fbpx
15 Jul 2024

St. Landry Parish Visitor Center Hosts Haitian Art Exhibit

2024-07-15T11:52:59-05:00

The St. Landry Parish Visitor Center, I-49 exit 23, in Opelousas is hosting a new art exhibit open to the public. Throughout July and August, visitors can see selections from the Haitian Art Collection of Glenn and Yvonne Stokes, the largest known collection of Haitian art in America.

“There is no written history of Haiti, but there is a wonderful visual art history,” said Glenn Stokes.

Stokes first started going to Haiti in the early 1970s for business involving his pest control company. He and his wife fell in love with Haiti and its people. They would travel to the country collecting paintings over the course of 30 years. His collection has been exhibited across the Southern U.S. and even Venice, Italy.

Stokes’ pieces at the center depict agricultural scenes of sugar cane and cotton all too familiar to Louisiana. Paintings of traditions unique to Haiti include voodoo ceremonies.

Saint Domingue, which would become Haiti in 1804, was the money-making powerhouse for the French in the Americas. West African slaves powered their sugar cane, indigo, and cotton trades. Rebellions on the island would inform policies and treatment of slaves and free people of color in Louisiana, increasing tensions. After the revolution in 1791, a mass exodus of people including free people of color from Saint Domingue made their way into Louisiana.

While only a few Haitian families would make it out of New Orleans into the rest of Louisiana, in St. Martin and St. Landry Parish, the De Léry-Chéniers, Dubreüils, Jardoins, Journées, Martels, Pécots, Pinta/Ménials, Sigur/Sigues, and Vitals can claim Haitian origins.

For future events involving the exhibit at the visitor center, check in at cajuntravel.com/events.

St. Landry Parish Visitor Center Hosts Haitian Art Exhibit2024-07-15T11:52:59-05:00
27 Oct 2023

A Haunted Louisiana Road Trip: 3 Locations and 3 Ghost Stories

2024-07-01T15:32:06-05:00

In a previous blog post “Haunted St. Landry”, the St. Landry Parish Tourist Commission collaborated with local paranormal investigative group, Louisiana Spirits, to connect history and evidence collected by the group’s investigations in St. Landry Parish. This Halloween, the Commission has collected 2 first-person accounts of unexplained phenomena and a piece of video evidence. You can visit where these stories took place and decide for yourself if what the accounts say are true.

Haunted Highway 359

Thistlethwaite Wildlife Management Area

Highway 359 is a stretch that travels alongside Bayou Wauksha, a small bayou that offshoots from the historic Bayou Courtableau. It creates a border for the Thistlethwaite Wildlife Management Area. The highway, surrounded by dark, wooded areas on one side and sprawling farmland and crawfish ponds dotted with lonely, country homes on the other, makes for driving that is as beautiful as it is isolating.

Stories along the highway range from seeing a ghostly “White Lady” that stands on the side of the road at night to shadow figures that frighten drivers. Today’s story comes from a resident, who would like to remain anonymous, that has lived along Highway 359 for three decades.

“We (the witness and her mother-in-law) were driving home from the casino one night when we saw something dark blocking the road about the size of a trash can. It was too late to switch lanes or swerve

Morning along Hwy 359

away, so we braced for impact because we were certain that we were going to hit it, but we just passed right through it. Afterward, we both looked at each other and said, ‘What was that!’”

Was this a mischievous shadow person or simply a trick of the light?

Highway 359 has picturesque scenes with crawfish ponds, which also make for great birdwatching opportunities with snowy egrets and other large wading birds being common sights.

Steamboat Warehouse Restaurant

Inside the Steamboat Warehouse Restaurant

Highway 359 turns into Highway 103 which takes you to Washington, the most haunted town in St. Landry Parish. You can’t mention the supernatural in this area without acknowledging the sheer amount of history and ghost stories that come from this historic steamboat town.

These days, Washington, the third oldest settlement in Louisiana, is updating with the times with a new pocket park and an electric vehicle charging station. However, with most of the town appearing on the National Historic Register, there’s no shortage of ghost stories from nearly every old home that line Mainstreet. Many date back to the 1800s. One of the more compelling stories comes from the popular restaurant, Steamboat Warehouse.

The restaurant has been inside the last of the old steamboat warehouses on Bayou Courtableau for over thirty years. Multiple teams of ghost hunters have recorded whistles, talking, singing and unexplained conversations. Chef and owner Jason Huguet has said that at the time of their visit, one team ranked the restaurant in their top 3 most active locations.

Workers and customers alike have reported strange experiences at the restaurant. Security cameras have even recorded activity, including this video shot after closing time.

It shows cups suddenly falling on a counter in the restaurant’s kitchen. Workers who were there at the time had no explanation.

The claims and evidence that have built up the restaurant over the building’s 200 years of history is substantial. It’s a guarantee that stopping for dinner will give you a meal to remember. Try Chef Huguet’s award-winning dishes Eggplant Belle Rose, Chicken and Sausage Gumbo, and Sidesaddle Angels.

Java Square Café

Seven Brothers Oak on Hwy 182

If you take Highway 182 out of Washington, it won’t be long until you reach Opelousas’ downtown area. On your drive, you can stop at the Seven Brother’s Oak, otherwise known as The Lastrapes Oak. This large and sprawling oak tree with multiple trunks pouring out of the ground is a part of both the National and State Live Oak Societies. It makes for a nice photo opportunity on the way to the next haunted locale.

In Opelousas’ Courthouse Square, several cafés and offices line the oak-strewn street. One of those cafés makes its home inside of an old bank from the 1920s, Java Square Café. Former employees of this café have reported everything from ghostly touches and door slams to unidentified noises and eerie feelings.

This specific account comes from a former employee who was closing the café one night. It was late, and her sister had come by to pick up the barista after her shift. The sister waited in the café’s main lobby while the barista completed her closing rituals in the kitchen. When the barista came back out to the main area, her sister remarked that she had fun whistling together with her.

Java Square Café Bank Vault

“But,” the barista told her sister, “I don’t know how to whistle.”

The two were alone in the café and the streets were empty. But someone had whistled along with the girl’s tune, turning a light-hearted moment between sisters into something unexplained and haunting.

Even if you don’t believe in the supernatural, the café is worth a visit with its Prohibition Era bank vault that’s open for visitors. Their coffee is pretty good too.

You can believe the accounts and evidence recorded here, or not. However, it is undeniable that all three locations work together to create a haunted road trip with classic Louisiana food and scenic driving.

If you’d like to expand your haunted road trip, there are plenty of locations with stories that we haven’t mentioned here. Give us a call at 337-948-8004 or email hawkins@cajuntravel.com, and we can help create your own haunted tour of St. Landry Parish. We’ll even throw in some non-haunted stops for you.

Mary Hawkins is the communications manager for the St. Landry Parish Tourist Commission. Contact her at hawkins@cajuntravel.com.

A Haunted Louisiana Road Trip: 3 Locations and 3 Ghost Stories2024-07-01T15:32:06-05:00
31 Jul 2023

Fun Photo Spots in St. Landry Parish

2023-10-26T16:06:25-05:00

From stunning natural scenery and native plants to murals, statues, and historic buildings, St. Landry Parish is a picturesque area with plenty of fun photo opportunities. Here are a few of our favorite places to catch a quick selfie.

Clovis Crawfish

Photo Spots in SLP - Clovis Crawfish
CFM Hall of Fame Museum
Eunice Depot Museum

First on the list is the Clovis Crawfish statue. This fun and happy statue of a large crawfish waves jauntily from the front of the Eunice Depot Museum in downtown Eunice. The crawfish is a 3D sculpture of Mary Alice Fontenot’s famous children’s story character, Clovis Crawfish. Snap a photo at the base of this statue before learning about the history of the area at the Depot Museum or the nearby Cajun French Music Hall of Fame Museum.

Hannah Gumbo’s Eunice Mural

Hannah Gumbo Mural

There is another great photo opportunity in the music city’s downtown. Hannah Gumbo’s Eunice Mural is a celebration of Eunice’s culture, featured in the famous artist’s signature style. Located amidst downtown boutiques and cafés on the corner of West Walnut and Second streets, the bright mural adds a vibrant twist to a day of shopping.

Jim Bowie Oak

Jim Bowie Oak

Speaking of picturesque downtowns, you can’t talk about photo-worthy spots without mentioning the Opelousas Courthouse Square. Among the towering oak trees that line the square is the Jim Bowie Oak nestled between Chicorys at the Palace and Wild Child Essentials. This oak tree is over 350 years old and is named after the infamous hero of the Alamo. Legend says he owned a blacksmith shop located on that site.

Java Square’s Bank Vault

Java Square Bank Vault
Java Square - interior
Java Square - milkshake

Mere steps away from the Jim Bowie Oak, you can find Java Square Café. This local café is a great spot to meet with friends, study, and enjoy some locally roasted coffee. This cozy café was a bank during the Prohibition Era. The owners have preserved its stunning large bank vault. Seclude yourself in the vault with a coffee and a good book or take a selfie behind the iron bars that used to house money.

Mary Hawkins is the communications manager for the St. Landry Parish Tourist Commission. Contact her at hawkins@cajuntravel.com.

Fun Photo Spots in St. Landry Parish2023-10-26T16:06:25-05:00
27 Jan 2023

Black Cowboy Talks Scheduled in St. Landry, Lafayette Parishes

2024-07-01T12:58:13-05:00

Documentary T-Galop to Be Screened at Cite Des Arts

Lafayette, LA: Black Cowboys played a major role in the settlement of the American West and are a significant part of today’s south Louisiana culture. Theodore Foster, PhD and assistant professor of history and African American Studies at Benedictine University in Chicago, will give Black Cowboy Talks in the days leading up to the February 13 performance of Cross That River, a concert musical that tells the story of a runaway slave who became a Black Cowboy.

The first Black Cowboy Talk is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on February 1 at the Washington Recreational Center, located at 705 South Bridge St., in Washington, LA.  The talks continue at 6 p.m. on February 2 at Maison Freetown, located at 800 E. Vermilion St. in Lafayette. At 1 p.m. on February 4, Foster will speak at the St. Landry Parish Tourist Center, located at 978 Interstate 49 South Service Rd, in Opelousas. These activities are free and open to the public.

At 6 p.m. on Thursday, February 9, PASA will screen T-Galop, Conni Castille’s documentary about Cajun and Creole Cowboys at Cite Des Arts, located at 109 Vine St. in downtown Lafayette. This event is also free and open to the public.

“At PASA, we are intent on giving our community insight into what we bring to our stage; to share what happens between the studio and the stage, and to pique—and respond to–the curiosity of our community,” says PASA executive director Jacqueline Lyle. “These studio-to-stage activities are free and we love it when our communities respond and turn out.”

The project also includes two daytime performances for Lafayette Parish School System students on February 14. Students and teachers receive classroom resources in advance of the performance. PASA’s daytime performances for students are supported by a generous grant from Love Our Schools.

The story of a run-away slave named Blue, who fled Louisiana for Texas, is at the heart of Cross That River, a musical play which will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, February 13 at the Heymann Performing Arts Center in Lafayette. Cross That River is part of the Performing Arts Serving of Acadiana’s (PASA’s) 2022-23 season. Tickets are available at the Heymann Performing Arts Center box office and at www.pasaonline.org.

Cross That River takes audiences on a powerful musical journey that represents a significant moment in American history when Black cowboys lived and helped settle the West. It’s a story that’s not been told before in this way.

In the concert musical, the unsettled West of the 1860s provides a new life and new dreams for Blue, a run-away slave, who escapes from slavery to Texas to become one of America’s first Black cowboys. This compelling tale of freedom integrates fiction with historical fact, and each song presents a different page in this complicated chapter of American History.

In addition to national touring, Cross That River will launch a four-week Off Broadway run in September 2023.

Award winning jazz musician Allan Harris, who enjoys a prolific career on the stages of jazz clubs and concert halls around the world, wrote Cross that River to tell this untold story of the Black West and to empower all Americans with an inspiring tale of hope and freedom.

The cast of Cross That River includes vocalists who portray the roles of the story’s characters, a band which includes guitar, violin, keyboard, guitar, bass and drums, creating a rich tapestry onto which the impressive vocalists weave this inspiring story.

The word “river” in literature often suggests an adventure; think of Huckleberry Finn and his journey on the Mississippi. The river in Cross That River symbolizes the removal of a slave’s chains; to cross that river is to cross from bondage to freedom. Blue’s journey is not without its trials and tribulations but his story is ultimately one of hope.

PASA’s Cross That River project is sponsored by Kinchen Funeral Home and Meritus Credit Union. PASA also received additional support through grants from the Louisiana Division of the Arts and Lafayette Consolidated Government, both administered by the Acadiana Center for the Arts, as well as a grant from the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation.

For more information about Cross That River and to find out how you can be a part of the PASA family, contact the PASA office at 337-769-3231 or email info@pasaonline.org

##

Allan Harris—the Brooklyn-born and now Harlem-based vocalist/ guitarist/bandleader/composer–has reigned supreme as one of the most accomplished and exceptional singers of his generation. A natural entertainer, Harris’s dynamic stage presence has made him a main-stay in concert halls, theaters, jazz clubs and jazz festivals around the world.  He has been called a “protean talent” by the New York Times and has established himself as one of the jazz world’s most acclaimed vocalists, with a potent combination of dynamic vocal abilities, impeccable phrasing, and powerful emotional resonance. Heralded by the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, The Atlantic, Glide Magazine, Jazz Times, DownBeat, and Vintage Guitar, Harris is a real story teller through authentic interpretations of the American Songbook, classic and contemporary jazz, popular standards, blues and originals.

Aptly described by the Miami Herald as an artist blessed with, “the warmth of Tony Bennett, the bite and rhythmic sense of Sinatra, and the sly elegance of Nat ‘King’ Cole,” the ample evidence of Allan Harris’s moving and magisterial artistry can be heard on his 14 recordings as a leader; his far-flung and critically-acclaimed concerts around the world, and his numerous awards, which include the New York Nightlife Award for “Outstanding Jazz Vocalist,” the Backstage Bistro Award for “ Ongoing Achievement in Jazz,” the DownBeat Critic’s Poll Award for “Rising Star Jazz Vocalist,” the Hot House Jazz Magazine “Jazz Vocalist of the Year Award” two years running, and the Harlem Speaks “Jazz Museum of Harlem Award,” a Back Stage Bistro award for “Ongoing Achievement in Jazz,” and France’s Palmares Award in 2019. Harris has received prestigious grants from Chamber Music America, Pathways to Jazz and South Arts.  He is a recent winner in the Sarah Vaughan International Vocal Competition.

Jacqueline Lyle
Executive Director
Performing Arts Serving Acadiana (PASA)
(337) 769-3231
Personal cell (337) 781-1273
P.O. Box 51974
Lafayette, LA 70505
Physical address: 2701 Johnston St., Suite 213, Lafayette, LA 70503
www.pasaonline.org

Copy of Cross That River Poster

Black Cowboy Talks Scheduled in St. Landry, Lafayette Parishes2024-07-01T12:58:13-05:00
30 Jun 2022

Crunchy Fried Chicken Country

2023-10-26T16:05:21-05:00

St. Landry Parish, Louisiana is known internationally for being a hub of culinary culture and heritage. Opelousas is the cradle of seasoning icon Tony Chachere and celebrity Chef Paul Prudhomme earning it the moniker, “Perfectly Seasoned”. Add multiple Creole restaurants, Cajun eateries in almost every town, and a host of festivals centered around food, and the culinary heritage is clear. Yet, one of the often-overlooked culinary specialties of this area is fried chicken.

While nearly every restaurant will have the crunchy-fried comfort food in one form or another, there are a few places that truly outdo themselves, and all of them are located within minutes of each other in Opelousas.

DezMeaux's Boudin-Stuffed Chicken

DezMeaux’s Boudin-Stuffed Chicken

DezMeaux’s stuffs fried chicken wings with boudin, a family recipe nicknamed that “razzle-dazzle” by local TV food influencer and zydeco musician, Gerald Gruenig. The chicken is perfectly crunchy and bursting with distinct flavor. At this carry-out-only boudin stop, you’ll want to order ahead because they sell out quickly.

Lines are long – around the clock – at two locations of Mama’s Fried Chicken, which has been serving a 2-piece dark for $2.69 for more than 45 years. The owners are part of a larger family of food entrepreneurs responsible for Targil’s Butcher Supplies and Seasonings, a spice plant, as well as Zydeco Chop Chop seasoning. With food credibility like that, it’s obvious why people keep coming back.

Soileau’s Dinner Club has dished out fried chicken and a stuffed potato, along with its signature Catfish Opelousas, for more than 85 years. Their fried chicken has near-legendary status in the community and still inspires leagues of loyal customers. It’s the perfect spot for a date night, special occasion, or family gathering.

In St. Landry Parish, there are plenty of opportunities to eat amazing food. These are just a few of our deep-fried favorites.

(Herman Fuselier, a longtime music journalist, is executive director of the St. Landry Parish Tourist Commission.)

Crunchy Fried Chicken Country2023-10-26T16:05:21-05:00
31 Mar 2022

The Clifton Chenier Centennial Celebration Project

2022-04-29T12:52:14-05:00
Clifton Chenier Centennial Committee Logo

Clifton Chenier Centennial Committee Logo

Call to Artists

Exterior Sculpture Project in Opelousas
The Clifton Chenier Centennial Celebration Project

PROJECT OVERVIEW

The Clifton Chenier Centennial Celebration Committee is seeking qualified artists or artist teams to submit qualifications to design and implement an exterior, site-specific piece of artwork of original design to be located in Opelousas at the site of Le Vieux Village/city entrance located at 828 East Landry St. Opelousas, LA, 70570.  The installation will be in early spring of 2025. Full proposals are not required at this time, therefore, please only submit those materials described under submission requirements.

MISSION

The mission of the Clifton Chenier Centennial Celebration is to honor the 100th anniversary of the birth of zydeco trailblazer Clifton Chenier, an Opelousas native, through special projects and activities. The birthdate is June 25, 2025.

BACKGROUND AND HISTORY

The committee is excited to help create a work of art that pays tribute to the “King of Zydeco”. We are looking for artists to design and create an outdoor sculpture that will be installed at Le Vieux Village, located just off the main entrance to downtown Opelousas.  The artwork should also complement the building and surrounding space. Le Vieux Village is a historic park featuring a collection of restored historic homes and buildings from Opelousas and the surrounding areas of St. Landry Parish.  The village depicts the unique and diverse cultural heritage that is Opelousas.  Although the village showcases structures from the mid-19th century and early 20th century and even a building from the late 18th century, the history of Opelousas goes back long before these dates when Native Americans, known as the Opelousa Indians, inhabited the area.

Originally from Opelousas, Louisiana, Clifton Chenier was dubbed the “King of Zydeco”—and often wore a crown and cape during performances. A significant force in evolving and popularizing zydeco around the world, Chenier infused into his music elements of rhythm and blues with his chromatic piano accordion, giving zydeco an updated sound. Accompanied by the syncopated rhythms of brother and rubboard player Cleveland Chenier, Clifton’s music exploded in the dance halls of Texas and Louisiana. In 1983, he received a Grammy award for his album, I’m Here! In 2014, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award.

SCOPE OF WORK

Artwork will be selected based on the art selection team’s preference for work that is:
· Inspired by the artist’s cultural or ethnic heritage
· Utilizes the concept of storytelling within the imagery
· Reflective of the culture and spirit of Opelousas’s diverse population
· Created from metal, (including reclaimed materials)

ELIGIBILITY

Open to experienced and professional artists over the age of 18 years regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, military status, sexual orientation, marital status, or physical or mental disability. Artist teams are eligible to apply. Special consideration will be given to Louisiana artists, as defined by La. R.S.25:9000.1(E).

HOW TO APPLY

Application materials must be received by June 15, 2022 via online submission

A complete application must include:

Artist résumé demonstrating a minimum of five (5) years of professional visual art experience. If submitting as a team, a current résumé should be submitted for each team member.

Statement of interest describing:

  1. Why you are interested in this project
  2. Previous experience with public art
  3. Your methods of working
  4. Your connection (if any) or interest Opelousas-St. Landry Parish area
  5. How you believe the art will enhance the chosen space

References that include the names and current contact information for three (3) individuals with whom you have worked, collaborated, or who have commissioned your work in the past.

Images (3) of your original completed commissions, not proposals, which demonstrate your qualifications for the project. You must include the title, medium, dimensions, project budget (price), location, and a description.

Up to 3 videos (optional) of work examples

Image specifications: JPG, PNG – Maximum size per image 5MB.

BUDGET

The proposal selected by the committee will include an all-inclusive estimated budget of $50-60,000 to cover all costs associated with the project, which includes but is not limited to, research, travel and meetings, reports (maintenance), design, materials, fabrication, engineering consultation, lighting, transport, and installation.

SELECTION PROCESS & EVALUATION CRITERIA

The Clifton Chenier Centennial Committee may include (but is not limited to) representatives from the Louisiana Division of the Arts and/or regional Arts Council.

Submissions are evaluated by the following criteria:

Artistic excellence and originality as evidenced by the representations of past work images and other supporting materials

Appropriateness of artist’s medium, style, and previous experience as they relate to the project goals and setting

Experience with projects of a similar scale and scope

Availability to participate in the design and implementation of the project as required

Special consideration will be given to Louisiana artists as defined by La. R.S.25:9000.1(E)

NOTIFICATIONS & PROPOSALS

Notifications will be issued by June 15, 2022. A full timeline of the project will be provided to those artists selected to submit full proposals.

The full proposal must include the concept, materials, size, weight, installation requirements, details of maintenance, and budget. The proposal must also include digital renderings, which display the physical volume of the space and allows for multiple perspectives of the artwork within the space.

Proposed Timeline –
Submission dates:  April 1, 2022 – May 15, 2022
Finalist notified for proposal by:  June 15, 2022
Proposal Due:  July 2022
Installation completed by: April 2025

To submit a proposal, please email the following to tourism@cityofopelousas.com
Please include Clifton Chenier Centennial Celebration Project in your subject line.

The Clifton Chenier Centennial Celebration Project2022-04-29T12:52:14-05:00
13 Jul 2021

Top 5 Bayou Side Eateries

2023-10-26T16:03:32-05:00

The Louisiana outdoors is well known for its lush swampland and legendary bayou waterways. So much of the local food culture comes from the water, be it catfish from rivers and bayous, seafood from the coast, or crawfish from flooded rice fields. St. Landry Parish has a national waterway, the Bayou Teche, that runs directly through several communities. While the Teche may be the most famous of our bayous, the Bayou Courtableau has a history that put a 300-year-old steamboat town, on the map.

Along our waterways, you can find eateries ranging from fine dining to hole-in-the-wall local markets. Take to the water with your kayak or boat and ease up to these bayou side waterfront dining experiences.

1. The Little Big Cup

The Little Big Cup, located along the Bayou Fuselier in Arnaudville, is the best place to get a waterfront dining experience if you’re looking for something upscale right on the water. Their outdoor patio goes right down to the bayou. Colorful vegetation surrounds the outdoor area and you get a beautiful view of Bayou Fuselier before it connects to its more famous sister waterway, the Bayou Teche. There’s more food than you can handle at their weekend brunch buffet. You can only get this menu on Sundays. It has delicious praline fried chicken and waffles and a crème brûlée French toast that you must try. Match them with one of their flavored mimosas that come in blueberry, mango, grapefruit, watermelon, pineapple, cranberry, and blood orange.

During the week, there’s nothing stopping foodies and locals from ordering their famous Cajun Kevin Poboy. This house specialty is toasted French bread that has been hollowed out and stuffed with sauteed Gulf shrimp, lump blue point crab meat, Louisiana crawfish tails, and andouille sausage that is simmered in mixed pepper, parmesan, butter, and cream reduction. You might pair this with one of their signature cocktails like the Bees Knees containing a blackstrap rum, Campari, pineapple juice, lime, and simple syrup. You could also try their Arnaudville Cosmo, vodka, pineapple, lime, and cranberry juice with triple sec.

Little Big Cup, Arnaudville, Louisiana
Little Big Cup, Arnaudville, Louisiana
Little Big Cup, Arnaudville, Louisiana

2. Steamboat Warehouse

The Steamboat Warehouse Restaurant lies along the Bayou Courtableau which contributed to the town of Washington‘s reputation as a steamboat town. There are 300 years of history in Washington and the twists and turns of the ages can be felt in the walls of the historic building. This 1820s era warehouse was transformed into a restaurant in the 1970s. The restaurant is now owned by chef Jason Huguet who has won several awards for his dishes.

One fan favorite at the Steamboat Warehouse includes their Sidesaddle Angels, which has won gold medals in the past. This appetizer includes four jumbo shrimp stuffed with oysters, wrapped in applewood smoked bacon & fried crispy golden, and served with their homemade New Orleans style remoulade sauce. While you may not be able to dine as you watch the bayou at the Steamboat, its outdoor patio that overlooks the historic waterway is the perfect post-dinner or lunch stroll.

Steamboat Warehouse Restaurant, Washington, Louisiana
Steamboat Warehouse Restaurant, Washington, Louisiana
Steamboat Warehouse Restaurant, Washington, Louisiana

3. Myran’s Maison de Manger

Based in Arnaudville, Myran’s Maison de Manger‘s menu includes Louisiana culinary favorites, like poboys and crawfish, but there’s more to Myran’s than these classic Cajun foods. This family-owned establishment has been around for over 40 years, serving up its own seasoning with a blend of salt, red pepper, black pepper, and garlic. They are also famous locally for their breakfast special, the Egg-O-Myran. This sandwich has scrambled egg and chopped ham, all topped with cheese and served on a bun with mayo, lettuce, and tomato.

The Bayou Teche is right outside with an outdoor eating area that juts out over the waterway. A floating dock is located nearby, making the restaurant easily accessible for those traveling the bayou.

Myran's Maison de Manger, Arnaudville, Louisiana
Myran's Maison de Manger, Arnaudville, Louisiana
Myran's Maison de Manger, Arnaudville, Louisiana

4. Champagne’s Marche

This local Leonville market has been around since 1926 and is well-known locally for its delicious king cakes, a traditional oval-shaped cake that is eaten during Mardi Gras season. Some flavors that you can expect include amaretto pecan, Bavarian cream, and chocolate. The store has plenty more foods for you to try including daily plate lunches.

This market is located right across from the Leonville Bayou Teche Kiosk where a floating dock and boat launch are readily available for anyone to start their trek down the Bayou Teche.

Champagne's Marche, Leonville, Louisiana
Champagne's Marche, Leonville, Louisiana
Champagne's Marche, Leonville, Louisiana

5. Bourque’s Supermarket

For over 70 years, Bourque’s Supermarket has brought specialty meats to Port Barre at the birthplace of the Bayou Teche. The dish that brings people back for more is their famous Jalapeno Sausage and Cheese Bread. This loaded bread is the perfect picnic food packed with cheese and their homemade sausage. Tear yourself a piece and eat it on the go.

Bourque’s is conveniently located right near the floating dock and boat ramp that marks where the Bayou Courtableau turns into the Bayou Teche. The stretch of bayou from Port Barre to Leonville is known for its leisurely pace and prime birdwatching opportunities. Catch wood ducks, large wading birds, Mississippi kites, and neotropical songbirds during migration season.

Bourque's, Port Barre, Louisiana
Bourque's, Port Barre, Louisiana
Bourque's, Port Barre, Louisiana

If you’d like to make a weekend of trying all the flavors of the bayou, check out these accommodations from nearby hotels to intimate bed & breakfasts and primitive campgrounds, and RV Parks.

Mary Hawkins is the communications manager for the St. Landry Parish Tourist Commission. Contact her at hawkins@cajuntravel.com.

Top 5 Bayou Side Eateries2023-10-26T16:03:32-05:00
7 Jun 2021

King of Zydeco Honored with Clifton Chenier Day

2022-04-29T12:55:32-05:00

Clifton Chenier Centennial Committee

For Immediate Release

June 2, 2021               

 

KING OF ZYDECO HONORED WITH CLIFTON CHENIER DAY

 

OPELOUSAS, La. – Clifton Chenier, the Grammy-winning King of Zydeco, has a day named in his honor. On May 25, the Louisiana House of Representatives adopted a resolution that proclaims June 25, from 2021 through 2025, as Clifton Chenier Day.

Chenier, a multiple-Grammy honoree, was born June 25, 1925, near Opelousas. 2025 marks the 100th anniversary of Chenier’s birth.

Honoring that landmark date is the purpose of the newly-formed Clifton Chenier Centennial Committee, which submitted the resolution to Rep. Dustin Miller (D-Opelousas). Introduced as House Resolution 129, the designation was read by title and passed by the House.

The resolution heralds Chenier and his Red Hot Louisiana Band for “extraordinary musical accomplishments” and the creation of a “distinct musical style not only for the state of Louisiana but for the world…” Chenier’s accomplishments include a 1983 Grammy for his “I’m Here” album, 1984 National Heritage Fellowship, 2011 induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame for the “Bogalusa Boogie” album and 2014 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

“Clifton Chenier is one of the most decorated musicians to come out of the state of Louisiana,” said Herman Fuselier, executive director of the St. Landry Parish Tourist Commission. “Countless musicians, from today’s zydeco players to Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones, have claimed Chenier as a major influence.  The music world changed the day Clifton picked up an accordion.”

“Clifton Chenier has played such a critical role in the development of zydeco music as well has also helped to shape the history of our area,” said Melanie Lebouef, city of Opelousas tourism director. “Because of this, it is important to properly honor his legacy and contributions.

The Centennial Committee began meeting in January to discuss potential projects and activities related to the 100th anniversary of the late Chenier’s birth. Members include Herman Fuselier, executive director of the St. Landry Parish Tourist Commission; Melanie Lebouef, director of the City of Opelousas Tourism; Rod Sias and Lola Love of the Zydeco Historical and Preservation Society; Patrick Guillory of the Original Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Music Festival; Paul Scott, zydeco music enthusiast; Felicia Chenier of Morgan State University and Chenier’s granddaughter; and Tracey Antee, founder of Gumbo Life.

The Chenier resolution is also scheduled on the June meeting agendas of the St. Landry Parish Council and Opelousas City Council.

The mission of the Clifton Chenier Centennial Celebration is to honor the 100th anniversary of the birth of zydeco trailblazer Clifton Chenier, an Opelousas native, through special projects and activities.

CONTACT: Herman Fuselier, 337-948-8004
Melanie Lebouef, 337-948-5227

Clifton Chenier Bogalusa Boogie
King of Zydeco Honored with Clifton Chenier Day2022-04-29T12:55:32-05:00
8 Feb 2021

Terrance Simien Trivia Contest

2021-02-10T09:41:28-06:00

The parades, tours, and public revelry of Mardi Gras have all been put on hold until 2022. But that won’t stop the music from playing.

Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience, and special guest Marcella Simien, will be performing live from Vermilionville Performance Center in Creole country – Lafayette, LA. Join them live this weekend.

February 13, 2021
7:30pm CST/8:30pm EST
48-hour access to the stream if you can’t join us live.

Starting at 7:30, before the performance begins at 8:00, the audience will have a backstage pass to the band with greetings and brief interviews, as well as a lively discussion about the Creole Mardi Gras traditions of south Louisiana.

This livestream event promises to be a memorable night of music, fun, and togetherness.

The first 20 participants to answer this trivia question correctly will get a free ticket emailed to them. Enter your name and email address below along with your answer. (If there is a number in the answer, please spell it out. Please capitalize your answer.)

    Terrance Simien Trivia Contest2021-02-10T09:41:28-06:00
    22 Dec 2020

    Holiday Sweet Dough Pies

    2023-10-26T16:01:46-05:00

    Nestled along sleepy Grolee Street in the Zydeco Capital of the World lies a not-so-hidden gem. Yam Country Pies is an unassuming bakery that is a popular stop for homemade traditional and folded pies. The holiday season is its busiest time of the year.

    During the Thanksgiving season alone, the family-owned business bakes thousands of pies. People line up in the bakery’s now socially-distanced, outdoor line for a taste of the Hertzock family’s prized pies. With soft and sweet pie crusts that fit into your hand, lightly spiced with flavor and fillings that make your mouth water, it is no wonder why people keep coming back for more.

    The all-time favorite flavor of local pie enthusiasts is definitely sweet potato. Sweet potatoes were one of the historically important crops of St. Landry Parish, alongside sugar cane and cotton. There was even an entire festival surrounding the starchy spud. The Opelousas Yambilee festival was created in 1946 and celebrated the sweet potato with parades and music. It remained a beloved tradition in the parish until 2012. We now know the title of yam to be a misnomer for the iconic sweet potato. But the name does remind one of a time when everyone was crazy for this classic food. It is only natural that a bakery that upholds tradition would adopt the name as well.

    Despite its name, Yam Country Pies has a diverse range of flavors, including lemon, apple, custard, and peach. You can even request specialty flavors, like blackberry and fig, two more traditional flavors of St. Landry Parish. Another fan favorite is their sweet dough tea cakes. These soft, cookie-like biscuits are melt-in-your-mouth tasty and go perfect with an afternoon coffee.

    The Hertzock family treats the public with recipes that have been around for over 50 years. What started in the cafeteria of the Holy Ghost Catholic Church is now a family-run operation that you can order from online. Patricia, the family matriarch, and her children, Lucretia and Conrad, take care of the business and the baking. This exemplary family also includes Darla Montgomery, who has been a familiar figure on TV in Acadiana since 1992. You can catch her on KLFY TV 10 where she anchors the 5pm, 6pm, and 10pm newscasts.

    In hard times, the success of one local bakery can become the heartwarming boost that lets us know everything is going to be okay. Plus, the pies are very tasty.

    Mary Hawkins is the communications manager for the St. Landry Parish Tourist Commission. Contact her at hawkins@cajuntravel.com.

    Holiday Sweet Dough Pies2023-10-26T16:01:46-05:00

    St. Landry Parish Visitor Center
    Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm

    337.948.8004
    978 Kennerson Road (I-49 exit 23)
    P.O. Box 1415 • Opelousas, LA 70570

    Visitor Guide (En)
    Visitor Guide (Fr)

    Privacy Policy  |  Copyright St. Landry Parish Tourist Commission  |  Fraud Report
    Go to Top