The New Iberia Parks and Recreation Department is hosting its 28th annual Festival of Live Oaks in March.

The festival will be held on Saturday, March 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in New Iberia’s City Park.

This event celebrates the benefits of New Iberia’s tree canopy, which protects life and property during strong storms, provides shade to neighborhoods, conserves soil among many other benefits, according to a news release from Iberia Travel.

The department is also hosting its 23rd BBQ Cook-off and 1st annual Jr. BBQ Cook-off to add another dimension to the celebration. The Jr. BBQ Cook-off is for youth ages 6-16.

The day will also include a variety of children and family activities, such as an Easter egg hunt, pony rides, face painting and fun jumps.

Numerous booths of sweets and crafts will be set up along the walking track.

For more information, contact Heather Dominique at 337-369-2337 or hdominique@cityofnewiberia.com.