Welcome to the 54th Annual Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival!

I’m Rueben Auter and it’s my great honor to serve as Chairman of the Board, working alongside such an incredible group of dedicated people.

As a long-time resident of Ponchatoula, my love for and involvement in this festival run deep—from helping provide a safe, family oriented event as a law enforcement officer to spending countless hours volunteering with the Strawberry Festival Board since my retirement. It’s been amazing to watch the festival grow over the years.

Beginning in July, the Board devotes countless hours to planning so we can welcome visitors from near and far to experience Ponchatoula’s charm and celebrate our state fruit—the jewel of the South—the strawberry.

Festival grounds stretch from the second block of North 6th Street through Memorial Park. You’ll find delicious food booths run entirely by nonprofit organizations, with all proceeds benefiting their missions. Over twenty amusement rides await thrill-seekers and the young at heart, and continuous live entertainment takes place on two stages. Don’t miss the egg toss or the strawberry eating contest for a little friendly competition and plenty of laughs.

Be sure to stop by Farmer’s Row on the second block of North 6th Street to purchase a flat of fresh Louisiana strawberries or a jar of homemade jam or jelly from one of our valued local farmers. When buying your berries, look for the sign “Quality Berries from a Quality Farmer”—this ensures you’re buying directly from a local farm and taking home the freshest strawberries available. Before you leave town, take a tour of our city. Our city officials and local businesses have worked hard to make your visit memorable.

On behalf of the 2026 Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival Board, thank you for attending the 54th Strawberry Festival. We look forward to welcoming you in 2026!

Wishing you the berry best time!