Beignet Fest, the growing food and music festival raising money and awareness for autism programs in New Orleans, has announced its fourth annual festival dates and music lineup.

On Saturday, October 5, the fourth annual Beignet Fest presented by French Market^®Coffee will take place at the festival grounds inside City Park. Big Sam’s Funky Nation, Hot 8 Brass Band, Honey Island Swamp Band, RumpleSTEELskin (featuring Ed Williams of The Revivalists), he Imagination Movers are the musical acts on this year’s lineup. There will be an opening set from Bounce & Beignets Fitness with April Dupre and a live DJ, as well.

This year’s Beignet Fest will introduce a $5 general admission fee in an effort to help the festival grow and fulfill its mission. Proceeds benefit the Tres Doux Foundation, with serves children with autism and related developmental differences.

“Beignet Fest has become one of the fastest-growing, family-friendly food festivals in the South,” said Festival Founder and Event Producer Sherwood Collins. “It’s extra sweet because the festival helps raise awareness and critical funds to support community programs that serve children with autism and similar special needs.”

 Approximately 30,000 people attended last year’s Beignet Fest. “We anticipate much the same this year, especially with performers like Big Sam and Ed Williams, among others,” said Collins. “We are grateful to showcase such talented musicians who understand the importance of our mission.”

There will also be a VIP ticket option, which includes complimentary Café du Monde beignets, Bulleit bourbon craft cocktails and Abita beer in the comfort of a shaded tent next to the performance stage. VIP tickets are $40 for adults and $15 for children.

Organizers announced another addition to this year’s festival. Attendees will not be required to purchase food and beverage tickets on site to exchange for beignets or other items. Food and beverage vendors will accept cash.

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Another change for this year is that attendees will no longer be required to buy food and beverage tickets on site to exchange for beignets and other items. All food booths and beverage stations will operate based on cash transactions much like other popular festivals.