May 6-7. Southern Garden Festival is a truly one-of-a-kind festival, hosted in Sarah and Harold Schoeffler’s gardens, 3502 E. Simcoe (near Oakbourne Country Club).  This fundraiser supports the mission of Family Promise of Acadiana to help families experiencing homelessness achieve long-term independence.

It’s a two-part event, beginning on the Friday night with Dining Under the Stars, May 6, from 6-8 p.m. $100/couple or $75/person; reservations required; includes entry to Saturday activities. Purchase tickets.

Southern Garden Festival, May 7, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

$10 at the garden gate; children 12 and under admitted free.

Stroll acres of riverside gardens, enjoy live music, artists and vendors, bayou boat tours, gardening and nature presentations, educational exhibits, garden fairies, refreshments in the Garden Room, a children’s scavenger hunt and more.