RUSTON, LA – February 15, 2024 – The much-anticipated 74th Annual Louisiana Peach Festival, presented by b1BANK, is set to return on Saturday, June 1, 2024, bringing a full day of festivities to Downtown Ruston. In a significant move, organizers have announced that this year’s festival will be entirely free, marking the first time in over three decades that no admission fee will be charged for daytime activities or the evening concert.
From 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., attendees can enjoy a jam-packed schedule featuring over 12 hours of live music, a diverse array of more than 80 food and art vendors, engaging kids’ activities, delectable peach-themed treats, and much more.
Amanda Carrier, President & CEO of the Ruston Lincoln Convention & Visitors Bureau, expressed excitement about the decision to offer free admission, stating, “Our goal has always been to make the Louisiana Peach Festival an inclusive celebration of local culture and talent accessible to everyone. We are thrilled to eliminate admission fees for the entire day, enhancing the festival experience for all attendees.”
Last year, the festival drew over 24,000 visitors from across the region and generated over $2 million in economic impact for the area. This economic boost benefited local businesses, restaurants, hotels, as well as artisans and vendors who showcased their creations at the event.
Amy Stegall, Ruston Main Street Director, emphasized the significance of offering free admission as a means of broadening the festival’s reach, stating, “Waiving the festival’s entrance fee allows us to share our vibrant local culture and talent with a wider audience. We are grateful for the steadfast support of our sponsors and community partners, whose contributions enable us to continue this beloved Ruston tradition.”
The festival extends its gratitude to b1BANK, the presenting sponsor for 2024, for their commitment to expanding the festival’s accessibility to residents and visitors alike. Additionally, early commit sponsors, including Century Next Bank, Origin Bank, Louisiana National Bank, and The Cleaners of Ruston, have played a vital role in supporting the festival’s mission.
Vendor applications for food and arts market vendors, along with submissions for the poster design contest, are currently being accepted online at www.lapeachfest.com. The deadline for poster design submissions is March 1.
Stay tuned for further festival updates in the weeks ahead, including announcements regarding the headliner and music lineup, volunteer opportunities, and the full schedule of events. For the latest festival information, follow Louisiana Peach Festival on Facebook and Instagram or visit www.lapeachfest.com.
About the Louisiana Peach Festival Established in 1951, the Louisiana Peach Festival is the longest-running agricultural festival in the state, initiated by local peach farmers to promote their industry across the south. Over the years, the festival has attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors to Lincoln Parish, injecting millions into the local economy. Produced in partnership by the City of Ruston, Downtown Ruston, and Experience Ruston, the festival continues to celebrate the region’s rich agricultural heritage and vibrant community spirit.