From festivals to outdoor adventure, the Louisiana Northshore has all you want for spring—and so much more!

 Words by Paige Townley

When it comes to enjoying all that springtime has to offer, look no further than St. Tammany Parish, the Louisiana Northshore. Nestled in a location convenient to New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the Louisiana Northshore is home to a plethora of activities and adventures, making the destination a prime pick for any type of trip. Whether you’re hoping to partake in a few festivals, enjoy the thrills of outdoor adventure, get away with your girlfriends, or simply bring the family together for fun new experiences, the Louisiana Northshore has everything needed to make it happen this spring.

Springtime is Festival Time

When spring rolls around each year, it brings much more than beautiful weather to the Louisiana Northshore. It also means it’s time for something else: festivals. Spring is festival season on the Northshore, and the one being held on April 22 is for the foodies: Slidell’s All-You-Can-Eat Crawfish Cook-Off. Possibly the largest single-day crawfish boil in the entire world, the Cook-Off is a day dedicated to good food and live music. For those seeking more shopping opportunities instead, there’s also the Covington Antiques and Uniques Festival. To be hosted April 29-30 at Covington Trailhead, the festival will feature more than 50 vendors and their eclectic mix of antiques, collectibles, arts and crafts.

Outdoor Adventure

Opportunities to get out and enjoy nature abound on the Northshore. Tour the area’s swamps, the scenic Bogue Falaya River, or the Cane Bayou with one of the canoe or kayak tours by Canoe & Trail Adventures. Canoe & Trail Adventures offers guided tours, as well as equipment like kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and boasts that can be rented for solo adventures. Rather keep your feet on land? Rent a bike from Brooks’ Bike Shop to cycle down Tammany Trace and take in the beautiful sights or spend the afternoon bird watching at Northlake Nature Center.

Girlfriends Getaway

Gather your girlfriends for the ultimate shopping adventure. Historic downtown Covington, Mandeville, and Slidell offer a variety of antique shops, boutiques, and art galleries, as well as larger shopping centers. Between shops, take a break for dinner al fresco at Pat’s Rest Awhile, LOLA, or Palmettos on the Bayou.

Fun for the Whole Family

The entire family can get in on the action found on the Northshore. Kids can hold a baby alligator and learn all about alligators at Insta-Gator Ranch and Hatchery—or go on a tour and see them in their natural habitat on a swamp tour. Plan a family competition with a round of mini golf at Old Town Slidell Soda Shop. For the family that prefers spending as much time in nature as possible, bring everyone for a camping adventure at Fontainebleau State Park or Fairview-Riverside State Park. 

To learn more about the Louisiana Northshore or plan your trip, visit www.louisiananorthshore.com.