Lake Charles Events 2026–27

Lake Charles keeps a steady calendar in southwest Louisiana. Chuck Fest is October 17, and November brings bourbon and barbecue at Smoke & Barrel and the Mistletoe & Moss Holiday Market. Light Up the Lake starts the Christmas season on November 28, and Cajun Christmas runs until the 25th.

Mardi Gras is a long season here, running from early January to Fat Tuesday, with the Merchants’ Parade and the Children’s Day Parade in February. Summer brings a July 4 celebration, the Cajun Music and Food Festival and the Marshland Festival.

Dates can change, so check the event’s website before you go.