Family Gras returns to Veterans Boulevard with free live shows and carnival enjoyable

METAIRIE, La (WVUE) – Family Gras returns Friday (Feb. 6) to Veterans Boulevard in Metairie, bringing two days of free live shows and carnival actions to Jefferson Parish.

The nineteenth annual pageant kicks off Friday with performances by the Gin Blossoms, Heartbreaker Jukebox and Rocket Man. Former “The Voice” contestant Karen Waldrup headlines Friday night time.

Producer Greg Buisson stated Family Gras has turn into a signature occasion for the parish.

“There’s a lot of pride in Jefferson Parish and it shows at an event like this,” Buisson stated. “The event continues to grow. It’s really still in its infancy and yet it’s sort of outperforming the area where we are.”

Waldrup may also experience within the Krewe of Madhatter’s parade, which is able to roll down Veterans Boulevard on Saturday.

“We’re creating a lot of synergy between the carnival organization and Family Gras,” Buisson stated.

Jefferson Parish District 5 Councilman Hans Liljeberg stated the pageant has grown dramatically because it began in 2007.

“When it first started, I don’t think we had the vendors out here and now we have all these food booths and drink booths and it’s a great big fair,” Liljeberg stated.

Buisson stated the occasion generates greater than $1 million in financial influence.

“That’s a terrific benefit and asset to the parish,” Buisson stated.

Liljeberg stated the Jefferson Convention and Visitors Bureau is already seeing individuals e book resort rooms for subsequent 12 months.

“The JCVB will tell you that our rooms will start booking up now for next year. Everybody from all over the United States knows that Family Gras is a great event. It’s a free event and everybody wants to come see it,” Liljeberg stated.

Doors open Feb. 6 at 3 p.m.

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