The ‘Dos’ And The ‘Do Not Dos’ Of Festival International

Festival International is one of, if not THE biggest FREE festivals in the world. We're truly lucky to have such a great festival here that celebrates so many cultures from across the globe. There's a reason why it's been able to be kept free, and that's where Festival is asking your help to keep it that way.

A few of the main ways you can support Festival is to buy a Festival pin, Festival T-shirt and buy food and drink from official Festival vendors. That money is funneled back into the organization to keep this amazing festival FREE. Support Festival, and Festival can keep supporting us.

Our media partners KATC also put together a list of "Dos And Do Not Dos" when it comes to Festival going. These could very much improve your Festival weekend!

1. Attention Ladies - Do not, under any circumstances, wear heels. FIL is as much about dancing as it is about walking. The stages are blocks away from each other, and comfort is a must.

2. Agua - It's springtime in the Hub City, but temperatures for Festival week are forecasted to reach the mid-80s. It's crucial to stay hydrated throughout your Festival trek. And speaking of water, it looks like this year's festival might be a rainy one. Umbrellas, ponchos, and rain boots are probably a good idea, but don't forget to bring a hat and sun block, too.

3. Bring Your Appetite - No need to pack a sandwich for this event, because the aromas of irresistible, unique dishes will meet you at every turn. Try the pulled pork nachos from Teak's, the alligator balls from Alligator Shakes, the deep fried bananas foster bread pudding or any other item from the dozens of food vendors. Click here for a full list of vendors and their Festival menus.

"We do ask that you leave your ice chests and coolers at home," said April Courville, marketing director for the festival. "The biggest fundraiser and the biggest monetary supporter of festival is from drink and food sales."

4. Keep your Car Clear of Downtown - If at all possible, steer clear of driving in the downtown area during Festival. There is a free shuttle service from Cajun Field to downtown. It runs every 15 minutes. The shuttle runs from 5:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. Thursday, 4:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. Friday, 10:30 a.m. - midnight Saturday and 10:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday.

KATC has more great tips for Festival, so definitely go check them out over KATC.com