Photograph by Cedric Angeles
We arrived in Beaumont in time for ice cream desserts at La Real Michoacana before heading to our first RV park, Hidden Lake. We attempted to connect the RV to power and water but quickly realized that we did not know how. Undeterred, we set out our new camp chairs under oak and yaupon trees, opened cold drinks, and enjoyed a quiet night, a yellow moon, and the sweet sound of killdeers. I could hear more birdsong and trucks on the highway, a symphony of “almost to Louisiana.”
The mysterious beeping started again as we crossed the state line and headed to the small city of Breaux Bridge, eight miles east of Lafayette. Settled by Acadians around 1771, the “Crawfish Capital of the World” every May hosts the Crawfish Festival, at which you can enter a crawfish-eating contest the record is 55 ¾ pounds in 45 minutes or simply watch the parade and listen to zydeco and Cajun bands.
New Iberia is rich in Cajun culture and experiences that will make lasting memories.
Situated south of Lafayette and north of the rich Gulf waters of Vermilion Bay, New Iberia abounds with Cajun cuisine, mom-and-pop diners, swamps to explore and so much more. Iberia Parish, of which New Iberia is the most populous city, was one of the first regions to be settled by the Acadians French-Canadian refugees who arrived in south Louisiana in the 1700s, better known today as Cajuns. Their rich cultural history, paired with unforgettable scenery and hospitality, makes New Iberia one of the most fascinating places to explore in Louisiana.
Fun Things to do in Louisiana This Weekend
It s the last weekend before Christmas and it s time to have some fun while you re wrapping up your last-minute holiday details. Many of us have been cooped up for months due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. This puts us in a pretty unusual position because us Louisiana folks like to get out and about at this time of year. If you feel like busting out for some adventure, safely of course, then the folks at our Louisiana Tourism Department have some amazing suggestions for you this weekend, December 18-20. If a stay-cation is your thing, then check out some of the fun events below across Louisiana. I m adding in a few favorites of my own, and updating if I see more merry things scheduled.