The 2023 schedule for the Festival International de Louisiane has been officially released, featuring an array of exciting acts from various countries and regions around the world, along with local, regional, and national gems.
From April 26-30, 2023, Festival attendees can expect world-renowned performances by artists such as Angélique Kidjo of Benin; Tank and the Bangas on Saturday night; and French group Dub Inc on Sunday, who will be bringing their own special twist of reggae, dancehall, and world music to set the final Festival day vibe. Festival International takes place in Lafayette, Louisiana.
According to Marketing Director Carly Viator, “We have something for everyone this year.” The Festival week is a special time to celebrate Louisiana’s music and culture, as well as experience diverse music from all around the world.
In celebration of Lafayette Parish’s Bicentennial Year, the Festival team has planned two special performances in 2023. Thursday night’s Opening Ceremonies will be followed by “An Evening with Lauren Daigle, Presented by Lafayette Parish Bicentennial & LCVC,” while Saturday’s Zydeco collaboration, “Lafayette1823.org Presents: A Celebration of Zydeco ft. Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. and special guests,” will showcase Louisiana’s homegrown artists.
Other international acts include ADG7 of South Korea, Bassekou Kouyate & Ngoni Ba of Mali, La Tribu de Abrante of Puerto Rico, and fan favorite Sona Jobarteh of the Gambia.
As always, Festival International remains committed to showcasing Francophone (French-speaking) musicians in 2023.
A few of the Francophone performances to catch include:
- Lisa Leblanc (New Brunswick)
- RAM (Haiti)
- Les Hays Babies (New Brunswick)
- San Salvador (France)
- Cedric Watson & Bijou Créole (Louisiana)
- Bonsoir, Catin (Louisiana)
More local acts that attendees can watch this year include:
- Sweet Cecilia
- Malentina
- Chris Ardoin & NuStep Zydeco
- Dustin Dale Gaspard
- Karma & the Killjoys
- The Good Dudes
- Leah Graeff
“Check out the schedule and start planning for an incredible week. Come out and support the bands that make our region so special, and embrace the exciting international sounds we have in store.” Viator said.
More information at festivalinternational.org
Author: World Music Central News Room
World music news from the editors at World Music Central