A cool evening at Girard Park made it a perfect evening to kick off Festivals Acadiens et Creoles. The entire event kicked off with the Boudain cutting. Many people came up to the stage for their free slice. Soon after the stage came alive with the music of Jo-el Sonnier.
The grills and deep fryers were already fired up and serving up the best that cajun country had to offer. Some volunteers at the event were eager for there chance to experience it all.
Chyna Washington and Alyssa Babineaux were both looking forward to the live bands and also the cajun food.
Surrounding the area were tents of all sizes. One group of people put theirs out extra early to ensure getting their spot.
"We always kept getting pushed back. We set it up on Wednesday. We have all of our family and friends coming out here," Pam Gaspard said.
Her group of friends has made it a yearly tradition to get together for Festival Acadien. They were telling stories of how great the event is even when it was pouring rain, and they were dancing in the mud. Inez Hebert knows that this weekend will be another one they'll never forget
"We love an excuse to party!"
Event organizers say this will be the biggest and best festival in its 38 year history.