-wise, to visit Louisiana. However, hurricane season lasts until November 30, so as with summer, you'll need to plan ahead in case bad weather strikes.
Great events to check out in the fall include the Awesome Art in Autumn Gardens, St. Theresa's Carlyss Cajun Bon-Temps Festival, the Annual Louisiana Gumbo Festival, the Louisiana Art and Folk Festival, The Spirit of Halloween, and the Sunshine Festival. Don't forget to visit the Kisatchie National Forest for a hike during one of the perfectly breezy fall afternoons.
Winter
Winter in Louisiana, though admittedly colder than the rest of the year, remains quite pleasant. Temperatures hover around 33 degrees Fahrenheit at night, but rarely drop below that. During the day, temperatures rise into the 50s, so though you'll want to dress in warmer attire, enjoying the outdoors is still a possibility.
Beginning in December, Louisiana transforms into a twinkling paradise as the state decorates itself for the winter holidays. Great fun is to be had at the Christmas on the Bayou Parade, Reindeer Games, and DeQuincy Christmas in the Park. Of course, the most famous of all Louisiana events happens in New Orleans in February - Mardi Gras. The exact dates each year vary depending on that year's Easter date.
As you can see, anytime is the right time to travel to Louisiana. Whether you can pick and choose when to take your vacation or your travel dates are set by time constraints, your trip to Louisiana is sure to be a fun-filled adventure.
The key to experiencing the vacation of your dreams is learning as much as possible about Louisiana before you leave.
