We’re known for entrenching ourselves within the arts and celebrating our artists, and this is particularly evident in the events scheduled for this weekend. Beginning on Friday with a special artist showcase and closing with a Cajun camp unlike any other, Lafayette and surrounding areas will be absolutely abuzz with creativity. Poetry readings, live music and lessons to inspire are all at your fingertips.
10/18: 10th Annual Beaux Arts Ball: The University of Louisiana at Lafayette College of the Arts’ 10th annual celebration of student and faculty artistic achievement, the Beaux Arts Ball, will commence in the Student Union at 7 p.m.! The ball, whose theme is “Heroes, Villains and Sidekicks,” acts as a fundraiser and showcase for all things creatively linked to UL-Lafayette, and funds raised help support student scholarships, organizations, grants for faculty and students, public performances and exhibits. Professor Allan Jones will earn the 2020 SPARK Lifetime achievement award.
10/18: Until Then Poetry Hour and Open Mic: The fall series of the Until Then poetry hour will open within its new location, Achilles Print Studio! Featured reader, Caitlin Vance, will recite her works. An open mic session follows where poets and songwriters can share their recent works and ideas. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the featured reading will begin at 6:30 p.m. This event is free!
10/19: World Food Day and Fall Fest: The Lafayette Farmer’s Market will extend its hours and offerings Saturday to herald the fall season. Live music, Thaihey Thaifood and J&J Indian Tacos’ food demonstrations, a petting zoo and a pumpkin patch are all in store in addition to the weekly Cajun Jam and market. Special guests Cypress Mountaim Boys will take the stage at 11 a.m., and attendees can shop and stay for lunch through 2 p.m.
10/19: Southern Screen Presents Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory: This Saturday at 7:30 p.m., LARC’s Acadian Village will screen the 1971 Gene Wilder classic “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” for a unique drive-in experience. At the Acadian Village box office, entry is $20 per car and $5 for walk-ins. Snacks, drinks and candy will be available for purchase.
10/20-10/25: Blackpot Camp: Lakeview Park in Eunice will host the eighth annual Blackpot Camp, which acts as a learning experience in Cajun cuisine and culture leading up to Blackpot Festival! Extracurricular activities include guitar, accordion and fiddle lessons, jamming and Cajun dancing. Think of it as a preparation for Blackpot, where attendees can learn something new, or simply get some extra partying in before the fest itself. Register for your spot here.
