Festivals Happening this Weekend: May 11 through May 14

Treat Mom to a festival this weekend.

Time to celebrate frogsPhoto byiStock

It's Mother's Day this weekend and there are a few fun festivals happening. If the family's in town, it's a good time to hop in the car and head to one of them.

Rayne Frog Festival - May 11, 12, 13,

206 Frog Festival Drive

In its 51st year, the Rayne Frog Festival kicks off with a party from 4 PM to 7 PM in Downtown Rayne on May 11. Music, food, sweet treats, face painting, and pictures with the festival mascot, Monsieur Jacques, help festival-goers get in the spirit for a weekend of excitement. The evening wraps up with a parade down the boulevard at 6:30 PM.

This year's theme is "Living off the Land," paying homage to the agricultural industry in Rayne and Acadia parish. Bring your dancing shoes because music will be provided by Louisiana artists including Lil' Nathan & the Zydeco Big Timers, Horace Trahan & Ossun Express, Jamie Bergeron & the Kickin' Cajuns, and many more. There will be lots of food, carnival rides, a kids' area, pageants, arts & crafts, an eating contest, and a dance contest. Live frogs will also be in attendance.

Natchitoches Jazz and R&B Festival - May 12 & 13

193 Rue Beauport

Celebrating 26 years, the Natchitoches Jazz and R&B Festival is held in the historic downtown district and Cane River region.

This year's lineup includes:

• Elton Live! (The Elton John Experience)
• The Purple Madness (A Tribute to Prince)
• Cupid
• Mark Chestnutt
• Tracy Byrd
• and many more!

Tickets are available through Eventbrite.