The Louisiana Sugarcane Festival is underway in New Iberia.
While it’s a tradition that goes back decades, there’s a first this year when it comes to security.
“The festival has been around for 77 years, and its held here in Iberia Parish due to the fact that Iberia Parish is the largest sugar producing parish in the state,” said festival vice president Kristie Blanchard.
The organizers of the Iberia Sugarcane Festival say they are excited for this year’s festival, especially after the successful turnout last year.
“Ride the rides; have fun with family. It’s our bonding time,” says festival attendee Beyonce Tardy.
The first two nights of the festival were set aside for carnival rides, good food, and set up for the remainder of the festival.
“We come every year. It’s kind of like a family thing. We come every year for the food and rides and everything. It’s fun,” says Lyndsey Morvant.
As for festival security, New Iberia police will be on hand patrolling the grounds.
“Well, this year with the new induction of the New Iberia City Police, they’ve come in with full force, and they are helping us to secure security and put in preventative measures to make sure everyone is safe at the festival,” said festival board member Mike Parich.
Some festival-goers believe that safety is a huge concern. “Definitely be aware of what’s been going on.”
The festival runs through Sunday with live music starting on Friday night. For more information on the festival, go to hisugar.org
