Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival Boosts Security After Recent Violence

Four people have been banned from attending the annual event due to potential threats to public safety.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 1:49am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a strawberry stem and leaves lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the heightened security measures in place for the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival.A close-up view of the security measures in place to protect the annual Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival from potential threats.Ponchatoula Today

The 54th annual Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival is returning this weekend, drawing large crowds to celebrate the region's signature crop. However, festival organizers and local law enforcement have heightened security measures following two shootings near the event in recent years. Four people, including a 19-year-old who posted a concerning video, have been banned from attending the festival as potential threats to public safety. Officials say they are prepared with additional officers from multiple agencies to maintain a safe, family-friendly atmosphere.

Why it matters

The Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival is a longstanding tradition that supports local farmers and nonprofits, but recent incidents of violence near the event have raised concerns about public safety. Organizers and police are taking proactive steps to ensure the festival remains a safe and enjoyable experience for attendees.

The details

Festival organizers say the annual event supports local strawberry farmers and nonprofit vendors, while continuing to grow in popularity across southeast Louisiana. However, the festival has faced security challenges in recent years, with two shootings occurring near the event in 2022 and 2023. As a result, officials have decided to ban four individuals, including a 19-year-old who posted a concerning video, from attending the festival due to their perceived potential to threaten public safety. The festival will also close at sunset each day to help control traffic and limit potential issues, and drivers are being urged to use side streets instead of main roads near the event.

  • The 54th annual Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival is taking place this weekend (April 12-14, 2026).
  • In 2022, a shootout occurred about a block from the festival entrance.
  • Last year, another shooting on festival grounds left two people injured.

The players

Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival

An annual event that celebrates the region's signature strawberry crop, supporting local farmers and nonprofit vendors.

Rueben Autter

The festival chair, who says the event aims to maintain a family-friendly atmosphere.

Gia Bankston

An attendee who notes that the festival can become very crowded, especially on Saturdays.

Bry Layrisson

The Ponchatoula Police Chief, who says public awareness and Crimestoppers tips are critical for preventing incidents.

Amari Sexton

A 19-year-old who posted a concerning video about violence near the festival, leading to his ban from attending.

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What they’re saying

“The biggest thing is public awareness—we always rely on Crimestoppers tips.”

— Bry Layrisson, Ponchatoula Police Chief

“We pride ourselves on being a family-friendly environment—and we want to keep that feel.”

— Rueben Autter, Festival Chair

What’s next

Officials say they are prepared for a busy weekend, with additional officers from multiple agencies, including Louisiana State Police, patrolling the area.

The takeaway

The Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival is a beloved community event, but recent incidents of violence have prompted organizers and law enforcement to take proactive steps to ensure the safety and security of attendees. By banning potential troublemakers and increasing police presence, they aim to maintain the festival's family-friendly atmosphere and continue supporting local farmers and nonprofits.