Discover the most captivating top photos from August 1-13, showcasing key moments and visuals from this period. As photography experts, we curate the best images for your viewing pleasure.

Boudin, a beloved staple of Southern Louisiana cuisine alongside Cajun music and gumbo, takes center stage at Boudin Wars. This annual event brings together top local makers for an unforgettable tasting experience at the Brimstone Museum Complex. Date & Time: October 27, 2018, 11 AM – 1 PM Location: Brimstone Museum Complex, 900 S. Huntington St., Sulphur, LA Here are the top reasons to attend this savory celebration: 1. Endless Boudin Links and Balls Expect miles of fresh boudin links and

Mastering roux is essential for Louisiana Creole and Cajun cuisine, forming the flavorful base of dishes like gumbo and jambalaya. Roux ranges from light (white) to deep dark brown, depending on cooking time. This labor-intensive process yields incredible results—follow our expert step-by-step guide, complete with a helpful video at the bottom, to succeed on your first try. Tools Youll Need: Cast iron skillet Stirring spoon or spatula (long-handled wooden preferred) Measuring cups Kitchen

Discover the most captivating photos shared by locals and visitors on social media from late August and early September 2018. These inspiring images highlight the beauty of Lake Charles and are sure to motivate your next adventure! #VisitLakeCharles

Discover the best photos shared by locals and visitors on social media during September 2018. These curated images capture memorable moments and are sure to inspire your next adventure!

Friday, October 26, from 5 - 8:30 p.m. History surrounds us everywhere in Lake Charles. Streets named Ryan, Pujo, and Touchy honor figures like John “Jacob” Ryan, Jr., Paul Pujo, and Ozeite Guillory Touchy. While biographies and historians provide glimpses into their lives, the Living History Cemetery Tour bridges the gap across time. Experience these larger-than-life icons—from Toni Jo Henry to Maude Reid—and discover how they shaped our citys evolution. On Friday, October 26, from 5 to 8:3

Mark your calendars for Chuck Fest 2018, the premier festival thats bigger and better than ever, featuring an incredible lineup of artists and family-friendly activities. Here are the top 5 highlights to get excited about at this event on October 20, 2018. 1. Massive Music Lineup Chuck Fest has expanded from the 700 block of Ryan St. to include the 300 block of Broad St., adding more stage space. This year, enjoy over 30 bands from across South Louisiana, spanning diverse genres. Highlights in

My first experience with Sax in the City was profoundly moving. After hearing about it for years amid lifes busy commitments, the stars finally aligned. I rallied my parents and husband to discover the buzz firsthand. Three-time GRAMMY-nominated music educator Mickey Smith Jr. is not just a masterful musician, performer, and saxophonist—hes an inspiration. He invests 100% energy into every project, fueling my anticipation. The next show is fast approaching. Tickets are selling out quickly after

Whether its scorching hot, bitterly cold, or pouring rain outside, Bayou Magic Fun Center offers the perfect indoor escape for families. As a parent of three children under 5, I recently spent a few hours exploring this new attraction and was genuinely impressed by its thoughtful design and variety of activities. The spacious yet manageable layout strikes an ideal balance—large enough for classic arcade fun but compact enough to keep an eye on your kids. Enjoy modern twists on favorites like Sp

Stunning photos are everywhere in Southwest Louisiana! Head out, snap your favorites, and share them with #VisitLakeCharles to showcase the regions natural charm. (Above Photo by Michael Doucet Photography)

In our ongoing series on Culinary Creatives, we profile Paul Pettefer, the regionally renowned Bishop of BBQ, and his thriving Pauls Rib Shack Barbecue. A local entrepreneur, Pettefer ignited his barbecue passion seven years ago, grilling racks of ribs in his backyard and hosting friends for casual feasts. Word spread quickly, leading to catering gigs for small events, then larger ones. This momentum prompted him to invest in a spacious food truck and smoker. Pauls Rib Shack Barbecue debuted tr

Oyster enthusiasts in the Lake Charles area have plenty of excellent options. Local restaurants serve oysters raw, grilled, or prepared as timeless classics like Oysters Rockefeller—baked with spinach and herbs—and Oysters Bienville, featuring shrimp, mushrooms, and cheese. Many establishments also offer inventive signature creations. Here are some of my top recommendations for oysters in Lake Charles: Chastain’s Food & Spirits leads the pack with its oyster bar offering raw, baked shellfis

In the midst of the holiday whirlwind—from Halloween treats to Thanksgiving feasts and Christmas cheer—Veterans Day offers a vital moment to pause and express gratitude to those who selflessly sacrificed their time, bodies, families, and lives. Their service ensures we enjoy these celebrations in peace and freedom. Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana host inspiring events and organizations, allowing you to commemorate Veterans Day weekend while paying tribute to those who served. City of La

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

Over the river and through the marsh, to Grandmother’s house we go! November 22 isn’t just Thanksgiving—its also Go for a Ride Day! After your Thanksgiving feast and the inevitable food coma subsides, skip the football, movies, or holiday shopping crowds. Instead, embrace Go for a Ride Day by venturing outdoors in a car, bike, boat, motorcycle, or even a horse-drawn carriage. Create lasting family memories amid Southwest Louisianas stunning landscapes. For the ultimate ride, we recommen

As a devoted fan of Christmas traditions, I look forward every year to the Christmas Under the Oaks festival at the Brimstone Museum Complex in Sulphur, Louisiana. Held November 30 to December 1, with a Holiday House preview party on November 29, this event embodies the holiday spirit through stunning decorations, twinkling lights, live music, candy canes, hot chocolate, and the wide-eyed wonder of children alongside the joyful smiles of adults. I absolutely adore it! Its one of Louisianas rar

In Southwest Louisiana, Christmas wouldnt be complete without a hearty pot of gumbo. This rich, savory seafood gumbo, paired with crusty garlic French bread, is a holiday tradition that captures the essence of Cajun cuisine. As a staple for over 50 years at Pats of Henderson in Lake Charles, its a recipe trusted by locals. Prepare it the day before or early on Christmas Day to free up time for family, gifts, and relaxation—what the holidays are truly about. Heres Pats quick and simple seafood

King Cake reigns supreme during Mardi Gras season—no bakery treat compares. Master this iconic pastry with our authentic recipe from the Junior League of Lake Charles cookbook, Marshes to Mansions. Download the printable recipe card here. Show off your creation! Adorn with Mardi Gras beads and flair, snap a photo, and tag us with #swlamardigras. Pastry Ingredients: 1 Cup Milk ¼ Cup Butter 2 (.25 ounce) Packages Active Dry Yeast 2/3 Cup Warm Water (110°F/45°C) ½ Cup White Sugar 2 Eggs 1 ½ Teasp

In Southwest Louisiana, the celebrations dont end after Christmas or the New Year. We keep the good times rolling with Mardi Gras—one of my favorite holidays! The annual Twelfth Night celebration is the perfect way to launch the Carnival season. For many, including me, its the official start of king cake season (even Cooper, my dog, is ready for a taste!). This vibrant event features royal courts from more than 60 Krewes, parading in their elaborate, handcrafted costumes to herald the new Car