Good morning, Lafayette.

A Lafayette 10-year-old recently donated three bags of stuffed animals to the Carencro Fire Department to help comfort children during emergencies like house fires and vehicle crashes, as the toys will be kept on trucks for use during calls.

Data compiled by Downtown Lafayette shows that last year more people visited from 6 to 10 a.m. and from 3 to 9 p.m. while visits after midnight dropped; executive director Jessica Hauerwas said the shift confirms it is a daytime hub for local retail, dining, and events.

Trader Joe’s confirmed two new Louisiana stores; a third 16,500 sqft location in Lafayette at 1710 Camellia Blvd is rumored to open with a construction competition set for April 20 according to documents from Developing Lafayette.

New data shows downtown Lafayette visitor patterns shifting as more people visit in the morning and late afternoon and fewer visit at night.

Officials reported 2.4 million visits so far — with Thursday through Saturday seeing reduced foot traffic.

The 10th annual King Cake Party will take place tomorrow, Jan.

17 at The Black Bull in Youngsville from 2 to 5 p.m., where residents can taste king cakes from local bakeries and home bakers and vote for the People’s Choice winner.

Al Hebert visited VaCajun in Branch to review the Mardi Gras costumes, hats, and regalia made each season + his report from Bayou Vermilion District spotlights local craftsmanship as the region prepares for festive celebrations.

Lafayette Public School System Superintendent Francis Touchet Jr. was named one of 30 superintendents to watch by the National School Public Relations Association for his effective leadership and clear communication.

He will be honored at the NSPRA national seminar in New Orleans in July.

UL Lafayette has launched its presidential search and seeks input from faculty, students & alumni and community members.

The committee approved a timeline with a Feb. 11 application deadline, Feb. 19 semifinalist reviews, and on-campus interviews Feb. 23-24.

Louisiana regulators approved Meta’s power plan for a $27 billion data center in Richland Parish, but local groups say a new financing plan may raise costs for residents (Meta could exit after four years instead of 15).

The Public Service Commission will review the concerns amid Entergy’s strong assurances.

Coastal Carolina Chanticleers at Louisiana Ragin Cajuns Women's Basketball

5:59-9:59 p.m. — CAJUNDOME & Convention Center — Check the scoreboard as the home team faces the Chanticleers in a thrilling women's basketball matchup.

Candlelight Tribute to Queen and The Beatles

6-7 p.m. — Petroleum Club of Lafayette — Tickets required — Experience enchanting candlelight performances of legendary hits by Queen and The Beatles.

Hadestown Show

7:30 – 9:30 p.m. — Heymann Performing Arts Center — Ticket information available — Experience the acclaimed musical where a song can change your fate.

The Rest & Renewal Experience

11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. — Enterprise Business Center of Louisiana — Ages 18+ — A curated experience centered on vision and connection to release the weight of 2025 and move into 2026 with renewed direction.

Mardi Gras Mambo II

1-3 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $30 per person — Enjoy a family-friendly art session in a lively atmosphere.

Courir de Mardi Gras

10 AM – 4 PM — Lafayette Parish Bayou Vermilion District — Free entry — Experience a vibrant family-friendly Mardi Gras run with traditional music and gumbo gathering.

Roux Fest Gumbo Cookoff

5-8 p.m. — Blackham Coliseum — Proceeds support local nonprofits — Experience a vibrant gumbo showdown blending tradition and innovation with live music.

The Hub Lafayette Runwell 5K Walk/Run

8 AM – 12 PM — Geaux Run by Fleet Feet — Registration fees apply — Enjoy a family-friendly 5K and Kids Fun Run in Lafayette.