Lafayette Parish

Lafayette Parish is an administrative division in south-central Louisiana that includes the city of Lafayette along with several smaller towns such as Broussard, Carencro, Scott, and Youngsville. The area stretches across flat, swampy terrain with a mix of urban and rural communities.

The parish takes its name from Marquis de la Fayette, a French military officer whose support was vital during the American Revolution. The region later developed into a major settlement area for Acadian communities as French-speaking groups migrated from Canada and Maritime regions.

Lafayette Parish is the heart of Acadian culture in Louisiana, where French traditions live on through food, music, and family gatherings that define daily life. Visitors notice these roots everywhere, from local restaurants serving traditional dishes to events celebrating Cajun heritage.

Visitors can explore the administrative areas on foot since the communities are generally walkable and compact, with government services centrally located. The best time to visit is from October through March when temperatures are milder and weather conditions are more comfortable.

Every Wednesday morning, the Sheriff's Office holds public auctions where seized property and civil items are sold to the public. This overlooked event offers insight into an unusual side of how local government operates that most visitors never encounter.

Location: Louisiana

Inception: January 17, 1823

Capital city: Lafayette

Shares border with: St. Landry Parish, St. Martin Parish, Iberia Parish, Vermilion Parish, Acadia Parish

Website: https://lafayettela.gov

GPS coordinates: 30.21000,-92.06000

Latest update: December 20, 2025 01:54