Work hard, play hard. That's our tradition here in French Louisiana. From Mardi Gras and Friday afternoon fais-do-dos (street dances), to festivals celebrating everything from Cajun and Zydeco music, crawfish and our French heritage, you'll find something every week in Lafayette.
Downtown Alive!
May 16, 23, 30 & Jun 6
Downtown Lafayette comes alive with a series of outdoor concerts for the entire family. Downtown Alive! is the biggest and best downtown tradition. Remaining schedule: 5/16 - Charlene Howard (R & B); 5/23 - Red Beans & Rice Revue (Gulf Coast Roots Rock); 5/30 - Cedric Watson & Friends (Zydeco); 6/6 - Michael Juan Nunez and the Riverbabys (Blues/Rock).
Parc Sans Souci or Parc International, Lafayette
Free. Vendors @ 5:30 pm; performances 6-8:30 pm
337-291-5566, www.downtownlafayette.org
Rhythms on the River
May 15
Enjoy live music in the Town Square every Thursday evening from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Food and drink available (no ice chests please). Featuring Marcia Ball.
River Ranch Town Square, Lafayette. Free. 5:30-8:30 p.m.
337-216-6529, www.riverranchdevelopment.com
La Musique de la Ville
May 22 & June 5
Smoke-free dances at Vermilionville 5/22 - Geno Delafose & French Rockin' Boogie; 6/5 - Lost Bayou Ramblers.
Vermilionville, Lafayette. $6. 7-10 p.m.
337-233-4077/866-992-2968, www.vermilionville.org
Southern Open
May 10 - Jun 26
This is a juried exhibition featuring artists from the five southern states of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida. The exhibit will showcase mixed media pieces, including paintings, drawings, pottery, photography, video, folk art and more.
Acadiana Center for the Arts, Lafayette
Members free, adults $5, students & seniors $3, 5-17 $2, 4 & under free. Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
337-233-7060, www.AcadianaCenterfortheArts.org
Movies in the Parc
May 24
Outdoor film series held under the stars. This event is family-friendly, featuring classic films appropriate for all ages. Please bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and any other creature comforts. 5/24 - "Hairspray".
Parc International, Lafayette
$2 per person; children 5 and under Free. Gates open at 7 pm; Movie starts at 7:30 pm
337-291-5566, www.downtownlafayette.org
Lafayette Concert Band presents: Songs of Remembrance
May 25
Join the Lafayette Concert Band for a musical celebration of Memorial Day as we remember and honor our American heroes.
Parc International, Downtown Lafayette
Free. 6:30 p.m.
337-989-1279, www.lcband.org
Sports & Outdoors
Camellia Crossing 5K
May 16
The one mile fun run begins at 7pm with the 5K starting at 7:15pm. This competetive event is open to everyone. The race starts and finishes on the River Ranch side of the Camellia River. Packet pick up for individuals registered by NOON on May 13, will be on Thursday, May 14 from 9am-4pm at Miles Perret Cancer Services. Race Day registration begins at 6pm in the Town Square of River Ranch. After the race, join the celebration at the Town Square in River Ranch. Enjoy live music by The Nik L Beer Band, dancing and GREAT food!
River Ranch, Lafayette
Entry Fee is $25 ($30 after May 12). 6-10 p.m.
337-984-1920, www.gamesofacadiana.org
Bayou Boat Tours
Thru May 31
Explore the rich cultural heritage and natural history of Bayou Vermilion in Lafayette on the "Cocodrie." Hosted by the Bayou Vermilion District and casting off from its Vermilionville Heritage & Folklife Park, the guided tour is a partnership between the Acadian Cultural Center of the Jean Lafittte National Park and Preserve and the Bayou Vemilion District of Lafayette Parish. Reservations encouraged.
Vermilionville, Lafayette
Two packages are available for boat tour only or boat tour, lunch and village tour. Tues.-Sat., 10:30 a.m.-noon.
337-233-4077/866-992-2968
Live Thoroughbred Horse Racing
May 1 - Sep 1
Post time approx. 6:20 p.m. (Wednesdays-Saturdays).
Evangeline Downs Racetrack & Casino, Opelousas
Admission required for Clubhouse entry. 6:20 p.m. - until
337-594-3000, www.evangelinedowns.com
Ragin' Cajun Baseball
May 15-17: UL Lafayette vs. New Orleans. Th. 6:30 p.m.; Fri. 6:30 p.m.; Sat. 2:05 p.m.
May 21-24: UL Lafayette vs. TBD. Sun Belt Conference Championship.
M.L. "Tigue" Moore Field, Lafayette.
337-265-2357, www.ragincajuns.com
The Juliet Boutique Hotel
To experience The Juliet Boutique Hotel is to bask in elegance, intimacy and hospitality.