R. Reese Fuller

Festivals Acadiens changes its name

by R. Reese Fuller

Last year, Festival Acadiens developed its own board and became its own nonprofit organization. This year, the group has changed its names to Festivals Acadiens et Créoles.

Since the late '70s, the musical event that's taken place every early fall in Girard Park has generally been referred to as Festival Acadiens, but the musical performances are actually just one aspect of the festival.
The Cajun and Creole Music Festival component presents the best contemporary bands in both genres, with an annual theme that focuses on various aspects of the history and development of the music. The festival features two major stages, the Festival Stage and the Heritage Stage, along with a workshop area sponsored by Louisiana Folk Roots, and new this year, a dance hall stage, complete with a wooden dance floor.

The Bayou Food Festival component features dishes from a wide range of South Louisiana restaurants and caterers, representing traditional and contemporary Cajun and Creole cuisine.

The Louisiana Crafts Fair hosted by The Louisiana Crafts Guild features numerous traditional art & craft demonstrations, a children's "hands on" make-n-take area, and an impressive array of some of the finest arts and crafts being produced in the state today.
This year's festival runs from Oct. 10-12.