The sounds of fiddles, accordions and washboards will once again fill the air at Girard Park as Festivals Acadiens et Créoles returns Friday, Oct. 10, through Sunday Oct. 12.
Celebrating its 51st year, this free, three-day festival honoring Cajun and Creole heritage brings together the best in local music, food and art — and it remains one of the most beloved cultural gatherings in the South.
Here’s what to expect
A Celebration of Louisiana’s Living Traditions
Born out of a grassroots effort in 1974 to preserve Cajun and Creole music, Festivals Acadiens et Créoles has grown into a world-renowned event that attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year. Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time guest, this year’s lineup promises an authentic experience steeped in rhythm, flavor and community spirit.
Five Stages of Music
From the driving beat of Zydeco to the haunting beauty of Cajun fiddle tunes, five stages across Girard Park will host continuous live music all weekend long. Festival favorites will return alongside fresh collaborations and up-and-coming artists who keep Acadiana’s traditions vibrant and evolving.
Bayou Food Festival
No Louisiana celebration is complete without its culinary delights. Culture Sur la Table will host live cooking demonstrations from local chefs, serving up everything from classic rice and gravy to inventive Cajun-Asian fusion. Around the park, festival-goers can indulge in gumbo, jambalaya, boudin, cracklins, and other Acadiana favorites.
Louisiana Crafts Fair
Art lovers can browse the Louisiana Crafts Fair, featuring handmade jewelry, textiles, woodwork, and fine art that reflect the region’s deep cultural roots. It’s the perfect spot to find unique keepsakes while supporting local artisans.
Family-friendly and free
Thanks to generous community sponsors, Festivals Acadiens et Créoles remains free and family-friendly. Kids can enjoy hands-on activities, while adults take in cultural exhibits or join a lively dance under the oaks.
Tour de Attakapas
Before hitting the dance floor, warm up with a little exercise. The Tour de Attakapas takes off at 8 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, at Girard Park (Audubon Boulevard) with 5K, 10K, and Duathlon options (run–paddle–run). Registration is open online or onsite at www.laTRAIL.org.
Festivals Acadiens et Créoles Annual Symposium
The Hilliard Art Museum will host a day-long symposium from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, exploring how Cajun and Creole cultural movements have influenced popular culture — from early radio to modern art and language revival efforts. Artists, educators, and community leaders will share stories and insights on the ongoing evolution of Louisiana’s creative spirit.
Acadian Art Exhibit at the Hilliard
Also at the Hilliard, CORRESPONDANCE: A Reflection of the Movement of the Acadian People Throughout Time brings together Acadian artists from around the world to explore heritage, resilience, and joy. Presented by Franco Fine Arts Exchange, the exhibition runs through Nov. 8, 2025.
Louisiana Sports Tent
Sports fans can catch their favorite teams under the Louisiana Sports Tent while soaking up the festival atmosphere:
- Saturday, Oct. 11: UL Ragin’ Cajuns vs. James Madison Dukes (time TBD)
- Saturday, Oct. 11: LSU Tigers vs. South Carolina Gamecocks (time TBD)
- Sunday, Oct. 12: New Orleans Saints vs. New England Patriots, 12 p.m.
If You Go
Dates: October 10–12, 2025 Times: Friday, 5–9 p.m. | Saturday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m. | Sunday, 10 a.m.–7:30 p.m. Location: Girard Park, Lafayette, Louisiana Admission: Free and open to the public More Info:www.festivalsacadiens.com…