News in Louisiana's Cajun Bayou

How to be King of King Cake this Mardi Gras Season!

It’s January, so … ‘tis the season in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou. Carnival season, that is! This year, Mardi Gras is on Tuesday, February 21. Though the big day is still a few weeks away, festivities are already in full swing. One of the best ways to get into the spirit is by indulging in a seasonal treat.

To everyone up and down the Bayou, king cakes are an integral part of Mardi Gras. This colorful confection is the iconic culinary symbol of the Carnival season … with good reason!

Named for the three kings (or wise men) who brought gifts to baby Jesus, the king cake tradition is thought to be brought to Louisiana from France in the 19th century. The cinnamon pastry ring is commonly topped with white icing and decked out in three different colored sugars: purple, which symbolizes justice; gold, which represents power; and green for faith. Watch that dental work, because the cakes come with a plastic baby tucked somewhere in them. The “winner” – whoever gets the baby in their piece – is responsible for providing the next king cake!

Though some bakers sell the beloved cakes year-round (adjusting flavors and colors for the various holidays), consumption skyrockets during Carnival season. Here are some places up and down Bayou Lafourche where you can find a tasty king cake:

Ninette’s Cake Shop
1050 S. Acadia Road, Thibodaux, LA 70301
985-447-1714

The Willow Café
713 West Third Street, Thibodaux, LA 70301
985-448-0444

Mudbug Brewery
1878 LA-3185, Thibodaux, LA, 70301
985-492-1610
Note: Not your typical King Cake - Enjoy their King Cake Ale!

Duet’s Bakery
18134 W Main St, Cut Off, LA, 70354
985-6326954

Cajun Pecan House
14808 W. Main Street, Cut Off, LA 70345
985-632-2337
Note: They ship nationwide!

If you’ve worked your way through all the bakeries and still can’t get enough of this sugary Mardi Gras dessert, you’ll want to mark your calendar for the first-ever Bayou King Cake Festival, which will be held in downtown Thibodaux on Saturday, February 4. Attendees can sample king cakes baked by local bakeries, restaurants and even home cooks and vote for their favorite. The event will give you plenty of opportunities to scout out who makes the best on the Bayou … and map your route to their store, or figure out how to get invited to their home for a great party! It’s never too early to plan ahead when king cake is involved.

King cakes are an important part of the culture in Louisiana, especially along Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou, because they represent how the traditions of the Acadian French – or Cajun – people have become indelibly linked to life in the state of Louisiana. The cake’s name and back story is deeply rooted in the Cajuns’ Catholic faith, but the simple act of enjoying a piece of cake is something everyone can do. The fact that cakes can be shipped to friends and family all around the country ensures that Mardi Gras joy isn’t limited to Louisiana … though the cake sure does seem to taste better when you eat it here!

We hope your Mardi Gras is as amazing as a slab of king cake!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The holiday season in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou is in full swing, and though we don’t have a winter wonderland to walk in (usually), there are plenty of other ways to get in the holiday spirit and have a holly jolly – and Cajun – Christmas.
Any good morning in December should start with hot chocolate – the more whipped cream and marshmallows, the better! Stop by The Simple Bean in Cut Off to order a cup with all the fixins … or, if you need your mornings to start with a tad more caffeine, sample a coffee flight that features holiday flavors like Candy Cane, Sugar Cookie and Cinnamon Mocha. Yum!

If you want to get a head start on your holiday shopping, downtown Thibodaux offers plenty of opportunities to support local businesses and find something for everyone on your list. Well, it’s doubtful you’ll secure a partridge in a pear tree or three French hens … but who needs those? Chic Chateau, Johnny’s Men's Shop, The Bead Hive and LUCO Boutique are but a few of the local shops that have pretty much everything else along with friendly shopkeepers ready to help you find the perfect gift.
End the day with Christmas in the Park at Peltier Park in Thibodaux. This family-friendly event is a drive-through lights display featuring Christmas trees decorated by local organizations, churches and schools, and lights, lights, and more lights! It runs through December 31, operating from 6 to 9 p.m. every night.
If you can’t get enough of that warm and fuzzy holiday feeling and need to get some inspiration for decking the halls while also filling your stomach with authentic Cajun food, head to the Golden Meadow Christmas Boat Parade and Gumbo Cook Off on December 17. Celebrate the holidays Cajun-style with gumbo, music, craft booths and a lighted boat parade that travels up and down Bayou Lafourche.

There’s no end to the ways you can celebrate the holiday season here in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, you’re sure to get a warm welcome … and that’s not just because Papa Noël is making a list and checking it twice. Around here, hospitality just comes with the territory, no matter what the season!

#ExploreMore with Louisiana's Cajun Bayou & Tangi Tourism

Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Tourism and Tangipahoa Tourism are once again aiming to score with their #ExploreMore partnership. Despite being rivals on the field, these two tourism destinations are joining forces at the upcoming Nicholls State University and Southeastern Louisiana University football game on November 17.

The two tourism offices will host a joint tailgate at the game in partnership with the Louisiana Office of Tourism. Fans can stop by for crawfish fettucine, catfish chips, seafood gumbo, mini crab cakes, bread pudding and other tasty treats served with a side of Louisiana hospitality. Whether you’re rooting for the Colonels or the Lions, you’re invited to enjoy good food, good company, and the opportunity to learn more about both parishes.

After a one-year hiatus, the #ExploreMore initiative reignited last year with the respective parishes working together to drive visitation to the two areas, both of which make a great day trip or weekend getaway. The tourism offices have created itineraries full of family-friendly activities such as looking for bald eagles during a boat tour on Bayou Lafourche, trying alligator and andouille rangoons at Cinclare in Thibodaux, or venturing over to the Global Wildlife Center in Folsom to get an up-close look at zebras and giraffes. The 2021 initiative and tailgate, which included a gift basket giveaway, was so successful that it’s back for 2022.

Head over to https://www.lacajunbayou.com/exploremore to get more details on the tailgate, along with information about Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou, Tangi Tourism, and all the fun things to do in Louisiana.

Our autumnal events continue into October and hit all the important “F’s” – fall, family, friends, festivals, fun and (perhaps most importantly) food! Come on down to Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou this month to see, taste, hear and experience what it means to be Cajun in the Fall and how we do things here in coastal Louisiana. Here’s a sampling of all the fun to come!

Grand Reveil Acadien (GRA) 2022 Symposium
October 5

The Grand Reveil Acadien will be making a stop in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou during their week-long celebration of the Acadian & Cajun culture. Visit the link above to get a full rundown of the seminars and events taking place in Lafourche Parish that day. You’re invited to learn about the history and traditions of both during this all-day event.

La Fete des Vieux Temps
October 7 – 9

Immerse yourself in authentic Cajun culture with the “Festival of Old Times,” an event featuring tasty Cajun food (as if there’s any other kind), music, dancing, and an arts-and-crafts show.

Laurel Valley Fall Festival
October 16

Held at Laurel Valley Village in Thibodaux, this arts-and-crafts show is complemented by live music, demonstrations and authentic Cajun food. Guests can browse vendors, enjoy good food and learn about the history of sugar cane farming in the area.

Saved by the ‘90s
October 20

Are you a ‘90s baby wishing you could relive your childhood? Now’s your chance! Artists like DJ Spin and the Spin Doctors will take concert-goers into the ‘90s at this throwback event.

Louisiana Gumbo Festival
October 21 – 23

Do you prefer your gumbo with sausage? Or perhaps with chicken? Maybe seafood? Whatever your preference, come enjoy authentic gumbo made from scratch at the Louisiana Gumbo Festival, along with live music and demonstrations. Fun fact: Nearly 500 gallons of gumbo will be made throughout the weekend!

Monsters on Main
October 28

Bring your little ghosts & ghouls to Downtown Thibodaux for a fun evening of trick-or-treating with participating businesses!

French Food Festival
October 28 – 30

We hope you’ve got some stretchy pants, because this festival celebrates local dishes influenced by both the French and Cajun cultures. Sample the various dishes while taking in the live music, but be sure to not eat so much that you can’t join in the dancing!

Acadia Music Fest
October 29

Local, national and international artists come together for one day in Thibodaux for the Acadia Music Fest. This year, the festival is headlined by Ludacris, who will be joined by artists including David Shaw, DJ Spin, and more.

Downtown Sounds
November 3

What’s better than taking up the streets of Downtown Thibodaux with live outdoor music! Check out Flow Tribe and Snapper & the Fishsticks at the second edition of Downtown Sounds!

Big Boy’s Main Street Cook Off
November 11

One of the most anticipated events of the year, Big Boy’s Main St. Cook Off brings out local chefs to determine who can make the best, most unapologetically Cajun dish. Spectators get plenty of delicious samples, along with live music.

Thibodeauxville Fall Festival
November 12

Come for the food, music, car show, and art vendors … stay for the rubber ducks! Try your luck at the infamous rubber duck race down Bayou Lafourche. The odds may not be in your favor, but the winner gets ultimate bragging rights – and a hefty monetary prize.

Whether you’re coming to one of the events for the good food (aren’t we all?), the chance to immerse yourself in the Cajun culture, to spend time with friends and family, or just try your luck at winning money from a lucky ducky, we’re ready and waiting to welcome you to Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou.

Though there’s always something fun to do in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou, fall is an extra-special time of year here. It’s when residents and visitors get to enjoy some of Lafourche Parish’s most beloved events, and now – one year after Hurricane Ida put a pause on so many activities – most of these events are back on the bayou … and better than ever, if we do say so ourselves! Here’s a preview of what’s coming up in September:
Boat Tours on Bayou Lafourche
Weekly, every Friday and Saturday

The Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center’s weekly boat tours are resuming this month. Travel up and down the bayou with a park ranger, learning about the history of the waterway and the wildlife and nature that surrounds you. On Fridays, you’ll also be treated to a tour of the E.D. White Historic Site as part of this round-trip journey. In addition, the Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center has their Cercle Francophone Classes and Music on the Bayou every Tuesday, and Historic Downtown Thibodaux Walking Tours every Wednesday & Thursday.

Cajun Music Jam at Gina's
September 7 and 21

Head to Gina’s at the Legion – for bimonthly Cajun Music Jams. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Cajun music or a novice just wanting to dip your toes in, all ages and experience levels are welcome to play, dance and pass a good time.

Tawasi Antiques and Art Show
September 9 – 11

This three-day show features antiques and art dealers from across the country, with proceeds going back to the community. Enjoy a variety of quality pieces including jewelry, glassware, silver, furniture, art pieces, and more.

Creole Classic Fest
September 17

Bring your dancing feet and cooking skills to the Creole Classic Fest, held at Harang Auditorium in Thibodaux. Listen to live music, compete in a cornhole tournament and enter a cook-off to show off your culinary skills (advance registration required).

Cut Off Youth Center Hurricane Festival
September 23 – 25

With live music, carnival rides, vendors, classic Cajun food and kid-friendly activities, this annual festival offers something for every member of the family.

Fall Arts Walk
September 23

Stroll down Main Street while taking in work by resident artists and supporting the local shops and businesses you pass along the way.

Nicholls State University Football Season Opener
September 24
Come cheer on the NSU Colonels at their first home game of the season against Jacksonville State. It’s a Red Out, so be sure to show up wearing red to support the team!

Clearly, if there’s one thing we love in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou, it’s a fun event! We have plenty to do this month, so grab your family and come on down. We hope to see you here!

Louisiana's Cajun Bayou Remembers Hurricane Ida - One Year Later

Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou has seen its fair share of challenges over the past two years. As all of our hotels, restaurants, attractions and events grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic and the ever-changing path forward, Lafourche Parish was dealt a devastating Category 4 blow on August 29, 2021.

Hurricane Ida, the second-most damaging and intense hurricane to ever hit the state of Louisiana, made landfall near Port Fourchon on the 29th and quickly made its way up Bayou Lafourche. The destruction left in its wake was nothing short of catastrophic. The aftermath has been felt by every single resident of our beloved parish, with towns down the bayou being some of the hardest hit.

However, the story does not end there. You see, Cajuns are no strangers to adversity. Some of the first settlers along the bayou, the Acadians, faced severe uncertainty and challenging times. That same strength, grit, and determination has been passed down for generations. It shined brightly the morning of August 30th, the day after landfall, as neighbors helped neighbors, communities helped communities, and friends from around the country rushed to our aid.
As our residents emerged to begin picking up the pieces of their lives, what we saw was not shattered windows, splintered trees and destroyed homes. It was people opening their homes to those without one, community organizations distributing critical aid to families that didn’t know what tomorrow would bring, and business owners giving away whatever they could to aid the cause. In the hot, humid days that followed, the words “how can I help” echoed off the banks of the bayou.

As the weeks grew into months, things began to get better. Debris was cleaned up, supplies distributed, roofs tarped and lights turned back on. Hotels – even though many were running on generators with damage of their own – manned their front desks and housed linemen, work crews and those in need of shelter. Our restaurants continued to serve hot meals to workers and first responders… day in and day out. Our own tourism team did not stop working one day, even though Ida destroyed our visitor center and offices. Everyone selflessly did their part to begin putting our destination back together. Along the way, we collectively showed the world what it truly means to be Cajun.
One year later, here we are. Our doors are back open, the tables are set, the beds are made and our lively festivals have returned. We are welcoming visitors back to experience our unapologetically Cajun culture once again. Even though there is a still a long way to go, we have come so very far over the course of one year. We would not be where we are today if it were not for our residents, government officials, community organizations, volunteers, linemen and those who came from far and wide to help us put the pieces back together.

We invite you to come be part of our continued recovery. Come stay awhile at one of our local hotels or B&B’s, taste authentic Cajun cooking at our family-owned restaurants, take a ride into our unspoiled swamps, or party like a local at one of our many festivals and events. We often say that the Bayou Life isn’t for anyone … it’s for everyone. And we mean it. There is truly no other place like Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou in Lafourche Parish. We can’t wait to welcome you to our incredibly resilient family.

Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Crosses Country Borders for Historic Partnership

Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Tourism Announces Collaboration with Acadian Regions of Nova Scotia

When people think of America’s great food cities, New Orleans often tops the list. But it’s not just big cities that know their way around a menu. Plenty of small towns are noted for their food scenes, too … but only one in Louisiana! On June 17, USA Today 10Best announced that Thibodaux is the #2-ranked Best Small Town Food Scene in the entire United States. This is Thibodaux’s fourth time being nominated, and its second year in a row of taking the #2 position.

This was a Reader’s Choice Award contest, in which millions of the website’s readers voted for their favorite nominees in several “best small town” categories. After four weeks, the voting closed and the winners were announced on June 17. Not only did Thibodaux receive this honor, but it was the only Louisiana destination to be included on the list of nominees, proving that it continues to make its mark as one of the South’s top culinary destinations.

If you’re the kind of person who sees the world through a photographer’s lens or enjoys being creative, you’re in luck. We’ve rounded up some of the most “Instagrammable” spots throughout Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou. Whether you’re looking to up your Instagram game, find a new spot for your family pictures, or just need an excuse to get out and have some fun, these spots are guaranteed to give you the perfect #TravelTuesday or #PhotoOfTheDay post that will be the envy of all your friends.

Thibodaux Downtown Art Mural
505 W 2nd St, Thibodaux, LA, 70301

Spring is making its way down the Bayou, brining warmer weather and plenty of fun along with it. Our festival season is in full bloom right now … and we encourage visitors and residents to see what all the buzz is about.