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23 Telltale Signs You're a True Lake Charles, Louisiana Local

  • You know how to spell "boudin," pronounce it perfectly, and find the best spots for it.
  • You aren't surprised to find bait, ammunition, and movie rentals all in one store.
  • You still marvel at the nearly 400-year-old Sallier Oak, no matter how many times you've seen it.
    23 Telltale Signs You re a True Lake Charles, Louisiana Local
  • You're "fixin' to" do something.
  • You stand in the rain or cold at parades to catch Mardi Gras beads, even if you already have tons from last time.
    23 Telltale Signs You re a True Lake Charles, Louisiana Local
  • You eat Sno-Balls (snow cones) instead of throwing them.
  • You can't go grocery shopping without running into someone who remembers "your mama and them."
  • You know no drive beats Shell Beach Drive, with moss-draped oaks, antebellum homes on one side, and the stunning lake on the other.
  • You root for three football teams: McNeese State University, LSU, and the Saints—some even schedule weddings around games.
  • You start talking about Mardi Gras months in advance.
  • You can wear shorts and flip-flops year-round.
  • You know how to pronounce "geaux."
  • You go out to dinner and spend the time raving about other fantastic local restaurants you've tried.
  • You always spot the crossed pistols in the ironwork when crossing the I-10 bridge.
    23 Telltale Signs You re a True Lake Charles, Louisiana Local
  • You're ready to make gumbo at the first hint of cool weather.
  • You know what a King Cake is and where to get the best ones.
  • You know everything tastes better with Tony Chachere's seasoning and a dash of Tabasco.
  • You can properly pronounce "Calcasieu," the name of our parish (Louisiana uses parishes, not counties).
  • You know a little humidity never hurt anyone.
  • You put rice on the stove before knowing dinner plans, because it's gumbo, red beans and rice, or rice and gravy.
    23 Telltale Signs You re a True Lake Charles, Louisiana Local
  • You know the four seasons are really: Crawfish, Crab, Gumbo, and King Cake.
  • You didn't learn until high school that Mardi Gras isn't a national holiday.
  • Your last name isn't pronounced the way it's spelled.
Hotel & Food
  • Top Holiday Shopping Markets in Lake Charles for Unique Gifts

    As the holiday season approaches, discover Lake Charles premier shopping markets to find perfect, unique gifts for everyone—even the biggest Grinch. Backed by the local Convention & Visitors Bureau, these events offer bargains, artisan goods, festive food, and entertainment. Flea Fest November 9-10, 2019 This beloved semi-annual flea market festival covers nearly 4 acres under tents, showcasing antiques, jewelry, clothing, handmade crafts, and more—all amid Southwest Louisianas signature cu

  • Top Easter Egg Hunts in Lake Charles: Family Fun for Kids and Adults

    Nothing beats the thrill of an Easter egg hunt! Weve curated the best local events in Lake Charles for families and children to enjoy. This year features an adults-only hunt too. Wool Days & Easter Egg Hunt at CM Farms Experience a classic Easter celebration at CM Farms. Egg hunts at 11 AM and 1 PM are divided by age: 1-4 and 5+. Older kids will enjoy the new Scavenger Egg Hunt using clues to find eggs around the farm. Arrive early for breakfast with the Easter Bunny. Watch sheep shearing

  • Top 3 Must-Try Crawfish Dishes in Lake Charles: Local Favorites

    In Southwest Louisiana, crawfish is more than food—its a way of life. The intoxicating aroma of seasonings evokes joy, hunger, and excitement. After the boil, when trays empty but leftovers linger in the ice chest, peel those tails for future culinary delights. Lake Charles restaurants craft exceptional Cajun crawfish dishes. Here are my top three favorites, born from local experience. Crawfish Enchiladas at Blue Dog Café: Potentially the citys best dish. Head to Sunday brunch for this cheesy