Good morning, Lafayette.

Family-run meat markets in Lafayette have been serving traditional Cajun foods like boudin, smoked sausage, tasso, cracklins and holiday turduckens for decades—bringing a taste of home to locals and road travelers.

Many of these markets, including Billy’s, NuNu’s and Hebert’s, offer recipes passed down through generations and even ship products nationwide—preserving our region’s culinary heritage.

State auditors questioned Charter Schools USA for charging Louisiana parents fees that violated state law when operating learning pods from 2019 to 2023—issues included over $500,000 in fees, unapproved payments to an affiliate, and poor documentation.

The audit issued 16 recommendations and may require the group to return the fees after review with state education officials.

U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy announced that Louisiana will receive $11.8M in federal funding from the FAA to improve airport safety and modernize facilities such as Lafayette Regional—where Taxiway B will be shifted 70 feet to meet current standards.

The funds will also upgrade runways, terminals, and taxiways at several airports across the state.

Lafayette Consolidated Government will build five new roundabouts at locations including E Broussard Road and Robley Drive, West Broussard Road and Duhon Road, Ridge Road and Domingue Road, Vincent Road in Broussard, plus LA 92 and E Broussard Road toward Milton, and will expand the multi-lane roundabout at Rue de Belier and Ridge Road. Traffic director Warren Abadie said the designs will improve safety + allow U-turns while addressing capacity challenges.

Carencro officials launched a month-long survey—asking residents to share ideas on updating the local land use code for guiding development of homes, public spaces and businesses.

Lafayette Animal Shelter and Care Center will host its 15th Annual Drive-Through Rabies Vaccination Clinic for dogs on October 5 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the CAJUNDOME — 444 Cajundome Blvd. — where owners must enter through Gate 8 off Congress Street before gates close at 11:30 a.m., and will receive free rabies and DAPPv vaccines along with limited $20 spay/neuter vouchers and $20 microchipping available in cash only.

Lafayette offers unique venues including an indoor skate park at Magnolia LA, an escape room at Escape360, pottery classes, hot yoga at Zen Den, candle-making at The Bougie Bar, live music bowling, and food and swamp tours—each providing new adventures for locals and visitors.

These options continue to grow, giving everyone a chance to explore different hobbies and community events.

Lafayette restaurants are now serving small plates for light meals that work well for groups and warm days.

Venues like Palmyre and Blu Basil offer shareable bites—from Asian fusion to Spanish tapas—that pair with drinks and casual talks.

Five high school football teams remain atop their classifications in the LSWA poll after posting wins last week, and new teams such as Jena, Oak Grove, and Ferriday have entered the top 10 in various classes while Haynesville was the unanimous choice in Class 1A.

Redwine and Justus Concert

7 PM - 1 AM — Whiskey & Vine — Ticket info not provided — Experience the fusion of traditional jazz and Cajun Musettes with clarinetist Ben Redwine and Chas Justus.

Alyse Young Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — Bushido-Lafayette — Cost information not provided — Enjoy an evening of live music with the talented local artist Alyse Young.

Ben Folds Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Heymann Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the genre-bending music of acclaimed singer-songwriter Ben Folds in a captivating live performance.

Full Throttle Tour 2025

7-9 p.m. — CAJUNDOME & Convention Center — Ticket prices may vary — Country superstar Jason Aldean hits the stage with special guests Nate Smith, RaeLynn, and Dee Jay Silver.

Bayou Fest & Boat Parade 2025

10 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Lafayette Parish Bayou Vermilion District — Registration fee applies — Celebrate the Bayou Vermilion with paddling, music, contests, and fun for all ages.

Downtown Rising 2025

11 a.m. – 8 p.m. — Parc International — Tickets available — Celebrate music and community with The Wailers and local artists in an epic reggae event.

ACLA Latin Music Festival

4 PM – 10 PM — Parc International — Check back for more details — A family-friendly multicultural celebration of Latin music since 2002.

Alyse Young Live at La Pizzeria

6-10 p.m. — La Pizzeria Lafayette — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of soulful music from Lafayette's own singer-songwriter Alyse Young.

PetSmart Adoption Event

10 AM – 1 PM — PetSmart — Free entry — Meet adorable adoptable cats and dogs ready to find their forever homes.

Sax in the City: Dee Lucas with The Dave Mouton EXPerience

7-10 p.m. — Brass Room — Tickets available — Experience a night of jazz featuring soulful saxophone and vibrant performances.