Celebrating
Waylon Thibodeaux
Photo: Misty Leigh McElroy
Waylon Thibodeaux continues to
Any type of hearty soup or chili!
Gumbo!
PUBLISHER
Brian Rushing
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Mary Downer Ditch
EDITORIAL
Bonnie Rushing Editorial Director Isabelle Pinto
Fresh popped bag of popcorn!
Baked Potato Soup
CREATIVE
Lauren Hemstreet Senior Designer
Ashley Bourgeois Junior Designer
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Evan Cressoine
John Doucet
PHOTOGRAPHY
Shannon Knight Bella
Jacob Jennings
Misty Leigh McElroy
CONTACT
Publisher: publisher@rushing-media.com
Editorial: maryditch@rushing-media.com
Creative: graphics@rushing-media.com Sales: sales@rushing-media.com
My mom’s vegetable soup!
CELEBRATING LOCALS
Each November, we shine a light on the people, stories, and traditions that make our region so vibrant. From the passionate artists to the cultural keepers, our community thrives on the dedication of locals who pour their hearts into what they do.
As someone born and raised in Houma, I have always felt a deep connection to this community, and every issue of Point of Vue is a reflection of that passion. Our whole team pours their heart into every page, just as so many locals reach deep into their souls, making this region so special. Each family that chooses to stay here and raise their family, each small business owner who adds to our economy, each person that decides to shop local and make a difference… It's all a part of what makes this area special. As we move into the holiday season, I challenge you to look around and help celebrate local!
Recently, my husband and I took a quick vacation to Alabama, and I couldn't help but proudly puff out my chest each time I was asked where I'm from. (John did the same, but his chest puffing was usually accompanied by a loud “Geaux Tigers". It ' s a wonder we made it home safely, considering the outcome of that weekend's Alabama v. Vanderbilt game.) There's something about being part of a place like Houma or Thibodaux that fills you with pride—and that's exactly what we're celebrating in this issue.
We are proud to celebrate two icons of our area. The Thibodaux Playhouse, a cornerstone of local theater, is marking an incredible 65 years of bringing stories to life on stage. We also highlight the remarkable talent of Waylon Thibodeaux, whose mastery of the Cajun fiddle has filled dance halls and festivals with the soul of Louisiana's music.
Waylon Thibodeaux, a renowned Cajun fiddler, stands as a vibrant testament to the rich musical heritage of Louisiana-- captivating
audiences with his spirited performances and masterful technique for over 40 years. His sound is a living testament to the rich cultural traditions we hold dear, and his contributions continue to inspire musicians near and far. Waylon has showcased his talent on the fiddle all across the United States, as well as abroad in Canada, France, and Central and South America. For Waylon, the fiddle is all about promoting the unique culture of the bayou to as many people as possible. Share in Waylon's love for music and making sure the next generation appreciates the tradition, starting on page 14.
The Thibodaux Playhouse, Inc. has become a community staple since its founding in 1960 as a non-profit community theater. By July of 2013, Mayor Tommy Eschete declared it the official Thibodaux community theater and solidified its staying power. Since its beginning, the Playhouse has produced over 280 shows at various local venues! With their productions that showcase talents from youth to seasoned actors, their commitment to creativity and community has left an indelible mark on generations of performers and audiences alike. Learn more about the Playhouse and its history starting on page 20.
It ' s an honor to share these stories with you, stories that remind us of the incredible talent, dedication, and heart that make this area so unique. As you turn through these pages, I hope you feel a sense of pride in our local culture and the people who enrich it every day. From the stage lights of the Thibodaux Playhouse to the playful sounds of Waylon Thibodeaux's fiddle, these are the threads that weave our community together. They are a testament to the strength, creativity, and resilience that define our area—a community I couldn't be prouder to call home. POV
If you could invite anyone to join you for Thanksgiving dinner, who would it be and why?
KRISTEN
MADDIE
I would invite Mrs. Paula Deen to my Thanksgiving so we can have the best food of any year yet! She can teach me the secret to a perfect homemade buttered biscuit!
I think all moms/wives can relate when I say nobody! I would put on my stretchy pants, eat turkey, green bean casserole, Texas Roadhouse rolls, and my grandmother 's dressing and watch whatever I wanted to in peace!
MISTY
I would invite my Great Uncle Felix. He had the best stories. He was also the funniest person I ever met. And I like funny.
DAVID
Jesus Christ: He was the most influential person on earth, and we wouldn't have to worry about running out of wine.
BRANDON
My deceased grandparents and Captain Richard Winters who served in Easy Company 506th Infantry Regiment.
FALLING FOR A POP OF COLOR
BY MARY DOWNER DITCH | PHOTOS BY SHANNON KNIGHT BELLA
Dale and Dawn Prosperie have called their French Acadia-style home on the westside of town home since 2011. Designed by the couple themselves and brought to life with the help of draftsman Ronald Melancon, the house features a blend of traditional architecture and personalized touches. Their home's design centers around luxury and timeless style, boasting real acacia wood floors, custom marble in the foyer and master bathroom, and Tuscan-inspired arches that lend a warm, classic feel. The rich, architectural details extend to the maple coffered ceilings in the living room and staircase, while a Spanish cedar front door and windows enhance the home's elegant curb appeal. Their custom maple wood cabinetry is another signature feature that ties together the French Acadia aesthetic with modern-day living.
In 2023, the Prosperies undertook a significant update to their home's interior, repainting much of the space and transitioning from warm tones to a more neutral, calming palette. Their new colors include off-whites and blues, which they incorporated into their furniture as well, transforming the atmosphere of their home to one of lightness and serenity.
“Our fall decorations are neutral with pops of blue colors,” shared Dawn. “We have pumpkins in shades of white, beige, gold, and blue scattered throughout the house, and floral arrangements that complement the lighter tones we chose when we redecorated last year. We have our own pumpkin patch next to our staircase!” Shannon Bella, owner of Knight N Day Designs, is a long-time friend of the Prosperies, who has been part of the
decorating process for over 15 years. Shannon was able to help tie together the new colors of the home in the stunning fall decorations.
One of their favorite spaces in the home is the newly created sitting room, previously their dining room. The space now serves as a peaceful retreat where they enjoy religious artwork by local artist Natalie Haydel and a statue of Mary holding baby Jesus. “It's where we pray, have quiet conversations with friends, or just relax while looking out of our big front window,” said Dawn.
With four bedrooms, four bathrooms, and an open kitchen and living area perfect for hosting family gatherings, the Prosperie home is not just a beautiful residence—it's a welcoming place for friends and family to come together year-round. POV 1
BY ISABELLE PINTO
PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY
South Louisiana's Cajun culture is expressed in a myriad of different ways, including delicious food, vibrant festivals, and the beloved and unique style of Cajun music. Waylon Thibodeaux, a renowned Cajun fiddler, stands as a vibrant testament to the rich musical heritage of Louisiana-- captivating audiences with his spirited performances and masterful technique for over 40 years.
Known as one of Louisiana's best recording artists, Waylon is renowned for his infectious stage presence and unique musical style. Originally hailing from Houma, but with family roots as deep south as Chauvin, the self-taught musician has had a strong love for music from an early age. "I started messing around with music by playing country music on the drums as a kid. I joined my first band when I was 13 years old," explained Waylon. "My mom and dad always loved music and going dancing, and I was always fascinated by it-- I wanted to be able to play, too."
While the drums were a great introduction to music for a young Waylon, he soon found his true calling on the fiddle just a short while afterwards. "Playing the drums was fun, but I became really inspired to pursue the fiddle after watching Johnny Gimble and Pete Fountain on Austin City Limits," continued Waylon. "I asked my parents to buy me a fiddle and they were willing to, so I started practicing-- and it stuck." Waylon's talent was soon impossible to ignore, as he was named Louisiana's State Fiddle Champion at just 16 years old.
Waylon continued to dedicate himself to the fiddle, and after turning 18, left Houma to play music on Bourbon Street-- quickly cementing himself as part of the vibrant music scene found in New Orleans in the 1980's. Waylon continued to play on Bourbon street for another 35 years, launching his career and establishing himself as a bonafide success in the music industry.
Waylon released several CD's during the height of his career, including a toe-tapping variety of powerful Cajun, Country, Zydeco, and New Orleans-style music sung in both English and French. Waylon's independent acoustic album with Gina Forsythe, entitled “Dans La Louisiana," won the 1996 Offbeat Magazine's Best of the Beat Award for Best Cajun album. Waylon has also performed in numerous radio and television commercials and four of his original compositions were featured in the 1993 NBC movie, House of Secrets. Waylon's first cut “Sweet Colinda” off of his latest CD debuted at #92 in the top 100 on the European Country Music Charts, continuing to climb and recently landing at #9.
Alongside commercial success, all of Waylon' s work is renowned for giving listeners a real taste of "Good, high-energy Louisiana music." As described by Waylon himself, “[My music] is a true mixture –it's Cajun, but not too traditional, it's Zydeco with a pinch of New Orleans' sound, a small pinch of South Louisiana 'Swamp Pop,' a taste of Country and a little Rock n' Roll that's sure to get you on your feet and dancing.”
Waylon is committed to sharing Cajun culture with communities across the globe, not just through his recordings, but live and in person. Waylon has showcased his talent on the fiddle all across the United States, as well as abroad in Canada, France, and Central and South America. For Waylon, the fiddle is all about promoting the unique culture of the bayou to as many people as possible. "I love bringing our Louisiana heritage across the globe," explained Waylon. "I took my first trip to France to play music when I was 14 years old and it was an incredible experience, and even spent 6 weeks in South America
recently to perform with my friend Wayne Toups. Some of the trips have become tradition-- for example, I've been playing for a cattle auction in Nevada for 32 years now, and it's just been so much to meet new people or see old friends everywhere I go." Waylon just recently returned from a trip to Nova Scotia with Louisiana's Cajun Bayou Tourism representatives, where he demonstrated Louisiana's unique musical influence to other Canadian fiddlers.
Waylon does not always perform alone, however– the musician is also a member of the local Voice Of The Wetlands All-Stars, a
performance group that travels throughout the country to raise awareness of erosion of the Gulf Coast Wetlands. This group comprised of Dr. John, Cyril Neville, Tab Benoit, Jumpin' Johnny Sansone, George Porter, Jr., Big Chief Monk Boudreaux, Anders Osborne, Johnny Vidacovich and Waylon Thibodeaux, and serves as a national way for local musicians to use their skills for the good of the area.
After several moves across the country and continuous international trips, Waylon has now officially settled back in his hometown and can be seen and heard playing around
Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes-there is seldom a local festival that goes by that does not include Waylon's fiddle. Waylon is also an active member of the Cajun Music Preservation Society, whose goal is to make traditional Cajun music as available to the public as often. Some events include monthly Cajun Music Jams at C'est Bon Café, hosted by Waylon, which invites community members of any musical skill level to come learn Cajun instruments/music. Waylon also recently taught a children's fiddle class at the Bayou Country Children's Museum, educating the next generation on Cajun music. "I was
BY EVAN CRESSOINE | PHOTOS BY JACOB JENNINGS
Thibodaux Playhouse, Inc. (TPI) has become a community staple since its founding in 1960 as a non-profit community theater. By July of 2013, Mayor Tommy Eschete declared it the official Thibodaux community theater and solidified its staying power.
Since its beginning, the Playhouse has produced over 280 shows which have been put on in various local venues such as Nicholls State University, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park, and Preserve Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center Theatre. Although the Playhouse has not yet procured its very own venue, that is a goal they keep striving for.
According to Mason Clark, the Managing Artistic Director of Thibodaux Playhouse, Inc., plans were launched for their own space about ten years ago in 2014.
“Recognizing that the construction of a new theatre is a long-term project, the success of TPI's vision depends on generous donations from community members, local businesses, corporate sponsorships, and grants awarded for the purpose of outfitting the new facility. Though we love our partnership with the National Park Service, it would be a dream for us to own our own theatre.”
Mason is a Thibodaux native, born and raised, and began at the Playhouse in 2012 when he was just eleven or twelve years old. Starting off as a young actor in their children ' s summer theatre program—
The Children ' s Summer Workshop Production—proved to be the key for Mason when it came to finding out where he belonged. Now, this children ' s production program is still around but more referred to as “TPI Junior”. Mason has been with the
Playhouse ever since and essentially worked his way up to the position he now holds as managing artistic director.
“Theatre was something I started when I was six or seven years old [...] it was the only hobby, for me personally, that sort of stuck. I tried sports, I tried clubs, and this was the only thing that ever kept me interested. And still to this day, it's really the only thing I do!” Mason shared.
As for TPI Junior, this is a summer production program that allows kids from ages 7 to 17 to get involved in community theatre. It happens every June and runs like a summer camp. The Playhouse commits to putting on a well-known, family friendly production every year “for kids by kids”. They have another youth program called ‘TPI Teen' which is specifically geared toward teens ages 13 to 18. This group gets to participate in productions that are more age-appropriate for a growing cast and audience, allowing local teenagers to grow in their acting skills. Because of these new programs the Playhouse has implemented, their regular season (September to August) consists of three musicals and two plays.
As for their third and final outreach program as of now, TPI also hosts an annual field trip production for tri-parish area students which was started in February of 2017. Spearheaded by former board member Daphne Hernandez, this program takes children's books written by local Louisiana authors and adapts them into a live stage play. Students from Lafourche, Terrebonne, Assumption, and now St. Mary's Parish are invited—preschool to fifth grade from private or public schools— to experience daily performances of this adapted show for a week or two.
“For a lot of these kids, this is their first theatre experience, y ' know? [...] They think ‘movie theater ', but you sit them down in front of this curtain and it's real people, and you can hear the gasps and the audible chatter, and it's one of my favorite events that we do,” Mason said.
In January, the show they are putting on will be based on the storybook “Petite Rouge”, the story of a Cajun Little Red Riding Hood. Because the Playhouse is currently located at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park, once the kids watch the play, they get to have a breakout session with the park rangers and conduct a scientific, cultural learning lesson of sorts, overall increasing the field trip's educational value. Each grade level also gets sent home with a copy of the book that was performed.
Most recently, the Thibodaux Playhouse has proudly produced shows such
as “Grease” which proved to be a groundbreaking show for the theatre, selling out nine shows, three of which were added on. Typically, each show has six performances but “Grease” sold out before rehearsals even began. Mason said, “I'm positive we could've kept adding [shows] and they would've kept selling, but at the end of the day, all of these actors are volunteers so you gotta give them a break sometime!”
Currently, TPI is in rehearsal for their upcoming production of “Beauty and the Beast” for which they had a recordbreaking audition turnout of 80 people.
Mason considers this alone to be a testament to the work the Playhouse is doing within the community.
“When people see something good, they
want to be a part of something good. You can see the passion that goes in it, you can see the joy in these people, and I think that is what really draws people,” Mason shared.
The Playhouse just opened its current season with their production of “One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest”, a drama-comedy that pairs playfulness with a dark undertone. The first true drama that the Playhouse ever performed was “The Crucible” just around two years ago which proved to be a huge hit.
“I think it's one of the best productions we've ever put on that stage!” Mason said of “One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest”.
Later this season, productions such as TPI's run of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show”, notorious for its audience interaction and film fan base, and “The Play that
Goes Wrong”, a slap-silly show where everything is cartoonish and farcical, will be performed as well. The season will close out with the famous Sondheim show “Sweeney Todd”. Mason stressed the importance of offering something for everyone when it comes to planning out a season of theatre productions, especially post-pandemic.
“There was a lot for the arts to prove in general. People needed to see why the arts were still important in this post-Covid world. When we weren't able to put on shows, we looked a lot internally at our operations. We are just in the market of trying to do shows that are appealing to people of all ages, all backgrounds. We don't want to do shows that only appeal to one sort of audience. We want to pick a season of shows where everyone can at least find something that they can relate to or want to see,' Mason shared.
Thibodaux Playhouse, Inc. has proven itself to be a “labor of love” in Mason's words, and a resilient one at that. While they are grateful to have such a wonderful working relationship with the staff of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park, when it comes to not having its own home, the Playhouse has had some major challenges
to overcome. From being at the mercy of the federal government during the pandemic to closing for another season so soon after due to Hurricane Ida, and then again due to air conditioner issues during a summer with record high temperatures, the members of Thibodaux Playhouse continued to persevere and bring back this local theatre even when it seemed like such a simple solution to just shut down.
in or call
“It was the labor of our volunteers, the financial support of our patrons that refused to let that happen,” Mason said. “They kept believing in the mission and what we do and the experience we provide for people, and it is through them—our patrons, our volunteers, our actors, our board members—this whole community piled together. I've never seen this many people so passionate about something.”
of the organization and has an award named after him now. Also a longtime stage manager for the Playhouse was Sherry Thibodeaux. These are all names that Mason considers to be pillars of the organization, though he said there are many more.
With the most recent president shift from Melinda Adams to Matthew Pellegrin, Mason has lots of hopes for the future of the Playhouse, and while there are no grand plans for the 65th anniversary, they will be holding out to create a bigger celebration the 70th or 75th anniversary. Mason hopes the Thibodaux Playhouse name earns a reputation that precedes it, and the community shows that may be the case already. POV
WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE |
BY KATIE RICHARD, MA, BSN, RN, DIRECTOR OF
KNOW THE RISKS, WARNING SIGNS AND PREVENTION OF DIABETES
November is American Diabetes Month. Currently, more than 37 million Americans have diabetes—roughly 9% of the country's population.
Recognizing the disease as one of the most serious health risks in the US signals a warning to take steps toward a healthier lifestyle and learn the risks, warning signs and ways to prevent or live with diabetes.
Unfortunately, Louisiana makes up part of the "Diabetes Belt" — along with Southern neighbors Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida and North Carolina. However, all news is not dire. New medications and monitoring technology, as well as research on preventing and mitigating effects of the disease continue to become available. It is important to educate yourself about risks, warning signs and prevention.
Diabetes Risk Factors
A combination of genetics and lifestyle factors increase risks, particularly for type 2 diabetes. Risks include:
• Overweight or obesity
• Age 50 and older
• Family history
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Physical inactivity
• History of gestational diabetes
• Stress
• Smoking
Check your risks with the American Diabetes Association risk assessment test.
Diabetes Warning Signs and Symptoms
These symptoms of diabetes are typical even though some people experience mild symptoms that go unnoticed.
• Frequent urination
• Often feeling thirsty
• Frequent hunger, even though you are eating
• Extreme fatigue
• Blurry vision
• Cuts and bruises that are slow to heal
• Weight loss even when eating more (type 1)
• Tingling, pain or numbness in the hands/ feet (type 2)
Type 1 diabetes occurs when your immune system mistakenly treats cells in the pancreas, which creates insulin, as foreign invaders and destroys them. It is typically diagnosed in young people but can develop in anyone at any age.
Type 2 is most commonly diagnosed, and the risks for developing it increase with age,
being overweight and sedentary lifestyles. It results from the pancreas not making enough insulin, the body resisting insulin or a combination of the two.
Diabetes Prevention and Management
Prediabetes occurs if blood glucose (blood sugar) levels are high but not high enough to be diagnosed with diabetes. Early treatment and lifestyle changes can return levels to a normal range to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.
• Diet adjustments—eat in moderation to reduce calories and fat intake and include more fruits and vegetables; losing 10-15 pounds can make a difference
• Stay active—get at least 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week
• Limit time sitting or lying down during the day
• Reduce stress
• Stop smoking
The Diabetes Self-Management Program at Thibodaux Regional Wellness Education Center provides comprehensive diabetes services including WellFit Diabetes Care that integrates medical care with wellness practices. For more information visit, https://www.thibodaux.com/centersservices/diabetes-self-management/ or call (985) 493-4765. POV
The Best Choice
IN
REHAB SHORT TERM
stroke, fall, or other medical condition, our customized rehab program helps you recover quickly so you can get back home. If you’re getting ready for long-term living, we make the transition from home to our community as rewarding as possible. A variety of spacious resident suites offer the ultimate in privacy and comfort.
CRAB CALL
Seller: Yeah?
Caller: Hello. Is this the phone number for crabs?
Seller: Yeah. I sell that by the dozen and the bushel. How much you want?
Caller: Oh, no sir. I don't want to buy crabs. I am a crab. I saw your sign on the side of the road and called the number. Is this not the help line for crabs?
Seller: No, this is the help line for crab eaters.
Caller: I'm terribly sorry. Pardon the ring, and bear with me: It might take some time for me to hang up. These touch screens were not designed for claws.
Seller: Well, now that you called, what you need help with?
Caller: Oh, I don't know exactly. I'm just feeling down on myself. I mean, I am a “blue” crab, so maybe I'm supposed to feel like this.
Seller: And how long you been feeling blue like that?
Caller: Ever since the midnight escape from the seafood case at Rouse's. That was tough. Try walking after your undersides have been on ice for a day or two. Luckily, I soon returned to the warmth of the bayou. That's where I was born.
Seller: That water 's kinda fresh for a crab.
Caller: It was a difficult development. I craved seaweed and anchovy ever since I was a larva.
Seller: And that gotta be a long walk from the store to the bayou.
Caller: Well, I do have lots of legs, as
JOHN DOUCET
well as a pair of swimmerets. But it was certainly difficult, especially having to walk sideways and having to constantly stop for speeding cars and stupid dogs that already have pincer scars on their snouts. Those canines just can't learn. Or maybe they're just intellectually curious--it's hard to tell, even with my elevating eyestalks.
Seller: So, you home now and you free. Why you need still need help?
Caller: Well, I'm reading your pricelist and I'm realizing that I'm not a Number One Select Male.
Seller: You gotta be the right size for that. Size is everything in the crab world. Sounds like you just a Number Two.
Caller: “Just” a Number Two. What kind of society singles-out and belittles the meek of the world?
Seller: Mine.
Caller: Aren't the meek supposed to inherit the earth?
Seller: That's just for meek Christians. You had your chance in the Cretaceous. Can't help you with that. What else you need?
Caller: I feel bloated and unattractive and peeling all over.
Seller: That happens every now and then. That's pre-molting syndrome.
Caller: And I could use a few of these barnacles removed. They're unsightly and they're impairing my social life.
Seller: Your social life don't help me none. You make the females grow pon-pons, and after I catch them I gotta throw that back in the water.
Caller: And I will certainly appreciate that effort next warm-water season, I assure you.
Seller: Anything else you want?
Caller: I'd like to be fed something besides chicken necks dangling from a trot line.
Seller: Now, you being kinda picky. What you want? Turkey necks?
Caller: In November? Yes, that would be a nice holiday touch. However, since you asked: I prefer ribeye.
Seller: Well, no crab's gonna get ribeye from me! You got a lotta nerve, you. What, you think I'm made of money or something?
Caller: I just want a little understanding and compassion.
Seller: Well, today, that costs money, too. You such a soft shell.
Caller: Look, I know that humans dominate and prey on little animals like crabs, especially at emotional times like this. But calling us names is so larval of you. So, thanks for nothing. Next time I catch you swimming at Grand Isle, I'll pinch your toes off!
Seller: You threatening me? You picking a fight with me? I got a pot of water boiling right here!
Caller: Think I got a lotta nerve? Well guess what: Your fingers have a lot more. Hairless mammalian skin is no match for these pincers. I'll tear into your fingers and then let Zatarain's do the rest. Wanna be at the top of the food chain? It's gonna hurt.
Seller: Well, now! Listen to you all of a sudden! Getting tough and hard! That molt's gonna be over soon.
Caller: I do feel better already.
Seller: A few more of these, and you too can make it to be a Number One.
Caller: Wow! This really is a help line for crabs.
Seller: I do what I can do.
Caller: There are lots of us, you know. May I give my friends your number?
Seller: No.
Caller: Nonetheless, you've helped me harden. That's enough. I think I can go on now. I've spent enough of your time. Thank you very much. Good-bye now.
Seller: (under his breath) Ça c’est bien bête!
Caller: Sorry. I'm still trying to hang up. Did you say something? POV
Houma
Dental
Family
Southdown Marketplace
Nov. 2
Southdown Plantation, Houma
With more than 300 local and national vendors, the Artisan Craft Show has something for everyone. The show will feature unique and hand-made items including, jewelry, clothing, wood crafts, original art, garden items, seasonal items, and more. In addition, delicious foods and beverages will be available for purchase. Admission is $5 per person, with proceeds benefiting the non-profit Terrebonne Historical & Cultural Society and Southdown Plantation & Museum.
BBQ, Bourbon and Blues Festival
Nov. 2
Warren J Harang Auditorium, Thibodaux
The smell of smokey barbeque, soulful sounds of blues bands and smooth tasty bourbon will appeal to all the senses. Local mom-and-pop and large-chain vendors will be grilling delicious BBQ during the festival, as well as a BBQ cook-off competition. The festival will also include the Juke Joint Tent, where participants 21 and over may purchase a ticket to taste 30 different kinds of bourbon. General admission tickets are $10; tickets to the Bourbon Juke Joint are $100. Proceeds benefit the Lafourche Arc.
Big Boy’s Main Street Cook-off
Nov. 8
Downtown Thibodaux
Experience a culinary showcase of Cajun cuisine at Big Boy's Main Street Cook-Off! Sample Louisiana-inspired dishes from over 30 teams while enjoying live music. In addition, Goose burgers, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages will be sold by area bars and restaurants.Tickets are $15 per person (kids 10 & under are free) and can be purchased online. All proceeds benefit Thibodaux Main Street.
Thibodeauxville Fall Festival
Nov. 9
Downtown Thibodaux
The award winning festival will feature three stages of live music, arts and crafts booths, a Cajun food court, a car show, and the infamous rubber duck race in Bayou Lafourche! Admission to the festival is free.
Bark for Life of Terrebonne Parish
Nov. 9
Houma Courthouse Square, 12-3 p.m.
Join us for Houma's Inaugural American Cancer Society Bark For Life of Terrebonne presented by Walther Animal Clinic! Help raise awareness and much needed funds for cancer research while having a fun day out with your pet! The American Cancer Society Bark For Life (BFL) is a Relay For Life fundraising event that honors the caregiving qualities of canine companions. All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society.
Elks’ Duck Derby Community Festival
Nov. 9
Downtown Houma
We're rallying together to raise funds for programs that provide unwavering support to our beloved Veteran Programs. Watch in awe as hundreds of rubber ducks race against each other in the Duck Race, vying for victory in a thrilling display of speed and determination. Enjoy live music that will get you waddling to the beat, along with mouthwatering food and delightful drinks!
Marketplace on the Reservation Nov. 16, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
H.L. Bourgeois High School
It ' s A Matter Of Pride! The 5th Marketplace on the Reservation features over 85 booths registered, including craft and food/drink vendors, HLB clubs and sports, and public service organizations. Admission is free. Enjoy great food, drinks, desserts, crafts of all kinds, live music, and a petting zoo! POV
