Texan Ball among Fireman’s Fair headliners

It’s appropriate a group of firemen are behind what may be the region’s hottest festival. The Thibodaux Fireman’s Fair kicks off May 1, and helps in large part support the city’s 484-member volunteer fire department.

As one of the state’s oldest festivals, the Fireman’s Fair unites all eight of the department’s divisions. Each company volunteers to help run the annual event.

In fact, the festivities are organized entirely by the Thibodaux Volunteer Fire Department, including cooking the food and booking the bands. The only thing the firemen don’t do is run the rides.

The Fireman’s Fair traditionally is a big draw. With its top-rate musical entertainment – bluesman Tab Benoit, Waylon Thibodeaux, Treater, Wayne Toups and Marcia Ball are among the headliners – and authentic Cajun classics – gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish pie washed down with a gulp of Fireman’s Punch – the day’s fun is sure to entertain the entire family.

This year’s musical lineup is second to none. In addition to the performers mentioned above, musical acts include Chubby Carrier, the Chee Weez, Blue Eyed Soul, Good Feelin’ Band, Foret Tradition, Kenny Fife and Bac Trac Band, the Bayou Dixieland Band, Hunter Hayes and Wet Willie featuring Jimmy Hall.

Thursday and Saturday, visitors can buy pay-one-price passes and enjoy unlimited rides.

Admission to the festival is free, although there is a charge associated with the food and rides. Proceeds from the four-day festival help buy additional equipment and fund training for volunteer emergency responders.

On Sunday, the firefighters salute the city, parading through Thibodaux in style.

Beginning at 1 p.m., decorated fire trucks, emergency vehicles and floats wind their way through town.

For more information about the event, call (985) 446-FAIR or visit www.thibfiredept.org.