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LAPLACE, La. (WGNO) – The 43rd annual Andouille Festival kicks off in LaPlace Friday with a weekend of festival fun to follow.

The Andouille Festival will feature music, festivities, good times and great food cooked with andouille, the delectable sausage for which the festival was named. It happens from Friday-Sunday at Thomas F. Daley Memorial Park.

Thousands of people gather at this St. John the Baptist Parish tradition to participate in the many events the festival has to offer. On Friday, News with a Twist will be broadcasting live from the festival grounds at 5 and 6. Join us for the live shows!

This year’s music lineup features Amanda Shaw & The Cute Guys, Gina Brown & Anutha Level, Image, Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers, Karma, New Birth Brass Band and Category 6.

Festival posters, Jazz Brunch Tickets and Pay-One-Price Ride Bracelets are available for sale online and at the St. John Parish Economic Development Department, Matherne’s Supermarket in LaPlace, Don’s Supermarket and Greg’s Supermarket in Reserve.

There’s even a celebrity judge in store for the annual Andouille Cook-Off Contest.

Cook-Off registration is open to the public. Participants can begin as early as 9 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 15 with set up and preparation to serve their andouille gumbo.

Judging is based on taste, aftertaste, aroma, appearance and consistency. Awards will be presented to 1st place, 2nd place, 3rd place and the people’s choice.

Judging will take place at 5p.m. on Saturday. A downloadable registration form is available here. Submit this form along with payment to the Economic Development Department located at 1801 W. Airline Highway in LaPlace to participate.