By David Vitrano

L’Observateur

GARYVILLE – Beautiful weather and a beautiful setting made for a wonderful time for visitors to last weekend’s eighth annual Frisco Fest at San Francisco Plantation.

Participation in this year’s event was especially remarkable, according to General Manager Kim Fontenot. More than 100 classic car enthusiasts brought their vehicles to the grounds, and nearly 200 bike riders took Saturday’s bike tour. On Sunday almost 100 runners took part in the race and fun run. She said the cooking competitions were also popular.

“We had a big turnout just to watch them cook,” said Fontenot.

She admitted the one aspect of festival that could have been better was the general attendance.

“We had good attendance, but you always want more,” she said.

About 5,000 people came to the plantation grounds over the course of the weekend.

“For all that did come out, I think they really enjoyed it,” Fontenot added.

This year’s Frisco Fest faced an uphill battle, coming hot on the heels of Fat Tuesday and competing directly with a couple of St. Patrick’s Day parades in the New Orleans area.

Perhaps that is why many who came to the Frisco Fest were there for more than just a good time.

Said Fontenot, “We did great on the house tours.”