The 83rd annual International Rice Festival begins Thursday, October 17 in downtown Crowley.
The oldest and largest agricultural festival in Louisiana launches with a carnival, food and live music.
KATC's Abby Breidenbach was LIVE on Thursday as the festival prepares for its first day.
To follow, there will be various contests such as Jr. King & Queen Contest, Rice Queen Contest, International Rice Eating Contest, Rice and Creole Cookery Contest, Accordion and Fiddle Contest, International Rice “Poker” Run, Classic Car Show, Rice Grading Contest, Rice Threshing Demonstration and 5K Run Walk and street carnival.
For a full list of events for the weekend visit this website.