Good morning, Lafayette.

Zumper data shows that Lafayette apartment rents have a September median of $1,285, down slightly from last year's $1,300 — a 5% increase from August's $1,225.

The report covers listings for all sizes and excludes unavailable units.

Louisiana was named the top tourism state at the JRNY America Awards in London — New Orleans won awards for Best Food City and Best New Tourism Initiative.

In 2024, the tourism industry generated a $24.8 billion economic impact from 44.5 million visitors and supported more than 224,600 jobs.

Burn bans remain in effect in Acadia, Evangeline and Vermilion parishes to lower grass fire risks amid dry, windy conditions—only BBQ grilling and authorized burns are allowed while St. Landry and Jeff Davis parishes lifted their bans on October 31 and October 27.

The Louisiana Department of Health announced today that eligible SNAP households with elderly, disabled or children will receive 25% of their benefits on the normal issuance day and an extra 25% every seven days in November if the federal government shutdown continues—households of only able-bodied adults will not get this emergency assistance. Unused benefits remain on EBT cards and recipients must continue meeting SNAP requirements.

Local restaurants in Acadiana now offer ready-made Thanksgiving meals to help families skip the kitchen duty on the holiday.

Some locations also plan to stay open for dine-in service on Thanksgiving Day—customers should call ahead for hours and details on meal packages.

Erath secured its first 9—0 start in school history by beating Kaplan 50—8 on Thursday night on the road, with senior quarterback Jack Landry throwing three touchdown passes and senior linebacker Jahlil Charles scoring on an interception; the Bobcats now aim to complete their undefeated regular season with a win over rival Abbeville next week.

Teurlings Catholic defeated St. Thomas More 38-14 in a high school football game held on October 31 (at Teurlings Catholic High School in Lafayette).

Lafayette Christian Academy Knights defeated Evangel Christian Academy Eagles 24-22 at Knight Field on Thursday night.

A crucial last-minute defensive play forced a turnover that secured the win—propelling the Knights to an 8-1 record ahead of their homecoming game next week.

Southside football defeated Carencro 70-35 in a district game as the Sharks rallied from a 14-0 start with junior quarterback Parker Dies and running back Justin Williams driving the comeback — Williams rushed 29 times for about 150 yards and three touchdowns while Dies added nearly 300 rushing yards — and Carencro was unable to mount an effective offense.

Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk

8:30-11:00 a.m. — Moncus Park — Registration fee applies — Honor the legacy of a heroic firefighter while enjoying a community run and walk.

Kat Higgins Live Performance

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Acadiana Center for the Arts — Cost info not specified — Experience the enchanting Irish folk sounds of Kat Higgins fresh from Vancouver.

Texas State Bobcats vs. Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns Football

1-4 p.m. — Cajun Field — Entry fee varies — Catch the action as the Texas State Bobcats take on the Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns in this exciting football matchup.

Alyse Young Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — El Paso Mexican Grill — Free entry — Enjoy a night of live music with singer-songwriter Alyse Young from Lafayette.

LHSAA State Farm Prep Classic Championship

3:30 AM – 2:00 PM — CAJUNDOME & Convention Center — VIP ticket packages available — Experience the excitement of high school championship football with premium seating and exclusive amenities.

Wild Kratts Live Show

3:30-5:00 p.m. — Heymann Performing Arts Center — Check for ticket prices — Experience an exciting adventure with the Kratt Brothers on stage.

LHSAA State Volleyball Finals

8:00 – 9:30 AM — CAJUNDOME & Convention Center — VIP ticket packages available — Experience the excitement of high school volleyball championship with premium seating and entertainment.

Scott Mulvahill Presents Paul Simon’s Graceland

— Time not specified — Acadiana Center for the Arts — Tickets available — Experience a heartfelt tribute to Graceland with Scott Mulvahill and talented musicians.

Menopause - The Musical 2

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Heymann Performing Arts Center — Tickets available — Laugh along with the hilarious sequel featuring beloved characters from the original musical.

Broussard Community Fair 5K/1 Mile Run

6:45 a.m. — Arceneaux Park — Registration fee required — A fast new route through Downtown Broussard awaits runners this year!