By David Vitrano

L’Observateur

LULING – A loss by the New Orleans Saints and a few intermittent sprinkles did not dampen the spirits at the 31st Alligator Festival in Luling Sunday evening.

Crowds packed the fairgrounds at Westbank Bridge Park for one last taste of alligator sausage and one last chance at winning a prize during the last few hours of the four-day event. Meanwhile, the Topcats performed crowd favorites for those who had not yet gotten their fill of dancing.

The festival kicked off Thursday with a rides-only evening and continued throughout the weekend. Festival-goers were treated to alligator-themed treats in addition to the usual jamabalayas and bisques of area festivals. There were plenty of sweets available, too, as well as many craft booths.

The festival is put on every year by the Rotary Club of St. Charles. The organization uses the proceeds from the festival to fund their scholarship programs.