The event is open to the public and cost is $15 at the door to attend. Food and drinks will be sold during the event. Be prepared to hear some of our area’s talented singers.

The winner of the event will be featured on the “Golden Balcony,” also known as the Kyle Cox balcony, during the Beneath the Balconies event on Oct. 18.

To Audition:

Anyone between the ages of 15 and 30 that is interested in participating should submit a one song submission video to the Balconies email. You must include your contact information along with your name and age. The last day to submit performances will be July 15.

They will be hosting 20 singers for the event. You must provide your own music file for evening performance if selected.

Beneath the Balconies:

Beneath the Balconies will be on Sun., Oct. 18, at 11 a.m., on the grounds of the beautiful Shadows-on-the-Teche. Lunch and the event exclusive Balcony Breezes drink can be purchased and enjoyed while listening to some great music under the oaks. At 1 p.m., the balcony performances will begin and will move down historic Main Street to the finale at the Steamboat Pavillion.

Come out and enjoy a beautiful afternoon filled with music, food, drinks and community.

For more information, visit the Beneath the Balconies Facebook page.

____________________________________________________________

The post Don’t Miss the Music: Golden Balcony Talent Show appeared first on iberiatravel.com.

This program will take place on Thurs., July 16 at the Shadows Visitor Center (320 E. Main St., New Iberia). A light reception begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by the program at 6 p.m. Admission is free, and registration is encouraged. Attendees may register for the in-person program online or join via the livestream.

About the Speaker:

Kenneth Hoffman was born in Houston and raised in Baton Rouge. He earned a B.A. and an M.A. in history from Tulane University. Hoffman started his museum career as a grant writer for the New Orleans Museum of Art and as the curator of education at the Louisiana State Museum. From 2004 to 2006, he served as president of the Louisiana Association of Museums, leading the association through the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

In 2017, Hoffman ended an eighteen-year tenure as director of education at The National WWII Museum when he was hired to create the Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience, in New Orleans, which opened in May 2021. He currently serves as the museum’s executive director. Hoffman, his wife, and their two children live in New Orleans’ Black Pearl neighborhood, yet don’t eat at Camellia Grill nearly enough.

_______________________________________________________________

The post Shadows-on-the-Teche Hosts Talk on Jewish Communities & Freedom Movements appeared first on iberiatravel.com.

Kodi Roberts

In celebration of Juneteenth, the Shadows-on-the-Teche and the Iberia African American Historical Society are hosting the Faith and Freedom Symposium on Fri., June 19, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Shadows Visitor Center (320 E. Main St., New Iberia). The symposium is free to attend, and registration is encouraged.

The Faith and Freedom Symposium will explore how African Americans have used religious beliefs, spiritual practices, and sacred spaces as tools of community organization across freedom movements — including Abolition, Civil Rights, and Black Lives Matter. Attendees may register for the in-program online or join via the livestream.

Keynote Speaker:

The keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Kodi A. Roberts of Louisiana State University, whose research examines race, resistance, and community through the lens of faith and faith-based traditions. Dr. Roberts is the author of Voodoo & Power: The Politics of Religion in New Orleans. He will speak at 11:15 a.m., followed by a book signing at 12:15 p.m.

For a limited time, signed copies of Voodoo and Power are available at the Shadows Museum Shop (320 E. Main Street, New Iberia) for 15% off, in person or online.

About the Keynote:

Dr. Kodi A. Roberts is an Associate Professor of History at Louisiana State University specializing in African American history, with a focus on the intersections of race, religion, and resistance in the United States. He earned his Ph.D. in History from the University of Chicago, along with degrees from Louisiana State University and the University of New Orleans.

Dr. Roberts is the author of Voodoo and Power: The Politics of Religion in New Orleans, 1881–1940, a widely recognized study of the cultural, political, and economic dimensions of Voodoo in New Orleans. His research and teaching explore Afro-Atlantic religions, racial ideologies, and movements for social change, with particular attention to the historical and contemporary significance of African diasporic spiritual traditions.

Schedule:

• 9:15 a.m. — Jim Crow South and the Catholic Church: Uncovering the History of Desegregation at Loyola University New Orleans
  Em Lessley, Mare Lodu, and Janine Smith – Loyola University New Orleans
• 10:15 a.m. – Rural Churches as Tradition Keepers
  Phebe Hayes, PhD – Iberia African American Historical Society
  Harlan Mark Guidry, MD – St. Augustine Historical Society
• 11:15 a.m. — Keynote: Voodoo and Power, The Politics of Religion in New Orleans
  Kodi A. Roberts – PhD, Louisiana State University
• 12:15 p.m. — Book Signing with Dr. Kodi Roberts

Upcoming in the Series:

Thursday, July 16 – Southern Jewish Experience with Kenneth Hoffman

_____________________________________________________________________________

The post Faith & Freedom Symposium appeared first on iberiatravel.com.

Summer is here! The Isle of Iberia RV Resort has a ton of fun events planned this summer and their headliner is the Beats on the Bayou Concert series. Check out the list below of the musicians performing.

Isle of Iberia:

The Isle is a full-service campground just north of Highway 90 (Exit #126) with 30 and 50 amp hookups. Pull through and back in camp sites are available. Check-in is at 2 p.m. with check-out at 11 a.m.

During your stay enjoy playing on the playground, fishing in the catch and release pond, relaxing at the swimming pool with splash pad, lazy river, and swim up bar. Adjoining the pool area, the clubhouse has a concession stand, covered indoor/outdoor meeting areas and band/DJ stage.

Book your stay here.

You can also visit our web calendar to see more events to plan your summer getaway! Come out, meet friends, listen to live music and dance the evening away.

Concert Schedule:

• May 9 – Straight Whiskey
• May 16 – Glenn, A Band of One
• May 23 – Matthew Ewing All Star Band
• May 24 – Kip Sonnier
• May 30 – Chubby Carrier
• June 6 – The Envies
• June 13 – Spare Parts Band
• June 20 – The Cast
• June 27 – Sharona Thomas Music
• July 4 – Kip Sonnier
• July 11 – Cajun Company Band
• July 18 – The Tailgators Band
• July 25 – X‑Change Band
• August 1 – Kip Sonnier
• August 8 – The Cast
• August 15 – Sharona Thomas Band
• August 22 – Fifth Edition
• August 29 – Andy Smith
• September 5 – Matthew Ewing All Star Band
• September 6 – The Cast
• October 24 – Bad Boys Band

Public Swim Hours:

Public swim starts June 2 and is available on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays (excluding holidays) from 1-5 p.m. for $15 per person (cash only).

Outside food and drinks are only allowed on Tuesdays and Thursdays. No outside alcohol will be allowed in at any time. Concession stand and bar will be open.

For more information and to book your stay, visit IsleOfIberia.com or call (337) 256-8681.

If you enjoyed this, check out:

• Why Visit Isle of Iberia RV Resort
• New Iberia Summer Travel Guide
• How to Cool Down in Iberia

The post Summer Fun Comes to Isle of Iberia RV Resort appeared first on iberiatravel.com.

Shadows-on-the-Teche is pleased to launch its Faith & Freedom program series with a virtual presentation by Dr. Ben Wright on Thurs., May 7, at 5:30 p.m.

Dr. Wright, author of Bonds of Salvation: How Christianity Inspired and Limited American Abolitionism, will explore the profound role religion played in shaping American abolitionism. Drawing on his acclaimed work, Dr. Wright traces the ideological tensions between spiritual salvation and emancipation, from the American Revolution through the denominational schisms that pushed the nation toward Civil War. The virtual program is free to attend, but registration is required. Attendees can register online.

For a limited time, signed copies of Bonds of Salvation can be purchased at the Shadows Museum Shop (320 E. Main St., New Iberia) for 15% off. Copies can be purchased in person or online.

Additional programs in the series:

• Friday, June 19 – Faith & Freedom Symposium with keynote Dr. Kodi Roberts
• Thursday, July 16 – Southern Jewish Experience with Kenneth Hoffman

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities. The 2026 Program Mini Grant has been provided by the State of Louisiana and administered by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities. The views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed by this organization do not necessarily represent those of either the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities or the State of Louisiana.

About the Speaker:

Dr. Ben Wright is an associate professor of history and the Director of the Open US History Lab at the University of Texas at Dallas. He is the author or editor of five books, including Bonds of Salvation: How Christianity Inspired and Limited American Abolitionism (LSU 2020), the two-volume American Yawp: A Massively Collaborative, Open History of the United States (Stanford 2019), and, most recently, American Revolutions in the Digital Age (Cornell 2024).

His articles have appeared in a variety of outlets, ranging from the American Historical Review to the Washington Post. He is currently writing a book-length study of religion in early colonial Sierra Leone and Liberia.

__________________________________________________________

The post Explore Christianity and Abolition at Shadows‑on‑the‑Teche: Bonds of Salvation Program appeared first on iberiatravel.com.

The Greater Iberia Chamber of Commerce is inviting businesses and community members to tee up for a great cause at the 2026 Greater Iberia Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, scheduled for May 11, at Cane Row Golf & Turf Club.

The annual tournament brings together local business leaders, community partners, and golf enthusiasts for a morning of networking, friendly competition, and community impact. The shotgun start begins at 9 a.m.

More than just a golf tournament, the event serves as a fundraiser supporting two impactful Chamber initiatives: Leadership Iberia and the FireStarter Project, programs dedicated to developing future leaders and encouraging innovation among young entrepreneurs in Iberia Parish. Register here.

Proceeds from the tournament directly support:

Leadership Iberia

A leadership development program that prepares emerging community leaders through hands-on experiences, community engagement, and education about the economic and cultural landscape of Iberia Parish.

FireStarter Project

An initiative designed to ignite entrepreneurial thinking in local students by giving them the tools, mentorship, and opportunities to explore business creation and innovation.

“These programs are about building the future of our community,” said Chamber representatives. “When businesses support this tournament, they are investing in the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators right here in Iberia Parish.”

Tournament Entry

• Four-Man Team: $500
• Single Entry: $150

Players can register by scanning the QR code on promotional materials or by contacting the Chamber directly.

Sponsorship Opportunities Available:

Local businesses have several opportunities to support the event while gaining valuable exposure:

• Eagle Presenting Sponsor – $3,000
• Birdie Sponsor – $1,500
• Beverage Cart Sponsor – $1,000
• Hole + Team Sponsor – $750
• Award Reception Sponsor – $500
• Hole Sponsor – $250

Sponsors receive recognition through event signage, website features, social media promotion, and on-course engagement opportunities during the tournament.

Several interactive drink station sponsorships are also available, including themed stops such as:

• Mixed Drink Station “Mulligan Mix Bar”
• Bloody Mary Bar “Bloody Mary Bunker”
• John Daly Station “The Daly Double”

These stations allow sponsors to connect directly with players while adding a fun and memorable experience on the course.

The post Tee Off for a Cause: Join the Greater Iberia Chamber Golf Tournament appeared first on iberiatravel.com.

The Greater Iberia Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Georges Antoun as the keynote speaker and the award recipients for its 2026 Annual Banquet on Thurs., April 23, at the Cade Community Center (1688 Smede Hwy., St. Martinville). Purchase tickets here.

About the Event

The Greater Iberia Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet is one of the region’s premier business and community events, bringing together local leaders, entrepreneurs, and residents for an evening of celebration and inspiration.

“The Annual Banquet is an opportunity to celebrate the people and businesses who help shape the future of our community,” said representatives from the Greater Iberia Chamber of Commerce. “From visionary business leaders to dedicated volunteers and thriving local businesses, these honorees embody the spirit of leadership and service that makes Iberia Parish such a special place.”

About the Keynote Speaker

Serving as the evening’s keynote speaker will be Georges Antoun, Chief Commercial Officer of First Solar, Inc. Antoun brings more than three decades of global leadership experience in technology and innovation. Throughout his distinguished career, he has held senior leadership roles with major international companies including Cisco, Ericsson, and Redback Networks.

Today, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of renewable energy through his leadership at First Solar. With strong Louisiana roots, Antoun will share insights on innovation, economic growth, and navigating the evolving global business landscape.

About the Honorees

The Chamber will also recognize individuals and businesses whose contributions have made a significant impact on the Iberia Parish community.

The 2026 Civic Service Award will be presented to Jenny Toups in recognition of her outstanding volunteerism and dedication to community service. Toups has devoted countless hours to organizations and initiatives that enrich Iberia Parish, including Iberia Crime Stoppers, the St. Francis Diner Board, and Bayou Traditions. As a founding member and Executive Vice President of Bayou Traditions, she has played a key role in preserving the beloved Queen City Downtown Christmas Parade and creating community events such as Pancakes & PJ’s with Santa that bring families together while supporting local traditions.

The Chamber will also present its 2025 Business Impact Awards, which recognize businesses demonstrating exceptional growth, innovation, and community investment.

The Small Business Impact Award will be awarded to Bambino’s, owned by Grant and Krysta Myers. Beginning as a popular food truck in 2022, Bambino’s quickly grew into a thriving restaurant located in a beautifully restored historic building on Main Street in downtown New Iberia. In addition to providing a popular gathering place for residents and visitors alike, Bambino’s has demonstrated a deep commitment to the community through local events, fundraising initiatives, and job creation, including providing employment opportunities to workers affected by the closure of a longtime local restaurant.

The Large Business Impact Award recipient will also be recognized during the banquet, honoring Iberia Parish School District which has demonstrated significant growth, innovation, and economic impact within Iberia Parish.

For ticket information, sponsorship opportunities, or additional details, please contact Marketing & Membership Director Shannon Thorne at (337) 364-1836, email or visit their website.

________________________________________________________________

The post Iberia Chamber of Commerce 2026 Banquet appeared first on iberiatravel.com.

1. When Is it

La Asociación Española de Nueva Iberia (LAENI) proudly announces the 12th Annual El Festival Español de Nueva Iberia, taking place April 17–19, 2026, in historic downtown New Iberia at Bouligny Plaza.

This free three-day festival attracts thousands of visitors each year to celebrate the Spanish heritage that helped shape the city’s history.

2. Who Does it Celebrate

The festival commemorates the 1779 founding of New Iberia by Spanish families from Málaga, Spain. As the community celebrates its Spanish roots, it also recognizes the lasting impact of the original settlers whose descendants still live in the area today. Seven founding families—Gary, Lopez, Migues(z), Prados, Romero, Segura, and Viator—continue to contribute to the cultural fabric of New Iberia.

3. What can attendees expect

Festival-goers will enjoy Spanish entertainment, local music performances, and the delicious aromas of the Paella, Tapas, and Jambalaya Cook-off. Family-friendly activities include carnival rides, games, the Founding Families Parade, arts and crafts vendors, a classic car show, and the annual Running of the Bulls 10K, 5K, and 1-mile race. Visitors can also explore Spanish Genealogy displays at the Sliman Theater and stroll through Church Alley beneath the colorful crochet canopy inspired by New Iberia’s sister city, Alhaurín de la Torre in Málaga, Spain.

4. Live Music

Visitors will be immersed in the sights, sounds, and tastes of Spain with performances ranging from Cajun and Zydeco to Spanish guitar and flamenco dance, highlighting the blending of cultures that define Spanish Louisiana. Festival-goers won’t want to miss the incredible talent of Houston’s premier flamenco performing company, Solero Flamenco, bringing the passion and artistry of Spain to the festival stage.

5. What is the 2026 Theme

This year’s theme, “Spain on the Bayou: Strengthening America’s Fight for Freedom,” highlights Spain’s support of the American colonies during the Revolutionary War and ties into the national America250 celebration. The Louisiana America250 poster will be unveiled Sat., April 18 at 11:30 a.m. during the festival. Spain’s contributions—including military and financial assistance—played an important role in helping America achieve victory in the War of Independence.

Everyone is invited to join this vibrant celebration of culture, family, and tradition that connects New Iberia with Spain, right in the heart of downtown New Iberia, Louisiana.

_________________________________________________________

If you enjoyed, read:

• Quick Guide: Fall Festivals
• Shadows’ Military Lecture Series

The post Complete Guide to the 12th New Iberia Spanish Festival! appeared first on iberiatravel.com.

All of the sessions are held in the Sliman Theater, unless otherwise noted and are completely free and open to the public. A 10-minute break will be scheduled between each session. During this time, the presenting author from the previous session will be available for book purchases and signing, when applicable.

Tickets for events found here.

Friday, April 10, 2026:

Guided Museum Tours

When: 9 – 10 a.m. and 10:30-11:30 a.m. (concurrent)

Where: Bayou Teche Museum and Shadows-on-the-Teche

Details: If you are a museum fan, these guided tours are for you. Even if you’ve toured these two New Iberia cultural gems previously, you’ll want to register now as they both feature new exhibits.

Building Perseverance and Community: The Jane and Scott Wolfe Story

When: 12 – 1 p.m.

Where: Sliman Theater (129 E. Main St.)

Details: Join Scott and Jane Wolfe as they share their extraordinary story of perseverance. Against all odds, they built a thriving series of businesses and a culture of service to their community with a focus on literacy. Moderated by Pam Fessler.

Sacred Stories: Uncovering the Louisiana Lineage of Pope Leo XIV

When: 1 – 2:30 p.m.

Where: Sliman Theater (129 E. Main St.)

Details: Discover how Louisiana’s Creole heritage connects to one of the most influential papacies in modern history — moderated by Father Jason Vidrine with Presenters Larry Caillier II – St Landry Parish Archivist, Dr. Jari Honora – Historic New Orleans Collection, and Marcia Gaudet, author of the article, Cultural Catholicism in Cajun-Creole Louisiana.

The Magic of Romance with Juliette Cross

When: 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Where: Sliman Theater (129 E. Main St.)

Details: Discover how Juliette Cross crafts her spellbinding worlds and unforgettable characters in the wildly popular romantasy genre. Moderated by Noelle Judice.

The Story of Carville: Healing, Hope, and Humanity

When: 3:30 – 5 p.m.

Where: Sliman Theater (129 E. Main St.)

Details: This panel tells the human side of Carville’s history via letters, memoirs, and lived experiences that give voice to those once hidden from view. It features author-presenters Claire Manes, Pam Fessler, and Anne Harmon Brett. Moderated by Marcia Gaudet.

Prose & Pours- Happy Hour with the Authors

When: 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Where: Shadows-on-the-Teche (317 E. Main St.)

Details: Ticket included with A Novel Evening Ticket Purchase. A first-ever happy hour with the authors under the moss-draped live oak trees will provide a more relaxed atmosphere to converse with festival authors. Marcelle Bienvenu, celebrated chef, will conduct a Cajun cooking demo.

A Novel Evening – The 10th Anniversary Books Along The Teche Literary Festival Celebration

When: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Where: Shadows-on-the-Teche (317 E. Main St.)

Details: Ticket Required — includes Prose and Pours. Following Prose and Pours, guests will experience a delicious dinner prepared by beloved chef, Alex Patout, while listening to the sounds of the Bunk Johnson Brazz Band along the banks of the Bayou Teche.

Saturday, April 11, 2026:

L’Acadian Art Guild Show

When: 8 – 5:30 p.m.

Where: Iberia Parish Public Library, Main Street Branch (445 E. Main St.)

Beignets & Beats, A Cajun Breakfast Jam

When: 8 – 9:45 a.m.

Where: Bambino’s Burgers (114 E. Main St.)

Details: Ticket Required — Guests will begin their day with a little Louisiana magic at Bambino’s restaurant. They will listen and dance to the live music of the Terry Huval Jambalaya Cajun band while enjoying a classic Southern brunch, including cocktails and beignets.

Book Fair

When: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Where: Main Street

Details: Browse books and related items for sale from over two dozen authors and other vendors.

Children’s Book Fair and Activities

When: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Where: The Bazus (210 E. Main St.)

Details: Book readings, musical performances, and other children’s activities are sure to please the little ones at the Bazus, and children’s books will also be available for sale directly from the authors.

Bayou Noir: A Dave Robicheaux Readers Theater

When: 10 – 11 a.m.

Where: Sliman Theater (129 E. Main St.)

Details: A fusion of story and sound, this special readers theater performance reimagines a classic Robicheaux mystery through spoken word and live acoustic music. Excerpts from In the Electric Mist with Confederate Dead by James Lee Burke are brought to life in a staged reading, with music woven throughout to echo the mood, mystery, and magic of the bayou.

Front Row with Rick Bragg – Book Club

When: 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Where: Doc Voorhies’ Wing, Bayou Teche Museum

Details: This capacity-limited session is for Rick Bragg’s most loyal fans and offers an opportunity to converse with the author in book club-style.

Creole Trails: Louisiana Black Trail Riders

When: 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Where: Sliman Theater (129 E. Main St.)

Details: This presentation illuminates the lives, stories, and enduring spirit of Louisiana’s Black trail riders—a vibrant tradition rarely seen beyond the trails. Presented by Jeremiah Ariaz, Louisiana Trail Riders.

Voices of Jazz: A One-Woman Showcase

When: 1 – 2 p.m.

Where: Sliman Theater (129 E. Main St.)

Details: Gale Whiting’s evocative solo stage work illuminates the lives, artistry, and enduring legacies of Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Dinah Washington, and Sarah Vaughan. Moderated by Breighlynn Polk.

Swamp Sounds: Echoes of Music and Dance Traditions in Louisiana

When: 2 – 3:30 p.m.

Where: Sliman Theater (129 E. Main St.)

Details: This presentation celebrates the music, stories, and enduring spirit of Louisiana’s swamp pop and dance halls, tracing the rhythms, memories, and communities that have shaped generations of culture. Moderated by Yvette Landry with presenters Shane K. Bernard, Herman Fuselier, and Philip Gould.

Great Southern Writer Symposium featuring Rick Bragg

When: 3:30 – 5 p.m.

Where: Sliman Theater (129 E. Main St.)

Details: Rick Bragg, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and acclaimed author, joins moderator Jan Risher to illuminate the heart, history, and craft of Southern storytelling.

Swamp Sounds: A Swamp Pop Revival

When: 5:30 – 9 p.m.

Where: Bouligny Plaza (102 W. Main St.)

Details: Ticket Required — This concert is headlined by the Grammy-nominated Revelers, who will include a selection of songs in French that honor Louisiana’s rich Francophone heritage. It also includes Cajun dance lessons led by Britlyn Delahoussaye and a dance competition. Prizes will be awarded. Food trucks will be available as will an assortment of drinks for purchase.

Sunday, April 12, 2026:

L’Acadian Art Guild Show

When: 1:30 – 5:30 p.m.

Where: Iberia Parish Public Library – Main Street Branch (445 E. Main St.)

Symphony Sunday in the Park

When: 3 – 5 p.m.

Where: New Iberia City Park (300 Parkview Dr.)

Details: The Books Along the Teche Literary Festival weekend culminates with Symphony Sunday in the Park, as the Acadiana Symphony Orchestra presents a free concert beneath the oak trees of City Park. Groups decorate their picnic setups for a chance to win a painting by a local artist.

Tickets for events found here.

_____________________________________________________________________________

If you enjoyed, read:

• 2026 Great Southern Writer Announced!
• Books Along the Teche Literary Festival’s Flash Writing Contest

The post Books Along the Teche Literary Festival 2026 appeared first on iberiatravel.com.

Join the Shadows for Hats & Spats on Sat., April 18, 2026, from 3–5 p.m. in the beautiful gardens of Shadows-on-the-Teche (317 E. Main St., New Iberia).

This lively springtime gathering invites guests to don their finest hats and classic spats for an afternoon of style, history, and handcrafted cocktails. Tickets are $35 per person and can be purchased online.

Guests will enjoy tastings featuring Red Reed Vodka and a special appearance by Richard Landry, winner of Discovery Channel’s Moonshiners: Master Distiller. Sip on the event’s signature cocktail, the refreshing Basil Lemon Drop Martini, while mingling in the garden atmosphere and playing croquet. Light refreshments and wine will also be served.

This event is open to guests ages 21 and over. Special thanks to Red Reed Vodka and First Horizon Bank for helping to make this event possible.

(Updated 4/8/2026)

______________________________________________________________

The post Hats & Spats appeared first on iberiatravel.com.