Latest news with #FestivalInternational
Business Mayor
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Mayor
From Facebook to Festivals: Foodies of Lafayette Surpasses 100K Members
LAFAYETTE, La. (KPEL News) – The Foodies of Lafayette Facebook group started out as an online gathering place for fans of the local food scene, but what it's become is nothing short of phenomenal. In recent months, the group has established a solid presence at Festival International, held multiple member events, taken over the Lafayette Community Fridge project, and reached a milestone 100,000 members in the group. From a Facebook group that was built to promote the Lafayette food scene to a massive digital community, Foodies of Lafayette has become one of the most recognizable Foodies of Lafayette: A Community Built on Good Taste and Good Vibes In a town where food is more than just sustenance—it's a way of life—Foodies of Lafayette has carved out a flavorful niche. Founded in December 2019 by Heidi McDonald, the group began as a Facebook community aimed at spotlighting local eateries that often flew under the radar. Inspired by a standout experience at Fuji Sushi, McDonald envisioned a space where Lafayette's culinary gems could shine without the noise of negativity or unsolicited critiques. Moderated by a dedicated team, including Jason Stoner, who joined in January 2020, the group maintains its focus on positivity. As the group has grown, so has the moderator team, all of whom work diligently to foster a caring and uplifting community of foodies. Beyond online interactions, Foodies of Lafayette extends its impact through initiatives like the FOL Culinary Excellence Awards, recognizing outstanding local restaurants, and by supporting future chefs through culinary scholarships. Their website, offers a hub for restaurant spotlights, member recipes, and information on upcoming foodie events. Foodies Hits 100,000 Members on Facebook In their biggest milestone yet, the group reached 100,000 members, a fact that has the team behind it both celebrating and in awe of what they've accomplished. McDonald and Stoner both expressed their gratitude not just for the membership milestone, but for what the community has meant to them. 'We truly appreciate each and every member of the group,' Stoner told KPEL News. 'I have been able to make so many great friends through Foodies of Lafayette. It's countless, honestly. And so I am so grateful that we have the community.' McDonald, almost through tears, was likewise gracious for this online family. 'Our area is so unique,' she said. 'I never in a million years would have envisioned any of this. But all of the people who are part of this community make me a believer every single day. And the power that we have by coming together, I think, is limitless.' Mass Gatherings, Sunday Dinners, and More With events like the upcoming Cake Fête, as well as the regular Sunday dinners and more gatherings planned, FOL has become a lot more than an online community. These are people who meet up in real life to discuss one of the great cultural moments that brings us together—food. READ MORE: Foodies of Lafayette Hosting First Community Cake Fête 'The friendships are real,' McDonald said. 'The relationships are real. The networking is real. Y'all help us make it better. Foodies do it better.' Stoner agreed. 'Every day I'm thankful that we have a place like this and to make friends and be positive, do events and have fun.,' he said. 'And I couldn't be happier with that.' Foodies of Lafayette is planning to celebrate the 100,000-member milestone on Sunday, June 1, at Prejean's Broussard. The social event begins at 12:30 p.m.
Yahoo
02-05-2025
- Yahoo
St. Martin Sheriff talks safety at Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival
ST. MARTIN PARISH, LA (KLFY) — The Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival is one of the biggest festivals in all of Louisiana that the city prepares for all year long, as well as law enforcement. St. Martin Parish Sheriff Becket Breaux spoke about safety and security measures that prepared to ensure that good times will roll. 'We've got a well thought out plan for this,' Breaux said. 'The plans are in place, and we can ensure that it's enforced. Safety is the number one priority.' Thousands of people from not only Acadiana but all over the world come to the Crawfish Festival. As the festival gets bigger every year, security measures are a priority. Sheriff Breaux said they will not stand for anyone looking to ruin the weekend long event, bringing up recent events like the shooting at the Mamou Mardi Gras and the terrorist attack on New Year's night in New Orleans. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Lafayette police enhance safety for Festival International 'I'm going to tell you right now; a statement will not happen in St. Martin Parish.' Breaux said. 'We've got extra security measures this year to ensure that doesn't happen or prevent that from happening. You know, we've got metal detectors and it's non-intrusive. You walk through it, don't bring a gun, don't bring a knife. You know, like I said, it's a family affair. We want you to have fun.' Sheriff Breaux said the amount of law enforcement officials at the festival is the most they have ever had. Agencies from all over the state are here to ensure the festival runs smoothly and people can enjoy everything it has to offer. 'If you a criminal and you want to misbehave; we're going to put you in jail, but there's no crawfish ettouffee in jail. Just behave have a great time. Enjoy your family, enjoy your friends.' Breaux said. St. Martin Sheriff talks safety at Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival Louisiana State Police honored K9 trooper Pita The history behind those extravagant Kentucky Derby hats Small retailers say tariffs are affecting business Circle K visit after volunteering ends with Louisiana man winning $2.4 million Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
27-04-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Warm, humid weather to persist in Acadiana through the week
LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) – As Festival International draws to a close later today, we will have wonderful weather to enjoy the final day of festivities. High temperatures reach near 90 this afternoon, so make sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen! An isolated rain chance is possible, but most rain stays away from Acadiana through the day today. Tonight, fog will develop in patchy areas as steamy conditions settle in. Lows will be in the upper 60s. Monday will start off with warm and humid conditions for the area. Temperatures rise quickly, once again approaching 90 in the afternoon. This week will start with hot and humid conditions and each afternoon reaching near 90. By Thursday, a cold front will settle in the area leading to higher rain chances for the area. Scattered rain chances remain for Friday before drier conditions return for the weekend. Download the KLFY Weather App by clicking here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
27-04-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Warm and humid conditions expected in Lafayette for Sunday
LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) – Warm and humid conditions will settle in overnight as temperatures fall to the upper 60s. A few clouds will roll through the sky at times. Sunday will start off warm and humid before temperatures jump quickly into the 80s. Highs could reach 90 degrees during the afternoon. Sun and clouds will mix through the day. An isolated shower will be possible, though rain chances will stay low. To end Festival International, the weather looks to be pretty nice! Just make sure to wear sunscreen. Next week begins hot and humid as temperatures approach 90 each afternoon. Rain is not expected until midweek. Our next storm system will arrive Thursday bringing scattered showers and thunderstorms. Rain chances will continue Friday before drier conditions arrive for the weekend. Download the KLFY Weather App by clicking here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
26-04-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Festival International officially closed for the night
UPDATE, 4/25/25, 8:50 p.m.: Festival organizers have officially announced that Festival International is closing down for the night. ORGINAL STORY: LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) — Due to this evening's downpour and detection of lighting, Festival International is temporarily postponing their performances for the evening. According to the festival's Facebook page, organizers announced, 'Due to lightning in the area we are temporarily shutting down all stages until further notice. Please make your way to shelter, and stay tuned here for updates!' We will update as more information is released. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Festival International officially closed for the night Apple juice distributed in 28 states recalled; including Louisiana Falling vaccine rates could mean millions of measles cases: Study Bill would penalize Louisiana gun owners if minors access unsecured firearms; most states already have storage laws 10 US cardinals among those selecting Pope Francis' successor Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
