GARYVILLE — Frisco Fest returns March 16-17 with more than 100 craft vendors and family-friendly entertainment for a joyous St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

Entering its 16th year on the grounds of San Francisco Plantation at 2646 River Road in Garyville, Frisco Fest is a community tradition highlighting local artists and the importance of historical preservation.

Food, live music and children’s activities lie beyond the gate for $5 per person from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Children 12 and under get in free and free parking is available, according to Kim Fontenot, general manager of San Francisco Plantation.

“We’ll have jewelry, handmade swings, rocking chairs, candles, stained glass and all kinds of beautiful artwork,” Fontenot said, noting pony rides and a bungee trampoline will be available throughout the weekend for children.

Delicious food from jambalaya to fried seafood is another draw to Frisco Fest, Fontenot said.

“We see about 5,000 guests in the two days,” Fontenot said. “It’s the biggest fundraiser for the plantation. We’re a non-profit organization and a national historic landmark, and we are trying to keep our doors open for the next generation.

“We’re hoping the community and surrounding area will come out and celebrate spring and St. Patrick’s Day with us.”

Saturday/March 17 opens with a Cruisin’ the Plantation Car Show and 25- and 40-mile cycling tours along River Road. The car show is open to cars and trucks of all makes, models and years. Registration is $25 and available at sanfranciscoplantation.org. Forms must be turned in on-site before the car show begins at 10 a.m.

Starting at 2 p.m., awards will be presented for the top 25 cars, along with special trophies for best engine, best paint, best interior and people’s choice.

The Tour De’ San Francisco bike tour cycles through St. John the Baptist and St. James parishes. Check in is at 7:30 a.m., and the tour starts at 8 a.m.

Registration is $30 and includes a green dry-fit T-shirt, lunch, drinks and admission to browse Frisco Fest crafts and entertainment.

The same amenities are offered for the March 17 5K run and 1-mile fun run. Registration is $25, and children 12 and under can run free with a parent. Shirts may be purchased separately for $10 per child.

Live music from Geno Delafose and the French Rockin’ Boogie closes out the weekend starting at 2 p.m. March 17.

House tours are available throughout the weekend for $10 per person.

Children ages 6 and under tour for free.

San Francisco Plantation hosts wedding receptions and appreciation events for local industry year-round.

For more information about Frisco Fest, call 985-535-2341 or visit sanfranciscoplantation.org.