GUEYDAN, La. (KLFY) — The Gueydan Duck Festival, now in its 49th year, is set to boost the local economy by approximately 20% during its four-day run, according to festival pageant director Judy LeBlanc.

Known as the Duck Capital of America, Gueydan gains many festival goers who contribute to the local economy by spending on food, gas, and other amenities. Judy LeBlanc, Duck Festival Pageant Director, expressed her excitement about the festival’s impact on the community.

“It’s just amazing. I mean, as you can see, people are all around us.” LeBlanc said. “Gueydan is the duck capital of America. The hunters are going to start coming. They’re going to buy gas. They’re going to eat at the restaurant. Again, boost our economy.”

The festival maintains its traditional format, with the Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Department enhancing security measures to ensure a safe experience for all attendees. While the core events remain unchanged, the entertainment lineup promises to be a highlight, described by LeBlanc as “to die for.”

Gueydan’s reputation as the duck capital is further celebrated with the start of teal hunting season in early September, attracting hunters who also contribute to the local economy. The festival includes unique events such as duck calling contests, dog trials, and skeet shooting, which have already begun throughout August.

A notable feature of the festival is its pageant, where winners are crowned as the duck queen, a title that is highly coveted and celebrated throughout the year.

As the festival continues to draw crowds and boost the local economy, it remains a cherished tradition in Gueydan, bringing together community members and visitors alike to celebrate the town’s unique heritage.

All facts in this report were gathered by journalists employed by KLFY. Artificial intelligence tools were used to reformat from a broadcast script into a news article for our website. This report was edited and fact-checked by KLFY staff before being published.

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