The 42nd annual Sabine Freestate Festival will be November 4th – November 6th, 2022 in Florien, Louisiana to commemorate “No Man’s Land” also known as the “Neutral Strip” of Louisiana that harbored bandits, robbers, and those seeking a safe haven from the law in the early 1800’s.
Pre-festival events include a Big Buck competition, adult division, that opens on October 29th.
The festival officially begins Friday, November 4th at 8:00 am with the veteran’s breakfast. All veterans are invited to attend. Guest speaker Command Sgt. Major Dennis Cobb will speak at 9:00 am for the veteran’s program. Education day ends at 1:30 pm and the BBQ cook–off check-in opens. Music by Southern Country and a street dance can be found on Ellie boulevard stage at 6:30 pm. Bingo will begin at 8:30 pm at the Florien train depot.
Saturday, November 5th sparks a day full of fun and festivities! The trail ride kicks off bright and early at 7:00 am on Saturday morning. Midkiff’s Gold Run 5K and kids 1K dash will begin at 8:00 am. Lewis family trick roping will start at 10:00 am. A parade will coast through the town at 11:00 am. A car show sponsored by the Toledo Cruisers will be on display at noon. At 1:45 pm a skeet shoot tournament starts. 5:00 pm will mark the end of the BBQ cookoff, Lewis family trick roping, and the car show. The BBQ cook-off winner will be announced at 6:45 pm. Born to Boogie will play at 7:00 pm with a street dance on Ellie boulevard.
The festival will conclude Sunday, November 6th with gospel singing at 10:30 am, community church service at 11:00 am, Lewis Family Trick Roping at 2:00 pm, and movie night beginning at 6:00pm.
For a full schedule of events, visit www.Toledo-BendLakeCountry.com or call the Sabine Parish Tourist Commission at (318) 256-5880.