Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival 2025

Ponchatoula’s biggest event of the year is back! The Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival 2025 takes place from April 11–13, 2025 and presents three days of food, music, and family-friendly fun to Memorial Park in Ponchatoula, Louisiana. Known as Louisiana’s largest free harvest festival, this event celebrates the region’s rich strawberry farming heritage, with fresh berries, strawberry-themed foods, and a packed schedule of entertainment and activities.

From parades with glorious floats to live music, carnival rides, and contests for all ages, there’s something for the whole family at this festival. Plus, with local businesses and non-profit organizations running the booths, every purchase helps support the Ponchatoula community.

If you’re a strawberry lover, Florida has its own celebration too! The Florida Strawberry Festival, held in Plant City, Florida, from February 27 – March 9, 2025, is another major event. Florida strawberry festival represents the agriculture, industry, and traditions of the region. While Ponchatoula is all about community spirit and free entertainment, the Florida festival features big-name concerts, livestock shows, and a fairground experience. Both festivals offer a delicious way to celebrate the strawberry season!

History of the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival

The Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival started in 1972 as a way to celebrate the local agricultural and historical legacy while supporting the community. The first festival had just 11 booths and a small parade, yet it quickly became an annual tradition.

Over the years, the festival grounds have grown into one of the premier cultural events in Louisiana, attracting over 300,000 visitors annually. Today, it continues to honor Ponchatoula’s title as the ‘Strawberry Capital of the World’ while bringing people together for a weekend of fun.

What to Expect at Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival 2025

Three days of food, fun, and family-friendly entertainment. Here’s what’s happening at BerryFest25:

Festival Schedule

• Friday, April 11 – The festival opens at 12:00 PM with food booths, live music, and carnival rides.
• Saturday, April 12 – The famous Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival Parade rolls through downtown at 9:30 AM, followed by a full day of entertainment, contests, and activities.
• Sunday, April 13 – The festival wraps up with more live music, games, and exhibits of agriculture, commerce, industry, livestock, fine arts, and horticulture.

Must-See Events and Activities

• Strawberry Eating Contests – Think you can eat strawberries faster than anyone else? Test your skills in this fan-favorite challenge.
• Live Music on Two Stages – Enjoy top Louisiana bands and artists throughout the weekend.
• Amusement Rides – Carnival-style rides will be open all three days, with special $30 armband deals on Friday.
• Food Vendors – From classic festival favorites to strawberry-themed treats, expect a delicious lineup of food options.

Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival 2025 Tickets and Admission

• Entry to the festival is completely free – no ticket is required.
• Food, rides, and activities can be purchased at the festival.
• Ride armbands for unlimited rides are available on Friday from 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM for $30.
• Pro tip: Bring cash, as some vendors may not accept cards.

For more details, visit the official Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival website.

How to Get to Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival 2025

The Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival takes place at Memorial Park, 301 North 6th Street, Ponchatoula, LA 70454. With large crowds expected, planning ahead will help you navigate the festival smoothly.

• By car – Ponchatoula is easily accessible via I-55. Designated festival parking lots are available around town, but they fill up fast. Arrive early to secure a spot or take advantage of shuttle services from nearby parking areas.
• By train – Amtrak’s City of New Orleans route stops in Hammond, just 10 minutes from Ponchatoula. From there, you can take a rideshare, taxi, or local shuttle service to the festival grounds.
• By air – If you're flying in, the nearest major airport is Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), located about an hour away by car. Rental cars, rideshare services, and private shuttles are available for direct travel to Ponchatoula.

For real-time traffic updates, parking maps, and shuttle schedules, check Ponchatoula’s official website before heading out.

Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival 2025 Bag Policy

Know what you can (and can’t) bring before you arrive:

Prohibited Items

• Large backpacks, coolers, and oversized bags
• Glass bottles, alcohol, or outside food
• Drones, fireworks, or weapons

Allowed Items

• Small backpacks or clear plastic bags
• Factory-sealed water bottles
• Personal cameras and phones

Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival 2025 Bag Storage

Keep Your Hands Free with Bounce

Need a place to store your belongings while you enjoy the festival? Bounce offers secure bag storage locations in New Orleans, so you can explore the event without carrying extra weight.

• Affordable rates – Store your bags for as little as $4.10 per day.
• Safe and secure – Bounce partners with trusted locations, ensuring your items are protected with $10,000 in coverage.
• 24/7 support – Got a question? Bounce support is always available.
• Free cancellation – If your plans change, cancel at no extra cost.

How to Use Bounce at Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival

1. Find a storage spot – Use the Bounce app or website to locate a convenient drop-off point.
2. Drop off your bag – Show your booking confirmation and store your items securely.
3. Enjoy the festival! – No need to carry heavy bags—focus on the strawberries instead.

Tips to Make the Most of Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival 2025

• Arrive early – The parade and main events draw large crowds, so plan ahead.
• Dress for spring weather – Louisiana in April can be warm, so wear light clothing and sunscreen.
• Explore beyond the festival – Visit Ponchatoula’s antique shops, check out local strawberry farms, and stop by the Ponchatoula Country Market.
• Follow festival updates – Check the official website and social media for last-minute announcements.

See you at BerryFest25! Mark your calendar for April 11–13, bring your strawberry appetite, and get ready for one of Louisiana’s sweetest festivals.