Aligned with the Louisiana Office of Tourism’s celebrations this year as the ‘Year of Music’, attendees were also treated to a special performance by Louisiana singer, songwriter and musician, Amanda Shaw.
“We are thrilled with the success of our Western Canada Roadshow and are grateful to our partners for joining us to share what makes Louisiana so special,” said Matthew Cope, Manager of Group Tour Sales and Canada for the Louisiana Office of Tourism. “Having the opportunity to forge direct connections with travel advisors, media, and tour operator partners is invaluable to our ability to share the incredible experiences that await Canadians visiting Louisiana.”
Alongside Cope, Louisiana representatives included Marie Stagg, CTP Leisure Sales Manager for Visit Baton Rouge, Tracy Browning, Executive Director of Louisiana’s Sweet Spot – Ascension Parish Tourism Commission and Olivia Markase, Tourism Sales Account Executive at New Orleans & Company.
On behalf of the state, Cope highlighted the success of this year’s ‘Year of Music’ celebrations at the Louisiana Office of Tourism, with zydeco, Cajun, jazz and more remaining a focal point for several of the 400+ festivals that occur across the state throughout the year.
Cope also noted Louisiana’s rich history that awaits visitors, with reference to Poverty Point (a 3,400-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site), Louisiana’s old state capitol building (now the Museum of Political History), historic estates like Houmas House, and the Louisiana Civil Rights Trail. The great outdoors also awaits Canadian travellers with unique swamp tours, kayaking experiences and a newly launched online birding guide.
Sharing the legacy of Louisiana’s capitol city, Visit Baton Rouge’s Marie Stagg noted several historical highlights, including both State Capitol buildings, the Kress Building (which is also a Louisiana Civil Rights Trail Marker) and Capitol Park Museum. The city truly comes alive during LSU football games at Tiger Stadium and tailgating parties at Southern University Jaguar games.
Stagg also shared culinary highlights, from fine dining to home-cooked southern favourites at new restaurants Juban’s Restaurant, Zeeland Street Market & Café, Chow Yum and The Chimes at Highland. The city has lots to celebrate, with highlights including Blues Festival, 225 Fest, Live After Five, Rock N Rowe, Spanish Town Mardi Gras, Louisiana Lights, Flower Fest, Mid City Merchants’ Hot Art, Cool Nights art hop and live music at Phil Brady’s Blues Bar and The Edge at L’Auberge Hotel & Casino.
New Orleans & Company’s Olivia Markase shared an update on the city’s timeless traditions and nonstop culture, highlighting food and cocktails like Pat O’Brien’s famous hurricane and Sazerac House; ample options for Mardi Gras celebrations, including the Second Line Parade and touring Mardi Gras World to see how floats are made; New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, which this year increased to be eight full days of non-stop music and culture; French Quarter Fest; Vue Orleans for the best views in the city while learning about its history; and tours of the stunning Garden District with its historic mansions and carefully manicured gardens.
Markase also noted that the Port of New Orleans is also a major call for both Caribbean and river cruises, right at the mouth of the Mississippi River, making the city an ideal pre- or post-cruise destination.
Tracy Browning from Louisiana’s Sweet Spot – Ascension Parish Tourism Commission highlighted one of its several historical homes with the crown jewel of the River Road, Houmas House & Gardens. The estate, situated on a 38-acre property along the Mississippi River – and accessible via select cruises – is also home to the Great River Road Museum, offering a unique glimpse into the area’s storied history.
Ascension Parish’s Cajun Village offers family-friendly experiences, including cafes and alligator tours, while Donaldsonville is home to Crescent Park, Portal and the River Road African American Museum. Browning also noted that while the whole parish is a Sweet Spot to visit, visitors to Sugarfield Spirits and Noel Distillery will be treated to unique spirits made from the region’s sugar cane crops. Shopping is also available at the Tanger, with over 65 outlet stores.
During its own presentations, Explore Louisiana revealed that 2025 has been dedicated as the ‘Year of Food’, serving up a video that highlights the state’s diverse culinary offering alongside statements and accolades from various chefs and dignitaries, including Billy Nungusser, Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana.
More information about Explore Louisiana and its tourism offerings can be found at www.ExploreLouisiana.com/Canada.