The little town of Lutcher has made a tradition of its own, and celebrates its Festival of the Bonfires on the second weekend of December each year. Call it Christmas lights, Cajun style; it's a prelude to the Christmas Eve bonfires later in the month.

Friday night festivities include an always-popular gumbo cook off, plus a potato salad showdown and bread pudding bake-off. A live band will play, with bonfires lit on the levee at 7 pm. Saturday’s schedule extends to a gingerbread house contest, photos with Santa, an array of performances and music by local bands. Saturday bonfire time is 7 pm. The popular Million Mutt March (a dog walk to benefit the Ascension Animal Shelter) sets things off with a “woof” on Sunday morning, followed by a car show and more live music, and a final bonfire at 6 pm. 

Admission costs $4, with kids under ten and seniors admitted free. Lutcher Recreation Park on LA Highway 3193. www.festivalofthebonfires.org.