The Creole Mourning Tour

Every October, St. Joseph Plantation presents its annual Mourning Tour, a special seasonal experience exploring the burial customs, mourning rituals, and Catholic traditions of 19th- and early 20th-century Creole Louisiana.

The plantation home is dressed in full “deep mourning,” following the old prescribed customs. Black crepe drapes the front doors, mirrors are covered, pianos and organs are closed, and a black-draped coffin is placed in the main hall, reflecting the Creole custom of home visitation.

Throughout the tour, guests will learn how faith, family, death, and remembrance shaped daily life in South Louisiana. From All Saints’ Day traditions to mourning attire and household rituals, the Mourning Tour offers a meaningful look into customs that remain part of Louisiana’s cultural memory today.

Tours run October 1 through November 3.
Weekend Candlelight Tours are offered Fridays and Saturdays at 6:30 PM, 7:30 PM, and 8:30 PM.

Experience one of South Louisiana’s most unique seasonal traditions at St. Joseph Plantation.