The city will host a celebration of the historic arrival of the Acadian settlers in the home of Evangeline on Saturday, March 16.
Beginning with the raising of the Acadian flag and singing of the Acadian national anthem, Ave Maris Stella at 9:45 a.m., it will be a full day featuring the traditions, culture and good food that make Acadiana the unique environment it is.
The procession of the familiar name banners at 12:30 p.m. will serve as a reminder of the descendents of those first French-Canadian settlers of the Attakapa District who still populate this area.
Cajun chefs will demonstrate the culinary arts of the region all day, sharing their secrets and techniques as you enjoy their food for lunch.
Important events in the history of the Acadian people will be portrayed by members of Théatre Cadien, who will give French-language performances in costume. At 10 a.m. John Broussard will conduct the Table Francaise.
Attendees can explore their own genealogical connections with the help of the Lafayette Genealogical Society and the St. Martinville Genealogy Workshop.
A presentation by the area’s Native American communities will be held at the Evangeline Oak and a raffle drawing will end the festivities at 3 p.m.
Schedule
•9:45 a.m. - Flag raising, Acadian National Anthem with Adeline Miller.
•All Day: Compagnie Franche de la Marine re-enactors; Cooking Demonstrations; Food, Drink & Craft Booths.
•10 a.m. - Table Française with John Broussard (2nd floor, Acadian Memorial); Genealogy assistance with Lafayette Genealogy Society (in front of City Hall)
•10:30 a.m. - Amis du Teche - Cajun music.
•11a.m. - Théâtre Cadien - historical vignettes en français (Acadian Memorial); Traditional Toys & Games at Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site
•12:30 p.m. - Presentation by Native Americans (Evangeline Oak gazebo & Bayou Teche); Re-enactment of the Arrival of Acadian families honoring Benoît & Savoie/Savoy families
•2 p.m. - Amis du Teche, Théâtre Cadien; Historic Chair Caning
•3 p.m. Raffle Drawing.
