In 2015, Vermilionville hosted a one-of-a-kind cultural heritage event known as Creole Culture Day. This event held many interesting activities that allowed visitors to experience the unique and deep rooted Creole culture of Louisiana. Because of the numerous and diverse activities, a variety of people came together to learn about the Creole history, spend time with friends and family, and have plenty of fun!
Vermilionville periodically hosts “Creole Culture Day” in honor of the Creole Cowboy traditions. Alexandra Giancarlo and Dr. Charles Ray Brassier interviewed the Creole Cowboy community to understand the story behind the traditions, how the community has evolved, and how they preserve their rich history. In addition, visitors can still hear these tales and stories of cattle ranchers and riders in an audio recording in the Archive of Cajun and Creole Folklore in the Center for Louisiana Studies.
Vermilionville is located on a beautiful 23-acre piece of land along the Bayou Vermilion. This historic village in Lafayette preserves and celebrates the authentic culture of the Native Americans, Acadians, Creoles and peoples of African descent in the Attakapas region.
For the adventure seeker, Creole Cowboys provided boat tours, canoeing opportunities and dance lessons.. The Creole Cowboy tradition sharing circle and exploring the inventions exhibit provided content for the history lover. The dessert maker might watch the praline making demonstration.
In addition, the event held games and storytelling for kids plus Zydeco and Blues music for all ages to appreciate. Furthermore, Creole Culture Day highlighted delicious Creole cuisine such as chicken and sausage jambalaya, boudin, and cracklins.
Vermilionville received an Atchafalaya National Heritage Area grant for “Creole Culture Day” in 2015. Have an event that would qualify? The 2021 application period opens May 1! Visit atchafalaya.org/grant-program for details.