Lebeau Zydeco Festival Lebeau, La July 7, 2012

Since the two musical genres are so closely linked, Zydeco and Cajun music are often mistakenly thought to be synonymous. While the two have a lot in common both geographically and stylistically, Zydeco is altogether different and, in Lebeau, Louisiana, worthy of an annual celebration in early July.

Zydeco evolved in the late 19th century within the black Creole population of southern and southwestern Louisiana. An amalgam of traditional Creole music, Cajun music and American R&B, blues, jazz and gospel, Zydeco gained quick popularity in Louisiana. It remains popular to this day, especially in the small towns of southern Louisiana – Lebeau, for example.

The Lebeau Zydeco Festival, which takes place the first Saturday of July each year on the grounds of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, is a small festival with a large following. Past years have seen attendees travel from as far as California for a day of non-stop live Zydeco music and authentic Louisiana cuisine.

The festivities kick off at 11 a.m. and continue well into the night. Regular Lebeau Zydeco Fest performers include favorites such as Chris Ardoin, Lil Nathan & the Zydeco Big Timers, Keith Frank & the Soileau Zydeco Band and Brian Jack & the Zydeco Gamblers.

All the while, fest-goers enjoy tasty southern and Cajun dishes like barbecue, boudin and backbone dinners. For a guaranteed way to spice up the night, bring along your own bottle of TABASCO® Sauce, the perfect complement to classic Cajun dishes.

Directions: The Lebeau Zydeco Fest is held on the grounds of the Immaculate Conception Church at 103 Lebeau Church Road, just off La. Hwy. 71. From Baton Rouge, take Hwy. 190 west (or from Opelousas take Hwy. 190 east) until you reach the Hwy. 71 exit. Take Hwy. 71 north about 15 miles until you reach Lebeau. Veer right at Boudreaux Road. The church will be on your right after about a quarter mile.