Passport Not Required: The Los Isleños Fiesta in St. Bernard
Louisiana has loads of festivals – Jazz Fest, Crawfish Fest, Zydeco Fest… we could go on and on. But if you’re looking for something truly unique, packed with history and incredible culture, you need to check out the Los Isleños Fiesta in St. Bernard Parish.
“What is this?” you ask. Let me explain.
The Isleños or “Islanders” are originally from the Canary Islands, located off the coast of Africa and part of Spain. Harken back to the 1700s, when a group of Isleños came to Louisiana and founded what is now known as St. Bernard Parish. Fast forward 250 years, and the descendants of those Isleños are still here building their lives, preserving their language, and proudly celebrating their heritage.
They celebrate it best every March with a two-day festival on the grounds of the historic Los Isleños Museum Complex, a 22-acre property featuring original cottages, a museum, and cultural exhibits.
So what’s it like?
Think ropa vieja and empanadas, Spanish music filling the air, wine from the Coconut Bar, dancing, art, and even amusement rides for the kids. Musicians and dancers dressed in traditional garb travel from the Canary Islands to entertain festivalgoers. The lineup typically includes a mix of authentic Spanish performers and popular local artists.
It’s a family-friendly cultural celebration full of flavor, music, and history and it’s one you don’t want to miss.
