The City of New Iberia celebrated the opening of the new and improved Steamboat Warehouse Pavilion Wednesday when a ribbon cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the completion of the project. 

Construction began last year to renovate the pavilion by adding a new stage at Bouligny Plaza. The Steamboat Warehouse Pavilion is heavily used for major New Iberia festivals like the Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival and World Championship Gumbo Cookoff, as well as smaller festivals throughout the year. 

Mayor Freddie DeCourt said the completion of the new stage was exciting for all involved, and another phase of the project will likely take place sometime this year to add city logos and lighting to the new area. 

The stage will be used for musical performances and other live events held at Bouligny Plaza. 

spots for events in New Iberia. 

The New Iberia City Council approved demolishing the old restrooms in the center of Bouligny Plaza in order to replace it with a visitor’s information center. The demolition of the old restrooms convinced the city government to add new restrooms that are now located at the bottom of the new stage as well. 

Whether it’s one of the many festivals held at Bouligny Plaza or small private events, the pavilion will be able to provide a new section for live entertainment as well as a larger dance floor that will greatly enhance the quality of events in the plaza.