BAYOU TECHE BLACK BEAR AND BIRDING FESTIVAL
April 16 - 18, 2010

The mission of the Black Bear and Birding  Festival is to educate the citizens of St. Mary Parish and the surrounding area about the Louisiana Black Bear, a species listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as "threatened" under the guidelines of the Endangered Species Act. The goal is to promote ecotourism, educate the public about the Black Bear species, and to protect their natural habitat. The birding component was added more recently as migratory birds travel the local route near Franklin, LA. The festival features live music, food vendors, attractions, culturally relevant venues, and best of all, good company. Educational exhibits and children's activities relating to bears and the many other natural resources found in south Louisiana is also a focal point of the festival.

http://www.bayoutechebearfest.org

The Harvest Moon Festival began more than ten years ago to encourage downtown shopping and support for local merchants. It was scheduled during the month of October to celebrate the beginning of the harvest season which leads up to the Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays. It recognizes the spirit of a cane farming culture which has reaped the rewards of productive farmland and abundant natural resources. The festival features live music, children's activities, a classic car show, vendors, and special retail promotions.  It is sponsored by the Franklin Merchants Association.