Good morning, Lafayette.

Volunteers gathered at Grace Presbyterian Church and stuffed more than 300 backpacks and 150 homework kits for foster and homeless children as they prepare to return to school next month—donations from Kiwanis Lafayette, UBS Financial, Stuller Foundation and individual contributors made the 10th Annual Mable's Table Project Backpack possible.

Transportation information for LPSS students for the 2025–26 school year is available online — families can view bus stop locations and pickup/drop-off times and call the Transportation Call Center for rider registration or questions.

Ducks Unlimited announced on Friday, July 18 that they received a $2.5 million donation from the James M.

Cox Foundation to fund projects that restore wetlands, enhance wildlife habitat — and create natural buffers for coastal communities. The nonprofit will invest over $61 million next year to improve more than 40,000 acres along the western Gulf Coast.

Local tourism officials voted to keep plans for a $40 million indoor sports complex moving forward at West Congress Street and Cajundome Boulevard.

The 150,000-square-foot facility will include 10 basketball courts, 20 volleyball courts and meeting areas, and it is expected to boost tourism in coming years—filling a need for indoor sports events.

A federal free speech lawsuit against Lafayette Consolidated Government and two library board members was settled with a $13,200 payment and new meeting rules that let speakers share their views.

The agreement removes limits on free speech—such as posting portions of disturbing the peace laws—and mandates that open meetings law instructions be displayed at board meetings.

Acadiana’s own Dustin Poirier is preparing for his final UFC fight this weekend in New Orleans when he will face Max Holloway at UFC 318—he said the bout has been on his mind as he gets ready for his farewell match.

CD Release Show Featuring Slim Bawb and Steve Judice

7-9 p.m. — Hideaway on Lee — Tickets available — Celebrate the launch of 'Iron Sharpens Iron' with live performances by the talented duo.

Sushi Mizu Live Music Night

6-9 p.m. — Sushi Mizu — Free entry — Enjoy the soothing sounds of Alyse Young while savoring delicious sushi and drinks.

ARCHIVES: whimsy Art Exhibition Closing Night

11 p.m.-2 a.m. — The Hallway at the Warehouse on Garfield — Free entry — Explore a multimedia exhibit blurring imagination and reality through whimsical art and playfulness.

Ancestral Artistry: The Influence of Africans and Creoles of Color on Louisiana Architecture

6:30-8 p.m. — Vermilionville Performance Center — Free entry — Discover the impactful contributions of Black master artisans to the architectural landscape of Louisiana.

Alyse Young Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — Bushido-Lafayette — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of original music from local artist Alyse Young in a vibrant restaurant setting.

Alyse Young Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — La Pizzeria Lafayette — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of live music by local singer-songwriter Alyse Young in a cozy pizzeria setting.

Acadian Culture Day 2025

10 AM – 5 PM — Lafayette Parish Bayou Vermilion District — Free admission — Celebrate Acadian culture with live music, crafts, and delicious local food at this family-friendly festival.

Louisiana Theatre Festival

7-9:30 p.m. — Wonderland Performing Arts — Ticketed event — Experience talented groups from across Louisiana competing with their best short scenes for fantastic prizes.