There's No Truer Statement: Home Is Where Mardi Gras Is!

Your Community Guide to Carnival Season

Laissez les bons temps rouler! Mardi Gras season is here, and Acadiana is alive with the spirit of Carnival. Whether you're a longtime resident or new to our vibrant community, this season brings us together in celebration of our unique Cajun and Creole heritage. From the traditional Courir de Mardi Gras in Church Point to the spectacular parades rolling through Lafayette, there's something magical happening in every corner of our region.

As your neighbor and real estate professional, I'm excited to share this guide to help you experience the best of Acadiana's Mardi Gras traditions. These celebrations are what make our communities so special—they're the heartbeat of home.

Experience Authentic Cajun Traditions

Want to see Mardi Gras the way it's been celebrated for over 260 years? The Courir de Mardi Gras—a centuries-old tradition brought by Acadian settlers—offers a glimpse into our region's rich cultural heritage. Unlike New Orleans-style parades, these chicken runs feature masked riders traveling the countryside, begging for ingredients to make communal gumbo.

Church Point Courir de Mardi Gras

The Church Point Courir is one of the most authentic celebrations in Louisiana, attracting up to 40,000 spectators. Costumed riders on horseback travel from farm to farm, led by Le Capitaine, chasing chickens and gathering ingredients for the evening gumbo. The day culminates with a parade through downtown Church Point at 1 PM, followed by music, dancing, and community celebration.

Date: Sunday, February 15, 2026

Location: Saddle Tramp Riders Club, Church Point

Link To Event

Other Traditional Events:

• Eunice Courir de Mardi Gras – One of the most famous, with a five-day Cajun Mardi Gras Festival leading up to it, featuring Cajun musicians, accordion contests, and traditional boucherie.  The Eunice Courir de Mardi Gras in 2026 will take place during the main festival, running from Friday, February 13th to Tuesday, February 17th, 2026,  with the traditional courir (chicken run) happening on Mardi Gras Day, Tuesday, February 17th, as part of the larger celebration
• Mamou Courir de Mardi Gras – The Mardi Gras events in Mamou are a quintessential Cajun celebration of food, music, and community before Lent begins. 
• Vermilionville Courir – Sunday, February 8, 2026.  A family-friendly interactive experience where you can learn about and participate in this medieval tradition.
• Lake Arthur Courir & Parade – The 27th Annual Mardi Gras Parade in Lake Arthur will be held on Saturday, February 7th.  What makes Lake Arthur's celebration special is its authentic Cajun flavor and small town charm. 

Authentic Costumes at Le Vieux Moulin

If you want to truly experience the traditional Courir de Mardi Gras, you need the right costume. Located in Church Point, Le Vieux Moulin Mardi Gras Store is a local treasure that has been keeping Cajun traditions alive for over 20 years.

Costumes are created by hand, spending 24-36 hours on every piece. These aren't mass-produced costumes—each one is unique, featuring traditional capuchons (the iconic cone-shaped hats), hand-stitched fringe, and screen masks crafted in the authentic style.

The attention to detail is remarkable. Each costume is made with loving care. What makes Le Vieux Moulin special is that no two costumes are made from the same fabric—each is truly one of a kind. The shop has shipped costumes around the world, from France to Pennsylvania to London, England, sharing authentic Cajun culture globally.

📍 Location: 402 W Canal Street, Church Point, LA 70525

📞 Phone: 337-684-1200

Local Tips for Enjoying Mardi Gras

• Plan parking early: Downtown Lafayette and Church Point have limited parking. Check with local police departments for no-parking zones and arrive early. 
• Bring the essentials: Sunscreen, water, comfortable shoes, and a bag for catching beads and throws.
• Check weather updates: Some parades may be rescheduled due to weather. Follow local news for the latest information.
• Support local: Visit local restaurants for gumbo, king cake, and traditional Cajun cuisine. Many offer special Mardi Gras menus!
• Stay safe: Watch for flying beads (!) , designate a driver if celebrating with adult beverages, and keep children close in crowds.

Why Mardi Gras Is Important To Our Community

Mardi Gras in Acadiana isn't just about parades and parties—it's about community, heritage, and the spirit that makes this region home. From the handmade costumes at Le Vieux Moulin to the centuries-old traditions of the Courir, these celebrations connect us to our past while bringing neighbors together in the present.

As someone who loves this community and works in real estate, I see firsthand how these traditions make Acadiana special. They're part of what makes people want to call this place home—the warmth, the culture, the sense of belonging.

Whether you're considering making Acadiana your home or you've been here for generations, I hope you'll get out and experience the magic of Mardi Gras this season. Let the good times roll!