Author Archives: Ian Wallis

Our New Visitor Center is Open! Here's What You Need to Know!

Nearly four years after Hurricane Ida destroyed its predecessor, the brand-new and long-awaited Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Visitor Center has officially opened to the public. The new center was purpose-built to function as a facility that warmly welcomes visitors to the region while also educating them about all that makes our parish such a remarkable destination.

Lafourche Parish Government worked with FEMA to secure the funds to build this permanent structure. Ground broke on the new facility on May 17, 2024, and less than 15 months later, the facility’s opening has been celebrated with a ribbon-cutting and open house.

On August 29, 2021, Hurricane Ida swept through coastal Louisiana. The impact on our parish was devastating, and the former visitor center was among the buildings deemed a complete loss. It took a total of 1,433 days – or 3 years, 11 months and 3 days – for the new center to be rebuilt, but now we’re back and better than ever!

The new visitor center includes offices for our tourism staff as well as an interactive visitor experience aimed at ensuring that all who pass through it are captivated by the region’s special appeals.

Among the elements designed with the needs and curiosity of visitors in mind is a three-dimensional map of the parish, an element that’s been nicknamed “the Fun Finder.” It features more than 30 interactive buttons that can be pressed to learn more about the places, people, tastes and sounds ready to be discovered up and down the bayou. Visitors learn the inspiring story of the Acadians, who sought exile in Louisiana in the late 1700s and became known as “Cajuns.” A telephone feature on the Fun Finder allows users to listen to the sounds of Cajun French, which is still spoken by many of our residents. The visitor center also honors the flora and fauna of the region, with a replica oak tree standing in one corner and a pair of mock alligators situated in another. Visitors can even pose for a photo with a larger-than-life washboard, which is used in our famous Cajun music.

In addition to all the interactive displays, the center is staffed by travel counselors on Mondays through Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. These specially trained residents can answer questions about the region and provide insider tips about the best places to stay, visit and eat.

So, whether you’re a longtime resident or visitor eager to learn more about our region, we encourage you to stop by the new visitor center in Raceland to say hello and check out the new exhibits. We can’t wait to welcome you! 

Center for Traditional Louisiana Boat Building Is Getting a New Home

Thibodaux, Louisiana (May 12, 2025) – This past Saturday, a friendly flotilla of various Cajun-style boats traveled up Bayou Lafourche, the body of water that runs through almost the entirety of Lafourche Parish, Louisiana, and that serves as a true lifeline for the community. Along the 20-mile route, locals and visitors came out to cheer on the vessels, which were making the journey to launch a fundraising campaign aimed at building a new home of the Center for Traditional Louisiana Boat Building. The facility is moving from its museum headquarters in Lockport (located “down the Bayou”) to the campus of Nicholls State University in Thibodaux (“up the Bayou”).

This part of southeastern Louisiana, affectionately nicknamed “Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou,” offers visitors an authentic glimpse into the Cajun culture for which the state is so famous. Here, residents have lived, worked and played on the bayou for generations. For many, their boat was more important than their car or even their house.

The Center for Traditional Louisiana Boat Building honors the region’s rich tradition of building hand-crafted boats that are as functional as they are beautiful. It opened in 1979, when a pair of residents wanted to find a way to preserve this unique aspect of Cajun culture. After settling in Louisiana in the 1700s, transplanted Acadians (“Cajuns”) made the bayous of Louisiana their super-highways, using them for transportation and commerce. They also used them as their personal pantries, as they fished, hunted and trapped all along the waterways. They needed specialized boats for all those things.

The event at Nicholls this past weekend served as a homecoming of sorts, because the center began on the university’s campus 46 years ago and existed in a maintenance barn there until 2007. Talented boat builders came from far and wide to hand-craft skiffs, luggers and pirogues, a special canoe-like vessel that’s synonymous with life on Bayou Lafourche.

In 2007, the center moved to Lockport to occupy a former car dealership. That facility offered plenty of room for the museum to expand its collection, and people donated boats, tools and a variety of Cajun artifacts. The center also grew its public programs. In Lockport, visitors had hands-on opportunities to learn the art and science of crafting boats as they did their part to preserve the traditions and culture of Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou.

In 2021, damage from Hurricane Ida forced the Lockport facility to close its doors, and the center has been searching for a new permanent home since.

The board members of the Center for Traditional Louisiana Boat Building are now working with the administration of Nicholls to build a new state-of-the-art facility at the university, right beside Bayou Lafourche. In the future, visitors will be able to learn more about Cajun boat-building through a museum, plus they can make use of a rental facility that will allow them to take a handcrafted boat onto Bayou Lafourche so they can appreciate the beauty of the region from the same vantage point of Cajun ancestors. Perhaps best of all, a fully operational workshop will teach the hands-on skills and techniques that have been passed down by generations of Cajun craftsmen, providing them with an “only-on-the-Bayou” experience of creating their very own boat.

Updates about the center and its programs will follow. Tax-deductible donations to the fundraising effort can be made by visiting www.traditionallouisianaboatbuilding.org.

Get Your Shrimp Together! Unshell These Fun Facts for National Shrimp Day!

They’re tiny, tasty and tenacious. On May 10, we’re turning our appetites to one of Louisiana’s most beloved crustaceans: the humble shrimp. In honor of National Shrimp Day, we’re diving antennae-first into some of the biggest questions you never knew you had about this little local legend.

How long have we been shrimping around here?

Shrimping in the Gulf isn’t new; it’s been going strong since the early 1800s. Generations of families have made their livelihoods on these waters, with an incredible work ethic and plenty of knowledge passed down through the years.

How many legs does a shrimp even have?

More than you’d guess. Shrimp sport 10 legs … plus two pairs of antennae they use to feel, taste, smell and generally make sense of the world around them. They may be smaller than other aquatic critters, but they come equipped!

Wait ... the heart is where?

Believe it or not, a shrimp’s heart is located in its head. That’s right -- head and heart are one and the same in the world of shrimp. (Take note, fellow romantics.)

How many kinds of shrimp are there?

Globally, there are more than 2,000 different species of shrimp, but here in Louisiana, two types dominate the scene: brown shrimp and white shrimp. Each has its own flavor … and fan base.

Just how much shrimp are we talking about?

At the Golden Meadow-Fourchon Tarpon Rodeo, between 1,200 to 1,500 pounds of shrimp are cooked each year. That’s a whole lot of tails, and even more happy taste buds.

Why do we love them so much?

Beyond their role in our local economy and ecosystems, shrimp are simply delicious. Whether you like ‘em boiled, fried, grilled or tossed into a gumbo, they’re a staple in Cajun kitchens for good reason.

This Shrimp Day, give a little recognition to the creatures with the legs of a spider, the heart of a poet, and the power to bring an entire community together around a boiling pot. From bayou to the boil, shrimp prove that the biggest (and most flavorful) things sometimes come in the smallest packages. (Though if we’re being honest, Louisiana shrimp aren’t THAT small!)

Louisiana's Cajun Bayou - The Belle of the Boil!

Welcome to the heart of bayou culture! Crawfish season in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou is officially here, and if you’ve never experienced the thrill of a crawfish boil or are looking to learn more about Louisiana’s iconic crustaceans, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s talk about all things crawfish … from harvesting to cooking to where you can go to experience it all firsthand.

Here’s everything you need to know:

When Is Crawfish Season?

It typically runs from late winter through early summer, starting in late February or early March and lasting through June. This is when they’re most abundant and also at their peak size and flavor.

Perhaps Most Importantly … What Are Crawfish?

Crawfish – also known as crayfish, crawdads or mudbugs depending on your geography – are crustaceans that look like mini lobsters. They thrive in Louisiana’s swampy bayous and waterways. Though they may be smaller than other crustaceans, crawfish are packed with flavor (and protein!), making them the perfect addition to a Cajun dish.

How Are Crawfish Harvested?

Here in Louisiana, it’s a true art form, blending both an appreciation for nature and some special techniques. Farmers grow crawfish in manmade ponds of water, and when the critters are the proper size, they’re carefully collected, cleaned and sold to seafood markets or directly to restaurants. Raising crawfish is a family tradition for many people in our region, who use knowledge and skills passed down from generation to generation.

How Do You Cook Crawfish?

The farmers grew and harvested their mudbugs, and now you bought a few pounds of them at one of the many seafood spots around our parish. Now what? The most popular way to prepare crawfish is by boiling them, which is a quick and easy process … so even a novice can host a “crawfish boil” with ease.

It all starts by boiling a large pot of water with seasoning (Cajun seasoning, lemon, garlic, onions, really whatever speaks to you!). Add the crawfish, followed by items like corn, sausage, potatoes and other vegetables to the pot – again adding whatever feels right to your guests and their stomachs. Once the crawfish turn bright red and begin to float, they’re ready! But to really enjoy this crawfish boil, you need to know how to peel them …

How Do You Peel and Eat Crawfish?

This all may seem tricky at first, but with a little practice (and patience), you’re going to be a pro in no time! It’s this easy: Pinch, peel, eat, repeat.

1. Pinch: Hold the crawfish with its head in one hand and its tail in the other. Gently twist and pull the tail away from the head.
2. Peel: Pinch the tail to break open the shell and gently pull the meat out.
3. Eat: It’s that easy. Just sit back and enjoy. The meat is tender and sweet, perfect for dipping in melted butter or your favorite sauce.
4. Repeat: You’re going to want to do this again and again. Part of the fun of a crawfish boil is eating; part is socializing with those around you.

What Can You Add to Your Crawfish Boil?

A traditional crawfish boil isn’t complete without the perfect accompaniments. We touched on some above, but in case you need a little inspiration, here are some ingredients that are popular with the locals:

Corn: The starchy veg (left on the cob, of course!) soaks up the spicy broth, adding a delicious kick.
Sausage: Andouille sausage, smoked sausage or other Cajun-style links add richness and a unique smoky flavor.
Potatoes: They’re soft and tender enough to absorb the spices and are a perfect bite alongside the rich crawfish.
Garlic: Whole cloves can be added for an aromatic punch.
Lemon: For a citrusy zing that balances the spice.
Mushrooms: For some earthy flavor and texture that balances out the delicate nature of the seafood.

You don’t have to stick to the list. Feel free to get creative! Local chefs and families often add their own twists to the boil with special seasonings, seafood or veggies.

Experience Crawfish Season in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou

If this blog got your tummy rumbling and you want to experience crawfish season to the fullest, check out these local events and hotspots:

Cajun Bayou Food Trail: The Cajun Bayou Food Trail is a culinary journey through the heart of Lafourche Parish. It’s the perfect way to explore local restaurants, seafood markets and hidden gems where you can enjoy fresh crawfish and other delicious dishes. Whether you’re after a traditional boil or a new take on the beloved mudbug, the food trail is a must during crawfish season. (And after five stops you get a free T-shirt … winner!)

Baudoin’s Seafood and 3 Piers Seafood Market: If you want to bring home fresh crawfish to show off all you’ve learned from this post, you’ll need to visit one of these local seafood markets … or both! They’ll help you select the perfect crawfish for your boil.

What are you waiting for? It’s time to gather your ingredients, fire up that pot and get ready to experience one of Louisiana's most beloved traditions. Or if you don’t trust yourself near a pot of boiling water and crustaceans, the stops along the Cajun Bayou Food Trail are always ready to welcome you!

Something For Everyone: Your Spring Social Schedule on the Bayou

Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou is a destination that offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a foodie eager to taste our local flavors, a family searching for fun activities for all ages, a history enthusiast diving into our rich Cajun culture or an adventurer ready to explore bayous and beyond, there’s an event this spring for you to enjoy. Check out these upcoming events that will make your visit unforgettable!

For Foodies:

We’re renowned for our authentically Louisianan cuisine, and these events will satisfy even the most discerning food lovers:

Golden Meadow Catfish Cookoff
March 22

A celebration of local seafood, this cookoff features the best catfish dishes in the area. If you’re a foodie, this is your chance to taste the very best Cajun flavors, with chefs showcasing their unique takes on this Southern classic. $10 gets you all-you-can-eat catfish from the competing teams, so come hungry!
What else can foodies enjoy while they’re in town?

Check out our Cajun Bayou Food Trail! Taking your tummy to five or more stops along the trail gets you a cool t-shirt to commemorate eating your way through the bayou.

For Families:

Looking for family-friendly fun? These events are sure to delight visitors of all ages.

St. Patrick’s Day on the Bayou
March 16

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in a truly unique way here on the bayou! This free family-friendly event offers tasty food, live music and themed festivities … along with the famous cardboard boat race on the bayou!
Choctaw Fireman’s Fair
March 21-23

A classic small-town fair with carnival rides, games, parades and live entertainment, this three-day event is perfect for families. Enjoy good food, good music and good times all while supporting a local fire department.
Thibodaux Firemen’s Fair
May 1-4

This May event is another fantastic fair for families, complete with rides, games, a parade, 5k race, raffles and food. It’s hosted and funded by the volunteer firefighters in Thibodaux, so bring the kids and come have some fun for a worthy cause.
What else can families enjoy while in town?

Head to the Bayou Country Children’s Museum to get an in depth look at life on the bayou through fun interactive exhibits!

For History and Culture Buffs:

If you love uncovering the stories and traditions of a region, these events are a great way to dive into our rich heritage.

Play it Forward
April 4

Think the Bayou Country Children's Museum is just for kids? Think again! Play It Forward is a unique event for adults benefiting the Bayou Country Children’s Museum. This year’s theme, Playing the Cajun Way, offers a lively evening filled with a cocktail trail, delicious local food, gaming tables, both a silent and live auction, and entertainment. This gathering offers guests a chance to immerse themselves in the local community and support a cause near and dear to Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou and our people.
La Fete Du Monde
April 25-27

This swamp pop extravaganza celebrates the culture of our area and its people. Expect performances, music, games and food, along with a masquerade, festival queens and more.
Annual Blessing of the Fleet
April 26

A historical event paying tribute to the community's maritime heritage is marking its 109th blessing this year. The blessing is a long-standing tradition where locals gather to ask for protection and a prosperous fishing season. It’s a meaningful experience for those interested in Louisiana's maritime history and its cultural significance, as well as a great way to enjoy some boiled shrimp and live music.
What else can history lovers do while in town?

To understand more of what makes Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou special, you’ll want to visit the E.D. White Historic Site, Bayou Lafourche Folklife and Heritage Museum, or Laurel Valley Village. The Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center is also full of history of our area and offers the chance to learn Cajun French every Tuesday at 5:00 PM. Chine’s Net Shop is also a special local gem full of stories.

Our Spring Calendar is full of exciting events for every visitor that comes to town, so start planning your visit around ones that catch your eye and get ready for an unforgettable experience in one of the most authentic places in Louisiana.

KING CAKE BY THE NUMBERS!

Mardi Gras season in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou is a time of celebration, creativity, and – of course! – king cake. This iconic dessert, known for its sweet fillings and tri-colored sprinkles, has become an essential part of the festivities. This year, people have 59 days to indulge in this seasonal treat, from January 5 (Epiphany) to March 4 (Fat Tuesday). But just how much do we really know about this delicious tradition? Let’s take a deep dive into king cake, going by the numbers here in Lafourche Parish!

King cakes here come in all sizes, from individual servings to massive cakes that feed entire families (along with being an ingredient in every food and drink imaginable during Carnival, but we’ll save that for another time). The size largely depends on the filling … and here in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou, you can find more than 60 unique filling flavors, with new, inventive varieties popping up every week.

How many king cakes are sold in Lafourche Parish each Mardi Gras season? Thousands. Between bakeries and home bakers, it’s impossible to travel through the parish at this time of year without seeing someone offering a freshly baked cake. Each cake typically costs between $15 and $45, with the average coming in around $35. Whether you’re grabbing a classic cinnamon-filled version or are drawn to a more adventurous flavor, there’s something for every budget.

One of the most popular places to find a cake here on the bayou is the Cajun Pecan House, which has been baking theirs since 1985. Their recipe, passed down through generations, keeps all the cake traditions alive, ensuring that each one is a taste of local history. (They’re $45, for those who are wondering!)

Ever wondered how much sanding sugar goes into this part of the Mardi Gras magic? Duet’s Bakery used an impressive 75 pounds of sanding sugar last year alone. And for something unique, Spahr’s Seafood made 1,750 king cake beignets for last year’s King Cake Festival, which brings us to our next number …
The Louisiana King Cake Festival, held this year on February 15, is a must-visit. Last year, more than 6,500 attendees gathered to sample creations from 47 vendors. With 19,000 bites shared, it’s clear why this event has become a favorite local tradition. The festival features king cakes in four categories: Traditional, Filled, Savory and Unique, showcasing the creativity of home cooks and professional bakers alike.

With so many king cakes being shared and enjoyed, there’s no better time to dive into this sweet tradition here in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time king cake-r, grab a slice and join the fun … because Mardi Gras here is sweeter than ever!

Touch Down in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou – Your Big Game Side Stop

As all you football fans prepare for the biggest game of the year, why not call a time out on your visit to New Orleans and take a day trip over to Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou? Whether you’re tackling true Southern food cravings or simply looking for a winning travel experience, we might just turn out to be the MVP of your Big Game trip. We invite you to kick off your Louisiana adventure (or venture into overtime) by spending some time with us here in Lafourche Parish, affectionately known as Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou.

Sure, the Big Easy gets lots of attention – especially during the Big Game – but Lafourche Parish is where the true flavors of Louisiana come to life. Swap the crowds for cozy bayou towns, where music spills out from family-run bars and the scent of étouffée fills the air. Venture onto the sidelines of New Orleans – just 40 minutes from the airport – to discover authentic Cajun traditions, from zydeco music to swamp tours. It’s the perfect place to experience the soul of Louisiana, where every corner tells a story and every bite is a culinary touchdown.

You’ve got your (hopefully) winning team and your game face on, but since you won’t be watching the big game from the comfort of your couch with unlimited access to chips and dip, why not score big with authentic Cajun food during your time in Louisiana? Our restaurants feature gumbo, crawfish and po-boys that will have your tastebuds doing a celebratory dance. From local, family-owned joints to slightly more upscale venues, we’ve got the food and flavors that will put your beloved corn chips and guac on the bench.

Experience your own halftime-worthy show here, where our breathtaking bayous, spectacular swamps and welcoming towns make for the perfect backdrop for your pre- or post-game stroll (or airboat ride). Spending a day on our beloved waters will leave you feeling like a champion!

So whether you’re here for the food, the fun or just a more peaceful change of scenery, you’ll find that we are the ultimate Big Game side stop. We’ve got the perfect combination of adventure and Southern charm to make your time in Louisiana one for the highlight reel, whether your team wins or loses. Don’t just come to Louisiana to watch the game; make your own winning play and take home the vacation trophy with a trip to Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou.

2025 Y’Allstars Southern Skate Showdown to Welcome National and International Roller Derby Teams to Thibodaux

Raceland, Louisiana (January 17, 2025) – Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Tourism, the destination management organization for Lafourche Parish, is set to welcome 20 national and international teams at this year’s Y’Allstars Southern Skate Showdown, an elite roller derby competition coming to Thibodaux. The premier tournament makes its return the weekend of January 30 – February 2 following its success in 2023 & 2024.

Hosted at the Warren J. Harang Municipal Auditorium on N. Canal Blvd. in Thibodaux, this year’s tournament features an exciting lineup of new and returning roller derby teams and three divisions of play: Main, Open, and Junior (youth). The event itself is hosted as part of a joint effort by Red Stick Roller Derby Juniors, the youth roller derby team based in Baton Rouge, and Team Louisiana Roller Derby, the Pelican State’s all-star adult team.

“We are thrilled to welcome the return of the Y’Allstars Southern Skate Showdown to Lafourche Parish for its third year” said President/CEO of Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Tourism, Cody A. Gray. “Events like this bring in significant economic impact to our parish, while directly supporting local businesses and jobs. We look forward to extending a warm welcome to the visiting teams and sharing our unapologetically Cajun culture with them.”

With 20 teams and competitors coming to Thibodaux, the Y’Allstars Southern Skate Showdown is growing to become one of the largest sporting events in Lafourche Parish. It is expected to have a notable economic impact with over 400 hotel room nights anticipated, an estimated 1,200 - 1,700 meals consumed at local restaurants, and additional visitor spend at local attractions and shops in Lafourche Parish.

Tickets are available for purchase and can be bought as a Single Day Pass or a Weekend Pass. More information about tickets and the tournament weekend can be found at the link below. For vendor/sponsorship opportunities, contact Kaitlyn Estes, Tournament Organizer at [email protected].

Lear more at: www.yallstars.com/

2025 Y’Allstars Southern Skate Showdown Participating Teams:

Main Division:
Team Canada
Team Desi Roller Derby
Black Diaspora Roller Derby
Fuego Latino Roller Derby
Indigenous Rising Roller Derby
Jewish Roller Derby
Team Louisiana Roller Derby
New York All Stars
Team Kansas Roller Derby
Team Philippines
Divergence Roller Derby
SALAAM Roller Derby

Open Division:
Beast Side Roller Derby
Villain Era
Team Pennsylvania
Trans Rollers United

Junior Division:
Red Stick Roller Derby Juniors
Druid City Daredevils
Tomorrowland Junior Roller Derby
Dallas Rolling Rebellion

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, March 4th. 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

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 Louisiana King Cake Festival, which will be held in downtown Thibodaux on Saturday, February 15th. 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!

When you think of Thanksgiving, your mind might immediately wander to turkey, mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce. But here in Louisiana, we do things a little differently. If you’re ready to add a dash of Cajun spice to your holiday celebrations, why not host a true Cajun Friendsgiving this year? From savory meats to delicious desserts, Louisiana's Cajun Bayou has everything you need to bring the flavors of the bayou straight to your table. Ready to impress your friends and family with a meal they’ll never forget? Here’s how to make it happen …

1. Boudin

Boudin is a quintessential Cajun dish. Simply stated, it’s a flavorful, seasoned sausage that’s traditionally packed with pork, rice and spices. But you can find other proteins in your boudin, too …  including crawfish, when they’re in season. (But that’s not this time of year.) Whether you serve it as a main dish or offer it as a finger-food appetizer (insider tip: boudin balls are the best!), it’s sure to be a hit. No Cajun celebration is complete without it.

Where to get it: Bayou Boucherie Meat Market
2. Hogs Head Cheese

Another signature item you'll need for a Cajun-themed Friendsgiving is hogs head cheese. Don’t let the name fool you: This isn’t cheese, but it IS a savory meat spread made from the head of a pig. We know. Sounds strange. But trust us when we say it’s a beloved Louisiana delicacy. Whether you serve it as an appetizer with crackers or spread it on French bread, this rich, flavorful dish will kick off your Friendsgiving with an only-on-the-bayou taste.

Where to get it: Bourgeois Meat Market
3. French Bread

No meal here is complete without a good loaf of French bread. It’s the perfect base for any spread – including the aforementioned hogs head cheese – and it’s also great as a simple snack. Light and airy with a golden-brown crust, it’s an essential part of any Louisiana meal. It’s also the perfect vessel when you want a sandwich made of holiday leftovers.

Where to get it: Duet’s Bakery
4. Gumbo

No meal eaten in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou would be complete without a steaming bowl of gumbo. This rich, flavorful stew is packed with meat and/or seafood and a medley of vegetables, all simmered together in a savory roux. Whether you prefer a classic chicken and sausage gumbo or one with shrimp, Kajun Twist has a variety of options to satisfy every craving. Serve it over rice (or potato salad!), and watch as your guests demolish it before you even get to mention dessert.

Where to get it: Kajun Twist & Grill
5. Bloody Mary

What’s a Cajun celebration without a refreshing cocktail to wash it all down? For Friendsgiving, you can’t go wrong with a bold and zesty Bloody Mary, and Spahr’s Seafood knows how to make the perfect one. Their spicy mix, combined with vodka, will keep everyone feeling festive throughout the day.

Where to get it: Spahr’s Seafood
6. Pecan Pie

Finish your Friendsgiving feast on a sweet note. Pecan pie is the ultimate Louisiana dessert, and you can’t beat the flavor of the pecans grown right here in Cajun country. The Cajun Pecan House has perfected this Southern classic, delivering a gooey, nutty pie with just the right amount of sweetness. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, and watch your guests fall in love … and unanimously agree you’ll be hosting next year’s Friendsgiving, too!

Where to get it: Cajun Pecan House
Whether you’re introducing your friends to Cajun food for the first time or you’re simply craving those bayou flavors this holiday season, the dishes above will create a meal that’s as rich in culture as it is in flavor. Bon appétit!