Fourth of July in Acadiana
They've been here since before it was a country, and they know how to pass a good time.
to
Lafayette, La Lafayette, Louisiana 70506
Zuza Galczynska
The Grand Dérangement, in which the Acadians were expelled from British-conquered territories in today's Canada, took place just 21 years before the United States decided it was time to do some kicking the British out of somewhere, so one can imagine a certain... extra saltiness in some Cajun Fourth of July celebrations. By now, though, the holiday is mostly about the same things it is everywhere - spending time outdoors with your friends, love of country, fireworks, and grilled meat. But it still hasn't lost that extra Cajun zest.
Erath
Independence Day Cajun Carnival: June 30-July 4, One of the oldest Fourth of July celebrations in Acadiana, this Cajun Carnival in Downtown Erath is set to be chock full of rides, fais do dos, Fire Department water fights a fun run, a parade, and more! Cap it all off with a fireworks display the evening of the 4th at 9pm. erath4.com.
Jennings
Stars & Stripes Festival: July 3, An outdoor community festival with live music from 4 pm–9 pm and a "Celebrate America" Fireworks Show at the Louisiana Oil & Gas Park in Jennings. jeffdavis.org.
Youngsville
Fireworks at the Pond: July 3, Meet at Sugar Mill Pond at 5:30 pm, and before lighting up the night, enjoy live music, family-friendly activities, face painting, pony rides, and more. Fireworks to start at 9 pm. youngsville.us.
Lafayette
Uncle Sam's Jam: July 3, Enjoy live local tunes from Chubby Carrier & the Bayou Swamp Band, DG & The Freetown Squad, and DJ RV. Settle in to Parc International with food and drink offerings from nearby restaurants and bars—all tipping a hat to old Uncle Sam and to the Downtown Lafayette Restaurant & Bar Association while we're at it. Fireworks will light the sky at the end. 5 pm. socialentertainment.net.
New Iberia
Salt Water Fishing Rodeo: July 4–6, A yee-haw good time on the water, come full circle with a bit of fais do-do under the pavilion (for an extra independence vibe, call the fish "Cecil" and make fun of its teeth). Quintana Boat Launch (337) 207-6206 or IberiaRodAndGunClub.com.
Fourth of July Parade: July 4 , Patriotic harmonies are set to make their way through Bouligny Plaza in honor of the birth of our nation. An Honor Guard ceremony will follow. Downtown New Iberia. 2 pm–5 pm. (337) 367-0308. iberiatravel.com.
Lake Charles
Red, White, Blue & You Celebration: July 4, Voted one of the "STS Top 20 Events" for the month of July by the Southeast Tourism Society—this festival celebration paints the town patriotic with a star-spangled street parade, live music, concessions, face painting, and a huge fireworks display over the lake. 6 pm at the Lake Charles Civic Center. visitlakecharles.org.
Broussard
Independence Festival: July 4, A big ole birthday party for the nation, Broussard-style. Family friendly activities and fireworks at the Broussard Sports Complex. 6 pm–9:30 pm. business.broussardchamber.net.
Eunice
Eunice Fourth of July Fireworks Show: July 4, For over thirty years, former Eunice Mayor and licensed pyrotechnic Kenneth Peart has orchestrated a thirty minute spectacular for the town on July 4. Come out and watch the show at the Eunice Recreation Complex, 461 Sittig Street. 9 pm–10 pm. cajuntravel.com.
Krotz Springs
Fireworks on the River: July 4, The name says it all—head out to the Atchafalaya for a sportsman's paradise fireworks show in Nall Park, 562 Front Street.. The little town goes the whole nine yards with hot dogs, watermelon, and live local music. 6:30 pm–8 pm. cajuntravel.com.