Shrimp & Petroleum Festival kicks off

The 79th Annual Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival kicks off today in Morgan City.
A ribbon cutting officially opens the festival at 5 p.m. today under the U.S. 90 bridge on Second Street.
The Artists Guild Unlimited’s 51st Annual Show and Sale kicks off today from 1 to 4 p.m., and the carnival runs from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. today.
The festival lasts through Monday.
Capt. James Blair, Morgan City police spokesman, said visitors from around the globe will be in the area for the festival, so those attending should remember some basic safety tips “to make your visit to the festival grounds pleasant and enjoyable for all.”
The biggest change this year is that all vehicle traffic in both the northbound lanes and southbound lanes of Federal Avenue at its intersection with Greenwood Street (under the bridge) will be closed during festival hours. Avoid traveling the area at all costs, if possible. It will get congested there with people looking for parking spots, Blair said.
He said southbound traffic still can turn up the U.S. 90 bridge, while northbound traffic will have to divert at Greenwood Street. Signs will be in place to direct traffic, Blair said.
Parking is allowed along Federal Avenue, under portions of the La. 182 bridge, on Brashear Avenue and on the streets surrounding the fairgrounds.
Other rules to remember include:
—Obey all signs and barricades, including “No Parking” areas. Police make every attempt to contact the owners of those vehicles which are illegally parked, he said. However, parking in restricted areas or blocking private drives can lead to a citation and the removal of the vehicle by a tow service, Blair said.
—The usual parking spots around Lawrence Park and Second Street are off limits during the festival.
—Most areas are posted regarding parking. Parking is not allowed on the sidewalks at Lawrence Park.
—No animals or glass containers will be allowed on the festival grounds.
—No vehicles, including motorcycles, will be allowed to be parked on or beyond the public sidewalk.
—No tents or barbecue pits are allowed.
—No unauthorized golf carts or four-wheelers are allowed.
—No motorhomes or camping trailers are allowed in or around Lawrence Park.
—No ice chests are allowed.
—Lock your vehicle doors and secure valuables in trunk or remove them from view.
—Do not drink and drive.
The Morgan City Police Department will have a command post located at Second and Greenwood streets to assist with the public.
The Morgan City Police Department wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable festival, Blair said.
For questions or concerns, contact the Morgan City Police Department at 985-380-4605 or visit www.shrimp-petrofest.org for more information.