Lafayette

Ca fait chaud (it’s hot)…Lagniappe (a little something extra)…C’est bon (that’s good). No matter how you say it, the culture in South Louisiana, like our dialect, is seasoned with a taste of Cajun French and Creole. Lafayette is a flavorful combination of spirited festivals, savory cuisine, outdoor activities, breath-taking scenery and a rich history.

Lafayetteis at the heart of Louisiana’s Cajun Country, an area known for its unique cultures. When you visit, you’ll find that our distinct brand of fun just grabs hold of people. With our renowned Cajun and Zydeco music, distinctive cuisine, world-class museums, cultural attractions and festivals, there is literally something happening every week.

Why do people go to Lafayette – for the festivals, food, music and dancing. Many people across the United States love Cajun and Zydeco music and this has spawned an interest in the cultures of South Louisiana. For some, it has become an addiction that brings them here where they can immerse themselves in all that makes Lafayette and Cajun Country special – the plate lunch places, the unique live music venues, the wonderful food that can be found everywhere from gas stations to fine dining establishments, and the year-round festivals and events that showcase local musicians, artists and cuisine.

Lafayetteis the epicenter of all things Cajun and Creole. Any day of the week, visitors can dine on the best Cajun food in the world and dance to authentic Cajun and Zydeco music. Every weekend, they can choose from festivals, Cajun music jam sessions, Cajun and Zydeco dancehalls, outdoor activities and more. Most of all, Lafayette is a community with many artists and musicians making the environment here incredibly creative and vibrant. The people are friendly and welcoming and this keeps people coming back for more.

Lafayettehas long been known as a Mecca for great Cajun cuisine and Zydeco music. With three world-class art museums, a professional symphony orchestra, and numerous art galleries, arts-related events and performances, Lafayette can offer everything from local culture to cultured experiences. From the dizzying spin of a Cajun two-step to the graceful swirl of the prima ballerina…from funky Cajun dance hall beats to the violin concertos in all their symphonic glory…from spicy boiled crawfish to the finest in Creole dining…Lafayette has the best of both worlds.

Lafayette’s downtown is dynamic with eclectic shops, diverse restaurants, urban parks, galleries and art spaces. The spring and fall are special times with Downtown Alive!, a weekly concert series held on Friday evenings. Downtown Alive!, a favorite with visitors and locals alike, is an institution that has been going strong for over 20 years.

For more information on Lafayette, contact the Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission at (337) 232-3737, (800) 346-1958; or online at www.Lafayette.travel.