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, 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! 

As Election Day draws nearer and people continue to be attuned to the U.S. presidential race, we invite you to weigh in on a flavorful and far more lighthearted issue at hand -- the Great Gumbo Debate!

Ahead of National Gumbo Day on October 12, we’d like to turn the spotlight onto a culinary question that has divided families and friends for generations: Should potato salad go in your gumbo or be served on the side? There’s much speculation as to why and how this duo became running mates. One thing we can all agree on, though, is that Cajun chefs have very strong opinions on the matter.

To spice up this debate, we’ve polled some of our top chefs to get their thoughts on the classic dish. Get ready to decide where you stand on this delicious culinary controversy … because when it comes to gumbo – as in politics – every vote counts.

Anthony Goldsmith
Kajun Twist & Grill

Anthony was born and raised in Galliano, the same town in which he operates one of his Kajun Twist locations today. His great-grandmother, Alzina Toups, was a legendary Cajun chef, and some of his fondest culinary memories center around the gumbo and potato salad she served at family dinners.

Stance on Potato Salad: “I personally don’t put it in my gumbo, but I dip it. So, I scoop some from the side, dip in the gumbo, and go for it.”

Chef Brent Daigle
Grady V’s

Born and raised in Thibodaux, Brent grew up watching his parents and other family members cook. His Maw Maw was behind every tasty dish that was placed on the table for the holidays, and his dad’s classic Cajun cuisine was an extra reason his family looked forward to the weekends.

Stance on Potato Salad: “For me it has to go in the gumbo. It’s just how I was raised. You have potato salad and you put it in the gumbo. I mean, if you really want to, you can put in a little scoop at a time … but it’s gotta go in there.”

Gina Griffin
Griffin’s Restaurant

Gina owns Griffin’s, which serves an array of gumbos, including seafood, okra and chicken varieties. In addition to potato salad, her idea of the perfect gumbo also includes another key ingredient … a boiled egg!

Stance on Potato Salad: “That’s a debated question, but if you’re a true Cajun, it goes in it.”

Brandon Naquin
Spahr’s Seafood

A fierce competitor at this year’s Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off, Brandon knows his way around not just seafood, but gumbo as well. His dad helped him develop his love for cooking, and the prized family recipes he learned have influenced several of the dishes he’s made throughout his career.

Stance on Potato Salad: “Absolutely does not go in the gumbo. Potato salad is always served on the side.”

Chef Kevin Templet
Fremin’s Restaurant

Kevin was born and raised on Bayou Lafourche, so his culinary inspiration comes from local seafood and the other flavors found in the area. He’s been an essential figure behind Fremin’s numerous accolades, and has earned several recognitions individually as well.

Stance on Potato Salad: “I guess it’s a personal choice amongst everybody, but I’m putting my potato salad in the gumbo for sure.”

Neely Cheramie
The Balcony

Neely prides herself on operating a restaurant known far and wide for its chicken and sausage gumbo, and she’s very particular about the ingredients.
Stance on Potato Salad: “I like my potato salad in the gumbo. I like the way it mixes the flavors, but it’s totally up to the person.”

For those of you keeping score, that was 4 votes for In the Gumbo, and 2 for On the Side. Whether you land on Team In the Bowl or Team On the Side, everyone is of legal age to savor the flavors that make this Louisiana staple so special, so stop in to one of our many restaurants along the Cajun Bayou Food Trail to do thorough research before casting your vote!

While autumn slowly lingers on the horizon of Louisiana's Cajun Bayou, the region will transform into a vibrant tapestry of color, music and festivity for its fall festival season. Picture a season where the air is crisp (as opposed to crispy during the summer; we drop a vowel in the fall!), the food is rich and the music is as soulful as a sunset over the bayou. This fall, we invite you to immerse yourself in a world of autumnal events that celebrate everything from artistic expression to culinary Cajun delights … each encapsulating the true essence of Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou.

Cut Off Youth Center Hurricane Festival
September 27-29
This lively festival celebrates the spirit of the community with live music, delicious food, carnival rides and other fun activities. It’s a perfect way to experience the local culture, especially if you sample the gator dishes!

La Fete Des Vieux Temps
October 4-6
La Fete Des Vieux Temps translates to “Festival of Old Times” and is a celebration of Cajun heritage and history. Enjoy music, dancing, art and food while learning about the region's past. The festival’s lively atmosphere is perfect for those looking to dive deeper into Cajun culture … and try their hand at pirogue racing.

Louisiana Gumbo Festival
October 11-13
No fall in Louisiana is complete without indulging in some gumbo! The Louisiana Gumbo Festival offers a wide array of gumbo variations – nearly 500 gallons of it! The festival also features live music and family-friendly activities, making it a great outing for everyone.

Acadia Music Fest ft. Nelly
October 19
Music lovers, get ready for a treat! The Acadia Music Fest is headlined by none other than Nelly this year. This event promises an electrifying performance, along with a lineup of other local, national and international artists that will keep you dancing all night long.

French Food Festival
October 25-27
The French Food Festival in Larose is a culinary adventure you won’t want to miss. Featuring an array of French and Cajun-inspired dishes, this festival celebrates the region's diverse food culture with an emphasis on rich flavors and local ingredients. Bon appétit!

Monsters on Main
October 25
Monsters on Main in downtown Thibodaux is the perfect family-friendly Halloween event for your little ghosts and ghouls. Local businesses will be handing out treats and hosting entertaining activities for kids of all ages. Enjoy a night of costumes, candy, crafts and contests in a safe and spooktacular environment. Bring the whole family for a memorable evening where the only thing you’ll have to worry about is finding enough room in your candy bucket!

BBQ & Bourbon on the Bayou Festival
November 2
If you’re a fan of smoky BBQ and fine bourbon, the BBQ & Bourbon on the Bayou Festival is your chance to indulge. Held in Thibodaux, this festival features mouth-watering BBQ from local pitmasters, more than 50 brands of bourbon[MF1]  and live music to enhance the experience.

Big Boys Main Street Cookoff
November 8
One of the most talked about events up and down the bayou, the Big Boys Main Street Cookoff is a competition you won’t want to miss. Local chefs will battle it out, offering a variety of Cajun dishes to sample. It’s a food lover’s paradise and a fantastic way to enjoy the local flavors.

Thibodeauxville Fall Festival
November 9
Rounding out the fall festivities and providing a fun-filled end to a festive weekend, the Thibodeauxville Fall Festival brings the community together for a day of fun. With live entertainment, vendors, a car show, activities for kids and the famous rubber duck race, it’s a great way to celebrate the season with your family and friends.

As the fall breeze rustles through the bayou over the next few weeks, let the season’s festivities and heartwarming traditions sweep you off your feet. From the lively rhythms of washboards and accordions in Thibodaux to the tantalizing tastes in Chackbay and Larose, each event invites you to savor the essence (and flavors!) of our Cajun charm. So, embrace the cooler air, gather your friends and family, and let Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou help you create memories that will warm your heart long after the leaves have fallen and the gators have gone into brumation.

Geaux for the Gold in Louisiana's Cajun Bayou!

As the world joins together this week to begin watching the 2024 Olympics, people across the country eagerly await the chance to cheer on their local Olympians. This year, Louisiana is the proud home to five athletes on Team USA. Whether you’re a spectator eager to immerse yourself in the summer games or just an 'Average Joe' looking for a place to host a pick-up game, Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou is the perfect sports-friendly destination that caters to all interests and skill levels.

Geaux for the Gold

Some of our local sporting facilities are going for the gold with their recent upgrades. You’ll find new turf fields at Peltier Park in Thibodaux, Oak Ridge Community Park in Golden Meadow, and the fields at the Larose Civic Center. Earlier this year, the Civic Center completed $1.8 million of renovations as part of the parish’s ongoing recovery from Hurricane Ida, and it already has other potential projects and remodels in the works.
Geaux for the Golf

Golf was reintroduced to the Olympics only recently, in 2016. To get your golf on in Lafourche Parish, head to LaTour Golf Club in Mathews or the Bayou Country Club in Thibodaux. We can’t promise you’ll be standing on the winner’s podium after your round, but we can promise these courses will be just your cup of tee!
Geaux for the Growth

The Olympic Games grow and change with each incarnation, and 2024 is no exception. This year, kayak cross, kiteboarding and breakdancing will each make their debut at the games. A sport growing in popularity here in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou is pickleball, an activity that really gained momentum during COVID and quickly swept the country. Currently you can play underneath the pavilion at Peltier Park (net required), outside of Warren J. Harang Auditorium in Thibodaux, and at 610 School Street in Lockport.
Geaux for the (Field) Goal

If you enjoy the Olympics because you’re more comfortable being a spectator than an athlete, Nicholls State University and its D-1 football team may be just what you’re looking for. They’ll be looking to win back-to-back Southland Conference Championships this season, with their first home game at John L. Guidry Stadium on September 21st. You can purchase tickets and help cheer the Colonels on to victory this fall via the link HERE!
Bummed you won’t be winning an actual gold medal this year? We’ve got you! Get into competitive eating instead. Stopping at five or more spots along the Cajun Bayou Food Trail makes you a winner in our eyes, earning you a free (super-comfy, perfect-for-sports-practice) T-shirt.
We invite visitors to embody the spirit of competition and adventure seen in the Olympics and come try your hand at one of our many athletic offerings! Head to the link HERE to learn more about all of our Sports Fields & Facilities in Lafourche Parish!

Header photo credit: Vesna Dies

It's Snow Joke! Learn More About Our Cool Summer Treat!

Temperatures are soaring here as we officially enter the summer season, but thankfully, there’s one treat that has beaten the heat and withstood the test of time (and coastal Louisiana’s toasty weather) for nearly a century.

The popularity of the culturally iconic snowball – often referred to as a sno-ball in these parts – dates to the 1930s, when the electric ice-shaving machine was invented, and steadily transformed into the masterpiece it is today. Unlike snow cones, which are made with crunchy chunks of ice, snowballs are made of fluffy, very finely shaved ice that’s then coated in syrupy, sugary goodness. The unique texture of our snowballs allows for the perfect absorption of syrup.

We all know that Louisianans are built differently than mere mortals … and our snowballs are, too! Sure, you’re familiar with the classic snowball flavors like grape, blue raspberry and cherry. Those have been available since you were a kid. But here, you’ll find more exotic flavors … like nectar, wedding cake, tiger’s blood, and, of course, king cake! And don’t you dare skimp on the toppings! Sweetened condensed milk is a popular add-on around here.

We know, we know. We’ve talked up this sweet treat and now your mouth is watering, but you have no idea where to find one. You’re in luck, because there are many places up and down the bayou that serve the delectable snowball. One of our own personal favorites is Central Sno! 

Located at 5610 N. LA-1 in the town of Lockport, Central Sno’s walk-up window and drive-thru allows for quick and easy access to countless delicious concoctions. Strawberry Cheesecake is a popular option (it comes with its own piece of cheesecake on top, if you can believe it!), as is the Magical Unicorn. Outside of snowballs, Central Sno also offers ice cream, shakes, sundaes … basically all the refreshing summer treats you’ll ever need!

Overwhelmed by the expansive snowball menu and don’t know where to start? Luckily for you, Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Tourism Office is made up of snowball lovers! Here are their favorite flavors to give you some ideas:

Cody: Strawberry Cheesecake with condensed milk
Brandi: Nectar Cream
Ian: Pina Colada
Ms. Brenda: Almond Joy with condensed milk
Mr. John: Clear Spearmint

Though its beginnings were humble, the snowball is still Louisiana’s symbol of summer bliss after all these years. It may now be offered with its own dessert spread on top and come in dozens of both crazy and traditional flavors, but one thing will never change: the joy it brings to everyone who indulges in this timeless treat.

Gator Ready to Celebrate National Alligator Day with These Fun Facts!

Oh, snap! Today is National Alligator Day and we’re fully prepared to “croc” your world with some gator facts. Did you know …

Louisiana's Cajun Bayou Breaks Ground on New Visitor's Center

Raceland, Louisiana (May 17, 2024) – In 2021, Category 4 Hurricane Ida hit southeast Louisiana, ravaging much of Lafourche Parish. One of the architectural casualties was the parish’s visitor center, which was so damaged that it had to be torn down and removed after the storm. For the past two and a half years, the tourism office has been operating out of a modular unit in the former center’s parking lot.

Now – nearly three years later – Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Tourism is thrilled to announce that ground has been broken for an all-new and permanent Visitor’s Center constructed in partnership with Lafourche Parish Government.

Located along Bayou Lafourche on the same lot as the former center (4484 LA-1 in Raceland), the new visitor center aims to enhance the overall tourism experience in Louisiana's Cajun Bayou. This state-of-the-art facility will provide travelers with a wealth of information about local restaurants and attractions, Cajun culture, and special events. The 4,874-square foot building will offer new interactive exhibits and displays, traveler information, restrooms, and space for staff offices.

As a significant investment in the region's tourism promotion program, the new center will play a key role in attracting more visitors to Louisiana's Cajun Bayou and driving business to the area’s tourism partners. With its unique blend of Cajun heritage, rich history and breathtaking landscapes, the area attracts travelers from near and far. The center will provide a central hub where those visitors can access information, plan their trips with the assistance of knowledgeable staff, and begin their journey up and down the bayou.

Funding for the new building was provided by FEMA, insurance payouts, and Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Tourism with the support of Lafourche Parish Government. This project also wouldn’t be possible without architect Gros Flores Positerry, contractor Onshore Construction, and exhibit designer Cote Blanche Productions. Construction is estimated to be completed in one year.

Louisiana's Cajun Bayou Tourism invites everyone to stay tuned for updates on the progress of the visitor center via their social media.

FUTURE LOUISIANA'S CAJUN BAYOU VISITOR'S CENTER:

Fresh Air & Fresh Events: Your Spring Social Calendar in Louisiana's Cajun Bayou

Louisiana's Cajun Bayou is ready to welcome visitors from near and far this spring with a lineup of exciting events that showcase the vibrant and unique culture of the region. Mark your calendars and spring into a fun festival season down on the bayou!

Play it Forward
Friday, March 8

The Bayou Country Children’s Museum may be for kids during the day, but for this one night a year, it’s all about the adults! A cocktail trail, gaming tables, silent and live auctions, and live music and entertainment will make this night fun for those age 21 and over. All proceeds from this event will benefit the museum.
Choctaw Fireman’s Fair
March 8-10

We’re turning up the heat for the Choctaw Fireman’s Fair, with rides, games, music, a parade, and, of course, delicious Cajun food.
Bayou Lafourche Cleanup
Saturday, March 16

In partnership with the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program and the Bayou Lafourche Freshwater District, Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou will be working with volunteers to pick up trash and help keep the bayou beautiful. For a list of clean up locations and registration information, head HERE.
Krewe des Lutins Irish Italian Parade
Saturday, March 16

Celebrate St. Patty’s a day early with the return of the Krewe Des Lutins Irish-Italian parade. Heads up and hands out … because veggies will be the popular throws for this parade!
Spring Arts Walk
Friday, March 22

Visit with local artists on the sidewalks of downtown Thibodaux. Support both small businesses and local artisans by popping into the boutiques and restaurants along the way.
Annual Blessing of the Fleet
Saturday, April 6

For the 108th time, the people of South Lafourche will gather to bless this year’s fishermen and their fleet. Event goers will also enjoy live music, a boiled shrimp lunch and boat parade open to all!
La Fete Du Monde
April 19-21

This festival is known as the swamp pop extravaganza of Louisiana's Cajun Bayou. It features live music, dancing, Cajun food, games and carnival rides for all ages.
Thibodaux Firemen’s Fair
May 2-5

Attendees will enjoy the famous Thibodaux Fireman's Fair Burger, live music, rides and games, a 5k run/walk a parade, and a live auction benefitting one of the largest volunteer firemen fairs in the country.
Mud Bug Boil Off
Saturday, May 11

You’d better come hungry, because this all-you-can-eat crawfish cook-off event will leave you stuffed to the brim. If you’re not a competitor busy cooking up a good time, there will be live music, an auction and other fun for the whole family to enjoy.
Don't miss the chance to join in the festivities and soak up spring in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou!

Immerse Yourself in the Game of Pétanque in Louisiana's Cajun Bayou!

While other destinations pride themselves on offering a full range of traditional winter activities, here in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou, we’re proud to be the home to an unexpected winter activity that’s deeply rooted in a different type of tradition. We’re known for our vibrant culture, and visitors expect to be fully immersed in the Cajun way of life during their time here. Because of the mild weather we experience in the winter months, now is a great time to play or watch a game of pétanque. This traditional French lawn game is popular here on the Bayou. It’s similar to the Italian sport of bocce, but we think it’s even better.

Pétanque, pronounced "pay-tonk," is a leisurely game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages. It involves standing in a small circle (cercle) and throwing metal balls as close as possible to a small wooden target ball that’s called the cochonnet (fun fact: that’s French for “little pig”!). Similar to bocce, this game requires strategy, precision and a bit of luck. Oh … and good balance. The sport’s name is derived from words that mean “foot planted.” Your feet must remain in the cercle while you toss … and that can be more challenging than it sounds.
Whether you are a seasoned pétanque player or a curious beginner, the pétanque courts in Louisiana's Cajun Bayou offer a friendly and inclusive environment. Gather your friends, challenge your family, or meet fellow enthusiasts at the courts at Peltier Park in Thibodaux. The Thibodaux Pétanque Club meets every Saturday at 8:30 AM and anyone is welcome to join to learn how to play. The game can be enjoyed casually during a weekend getaway or organized into a competitive tournament, adding a touch of friendly rivalry to your Bayou adventures. 

Pétanque perfectly complements our laid-back lifestyle and invites everyone to slow down, relax and enjoy the company of others. So, if you’re seeking a unique and entertaining experience that also forges new athletic skills, be sure to add a game of pétanque to your itinerary when you’re exploring Louisiana's Cajun Bayou!