Take a deep dive into the world of literature while enjoying events centered around Iberia Parish’s favorite detective, Dave Robicheaux, at the annual Books Along the Teche Literary Festival.
The festival, loosely wrapped around the life of the fictional detective, will take place this weekend in New Iberia where Burke aficionados can revel in the town during the festival, seeking out the places where Robicheaux roamed in the novels.
Burke grew up in New Iberia and has published more than 20 books in the wildly-popular series.
Robicheaux, Burke's most popular character, is a deputy sheriff in New Iberia and drops by historic landmarks, such as Shadows-on-the-Teche Plantation, as well as the courthouse, library and numerous bars and restaurants. Because of the popularity of Burke's novels, the fictional Robicheaux has become a tourist attraction. The series also celebrates south Louisiana culture.
Fest-goers can attend the annual book fair, where dozens of authors set up shop along New Iberia's historic Main Street selling their works. The festival has an array of events lined up, including panel discussions on book writing, poetry, politics and music, dance lessons, readers theater and dozens of authors selling their books at an Authors Fair.
James Lee Burke will also join remotely for an interview.
Individual tickets are required for many events; others are free.
Other literary features of the festival include welcoming the 2025 "Great Southern Writer" Mary Kay Andrews, a New York Times best-selling author who wrote 10 critically acclaimed mystery novels.
For a complete festival itinerary or tickets, visit BooksAlongTheTecheLiteraryFestival.com or the festival’s Facebook page.