DANOS loving its DIGS
April 22, 2015When seconds count
April 22, 2015
For more than a century and a half, the Thibodaux Firemen’s Fair has raised money that goes directly to keeping the area safe in the event of a blaze, and the volunteer department hopes the 2015 is the biggest one yet.
Taking place April 30-May 3, the fair features four days worth of live music, carnival rides, family entertainment and food and drink.
Entrance to the fair grounds is free, but all proceeds from ride fairs, concessions, raffles, the auction and donations go toward the volunteer department. Volunteer Fire Department Communications Assistant Director David LeBlanc said the event has raised more than $1 million in each of the last three years. The 2014 fest was the most profitable ever.
“It’s a good outing for the people of Thibodaux and the surrounding area because it’s a good place for local people to come, the camaraderie of the people that live in Thibodaux,” LeBlanc said.
DeRidder native Chris Cagle is the music headliner, taking the stage at 10 p.m. May 2.
“Our biggest attraction is going to be Chris Cagle. We always have a big name on Saturday night. That’s what we do,” LeBlanc said.
Other acts include Soulful Sounds and Clustafunk on April 30; Velvet Sky, Snapper & the Fishsticks and 90 Degrees West on May 1; Steve Junot, Soul Survivors, Good Feelings and Drunk Punch Ponies on May 2; and Tet Dur, Foret Tradition, Don Rich and Waylon Thibodaux on May 3.
Foods include the usual carnival fare, plus southwest eggrolls, gumbo, boudin links, shrimp dishes and crab cake on a bun. Daiquiris, beer – alcoholic and non- – and Firemen’s Punch, as well as sodas will be sold.
“We want people from all over the area to come by, because it’s an absolute terrific cause,” said Mike Naquin, who served as fire chief from 1997 to 2011. “The Thibodaux Firemen’s Fair has gotten to become one of the biggest events in the area.
“People for some reason, I guess being cooped up all winter and just looking for something to do. Hey, what better than where you’ve got free entertainment, good entertainment and we don’t charge to park? We’ve got good food, you always meet somebody you haven’t seen in a while, and it’s just a good, fun time.”
IF YOU GO…
THIBODAUX’S FIREMEN’S FAIR
WHEN: April 30 through May 2
WHERE: The Thibodaux Firemen’s Fairgrounds, located at the corner of Tiger Drive and Parish Road.
Event organizers tout that the Thibodaux Firemen’s Fair is a good time for all. The event is next weekend at the corner of Tiger Drive and Parish Road.
