1. In 1769, the first recorded parade in Louisiana took place on March 22 in New Orleans. The parade, held on St. Joseph's Day, celebrated the patron saint of Sicily and included Italian-Americans dressed in traditional clothes.

2. The Louisiana Purchase was finalized on March 22, 1804. This historic event doubled the size of the United States and gave the country control over the Mississippi River and the port of New Orleans.

3. The first Mardi Gras parade in Lafayette, Louisiana took place on March 22, 1869. The parade was organized by a group called "The Mystick Krewe of Comus" and featured masked riders on horseback.

4. Louisiana State University (LSU) was founded on March 22, 1860 as the Louisiana State Seminary of Learning and Military Academy. Today, LSU is a public research university with over 30,000 students.

5. New Orleans' legendary music venue, Tipitina's, opened its doors on March 22, 1977. The club has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Professor Longhair, Dr. John, and the Neville Brothers.