“New Iberia, The Lost Treasure: Recovering Memories”
La Asociación Española de Nueva Iberia (LAENI) is excited to announce the 11th annual El Festival Español de Nueva Iberia on April 11 – 13, 2025, in the historic downtown of New Iberia at Bouligny Plaza (102 W. Main St.).
Festival-goers will be immersed in the sights, sounds, and tastes of Spain, experiencing everything from Spanish foods, dance, music, art, and history—an unforgettable experience that honors the Andalusia region of Spain and its influence on New Iberia. As always, El Festival Español de Nueva Iberia fosters cultural exchange and strengthens the bond between New Iberia and Alhaurín de la Torre in Spain.
About the Festival:
El Festival Español de Nueva Iberia offers a unique blend of Spanish and local traditions, showcasing a rich cultural heritage that spans centuries. Full schedule in the button below.
Festival-goers will enjoy Spanish entertainment, local music performances, and the delicious aromas of the Paella/Tapas/Jambalaya Cook-off. Family-friendly activities will abound, including carnival rides, games, the founding families parade, arts and craft shows, car show, an Easter egg hunt, and the always-popular Running of the Bulls 10k/5k/1-mile race.
In addition to the festivities, visitors can trace their Spanish ancestry at the Spanish genealogy displays located at the Sliman Theater (129 E. Main St.) on both Saturday and Sunday.
Take a stroll through Church Alley under the crochet ceiling, where intricate crochet designs suspended overhead will transport you to New Iberia’s sister city, Alhaurín de la Torre, Málaga, Spain. This visual display honors the close cultural ties between New Iberia and Spain.
“We are thrilled to bring the spirit of Spain to New Iberia,” said Brinkley Segura Lopez, President of La Asociación Española de Nueva Iberia. “From the incredible food and music to the celebration of our history, this festival is a true treasure and representation of the Iberian Peninsula’s influence on our community.”
Their Mission:
The festival’s mission is to commemorate the 1779 founding of New Iberia by Spanish families from Málaga, Spain. As they celebrate the town’s Spanish roots, they continue to recognize the lasting impact of the original Spanish settlers, many of whom remain in New Iberia today. Seven founding families—Gary, Lopez, Migues(z), Prados, Romero, Segura, and Viator—still contribute to the cultural fabric of New Iberia.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
