Louisiana area festivals

LadyFest Novermber 4-8. New Orleans, various locations. The festival showcases women's art, music, poetry and film in a benefit for local organizations that support women. 504-913-1226

Shadows Civil War Encampment Nov. 6-8. New Iberia, Shadows-on-the-Teche. Living history encampment. (877) 200-4924.

Louisiana Fall Festival Horse Show Nov. 6-8, at Lamar-Dixon Expo Center, 9030 Landry Road, Gonzales, LA. The event will kick off with a Halloween Costume class horse and rider will be judged on how well they invoke the spirit of Halloween. www.lafallfestival.com

Cut Off Youth Center Fair Nov. 6-8, Cut Off, 205 West 79th St. (off Highway 1 South). Cajun food, music, dancing, carnival midway. (985) 632-7616.

Mirliton Festival Nov. 7, New Orleans, Piety Street at Dauphine Street in Bywater. Mirliton dishes, crafts, children's activities and music. 944-5422

Louisiana Renaissance Festival Nov. 7 - Dec 13, Hammond, Highway 1064. Jousting, merchants, food and entertainment. (985) 429-9992 or www.La-renfest.com.

Great Chili Challenge Nov. 7. New Iberia, City Park, 300 Parkview Drive. Chili-cooking contest, games, music and concessions. (888) 9-IBERIA.

Southdown Marketplace Nov. 7, Houma, Southdown Plantation. Crafts booths, seasonal items, antiques and food. (985) 851-0154.

Louisiana Swamp Festival Nov. 7-8, New Orleans, Audubon Zoo. Louisiana food, music, crafts, hands-on animal exhibits, special animal feedings. 581-IMAX.

Giant Omelette Celebration Nov. 7-8, Abbeville. Music, crafts, children's activities, home tours, antique car show, egg games and the making of a 5,000-egg Great Cajun omelet. (337) 893-0013 or (337) 898-6600, to go to their website, click here.

Christmas in New Orleans Arts & Crafts Expo Nov. 7-8, Kenner, Pontchartrain Center. Crafts, food and entertainment. (985) 796-5853.