The Acadiana Tourism Coalition is a cooperative organization encompassing seven parishes (counties) in South Louisiana. Lafayette Parish, the capital of fresh-water seafood and a hub for outdoor activities, is the heart of the region. The spokes of this hub – the parishes of Acadia, Iberia, Jefferson Davis, St. Landry, St. Martin and Vermilion - create the regional corridor that is known worldwide for lively Cajun and Zydeco music, authentic Creole and Cajun cuisine, rich history and beautiful scenery from the prairies to the wetlands.
Acadiana is an area in South Louisiana unique primarily because of its strong French Acadian culture, language and traditions. Many of the residents of Acadiana are Cajuns. The name comes from the Acadian settlers who, in 1755, were forced to leave their native Canada and find a home elsewhere. Their French-Canadian customs, language and Catholic religion came with them as did their love for merriment, strong work ethic and ability to live off the land. Many people in Acadiana still speak French as a second language.
