Festival International de Louisiane

For the past fifteen years, the last full week of April has been synonymous with Festival International de Louisiane hosted by the south Louisiana city of Lafayette. This unique festival celebrates the blend of French, African-Caribbean, and Hispanic influences which have flavored local culture in the Cajun Heartland.

Festival International de Louisiane is an experience that combines Southern hospitality and Cajun fun with international mystique. The 2001 program featured the unique talents of over 500 musicians and other artists from various Francophone (French-speaking) parts of the Americas, Canada, Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean. An estimated 200,000 people attended from far and near to be entertained, educated, inspired, and delighted by the sights, sounds, and flavors of the festival.

Since its 1986 inception, Festival International has been held annually in the heart of Cajun country during the last full week of April. With family-friendly, culturally-stimulating events, most of the festival's activities are held free of charge for the general public's enjoyment. To offset costs, organizers offer colorful pins and posters which have become popular collectors' items. The spirited community celebration is made possible by the hard work of about one thousand dedicated volunteers and an active non-profit cultural alliance.

At scheduled times during the festival's five days, local and international performers shared the spotlight on several music stages in downtown Lafayette. Talented singers, unusual instruments, colorful native costumes, and captivating rhythmic sounds attracted large audiences. The Cajuns' tradition of foot-loose outdoor dancing turned many interested onlookers into happy participants.

Festival International also focused on the visual arts of the French-speaking world. Local galleries featured an Art Walk exhibition of fascinating works by local and world artisans. Beautifully handcrafted items were displayed and sold at boutiques on the festival grounds, where visitors were also encouraged to learn more about Acadiana's Francophone heritage by taking part in cultural workshops.

No festival in south Louisiana would be complete without an abundance of great food, and Festival International always offers a variety of gastronomical rewards. Cooking demonstrations were presented by famous international chefs, and culinary delights were available at the food court and beverage stands. Impromptu entertainment by street musicians and animators added an informal touch to the festivities.

Festival International de Louisiane has grown to become the biggest cultural observance of its kind, and it is a treat for the senses and the soul. Many Cajuns feel that the festival is even more enjoyable than Mardi Gras, and it just doesn't get much better than that in Acadiana!

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