Railroad Fest – A Celebration of Makers & Music

On this list is one of our favorite festivals that highlights regional arts and music and celebrates the rich culture of Ruston and Louisiana – Railroad Festival. This event gives attendees the chance to shop works from talented local artists and makers all while providing a full day of food truck eats and live entertainment on the Railroad Park stage!

2019 Railroad Fest happening May 18 promises to be bigger and better than ever! The event kicks off at 10 a.m. with Ruston Makers Fair in Sexton Lot (across from Ponchatoulas Restaurant) and Esma's Alley (next door to Sundown Tavern) downtown. While Ruston Makers Fair is a stand-alone event that also occurs in the fall each year, there’s even more to see and do when combined in Railroad Fest. The fair offers a chance to browse the works of over a hundred local artists, makers, and creators. Get out early to see the best selection of paintings, drawings, and prints. Local and regional makers alike are set up with a variety of items like knitwear, woodworks, pottery and sculptures, custom shirts and apparel, handmade jewelry and clothing, organic soaps and shampoos, plants in custom pots, and so much more. Artists and groups are also on site with demonstrations and family activities. Local musicians provide entertainment as you browse, as well as numerous food trucks available for when you need a mid-shopping bite.

In the evening, grab your crew and move on over to Railroad Park for the Railroad Fest concerts. Entertainment gets kicked off at 1 p.m. and there's always a full lineup! Be sure to check out the complete schedule on the Railroad Festival Facebook. The grounds of Railroad Park are perfect for lawn chairs and blankets. Bring yours and settle in for an evening of live music, cold drinks, and tasty cuisine. A cash bar with beer, wine, and the event's signature cocktail will be site alongside more food trucks, pop-up shops, and a variety of entertainment in downtown Ruston. Experience the festival with the entire family! Railroad Park offers plenty of activities for kids and room to play as the concerts continue throughout the night. The festival is also pet-friendly!

The 2019 Railroad Makers & Music Festival is set for Saturday, May 18. Admission to the makers fair portion of the day is free and music in Railroad Park is $10 at the gate. Start planning your weekend with our events calendar and see more about Railroad Fest on Facebook and Instagram. Don’t miss your chance to catch these talented artists, makers, and musicians all in one place!

Photos by Victoria Arnold Photography and Cultural Bloom Photography.