Festivals
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Plan your fall getaway around one of Lafayette's culture-focused festivals like the Latin Music Festival and Festivals Acadiens et Creoles, showcasing Latinx, Cajun, and Creole culture through music, dancing, and family fun. If food festivals make your mouth water, check out Gulf Brew, and Blackpot Festival & Cook-Off for first-hand culinary experiences you won't forget. If traveling with the family, be sure to check out the Bayou Vermilion Boat Parade and Southern Screen for the outdoor and storytelling enthusiasts in your family.
Music
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No matter when you plan your fall getaway to Lafayette, there will be live music every night of the week in one of the many dancehalls, restaurants, or bars that showcase the area's rich music scene. Whether you're visiting during the week or the weekend, there's a good chance a free concert series is happening. From the midweek Mercredi Show in Carencro to the family-friendly Friday lunchtime Bach Lunch in Downtown Lafayette, followed by Downtown Alive! later that evening, there's always a stage and a dance partner. You'll hear everything from traditional Cajun and zydeco to swamp pop, and contemporary sounds during your fall getaway.
Outdoor
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Cooler temperatures make fall the perfect time to enjoy Lafayette's natural side without the summer heat. Spend the morning at Moncus Park, where you can stroll scenic trails, fish in the pond, or let the kids enjoy the playground and splash pad. Discover native flora and fauna along the boardwalks at Acadiana Park's Nature Station along the banks of the Bayou Vermilion. For a more immersive experience, book a swamp tour or paddle through the quiet bayous and wildlife-rich waters of Lake Martin, where birdwatching and even alligator sightings await.
Food
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Fall in Lafayette is a feast for the senses, serving up iconic Cajun and Creole dishes alongside a growing scene of craft beer, rum distilling, and international cuisine. It's no wonder this flavorful destination has been named "The Best Culinary Towns in the South." Explore with your taste buds first by diving into one of the many food trails in the area, including boudin, plate lunches, po-boys, and more! If you're looking for a more guided experience, check out Cajun Food Tours for a deeper taste of the region's culinary roots.
Culture
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Lafayette's cultural heritage is on full display in the fall, offering visitors a chance to experience the stories, art, and traditions that define the area. Step back in time at Vermilionville or Acadian Village, living history museums that bring to life the daily experiences of 18th- and 19th-century Acadian, Creole, and Native American cultures. Explore Downtown Lafayette's vibrant art scene at the Acadiana Center for the Arts or venture to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette to visit the Hilliard Art Museum, home to rotating exhibitions and permanent collections.
