Zydeco musician Sean Ardoin is one of the faces of our local creole culture. As he prepares for his trip to the Grammy’s for two nominations, he says he is proud to be an ambassador of Creole both locally and on a national stage.

“It’s something that I’m really happy to bear. I don’t even feel it because it’s a part of who I am,” Ardoin said. “The Creole culture here is such a vibrant community.”

The City of Lake Charles and the Convention and Visitors Bureau have put together a video that highlights local Creole businesses and restaurants that still pack tradition into every meal.

"We have a very unique culture here in Lake Charles and we have to celebrate every aspect of it," Lake Charles mayor, Nic Hunter said.

“It’s built into the fabric of this region,” Ardoin said. “Food and music; those two things are able to reach people regardless of political affiliation, racial background, religious affiliation, regardless of ideals. Food and music will bring people together like nothing else.”

Ardoin says putting the spotlight on the Creole culture, in this way, brings a sense of pride.

“What we water lives and what we ignore dies,” Ardoin said. “The fact that the city and the Convention and Visitors Bureau are willing to water and feed the Creole culture and these Creole businesses means a lot.” Ardoin says this video couldn’t be released at a better time to highlight the Creole culture during Black History Month.

“It really means a lot that we were able to focus attention on these Creole cooks and businesses because these restaurants, these businesses, these Creole cooks are just really throwing down,” Ardoin said. “It might not be good for you, but it’s sure enough good to you.”

Learn more here: https://www.visitlakecharles.org/creole/