Thibodeauxville festival receives top tourism award

Thibodeauxville, the one-day event that was held Saturday for a 19th consecutive year, has been named recipient of the Southeast Tourism Society’s Shining Example Award. This designation lists the single most outstanding of 133 nominated events held in 12 states during the fall season.

After being named a Top 20 Event winner, Thibodeauxville became eligible for the Shining Example Award. It was selected because of it high level of organization, event production and community involvement, according to the Southeast Tourism Society. Factors that influence selection also include attendance, growth, innovation and special promotional efforts.

“Thibodeauxville is one of the best free, family-friendly festivals in Louisiana,” said Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce President Kathy Benoit. “We are truly honored and humbled to receive this award.”

Thibodeauxville features cook-offs, car shows, children’s activities including face painting and a live petting zoo, as well as 180 arts and crafts vendors showcasing handmade furniture and other crafts, a food court, concerts and various activities all in the downtown area of Thibodaux.

“Popular features include the Cajun Corvette Car Show with vintage models and the latest contemporary car models,” Benoit said. “There is the 5K run/walk, and the renowned BP Thibodeauxville Duck Race on beautiful Bayou Lafourche where hundreds of plastic ducks are set loose in a floating race to the finish and owner of the winning duck receives a cash prize.”

The Southeast Tourism Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion and development of tourism throughout the Southeast. Member states include Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia and Arkansas.

“Being honored with the prestigious Shining Example Award is beyond our belief,” Benoit said. “This award and recognition is a tribute to the hard work of 100 or more volunteers who work throughout the year to continue to grow and improve the festival.”

Benoit said the designation verifies her claim that Thibodeauxville is not only one of the best attractions of the region but of the nation.