NEW ROADS - The Harvest Festival on False River in New Roads started 15 years ago and has become a tradition for many families.

The festival in downtown New Roads runs Oct. 30 through Nov. 1, featuring food, live music, and carnival rides. The annual event brings tourism dollars to the small town.

"Yeah, the town does boom during that time," Mayor Theron Smith said.

However, the festival has had its ups and downs. Last year, two girls were injured when they fell from a Ferris wheel, while a third girl had to be rescued.

Smith said safety inspections will increase this year to prevent similar accidents.

"It was very unfortunate what happened, but we have a new ride company this year and a new Ferris wheel as well," he said. "It's not the same model Ferris wheel, so this one doesn't have the potential for the accident that happened last year. We feel really confident that people will be safe."

Smith says honoring local agricultural heritage remains at the core of the event.

"Agriculture is really big here, and that was the idea—to celebrate our farmers and all the hard work they do," he said. "We start the festival off with a Harvest Fest pageant. We named queens for Miss Harvest Fest Teen and Miss Harvest Fest back in August, and they go about all year long promoting the festival."

Just as it has since 2011, the Harvest Festival on False River is set to offer lasting memories for thousands of visitors and locals alike.

"We have people who don't live here anymore schedule their trips home just for the Harvest Festival," Smith said. "That is their time to come back and reunite with family and friends."