On the Front Line | Frontline Companies Blog

Courir de Mardi Gras: Experience a True Cajun Carnival

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 22:15:48 GMT

A Bit of History — How Acadiana’s Mardi Gras Differs from New Orleans

The roots of Mardi Gras in Acadiana stem from South Louisiana’s deep French and Catholic heritage. The term Mardi Gras literally means “Fat Tuesday” in French — the final day of celebration before the season of Lent begins.

Lent is a 40-day period observed by Catholics from Ash Wednesday through Easter Sunday, traditionally marked by fasting, abstinence from meat, and acts of charity. Because of this, Mardi Gras became a final opportunity to enjoy rich foods, music, and community celebration before the solemn season began. In Acadiana, Mardi Gras festivities often begin as early as Twelfth Night (Epiphany) on January 6 and continue through Fat Tuesday.

While Lafayette has its share of parades, balls, and beads similar to what many associate with New Orleans, rural Acadiana celebrates Mardi Gras very differently. Here, the focus is on the Courir de Mardi Gras — literally, “the Fat Tuesday run.”

During a courir, masked revelers dressed in traditional capuchon costumes ride horses or wagons from house to house, singing, dancing, and playfully begging for ingredients to make a community gumbo. Chickens are famously chased, songs are sung in Cajun French, and strict rules are enforced by the Capitaine to keep the tradition respectful and rooted in history.

These customs trace back to medieval France, where costumed revelers performed skits and songs while requesting food from landowners — a tradition that Cajuns preserved and adapted after settling in South Louisiana. Today, the Courir de Mardi Gras remains one of the most authentic cultural expressions in Acadiana.

The King Cake Tradition

No Cajun Mardi Gras season would be complete without King Cake.

Traditionally enjoyed from Epiphany through Mardi Gras Day, a King Cake resembles a large, ring-shaped pastry — often topped with purple, green, and gold sugar and sometimes filled with flavors like cinnamon, cream cheese, chocolate, fruit preserves, or pecan praline.

Hidden inside the cake is a tiny plastic baby, symbolizing the Christ child. Whoever finds the baby is crowned “king” or “queen” for the day and is traditionally responsible for bringing the next King Cake or hosting the next gathering, keeping the spirit of hospitality and community alive throughout the season.

Our Favorite King Cakes in Lafayette

The Frontline team overwhelmingly agrees: Keller’s Bakery Bavarian Cream King Cake is a must-try.

Located in downtown Lafayette, Keller’s Bakery has been a community staple since 1929, with the family’s baking roots tracing all the way back to 1760s France — a fitting connection to Cajun Mardi Gras traditions.

Honorable mentions from the Frontline team include:

Twin’s Bakery
Great Harvest Bread Co.
Gambino’s
Albertsons (for convenient, classic options)

Celebrate Mardi Gras in Acadiana All Season Long

Whether you’re hoping to witness a traditional courir, enjoy Cajun music and dancing, or simply eat your way through king cake season, these resources will help you plan your Acadiana Mardi Gras experience.

Official Acadiana Mardi Gras schedules & events
Acadiana parade schedules (for those who want both traditions)
Learn more about Cajun Country Mardi Gras traditions

Mardi Gras Playlist to Get You in the Mood

Want the soundtrack to your Lafayette Mardi Gras celebration? These playlists capture the spirit of Louisiana music — from zydeco rhythms to festive brass and Cajun grooves.

Spotify : Mardi Gras , Zydeco & Cajun Music
Apple Music : Mardi Gras Essentials

Book Your Stay Before Mardi Gras Season Fills Up

Mardi Gras is one of Acadiana’s busiest seasons, and the best dates go fast. If you’re planning to experience a Courir de Mardi Gras, enjoy king cake season, or soak up true Cajun culture, now’s the time to lock it in.

Use code MARDIGRAS26 for 15% off your stay during Carnival season and book direct while availability lasts.

Reserve your Frontline short-term rental today — before the best weekends are gone.

Christmas 2025 in Acadiana: Lights, Parades, Markets & Cajun Holiday Magic in Lafayette, LA

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 18:32:32 GMT

Here are our top picks for christmas 2025 in Lafayette and throughout acadiana

Now that Thanksgiving is over, it’s officially Christmas season in Acadiana — and December in Lafayette is packed with lights, music, markets, and family traditions you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re staying for a weekend getaway or settling in for an extended visit, Lafayette — the heart of Cajun Country — knows how to celebrate the holidays in a way that feels warm, welcoming, and full of local charm.

And because there’s always something happening around the region, be sure to keep an eye on Lafayette Travel ’s full holiday calendar for Acadiana events, pop-ups, and last-minute additions.

Lafayette Must-Do Christmas Events

Lafayette Farmers & Artisans Christmas Market @ Moncus Park

Thursday, December 4, 2025 | 4:00-8:00 PM
Kick off the season under the oaks at Moncus Park with a festive evening market full of local vendors, holiday gifts, seasonal treats, and that magical “first-week-of-December” energy.

�� https://moncuspark.org/calendar-events/christmas-market-2025/

Festival of Lights in the Oil Center

Friday, December 5, 2025 | 5:30–9:00 PM
One of Lafayette’s most nostalgic traditions is officially back. The Oil Center median lights up with hundreds of holiday lights, live music, family fun, and Santa on the Ochsner skywalk. It’s a true “Lafayette Christmas night” and perfect for photos.
�� https://www.theoilcenter.com/event-details/festival-of-lights

Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree Concert (Downtown Lafayette)

Friday, December 5, 2025 | 6:00–9:00 PM | Parc Sans Souci
Downtown Lafayette’s Merry & Bright season kicks off with a free holiday concert and the lighting of the city’s 25-foot Christmas tree. Expect live music (Mike Dopsie & Zydeco Entourage plus opening acts), a true “winter wonderland” vibe, kid-friendly ornament decorating, photo ops with the Coca-Cola Polar Bear and the Grinch, and food vendors on site. Bonus: a holiday trolley runs between this concert and the Oil Center Festival of Lights so guests can enjoy both in one evening.
�� https://www.downtownlafayette.org/event/rockin-around-the-christmas-tree-concert

Sonic Christmas Parade (Downtown Lafayette)

Sunday, December 7, 2025 | 1:00 PM
Lafayette’s biggest holiday parade and the official arrival of Santa. Expect marching bands, dance teams, festive floats, and a packed route through downtown that feels like a Hallmark movie — Cajun-style.
�� https://1033thegoat.com/sonic-christmas-parade-lafayette-2025/

Christmas in the Park @ Moncus Park

December 12–14, 2025
Three magical nights of twinkling lights, music under the oaks, food trucks, kid activities, and a walk-through holiday wonderland. This one is a family favorite and a must-experience if you’re here mid-December.
�� https://moncuspark.org/calendar-events/christmasinthepark2025/

Quick-Drive Acadiana Favorites (Totally Worth It)

Noël Acadien au Village (LARC / Acadian Village – Scott)

Nightly December 1–23, 2025
Acadiana’s crown-jewel Christmas tradition. Walk through a glowing Cajun village filled with half-a-million lights, themed displays, music, food, Santa, and holiday shopping — all supporting a beautiful local cause.
�� https://acadianvillage.org/noel-acadien-au-village/

Noël à Broussard (Downtown Broussard)

Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 2:00–7:00 PM
A full afternoon of Christmas cheer with a parade, tree lighting, vendor market, kids’ activities, real snow, caroling, and even a Christmas drone light show. It’s one of the sweetest small-town holiday celebrations nearby.
�� https://business.broussardchamber.net/events/details/no%C3%ABl-%C3%A0-broussard-2025-377

Golf Cart Santa (Broussard + sometimes Youngsville)

Routes announced weekly in December
This beloved local tradition brings Santa and a glowing golf-cart convoy through neighborhoods with music, lights, bubbles, and tons of kid joy. Check their weekly schedule before you go.
�� https://www.facebook.com/golfcartsanta

Candy Cane Lane Light Display (Church Point)

Opens late November and runs through December
A drive-through neighborhood light display in Church Point that locals look forward to every year. Easy to pair with dinner and a cozy evening drive.
�� https://999ktdy.com/ixp/33/p/church-point-candy-cane-lane-display/

Christmas at Bridge Point Farms (Lafayette)

November 21–December 23, 2025 | 6–10 PM (closed Mondays)
Acadiana’s drive-thru Christmas light adventure with over half-a-million lights, vintage carousel scenes, and a whole lot of wow from the comfort of your car. Great for families, date nights, or a low-key holiday evening.
�� https://bridgepointfarms.com/christmas-at-bridge-point-farms/

Don’t Miss the Season ��

December in Lafayette fills up fast — hotel rooms, rentals, and weekend availability go quickly once parade and festival weekends hit. If you’re thinking about a Christmas trip to Acadiana, book your Frontline short-term rental now so you don’t miss out on the best weekends, the best locations, and the best rates.

�� Reserve your stay today : https://www.frontlinelouisiana.com/short-term-rentals

Come experience Christmas in Cajun Country — we can’t wait to welcome you.

On the Front Line of Exploring Lafayette: Your Insider’s Travel Guide

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 03:43:14 GMT

Your go-to resource for discovering the culture, events, and year-round experiences that make Lafayette and the greater Acadiana area unforgettable.

Welcome to Acadiana, where the culture runs deep, the food is unforgettable, and every weekend brings a reason to celebrate. Whether you’re here for a short stay or an extended visit, Lafayette — the heart of Cajun Country and Acadiana’s “Hub City” — offers something special in every season.

Plan your trip and discover even more at LafayetteTravel.com .

Seasonal Festivals & Events

From Mardi Gras beads to boudin festivals, here’s your quick guide to the region’s signature celebrations.

February

Mardi Gras Lafayette – Parades, beads, and family fun all week long.

March

Celtic Bayou Festival – Irish meets Cajun with food, whiskey tastings, and music.
Patty in the Parc – Lafayette’s St. Patrick’s Day block party tradition.

April

Cycle Zydeco – A four-day bike ride through Cajun Country with food, fun, and festivals along the way.
Scott Boudin Festival – All things boudin, plus music and rides.
Festival International de Louisiane – Lafayette’s largest event of the year, with world music and art filling downtown streets.

May

Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival – A three-day celebration in the Crawfish Capital of the World, featuring nonstop Cajun and Zydeco music, dancing, local artists, cooking competitions, and all the crawfish you can eat.
Zydeco Extravaganza – Live zydeco all day, Cajun dancing all night.

October

Festivals Acadiens et Créoles – A celebration of Cajun and Creole music, food, and culture.
Blackpot Festival & Cookoff – Roots music, Dutch-oven cook-off, and camping under the oaks.

November

Southern Screen Festival – Film, music, and storytelling converge in downtown Lafayette.
Camellia Crossing: Acadiana’s Gleaux Run – A glowing 5K that lights up River Ranch, benefiting a local cancer services center.

December

LARC’s Noël Acadien au Village – A Christmas wonderland of lights in a recreated Cajun village.
Christmas at Bridge Point Farms – Family fun with festive lights and farm charm.

Year-Round Attractions

Even when the festival lights fade, there’s plenty to explore all year long:

Vermilionville – Step back in time at this living history village.
Moncus Park – Walking trails, dog park, splash pad, and weekly farmer’s markets.
Hilliard Art Museum – Contemporary and classic art exhibits near UL Lafayette’s campus.
Zoosiana – Lions, tigers, and giraffes — a perfect family outing.

Downtown Lafayette

The cultural heart of Acadiana, known for its award-winning restaurants, vibrant nightlife, live music, art walks, and year-round festivals. Whether you’re strolling through local shops or dancing to a zydeco band at a street concert, downtown delivers an unforgettable taste of Cajun Country. Visit their website to learn more.

Rock ’n’ Bowl Lafayette – Bowling, dancing, and live music under one roof.
Children’s Museum of Acadiana – Hands-on fun for the little ones.
Lafayette Science Museum – Interactive exhibits for curious minds.

Swamp & Cultural Tours

You can’t truly experience Acadiana without getting up close with its swamps and culture:

Cajun Country Swamp Tours
McGee’s Swamp Tours
Champagne’s Cajun Swamp Tours
Cajun Food Tours – Hop on a cozy bus and eat your way through Lafayette’s best local bites.

Worth the Drive

Make a day trip out of it — these Acadiana landmarks are worth the extra miles:

Avery Island: Home of TABASCO® & Jungle Gardens – Tour the TABASCO factory, then stroll through lush gardens filled with wildlife.
Evangeline Downs Racetrack & Casino – Horse racing, gaming, and fine dining just up the road.

Plan Your Stay with FrontlinE's Short-term rentals

From festivals to swamp tours, there’s no shortage of adventure in Lafayette and the surrounding parishes, affectionately known as Acadiana. Stay close to it all in a comfortable Frontline short-term rental — where Cajun hospitality meets modern convenience.

Ready to explore? Book direct for the best rates and local recommendations you won’t find anywhere else.

Where to Eat, Drink, and Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler in Lafayette

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 22:01:31 GMT

Whether you’re here for a weekend of boudin and live music or in town for work and want to eat like a local, this guide has you covered.

Welcome to Lafayette — a city where your taste buds will dance just as much as your feet. From spicy Cajun staples to swanky lounges, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite spots to eat, sip, and soak in true Acadiana flavor while you’re staying with Frontline Companies.

Cajun Must-Tries

These iconic spots deliver the flavor Lafayette is famous for:

Prejean’s (Carencro) – Legendary gumbo, seafood, and live music. If you want the “this is why people love Cajun food” moment, start here.
Don’s Seafood – Fried seafood platters, chargrilled oysters, and Lafayette heritage all in one place.
Riverside Inn (Broussard) – A local favorite for generations. Classy, cozy, and oh-so-Cajun.
Fezzo’s (Scott, Broussard, Crowley) – Family-friendly, always flavorful, and great for seafood platters and boiled crawfish in season.
Deano’s Pizza – Cajun-style pies that pack a punch. Try the Cajun Executioner if you dare.

Upscale Dining

Celebrating something special or just want to dress up and enjoy a great meal? These spots are perfect for a refined night out:

Vestal – High-end wood-fired cuisine and craft cocktails in the heart of downtown Lafayette.
Kasai – Sleek and modern, with top-tier sushi and yakitori grilled to perfection.
Ruffino’s on the River – Upscale Italian-Creole fusion with views, vino, and all the date-night vibes; located in River Ranch.

Brunch & Coffee Shops

Because nothing says “vacation” like a late-morning biscuit and coffee:

The French Press – Famous for their sweet/savory combos like the Cajun Benedict and the Breesus Boudin Biscuits.
Ruby Slipper Café – Mimosa flights, pancakes, and pure brunch joy.
T-Coon’s – Cajun breakfast favorites like boudin and biscuits with gravy.
Hub City Diner – Retro flair with family-friendly service.
Mel’s Diner – The 24/7 staple — comfort food, day or night.

Lunch Favorites & Day Drinking

Looking for something casual, crave-worthy, and easy between adventures? Come as you are and eat like a local:

Old Tyme Grocery – The shrimp po’boy is a tradition for many who travel through Lafayette, and is considered a must-try food when in the area.
Judice Inn – Iconic burgers with no fries, no ketchup, and no frills. This restaurant is considered a beloved local ladkmark with a long history.
Central Pizza & Bar – Unique, brick-oven pizza in downtown Lafayette, with favorite pies like the Voodoo Chili, Pauli, and Smore.
Spoonbill – Gulf Coast meets street food, served under breezy umbrellas, also in Downtown Lafayette.
Dwyer’s Café – Classic downtown diner full of local charm and authentic Cajun p late lunches that’ll remind you of mawmaw’s kitchen.
Agave Cantina or La Carreta – Tex-Mex with bold flavors and even bolder margaritas.
The Yard Goat – German-style, pet-friendly beer garden and kitchen with outdoor activities and plenty of TVs for all your college football needs.

Local Breweries

Acadiana knows how to brew. These spots bring the hops and the hospitality:

Parish Brewing Co. (Broussard) – Home of the famous Ghost in the Machine. Laid-back taproom, big flavor.
Bayou Teche Brewing (Arnaudville) – Cajun French beer labels, pizza, arcades, and live music outdoors. Family- and dog-friendly.
Adopted Dog Brewing (Lafayette) – The only brewery in Lafayette city limits brewing in-house. Family- and dog-friendly, with a spacious patio, live music several nights a week, and sports always on.

Live Music & Nightlife

Whether you’re in the mood for two-steppin’ or swanky sips, Lafayette’s got you covered:

Hideaway on Lee – Funky, eclectic, and full of local flavor (and food trucks).
The Palmyre – Elegant lounge with an ever-rotating lineup of live musicians.
Whiskey & Vine – Classy lounge meets lively jazz club, serving cocktails with a Southern twist.
Blue Moon Saloon – Live Cajun and Zydeco on a rustic back-porch stage.

Boudin & Cracklin: The True Acadiana Experience

Whether you're new to boudin or know your way around a casing, these stops are worth the drive (and the grease stains):

The Best Stop Supermarket (Scott, Broussard & Carencro) – The gold standard. Their boudin balls are crispy perfection, and their smoked boudin is legendary.
Billy’s Boudin & Cracklins (Scott & Carencro) – Famous for over-the-top stuffed boudin balls (think pepper jack, jalapeño, and even crawfish) and spicy boudin.
NuNu’s Fresh Market (Scott, Youngsville, Milton & Maurice) – Known for gourmet-style boudin and specialty meats. Don’t leave without a bag of chicken cracklin.
Don’s Specialty Meats (Scott & Carencro) – “Home of the Boudin & Cracklin.” A local favorite with a large selection of specialty meats.

Pro tip : Most locals hit more than one of these in a single trip. It’s called research.

Staff Picks from the Frontline Team

“A steak and raw oysters from Vestal, Old Tyme’s shrimp po’boy, and a Canebreak from Parish — that’s my holy trinity.” – Phil
“French Press for brunch; start with The Saint Mimosa and end with The Cajun Benedict! And I never tire of these Prejean’s menu items: Smoked Old Fashioned, Gator Bites, Shrimp Flatbread, Ahi Tuna, and Cajun Fried Rice.” – Maria
“Boiled crawfish and crabcakes from Fezzo’s are always a winner.” – Amanda
“Shrimp and grits from Don’s!” – Anna
“NuNu’s crawfish boudin is a must-try!” – Sherry

Hungry Yet?

The best part about staying with Frontline is that you’re just a short drive from all of these spots — and we’re always happy to point you in the right direction, help with reservations, or recommend what to try.

When you’re ready to plan your next trip to Lafayette, book direct with us for the best rates, local guidance, and a cozy home base in the heart of Cajun Country.

Laissez les bons temps rouler — and bon appétit. ��

Booking Direct in Lafayette, LA With Frontline

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 16:24:41 GMT

Why you can trust frontline and why booking direct saves you money

When you’re looking for a short-term rental in Lafayette, Louisiana, you want more than just a nice place to stay — you want peace of mind knowing you’re booking with people who truly care. At Frontline Companies, hospitality isn’t just what we do; it’s who we are.

Meet Phil — Your Local Host and owner of Frontline

Frontline Companies was founded by Phil Devey, who first came to Lafayette from Canada to pitch for the Ragin’ Cajuns at UL Lafayette. Like so many others who fall in love with Cajun Country, he decided to make it home.

Phil built Frontline on the values of hard work, hospitality, and heart — the same qualities that make this community so special. Whether it’s ensuring every detail is perfect before your arrival or being just a text away during your stay, our team goes the extra mile to make you feel like family.

Locally Owned and Always Here for You

Unlike big booking platforms or out-of-state property managers, we’re right here in Lafayette. That means when you stay with us, you’re not just another reservation number — you’re a valued guest and a neighbor.

We proudly manage beautiful homes across Acadiana — from Lafayette, Youngsville, Broussard, Scott, Carencro to the surrounding parishes — and we treat every property, tenant, and guest with genuine care.

When you need something, we are just a phone call away! You'll have 24/7 access and no request is too big or too small.

Why Booking Direct Is Better for You

Most travelers don’t realize that when you book through big sites like Airbnb or VRBO, you’re often paying hundreds more in service fees — with none of that money going toward your actual stay.

When you book directly through our website, you’ll:

Save on booking fees
Get our best available rates — guaranteed
Receive personalized service before, during, and after your stay
Stay in the loop with local specials, return-guest discounts, and insider tips

Booking direct isn’t just smart — it’s simple, safe, and supports a small, local business that genuinely values your trust.

Southern (and Canadian!) Hospitality, Every Step of the Way

Our guests consistently mention how immaculate, stylish, and thoughtfully stocked our homes are — but what they appreciate most is our responsiveness and personal touch . From check-in to checkout, we’re known for being quick to reply, easy to work with, and genuinely invested in every stay .

Many guests tell us that staying with Frontline feels effortless — like everything has been taken care of before they even think to ask. That same hands-on service is exactly what you can expect when you book direct with us.

Whether you’re here for business, a family event, or just to soak up Cajun culture, we’re honored to host you and help you make lasting memories.

As we like to say here in Louisiana, laissez les bons temps rouler — let the good times roll!

Ready to Book Direct?

Skip the booking fees and experience Lafayette hospitality at its finest.

�� Book direct with Frontline for your next stay in Acadiana.