Good morning, Lafayette.

The Cajun Table opened its new Boil and Go drive-thru crawfish concept on Friday at 4 p.m. at 6974 Johnston St. with Cajun decor and a two-lane order system designed to reduce wait times + offer fast service.

Terrance & Cynthia Simien received the 26th International Achievement Award on Thursday, Apr.

23 at the International Center in downtown Lafayette for elevating zydeco music and educational programs globally. Local officials and community partners attended the ceremony.

Vermilionville is accepting nominations for the 22nd Annual Richard J.

Catalon Sr. Creole Heritage Award as part of Creole Culture Day. Ellen Fucich explained the nomination details on MidDay with Darla.

On Wednesday, Festival International de Louisiane sold out of festival scarves and nearly all 40th anniversary sweatshirts on its first night — Chair April Courvelle said fans can order remaining items online for shipment in 4–6 weeks.

The Senate Education Committee advanced bills to protect students from deepfakes, including one that bans altered imagery for K-12 after a Lafourche Parish incident and another that adds unlawful deepfakes to college power-based violence measures.

The bills aim to create safer online spaces for children.

UL’s board approved a plan to sell its Ecology Center and research farm to offset a $12 million deficit, causing concern among students and researchers — many of whom depend on ongoing projects — and a spokesperson confirmed the facilities will remain operational — with no closures planned.

Amid severe drought, officials report over 300 fire alerts and small brush fires in several parishes, with firefighters catching new starts to prevent larger blazes.

Residents in Lafayette should stay aware as dry, hot weather persists.

Louisiana confirmed its first measles case of 2026 in a partially vaccinated child from Kenner who was exposed while traveling internationally.

Health officials said the case is part of an outbreak with 1,748 cases nationwide in the first four months.

Lafayette Utility Coordination Diggers Night Out

5:45-8 p.m. — River Oaks Catering — Free entry — Network with utility professionals at a fun evening focused on damage prevention and socializing.

Acadiana Go Red for Women Luncheon

11 AM – 2 PM — Le Pavillon at Parc Lafayette — Ticket details not provided — Celebrate women's heart health with the American Heart Association's annual event featuring expert talks and community awareness.

Kappa Derby Day Party

3-9 p.m. — Calvary Creek — Fundraiser event — Celebrate the Derby with style while supporting community initiatives.

2026 LEDA Job Fair

9 AM – 1 PM — CAJUNDOME & Convention Center — Free entry — Connect with top local employers for job opportunities at Acadiana's largest job recruitment event.

Louisiana Music Museum's Rock the Block Kickoff Party

5-8 p.m. — Acadiana Center for the Arts — Free entry — Celebrate local music and culture at Lafayette's vibrant street party featuring live performances and local cuisine.

Cajun Heartland State Fair 2026

6-9 p.m. — CAJUNDOME & Convention Center — Tickets required — Experience the vibrant atmosphere and entertainment of the Cajun Heartland State Fair in Lafayette.