Good morning, Lafayette.

International students Charyyeva and Chowdhury experienced their first Krewe of Rio Mardi Gras parade today in Lafayette, enjoying beads, crawfish, and Cajun dishes (their introduction to local hospitality) as they embraced Acadiana traditions.

Downtown Lafayette's DTA is hosting a Mardi Gras Weekend Kickoff with live music from Dustin Dale Gaspard and opener Certified Blues, along with food trucks, STEM activities, and a parade.

The event will take place Friday, Feb. 13, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Parc Sans Souci.

Fifth graders at J.W.

Faulk Elementary are taking part in a Dress for Success event today to learn etiquette and professionalism after receiving donated attire — they will then dine at Bailey’s Restaurant at noon to practice table manners.

A statue honoring Gov. Kathleen Blanco was unveiled as part of a permanent exhibit at the Bayou Teche Museum in New Iberia on Saturday, Feb.

7. Family members and local leaders gathered to celebrate her trailblazing career.

Lafayette Parish secured over $14.5 million in federal funding for economic development, emergency preparedness, and infrastructure modernization.

Over half the funds will support the Johnston Street Revitalization Initiative, which will improve roadway, safety, and drainage near downtown and the UL Lafayette campus.

After icy delays left several UL women's players missing in Akron, the team skipped practice to review film and staged an 82-71 win; meanwhile, the men's team won 85-80 at home and the Cajuns enter a four-game winning streak ahead of Thursday's Coastal Carolina contest.

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.

SPE International Conference on Formation Damage Control

February 18-20 — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Lafayette — Check website for cost — A conference focusing on engineering challenges in formation damage control.

Chris Thomas King Concert

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Acadiana Center for the Arts — Ticketed event — Experience the soulful sounds of Chris Thomas King, a significant figure in folk blues history.

Ragin' Cajuns All Girl Cheer Clinic

3:00–6:00 p.m. — EK Long Annex — Registration required — Elevate your cheer skills with hands-on training and recruitment opportunities led by experienced coaches.

Candlelight Concert: Coldplay vs. Imagine Dragons

6:00-6:59 p.m. — Petroleum Club of Lafayette — Tickets required — Experience a magical evening of live music featuring the hits of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons.

NoCap Live in Concert

9 p.m. — The District Event Center — No refunds — Experience an electrifying night with NoCap live in Lafayette.

Shadows Arts & Crafts Festival

9 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Shadows-on-the-Teche — $5 admission for adults — Browse original hand-crafted items and enjoy local food and drinks in a beautiful garden setting.