With major outdoor festivals filling the spring calendar—like French Quarter Festival and Bayou Boogaloo—families across Louisiana are spending long days outside together.

But between the music, crowds, and sunshine, it’s easy to overlook the basics: Sunburn. Dehydration. Lost kids. Even hearing damage.

Ryan Breaud, DO, general pediatrician at Ochsner Children’s, says a little preparation goes a long way in keeping kids safe, healthy, and comfortable all festival season long. From sun protection to sensory breaks, these strategies help families enjoy every moment. 

Sun & Skin Protection 

Long hours in the sun take a toll quickly, especially on little ones. According to Dr. Breaud, protecting their skin not only avoids burns, but it helps prevent dehydration. 

Keep in Mind: 

  • Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen to all exposed skin (face, arms, legs) 15-30 minutes before arrival and reapply every two hours 
  • Don’t overlook easy-to-miss spots like the ears, back of the neck, and scalp
  • A wide-brim hat offers extra coverage for the face and shoulders
  • UVA/UVB-rated sunglasses prevent long-term eye damage and cataracts in children
  • Take advantage of shade whenever possible—it goes a long way on hot days
  • Consider UPF clothing as an added layer of defense

Bug & Bite Prevention

Outdoor fun often comes with uninvited guests.

  • Use insect repellent with 30% DEET (safe for children over 2 months)
  • Pair with lightweight, protective clothing when possible
  • Check for ticks if around trees and tall grass (behind ears, at the hairline, and along waistbands)

Prepared for the Little Things 

Scrapes and stumbles are part of the experience, so being prepared makes all the difference.

  • Keep a few band-aids on hand (sometimes it’s as much comfort as it is care)
  • Opt for closed-toe shoes to help prevent cuts, burns, and stubbed toes

Hydration & Energy Boosts 

Between the heat and activity, kids can get dehydrated faster than you think! 

Stay ahead of it: 

  • Plan intentional shade breaks throughout the day 
  • Bring a refillable water bottle and top it off throughout the day at water-filling stations 
  • Add in electrolyte drinks, like Gatorade or Pedialyte, for longer outings or high heat days 
  • Healthy and easy-to-pack snack options like fruit and nuts keep energy levels up throughout the day
  • Lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing helps keep the body cool 

Watch for early signs of dehydration: 

  • Complaints of thirst (or even hunger, as young kids can confuse the two sensations) 
  • Irritability or sudden mood changes 
  • Fatigue or crying 

If you notice these, pause, cool down in a shaded area, and hydrate immediately. 

Festival Survival Kit Essentials 

While festivals are exciting, they can be overwhelming for young kids. 

Protect Their Hearing 

  • Foam ear plugs from older kids 
  • Over-the-ear earmuffs for younger children 
  • Keep a safe distance from speakers and stages to prevent noise exposure

“Protection is important because it prevents noise induced hearing loss. It is a preventable illness, but once it happens, it’s irreversible,” says Dr. Breaud. 

Manage Sensory Overload

Big crowds, loud music, and constant stimulation can add up quickly. 

  • Plan for regular breaks away from the crowds and noise 
  • Watch for early cues like irritability or restlessness 
  • Step away to a quiet area, whether within the festival or not, or call it a day if needed—sometimes, this is the only option 

Family Safety Plans 

A few simple steps before and during your outing can make a major difference. 

Before You Go 

  • Snap a family photo, making sure your child’s outfit is included to have proof of what they were wearing and what they look like 
  • Using portable chargers to keep devices powered for tracking apps
  • Add identification to their clothing, like a tag, bracelet, or note with your phone number 
  • Teach older kids your real name (not just “Mom” or “Dad”) and your phone number in case of an emergency 

Once You Arrive 

  • Choose a clear meeting point that is easy-to-spot from any area of the festival 
  • Point out safe adults, like security personnel or police officers, they can go to if needed 

With a little preparation and a lot of awareness, family outings can be just as fun as they are safe.