Cajun Connections in the Heart of Acadiana

The story of Acadiana is its people, and the people of Acadiana are its story. Nowhere is this more evident than in St. Martin Parish, “where Cajun began.” The art, the music, the food: Everywhere you look (and listen, and taste), the Cajun joie de vivre is kicking, and cher, it’s contagious.

Whether you are looking to explore family roots or are just interested in the Cajun story, the beginning is a very good place to start. Located in St. Martinville, the Acadian Memorial commemorates the forced exodus from Acadie (modern day Nova Scotia) that founded today’s Acadiana. The Memorial showcases information on the families that made the journey as well as genealogical resources for those exploring Acadian ancestry. For bonus points: Visit St. Martinville’s Evangeline Oak, named for the heroine of Longfellow’s epic poem on the Acadian exile.

If all that history makes you thirsty, head on down the road to Bayou Teche Brewing in Arnaudville for a locally brewed pint. Here, the brothers Knott get down to the serious business of enjoying beer the Louisiana way--with food, family, and fun.

“We started [brewing beer] to go with the food and the lifestyle we grew up with—our family’s been here forever and it’s important to us,” says Karlos Knott. He adds in typical South Louisiana spirit, “We figure if we enjoy something, other people will enjoy it as well. And we’re having a great time!”

Without even leaving Arnaudville, you can find another unique expression of creativity and connection at the NUNU Collective. Rural small-town Louisiana may not be the first place that comes to mind for an experimental arts collective, but NUNU was grown from the roots of the community and makes it a mission to nurture those roots. The collective incorporates a variety of elements, including art, business and ecological development, and Louisiana French heritage, to bring out the best in its members and the surrounding society. Art and other group workshops are available, as are potluck socials, Francophone open mics, and all manner of engaging activities. Check their events calendar and see how you can jump into the fun!