The 88th International Rice Festival

The 88th International Rice Festival has selected Julian LeBlanc as President to preside over the 2025 festivities. The annual event is the oldest and largest agricultural festival in Louisiana. This year’s festival will be held October 16th to October 19th in downtown Crowley.

 

Born and raised in Morse, Julian is the son of the late Andrew & Helen LeBlanc. He has one sister, Lisa, who is married to Robert Thibodeaux, and one brother, the late Andrew J. LeBlanc.

 

Julian graduated from Midland High School in 1969 and attended McNeese State University. In 1972, he met the love of his life, Barbara Guidry and after 53 years, their marriage is still thriving. Together they have one son, Lance LeBlanc, married to April S. LeBlanc and have been blessed with three grandchildren: Cody (25), Kiley (16), and Beau (6).

 

Julian’s career began at the Department of Motor Vehicles in 1973 where he advanced in this field. A phone call in 1983 from Governor Edwin Edwards fulfilled his career when he was appointed Administrative Law Judge over the Southwest Area of Louisiana until retirement in 2006. Since staying home was not in his best interest with all the honey do’s, he decided to apply with the Acadia Parish Sheriff’s Department. He would be hired as a Bailiff for Acadia Parish 15th Judicial District Courthouse in Crowley, Louisiana where he is currently still employed.

 

Julian has enjoyed being an active member of the International Rice Festival since the year 2000. He has served as Chairman of the Mid Stage Platform, Board of Directors Member at Large, and Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors. Julian also serves as an active member of the Board of Directors for the Gueydan Duck Festival as Vice President.

 

Julian would remind us that Rice is one of, if not the only, reigning golden grain grown by farmers throughout the southern area of Louisiana. Thank a farmer when you are at the table with etouffee, jambalaya, or gumbo, and the list goes on and on.

 

Julian is honored to have served on the International Rice Festival Board of Directors for the last six years and says it is a greater honor to be elected as the 88th International Rice Festival President for 2025 festivities. This Festival is made possible due to the continued generosity of sponsors and the hard work and dedication of IRF members and volunteers.

 

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