SHREVEPORT, LA – Louisiana has so many beautiful small towns with rich histories and amazing cultural significance. All of these tiny towns have a main street which is the heart of the community. You will find great food and shops and a friendly vibe.

HGTV set out to find the most charming towns in each state. I can’t imagine traveling across the Bayou State and trying to pick just one small town. But the team did find one community that just checked all of the boxes.

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Google Maps
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This spot is now getting some national attention as the most charming small town in Louisiana.

The winning city in Louisiana is Ponchatoula. This charming city is located in Tangipahoa Parish just north of New Orleans. Ponchatoula is most well-known for its annual Strawberry Festival. This free, 3-day event is held each spring and draws more than 300 thousand guests to this tiny community.

But Ponchatoula also has several restored shops in the downtown area where you can find antiques, art and so much more. If you are trying to figure out the name of the town. It comes from a Choctaw Indian word meaning "hair to hang," which refers to the Spanish moss that hangs from the local trees.

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Ponchatoula is known as the “Strawberry Capital of the World.” I challenge you to find a sweeter berry. They are unmatched and I seek them out during the peak of berry season.

At the Strawberry Festival, you will want to try all of the great treats. At the top of my list if the strawberry beignet. But you can’t visit the festival without getting the strawberry shortcake. I even like the strawberry wine you will find at this signature event. The last time I visited, I took home a gallon of strawberry wine. You will find another great treat at the Strawberry Festival. It’s the chocolate covered strawberry. It is so good.

Strawberry Festival Facebook
Strawberry Festival Facebook
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READ MORE: 10 Commandments of Southern Cooking

Ponchatoula now attracts folks looking for a piece of history. The town has been designated as "America's Antique City."

If the Strawberry Festival is on your bucket list, keep these dates in mind. The festival is being held April 11-13 this year.

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