Annual Events to Look Forward to in 2026 in Monroe-West Monroe
New Year’s Resolutions may come and go, but these events are here to stay! Celebrate holidays, festivals, and eat a lot of good food along the way! There are things to look forward to all year long, from Mardi Gras to Christmas. Start the year off right by marking your calendar with all the annual events Monroe-West Monroe has to fill your days!
318 Day: March 18
Celebrate Ouachita Parish on 318 Day! Celebrated on March 18th every year to honor the “318” area code, enjoy photo ops and more as we gather together and commemorate our parish!
Ouachita Riverfest: April 24-25
Northeast Louisiana’s largest festival is RiverFest! Right in the heart of Downtown West Monroe you can enjoy delicious food trucks, artisan vendors, live music, live duck races, and a rubber duck drop right into the Ouachita River!
Red, White, and Blue Airshow: May 1-3
The Red, White, and Blue Airshow is soaring back to Monroe this year, and it’s bigger and better than ever this year as America celebrates its 250th Anniversary. This nationally themed airshow will feature breathtaking aeronautics, rare aircraft, and top-tier performers from across the country. Bring a blanket or chair and look above as planes fly overhead!
4th of July Fireworks: July 4
Celebrate the 4th of July and independence in the Twin Cities! Enjoy shopping, great food, and festivities all day. The annual fireworks will be shot from the Endom Bridge over the Ouachita River and are best viewed from Downtown West Monroe, Downtown Monroe, or the West Monroe levee. End the night with a bang!
Live Original Sister Conference: September 11-12
Calling all sisters and friends! Live Original Sister Conference is returning in 2026. Join Sadie Robertson Huff for a 2-day conference right in the Monroe Civic Center. This weekend will be filled with special guest speakers, live music, and fellowship with women from around the world.
MWM Restaurant Week: September 14-20
MWM Restaurant Week is the best time of the year! For a whole week, locally owned restaurants are rolling out the red carpet (and amazing dishes) for exciting new specials and great deals. Whether you’re a first time visitor or a local loyal patron, this is sure to be a week packed full of flavor.
Landry’s Grape Stomp & Concert: September 19 & October 17
Get your best Lucille Ball costume ready to join Landry’s for their Grape Stomp & Concert! There will be food trucks, live music, and of course Landry’s wine and bellinis to enjoy. Guests can stomp grapes for free and dance the night away. Plan to bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket and soak in the early fall activities!
Northeast Louisiana Celtic Festival: October 3
There’s no need to travel to the Highlands when the Celtic Festival comes to town! Compete in Highland Games, enjoy live music, artisan vendors, food trucks, and more. Break out your kilts, tartan, and Celtic flair and celebrate the Celtic culture in NELA!
Christmas on the River Festival Weekend: December 4-6
It’s never too early to get excited about Christmas! Kick off the holiday season in style with parades, ballets, Christmas shopping, and more. All weekend long, you can expect exciting events for the whole family. Don’t miss the fireworks, twinkling lights, and Christmas cheer at every turn.
