Photo via Louisiana Cultures website

Louisiana Cultures Camp Returns for MLK Weekend

Louisiana Cultures Camp returns January 16–18, 2026, for its third annual gathering, bringing together music, dance, food, language, and heritage crafts from across Louisiana’s diverse cultural traditions. The MLK Weekend event takes place at Fontainebleau State Park near Mandeville and is open to participants of all ages and experience levels.

Programming throughout the weekend highlights Indigenous, Afro-Diasporic, Creole, Cajun, Latin, and Asian traditions, with culture bearers representing Choctaw and Houma Nations alongside Dominican, Cuban, Brazilian, Vietnamese, Filipino, Garifuna, and New Orleans–based artists and educators. The schedule includes participatory workshops, language-learning tables, live music, and nightly performances, culminating in a community-wide cultural sharing talent show on Sunday.

In addition to structured programming, Louisiana Cultures Camp emphasizes informal cultural exchange through open jam sessions, shared meals, and conversation. The Fontainebleau State Park venue offers both indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, including a dance hall, lakefront access, and surrounding green space, encouraging collaboration and spontaneous music-making throughout the weekend.

Attendees may participate for a single session, one day, or the full weekend, with registration options that include commuting, tent camping, or dorm lodging on site. Youth 15 and under may attend free with a registered adult. Full schedules, registration details, and lodging information are available at louisianaculturescamp.org.

Note: The event was formerly known as Culture Campout and now operates as Louisiana Cultures Camp.