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1 Jul 2024

Slim’s Y-Ki-Ki Zydeco Music Fundraiser Event

2024-07-18T13:06:00-05:00

The Clifton Chenier Centennial Committee presents this live music event on Tuesday, July 23 at Arpeggios Lounge & Event Center in Opelousas, Louisiana. This fundraising event is part of ongoing efforts to restore the famous Louisiana dancehall, Slim’s Yi-Ki-Ki.

The event features live performances by local zydeco musicians Big Nate, C.J. Chenier, Rockin’ Dopsie Jr., Anthony Dopsie, Lil Jeff Boutte, Corey Ledet, and R.J. Smoove.

Doors open at 5:30pm and music starts at 6pm.

Slim's YKIYKI fundraiser poster
Slim’s Y-Ki-Ki Zydeco Music Fundraiser Event2024-07-18T13:06:00-05:00
28 Mar 2024

Tucka James Music Fest

2024-03-28T16:17:39-05:00

This Mother’s Day weekend in Opelousas at Evangeline Downs Racetrack & Casino, the King of Swing Tucka returns to present the 2nd annual TUCKA James Music Fest featuring 16 artists and two shows.

On Friday, May 10, it’s the Big Country Takeover starring Lil Nate, Arthur Young, Rusty Metoyer, David Sylvester Jr., Adrian Bagher, Mike Broussard, and King Fred.

On Saturday, May 11, “King of Swing” Tucka performs with Lenny Williams, J Paul Jr., Big Pokey Bear, Mr. Hot Topic, FatDaddy, Mr. Smoke, Dee Dee Simon, and Mz. Suga.

For ticket info visit: https://TuckaFest2.eventbrite.com

Tucka James Music Fest2024-03-28T16:17:39-05:00
25 Mar 2024

Fête de la Chaudiere Noir – Black Pot Cook-Off

2024-03-28T13:05:17-05:00

Prepare your taste buds and mark your calendars for an unforgettable cultural experience! École Saint-Landry invites locals and visitors alike to the inaugural Fête de la Chaudiere Noir! – Black Pot Cook-off, a vibrant celebration of Louisiana’s rich heritage. The festival is scheduled to be held at the Sunset Community Center on Saturday, April 6 starting at noon. This event promises a day filled with family-friendly activities, live music by acclaimed artists including The Cedric Watson Trio and Steve Riley Trio, and, of course, the highlight of the festival – the Black Pot Cook-Off.

“Now that we’re in our third year, we’re ready to start our own school traditions, and what better way to to start with a black pot cook-off? We look forward to spending time with our community and school families while also taking time to make notes on how to make the festival better each and every year.”

Festival-goers will have the opportunity to tantalize their taste buds with an array of delectable dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or simply a food enthusiast, individuals and teams are invited to showcase their culinary skills in categories such as Meat Dish, Vegetarian Dish, Dessert, and Side Dish. With both public and judge’s choice prizes, including cash rewards of up to $200 per category, the competition promises to be fierce and flavorful. The event is free but tasting tickets will be available for $10 per 5 tastings.

Link to Competitor and Vendor Application & Guidelines can be found HERE.

By participating in this event, attendees will not only enjoy a day of festivities but also contribute to the preservation of Louisiana’s cultural heritage and the advancement of education in the community. Proceeds from the fundraiser will go towards the renovation of the historic Sunset High, transforming it into École Saint-Landry’s upper elementary school building. École Saint-Landry is one of only three full French immersion schools in all of Louisiana. We look forward to welcoming you for a day of food, music, and community that promises to be truly unforgettable.

More about École St. Landry:
École Saint-Landry accepts students of all abilities. École Saint-Landry does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, religion, national origin, disability or gender in its educational programs and activities (including employment and application for employment), and it is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of gender by Title IX (20 USC 168) and on the basis of disability by Section 504 (42 USC 794).

To learn more about École St. Landry or the event, contact info@ecolestlandry.org or visit ecolestlandry.org.

Fête de la Chaudiere Noir – Black Pot Cook-Off2024-03-28T13:05:17-05:00
22 Feb 2024

Western Ball at the Yam

2024-02-22T15:43:48-06:00

Get your cowboy on at the Yambilee in Opelousas on Saturday, March 16th. It’s a battle of the DJs with DJ Potato and Dumb D versus Lil Jack and Titanic. There will also be a zydeco, swing out and bounce contest. 

Doors open at 7pm, but the show starts at 10pm. Western wear is required to enter. For more information, you can contact Mike Broussard at 337-384-4219.

Western Ball at the Yam2024-02-22T15:43:48-06:00
26 Jan 2024

Lil’ Nate L’Argent Chicken Run Dance

2024-01-26T13:01:11-06:00

Lil’ Nate & the Zydeco Big Timers return to Opelousas, Louisiana to revitalize the traditional L’Argent event with this chicken run dance at the Yambilee. Taking place on the Saturday after Mardi Gras on February 17th from 9pm til the early morning hours of the next day, this event allows you to recapture that Mardi Gras feeling.

On-site there will be a food truck as well as a photo booth so you can eat delicious food while you capture the moment with friends and loved ones. With a cash bar, you can party all night long.

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased early here.

Lil’ Nate L’Argent Chicken Run Dance2024-01-26T13:01:11-06:00
9 Jan 2024

Zyde Gras on the Square

2024-02-14T12:39:51-06:00

On March 4, it’s time for the 3rd annual Zyde Gras on the Square in Opelousas, Louisiana. This Mardi Gras celebration features zydeco legend,  Keith Frank and the Soileau Zydeco Band. Frank will be performing under the oaks at the St. Landry Parish Courthouse Square immediately following the Opelousas Imperial Mardi Gras Parade.

At Zyde Gras on the Square, enjoy live zydeco music, delicious food as well as arts and craft vendors. This event is free for the entire family. 

Check out nearby accommodations.

Zyde Gras on the Square2024-02-14T12:39:51-06:00
8 Nov 2023

Lâche Pas Boucherie Grand Coteau

2023-11-09T13:34:45-06:00

Head out for an unforgettable weekend of fun and feasting at the Lâche Pas Boucherie in Grand Coteau.

Get ready to indulge in 3 days of mouthwatering Cajun cuisine and experience the vibrant culture of Louisiana. Check out the full weekend schedule below, including preparing and sharing of meals, live music, food demonstrations, panel discussions, and much more. The event will take place at Buzzard’s Prairie, the Grand Coteau Boucherie site, where you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and a lively atmosphere. Camping is optional and recommended.

Bring your friends and family to enjoy incredible music by Corey Ledet, Drew Landry, and Curly Taylor while you dance and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of our region.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to savor authentic Cajun flavors and create lasting memories. See you there!

Lâche Pas Boucherie Grand Coteau2023-11-09T13:34:45-06:00
1 Sep 2023

Stage Unveiling Concert

2023-09-21T15:02:02-05:00

The Ag Arena Stage Unveiling Concert is set to take place on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at the St. Landry Ag Arena, located at 1939 W. Landry Street in Opelousas, Louisiana. This event marks the official debut of the newly constructed Ag Arena Stage and will be a night of comedy and music that the community won’t forget.

The concert will be hosted by the dynamic duo, K-Chill and Uncle Luck, who are guaranteed to keep the crowd laughing and entertained all night long.

One Trick Pony will begin at 6:00 pm, Mike Broussard is scheduled to start at 8:30 pm, and the one and only Cupid will take the stage at 11:00 pm.

*Parking for this event is available at the venue for a fee of $10, with no additional admission costs.

Don’t miss out as we unveil the stunning new Ag Arena Stage in style. Join us for a night of music, entertainment, and community celebration. Make sure to mark your calendars for Saturday, September 23, 2023, and get ready to experience the magic of the Stage Unveiling Concert.

This event is hosted by St. Landry Parish Government.

Stage Unveiling Concert2023-09-21T15:02:02-05:00
18 Aug 2023

Louisiana Boil Meat Festival

2023-09-25T14:45:40-05:00

Get ready for the Louisiana Boil Meat Festival taking place on Saturday, October 21st this fall at the Yambilee AG Arena in Opelousas. It’s your chance to taste delicious boiled meat dishes enhanced with Louisiana Cajun and Creole spices. There’s more to do at this festival than just eat. Shop vendors and dance to zydeco music in the place where the iconic genre was born. If your dance moves make the cut, you could even win a trophy for best zydeco solo dancer or couple.

Live music performers include Marcellus the Singer, Cam’Ron Ballou & Darker Shades of Zydeco, Koray Broussard & Z-Unit Zydeco, Leon Chavis & the Zydeco Flames, and Lil’ Nathan & the Zydeco Big Timers. You’ll also hear beats from DJ Byron and DJ Sypho.

Talented chefs and vendors will be serving up a variety of mouthwatering dishes, including crawfish, shrimp, crab, and more. For those who want to compete, the entry fee is $250. The food will be judged on cleanliness, presentation, time, unique flavors, most liked, 10/10 rating review, and professionalism. 1st prize is $1000, 2nd prize is $500, and 3rd prize is $250. For vendor and contest information call 985-662-1053.

Not only will the top 3 cook-off winners get a trophy, but the best-dressed cowboy and cowgirl and the furthest traveled.

Gates open at 11am, but it’s recommended that you get there early. Tickets are $30 at the gate, but kids 12 & under get in free. You can get your tickets early here.

Stay for the weekend at the Holiday Inn Express in Opelousas for a special rate. See other accommodations here.

Louisiana Boil Meat Festival2023-09-25T14:45:40-05:00
16 Jun 2023

Tribute to Clifton Chenier

2024-06-05T15:09:26-05:00

On Saturday, June 22, St. Landry Parish Tourism and the Opelousas Museum pay tribute to Clifton Chenier through art and music.  A larger-than-life cutout image of Clifton Chenier will be unveiled, designed by Opelousas Artist Theon Guillory.  The June Zydeco Jam for Clifton Chenier will be led by CJ Chenier, known as the Crown Prince of Zydeco and son of Clifton Chenier.  The free-to-attend tribute is part of the St. Landry Parish Zydeco Capital Jam, monthly jam sessions open to players of all skill levels.  This year, the celebration takes place at the Opelousas Museum, 315 N Main St., Opelousas, LA 70570

In 2000, the Louisiana State Legislature designated Chenier’s hometown of Opelousas as the Zydeco Music Capital of the World. In 2021, June 25 was declared Clifton Chenier Day in the state by the Louisiana state legislature.  Chenier, the “King of Zydeco” who won a Grammy in 1983 and earned a Lifetime Achievement Award, was born June 25, 1925, near Opelousas.  His hard-driving, ground-breaking style of zydeco music is celebrated worldwide.

Chenier’s son, C.J. joined his father’s band on his 21st birthday.  When Clifton died in 1987 his son, C.J., adopted the Red Hot Louisiana Band and recorded his debut album for Arhoolie Records.  C.J. Chenier has won many awards for his music including multiple Grammy nominations.

Artist Theon Guillory’s designs were highlighted in Opelousas Main Street’s Fiddle Mania public art exhibit in 2012.  For two years he was named the winner of The Daily Advertiser’s Mardi Gras Cover and was later selected as the poster artist for Games of Acadiana.

Sponsored by St. Landry Parish Tourism, this event takes place at the Opelousas Museum, 315 N Main St., Opelousas, LA 70570.  FMI: Patrice Melnick 337-948-2589; museum@cityofopelousas.com

Tribute to Clifton Chenier2024-06-05T15:09:26-05:00

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)

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