By Lauren de AlbuquerqueManaging Editor
Photography: Edward Leger
Crowley Photo Album
It was a beautiful weekend for the 72nd Annual International Rice Festival held in Crowley. Folks came from near and far to enjoy the carnival, good food, arts and crafts exhibit and classic car show. Live music by Kira Viator, the Lost Bayou Ramblers, Rosie Ledet, James Otto, Lil Nathan, Jaryd Lane, Gene Delafose, Nik L Beer and Wayne Toups kept everyone’s toes tapping!
Special events included the rice cooking and eating contests, the Farmers Banquet and also the Queen’s Ball. Speaking of queens, reigning majesty Devin Angelle Babineaux graced fairgoers with her presence in the Grand Parade. U.S. Representative Charles Boustany also made an appearance.
Not only is the Rice Festival one of Louisiana's largest, it’s also the oldest agricultural festival in the state. Since it's first event on October 5, 1937, over 7 million people have attended each year. The celebration brings attention to the importance of rice as food and also emphasizes its place in the world's economic picture.
