From 1970 to 1997, Holy Rosary's church fair was an event many families in Ascension Parish looked forward to every year. Seeing the Ferris wheel tower over the bayou filled everyone with excitement. The soulful sound of local bands, delicious food, Bingo, kids’ games, and fellowship left cherished memories for our parishioners. Eventually, the fair disappeared from the church's annual calendar, but its spirit and memories lived on.
In early 2016, talks of revitalizing the fair filled the air and plans were soon underway for a new festival style event. Yet, in August of that year, the area was devastated by the Great Flood that left three feet of water covering the fair grounds, which damaged the church and parish buildings. As the waters receded, the festival committee members met about the future of the newborn plans. The festival was 72 days away.
The decision was made that the festival must go on for the simple joie de vivre. The first ever La Fête des Bayous was held October 27-30, 2016; it was a greater success than anyone dared to dream.
Neighbors, classmates, families, and friends, who all just endured a great loss, made new festival memories as together they rose above the muddy waters of the flood. In doing so, perhaps they realized that the road to healing may not be quite as difficult as previously believed. It was then that our 2017 slogan was born, “La Fête des Bayous – Bringing People Together."
Come fête with us each year during the last weekend in October as des bayous come alive with fun for all.
Laissez les bon temps rouler!