Dreamscapes Travel & Lifestyle Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dreamscapes.ca/i/821088
T here's no mystery as to why. The distinctive blend of food, music and culture has drawn people from around the world, who come to enjoy the sights, sounds and activities of this unique region. HISTORY LIVES ON Its history dates back to the 18 th century, when Canada's Acadians were expelled in the late 1700s and settled in Louisiana. Their influence carries on today. More than two centuries later, you can still enjoy the genuine Acadian experience, from tradi- tional food fixings and music to the warm hospitality that greets you at every turn. For a taste of genuine history, Vermil- ionville, a historic and folk life village, provides a living, working example of Aca- dian, Creole and Native American history from 1765 and 1890. The park sits on a nine- hectare site on the banks of the Bayou Vermilion. It has 19 attractions, including seven restored original homes with more than 13 local artisans demonstrating a variety of essential crafts performed by the early settlers—from blacksmithing to weaving and cooking. You don't have to stay in Vermilionville to experience the Acadian lifestyle. Inside or outside this historical village, it's always easy to find locals who can switch effort- lessly into French when the need arises. REASON TO CELEBRATE No matter what time of year you visit Lafayette, there is always reason to cele- brate. The region teems with celebratory events year-round, from the largest outdoor francophone festival in the world, Festival International de Louisiane, to the fall's Fes- tivals Acadiens et Creoles, and of course, Mardi Gras. BY DENISE J. DEVEAU DEEP IN THE HEART OF LOUISIANA'S CAJUN AND CREOLE COUNTRY IS LAFAYETTE, NAMED THE "HAPPIEST CITY IN AMERICA" BY THE WALL STREET JOURNAL'S MARKETWATCH.COM. Escape To LAFAYETTE the Happiest City in America DREAMSCAPES SPRING/SUMMER 2017 30