Good morning, Lafayette.

Families in Lafayette can share holiday cheer by calling the LFT Fiber Santa Hotline now through Christmas Day, where kids and parents can leave messages for Santa and give shout-outs for his reindeer.

LASCC is teaming with BISSELL Pet Foundation to offer free adoptions for fully vaccinated, microchipped, and spayed/neutered dogs and cats at 410 N Dugas Rd. during the Holiday Hope event running Dec.

1 to Dec. 15.

The popular burger spot will close its Congress Street location later this month while its East Kaliste Saloom Road store remains open with longer hours and more dining options.

Parish Church will host Bluegrass for Charity on Dec 18 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at 1400 W.

University Avenue to raise funds for The Sparrow Foundation, with $12 admission and free entry for children 16 (light refreshments and free parking available).

Interim president Ramesh Kolluru announced Friday that UL Lafayette eliminated three high-paying vice president roles (enrollment management, student affairs and university advancement) as part of a restructuring to streamline operations and address financial shortfalls.

New federal data shows Louisiana’s life expectancy rose to 73.8 years—up 1.6 years from 2021—as COVID deaths and drug overdoses declined, though it still falls about four years short of the national average of 77.5.

Experts blame poverty and risky jobs for these ongoing health gaps.

Lafayette-area high school football semifinal games took place Friday, Dec.

5 at local venues as teams including Lafayette Christian Academy, Jeanerette, Ascension Episcopal, Westminster Christian Academy (Opelousas) and Notre Dame vied for state championship berths and a chance for a trip to the Superdome.

St. Thomas More four-star quarterback Cole Bergeron signed his national letter of intent to join Georgia Tech on Dec.

5 after decommitting from Virginia Tech, and he led his team to key playoff wins last season.

LSU football will know its bowl game destination this weekend, with the Music City Bowl now leading the predictions.

The Tigers reached eligibility after injuries and coaching changes, and the bowl schedule will be released on Dec. 7.

Locally Filmed Christmas Movie Showing

5-9 p.m. — Acadiana Center for the Arts — Ticket price applies — Enjoy heartwarming local Christmas films and a Q&A with cast and crew.

George Porter Jr. Performance

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Acadiana Center for the Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary bassist and funk pioneer perform classic grooves from his illustrious career.

Breakfast with Santa 2025

9 a.m. — Dave and Buster's Lafayette — $10+ — Celebrate the holiday season with Santa over a festive breakfast and exclusive arcade fun for the whole family.

Cajun Christmas Ballet

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Acadiana Center for the Arts — Family-friendly — Experience a Cajun-inspired ballet that celebrates Christmas through the adventures of Marie in the bayou.

Marc Broussard Concert

8:30 PM – 12:00 AM — Rock'n'Bowl® de Lafayette — $25 cover charge — Enjoy an evening of live music featuring Marc Broussard and special guest Mike Broussard.

New Year’s Eve Dance with Geno Delafose

8:30 PM – 12:30 AM — Lafayette Parish Bayou Vermilion District — $45 — Celebrate the New Year with live music, food, and dancing at the biggest party of the year.