Good morning, Lafayette.

Picard Park in Milton reopens with new amenities including four pickleball courts, updated restrooms, a shaded picnic area, ADA-accessible parking, and a concession stand (located at 130 Park Lane) to boost community gatherings.

The Teche Center for the Arts holds its annual Spring Market at 210 East Bridge Street in Breaux Bridge today, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; over 20 booths will offer arts, crafts, and unique gifts ($5 admission fee).

LUS Director Jeff Stewart said the system is buying natural gas and electricity now to manage potential price increases this winter due to instability in global LNG supply (after the Qatar facility bombing and ongoing conflict in Iran).

Current rates remain steady.

At Comeaux High School, which will close at the end of the year, some of its 700 students toured Southside High School today to meet teachers, explore the campus, and learn about extracurricular activities as they prepare to transfer to new schools in Lafayette, Acadiana, and Southside.

The Lafayette Career Center has streamlined its machining program to let students earn industry certifications using computer-aided design and machining techniques without needing a costly CNC mill (applications for the 2026-2027 school year are accepted until April 1).

Louisiana higher education officials reported that state colleges face an $850 million shortfall as fixed budgets have not kept pace with inflation, leaving schools like UL Lafayette with severe deficits and lawmakers planning only limited new spending to ease rising tuition.

Spring is in full bloom as nine top spots showcase native wildflowers and exotic plants this season — one local highlight is the Azalea Trail winding through Lafayette neighborhoods.

City residents can choose from trails, gardens, and preserves to enjoy nature at its peak.

Lafayette Consolidated Government offers subsidized rain barrels to residents of Lafayette and unincorporated areas until April 24 or while supplies last: one barrel costs $44 and extras cost $59, with pick-up May 2 from 8 a.m. to noon at the Dean Domingue Compost Facility on Dugas Road.

Yesterday, Al Hebert visited Ema's Café to sample the famous Cajun Benedict made with Louisiana crawfish— a dish that locals drive miles to taste.

The visit was featured on Friday Feed at the popular local spot.

2026 Louisiana Environmental Conference and Trade Fair

8 AM – 12 PM — CAJUNDOME & Convention Center — Registration required — Explore vital environmental regulations and network with industry professionals.

Candlelight: Tribute to Adele

8:30-9:45 p.m. — Petroleum Club of Lafayette — Get your tickets now to relive the music of Adele in a magical candlelight setting.

Easter Fest

4-7 p.m. — Moncus Park — Free entry — Celebrate Easter with family-friendly activities and community fun at Moncus Park.

Bark in the Park 2026

11 AM – 3 PM — Girard Park — Donations welcome — Celebrate pets and community with food, vendors, and adoptions for a great cause.

Swan Lake

7-10 p.m. — Heymann Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience love and magic in this timeless ballet performance.

Troy Trojans vs Louisiana Ragin Cajuns Softball

4-10 p.m. — Yvette Girouard Field at Lamson Park — Check local listings for ticket prices — Cheer on the Ragin Cajuns in a thrilling softball matchup against the Troy Trojans.

Cliff Cash Live Stand-Up Comedy

7:30-9 p.m. — Club 337 — $25 plus taxes/fees — Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian Cliff Cash, known for his appearances on Comedy Central and Sirius XM.

Matthew Broussard Live Comedy Show

7-7:30 p.m. — Club 337 — $20 — Watch comedian Matthew Broussard deliver his unique blend of humor and education on stage.

Southeastern Louisiana Lions vs. Louisiana Ragin Cajuns Baseball

6-10 p.m. — ML 'Tigue' Moore Field at Russo Park — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling college baseball matchup between two local teams.

Fit for All Series: Tai Chi

Tai Chi in the Park — Time TBD — Moncus Park — Free entry — Slow down and move with intention through gentle, low-impact Tai Chi exercises.