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Southwest Louisiana's Top 20 Restaurants Contest Results
06/12/2013
The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau held a Top 20 Restaurants online voting contest in honor of National Tourism Week where individuals could nominate and vote for their favorite places to eat in Calcasieu Parish. Culinary delights are a major draw for tourism, and people are passionate about food.
Louisiana Rural Water Association's Annual Training and Technical Conference
06/12/2013
The LRWA will hold its annual convention July 8-12 at the Lake Charles Civic Center. LRWA has taken a huge step by moving the conference to Lake Charles after 16 consecutive years of it being held in Alexandria.
Creole Nature Trail Nominated for Virtual Tourist's 8th Wonder of the World
06/06/2013
The Creole Nature Trail All-American Road has been entered into VirtualTourist.com’s quest to crown the “8th Wonder of the World.” Public voting is now open at VirtualTourist.com, a leading travel research website and community that is part of TripAdvisor Media Group.
Nominate Authentic Southern Attractions for National Geographic Maps
06/06/2013
National Geographic Maps will highlight world-class natural and cultural attractions from Louisiana, Alabama, Florida and Mississippi. The project seeks to promote geotourism, which sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place—environment, culture, heritage and the well-being of its residents.
Southwest Louisiana Knocks It Out of the Park!
06/05/2013
LHSAA To Hold State High School Basketball and Baseball Championships in Calcasieu Parish
Lake Charles Realtor to be Featured on TLC’s “My First Home”
05/10/2013
LAKE CHARLES, La. (May 10, 2013)— In January, Authentic Entertainment was in town for a week working with local realtor, Nikki Pruitt, on TLC’s “My First Home,” set to air June 1 at noon.
The CVB Celebrates National Tourism Week May 4-12
05/01/2013
LAKE CHARLES, La. (May 1, 2013)— The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau will celebrate National Tourism Week, May 4-12.
National Tourism Week Celebrates Children’s Day
05/01/2013
LAKE CHARLES, La. (May 1, 2013)– During National Tourism Week, May 4-12, the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau will celebrate Children’s Day on Saturday, May 4, from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the welcome center, 1205 N. Lakeshore Drive.
National Tourism Week Restaurant Discounts, May 4-11
05/01/2013
LAKE CHARLES, La. (May 1, 2013)—One thing is for sure, residents and visitors alike love to eat the delicious cuisine that is cooking in Southwest Louisiana’s restaurants.
VOTE on Your Top 20 Restaurants in Southwest Louisiana
05/01/2013
LAKE CHARLES, La. (May 1, 2013)—In celebration of National Tourism Week, May 4-12, the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors is showcasing culinary delights that make our destination downright delicious.
Submit Recipes for Virtual Cookbook
05/01/2013
LAKE CHARLES, La. (May 1, 2013)—The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau is compiling a virtual cookbook in order to showcase the culinary treasures of the area.
Volunteer Appreciation Day
05/01/2013
LAKE CHARLES, La. (May 1, 2013)— The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) will hold a “Volunteer Appreciation Day” Friday, May 10, during National Tourism Week, May 4-12.
2013 Contraband Days Poster
04/25/2013
Celebrating the 56th anniversary of the Contraband Days Louisiana Pirate Festival, the commemorative poster, created by Melinda Antoon, captures the essence of the event with the lights, colors and excitement surrounding Lake Charles' inland lake.
Aussie Kingdom at Contraband Days
04/25/2013
Australia meets Louisiana? Attendees enjoying the Contraband Days Louisiana Pirate Festival will be introduced to the wonders of "Down Under" and be able to interact with several different species of pouched animals such as kangaroos, wallabies and walleroos on the grounds of the Lake Charles Civic Center.
Contraband Days, Louisiana Pirate Festival Presents Spike and Splash
04/25/2013
Contraband Days, Louisiana Pirate Festival is introducing a new event the first weekend of the festival, May 4-5: Contraband Days Spike & Splash at I-10 North Beach. It combines the EVP Pro Beach Volleyball Tour and the Hydro-Turf Watercross National Tour. Southwest Louisiana will be the first stop to kick off their 2013 season and is the only visit in the entire state.
Bureau to Participate in Cove Lane Project
04/25/2013
The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau board of directors approved participation in the funding of the Cove Lane project at the request of the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, the City of Lake Charles, the Port of Lake Charles and members of the local legislative delegation.
Creole Nature Trail Will Be The Premier Segment of American Detours
04/25/2013
The CNT will be the first ever segment of American Detours, a national video web series that features classic American cars on classic American routes. AmericanDetoursTV.com will debut April 15. The trailer for the web series is available on YouTube.com
SWLA Attractions Nominated for "Best of the South 2013" by AAA Southern Traveler
04/25/2013
According to the nominations for Best of the South 2013, as submitted by readers' of AAA Southern Traveler, Southwest Louisiana is looking good with three nominations.
Louisiana Soccer Association State Cup
04/25/2013
The Calcasieu Soccer Club presents the Louisiana Soccer Association State Cup, Saturday-Sunday, May 4-5, at the Lake Charles Ward 3 Recreation Power Centre.
Contraband Days Pirate Festival Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event
04/25/2013
The STS recently honored the Contraband Days Pirate Festival as a Top 20 Event for the second quarter of 2013.
Call for Volunteers: Tour Du Rouge Coming to Sulphur
04/25/2013
More than 100 cyclists will leave Houston headed for New Orleans in the 5th Annual Tour du Rouge, May 5-10, with a pit stop in Sulphur, May 6. The 533-mile cycling adventure raises awareness and money for American Red Cross services along the Gulf Coast and benefits seven Red Cross chapters, which provide support for communities in need.
Show Your Hospitality to LHSAA Fast Pitch 56
04/11/2013
SULPHUR, La. (April 11, 2013)— Southwest Louisiana will soon host the Louisiana High School Athletic Association’s Fast Pitch 56 softball tournament at Sulphur Parks and Recreation’s facility at Frasch Park, 400 Picard Road in Sulphur, Friday-Saturday, April 26-27.
East Stackton Available for Digital Download
04/02/2013
LAKE CHARLES, La. (April 2, 2013)— Sternwood & MacGuffin’s short horror film, East Stackton, shot in Southwest Louisiana in 2011, is complete and available for digital download. The film was written by Sean Farina and Lake Charles’ own John Veron while living in Los Angeles. It can be purchased at www.eaststackton.com/buy for $4.95 and includes lagniappe such as “Locations,” explaining why they shot the movie in Southwest Louisiana.
A+Motel & RV Park in Sulphur Honored with Campground/RV Park of the Year
03/27/2013
The A+Motel & RV Park was awarded the Campground/RV Park of the Year at the Lt. Governor's Tourism Summit held in Lake Charles at L'Auberge Casino Resort.
Lake Charles Named "City of the Year" by Acadiana Profile
03/27/2013
Hosting travel media throughout the year as well as for specific media tours such as Mardi Gras or the fall culinary tour, are components in the overall marketing plan for the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau so that potential visitors can learn about the area and get inspired to visit.
LHSAA Basketball Regional Semi-Finals Back for Second Year in a Row
03/27/2013
The Louisiana High School Athletic Association Basketball Regional Semi-Finals will be held at the Lake Charles Civic Center, March 1-2.
Louisiana Short Course State Swimming Championship
03/27/2013
The best Louisiana swimmers of all ages will compete, March 7-10, at the Sulphur Parks and Recreation Aquatic Center.
Lake Charles Home Featured in Old House Interiors Magazine
03/27/2013
The Communications Department of the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau offers story suggestions to journalists across the country for editorial coverage. Last year, while promoting the Palm Sunday Tour of Homes and 100th Anniversary of the Margaret Place Historic District, the bureau hosted a freelance writer, Deborah Burst.
Creole Nature Trail Interpretive Visitor Center to be Constructed in Sulphur
03/27/2013
The continued marketing of the Creole Nature Trail All American Road has led the Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau to develop an interpretive visitor center in West Calcasieu Parish, in the city of Sulphur, as the western gateway of the trail.
The Choice Easter Musical
03/27/2013
Looking for an Easter musical this spring? Featuring the high drama and pageantry of ancient Rome during the rule of Tiberius Ceaser, "The Choice" musical is a story of the forbidden love between a young Jewish girl and a Roman soldier and the cultural difficulties surrounding following Christ.
Black Heritage Festival Schedule of Events
02/25/2013
LAKE CHARLES, La. (Feb. 25, 2013)— The 26th annual Black Heritage Festival will take place in Lake Charles March 8- 10 and will be complete with mouthwatering food, entertainment featuring national headliners and great family fun.
Eric Zartler Receives the Louisiana High School Athletic Association Super Sport Award
02/04/2013
The Louisiana High School Athletic Association presented the Super Sport Award to Eric Zartler, senior sales manager/athletics of the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau at the annual LHSAA Convention.
Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana CVB Honored with Outstanding CVB of the Year
02/04/2013
The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau recently accepted the award for Outstanding CVB of the Year at the Lt. Governor's Tourism Summit, held Jan. 22-24, as well as an award for having the best Tourism Campaign/Promotion of the Year.
Monte Hurley, Creole Nature Trail Chairman Honored with Tourism Lifetime Achievement Award
02/04/2013
Monte Hurley, chairman of the board of commissioners for the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road, was honored with the coveted Will Managham Lifetime Achievement Award for Tourism at the Lt. Governor's Tourism Summit held in Lake Charles, Jan. 22-24.
Brian Levens, Samuel V. Wilkinson Appointed to CVB's Board of Directors
02/04/2013
The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau has two new appointees joining the board of directors with Brian Levens representing the West Calcasieu Association of Commerce and Samuel V. Wilkinson nominated by the Chamber Southwest.
Children's Day Offers Family-Friendly Mardi Gras Festivities
01/23/2013
Children's Day, a free event open to children ages 3-11, combines Mardi Gras fun with culture, music and learning on Sunday, Feb. 10, from noon to 3 p.m. at the Lake Charles Civic Center Exhibition Hall.
Mardi Gras Gumbo Cook-off, Omega Parade, Zydeco Dance and More!
01/23/2013
The public tastes from every pot of chicken and sausage or wild game gumbo in a hot contest of more than 40 teams at noon on Saturday, Feb. 9, at the Lake Charles Civic Center Exhibition Hall from 8 a.m.--2 p.m.
Krewe of the Golden Years Presents Mardi Gras Fais Do-do!
01/23/2013
Calcasieu Council on Again presents the Krewe of the Golden Year's 18th Annual Mardi Gras Ball on Tuesday, February 5 in the Lake Charles Civic Center Coliseum.
Mardi Gras Parades Open For Entries!
01/23/2013
Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana is inviting the community to help them paint the town purple, green and gold!
Lundi Gras Features the Royal Gala
01/23/2013
The Cinderella night of the Mardi Gras manifests on Lundi Gras, Monday, Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. with a lavish promenade of more than 60 krewes' royalty in extravagant, glittering costumes before thousands of residents and visitors at the Lake Charles Civic Center Coliseum.
Vinton Mardi Gras Celebration
01/23/2013
Frills, feathers and Mardi Gras magic will be in full swing during the Town of Vinton's Mardi Gras celebration on Saturday, Feb. 2, in downtown Vinton.
Experience a Cajun Mardi Gras at the Iowa Chicken Run
01/23/2013
Catch a chicken at the 34th annual Mardi Gras Run on Tuesday, Feb. 12 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 503 E. Highway 90, in the town of Iowa. Doors open at 8 a.m., the Mardi Gras floats start lining up at 9 a.m. and the parade rolls at 10 a.m.
Mardi Gras Shoebox Float Contest: Professional Entries Face-off!
01/23/2013
The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau is enticing the professional community to bedazzle their shoeboxes for Mardi Gras and compete for the battle of the best designer in the Lake Area.
Bureau to Give Press Tour Featuring Mardi Gras in Southwest Louisiana
01/23/2013
The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau will host 8 travel writers from all over the United States for a Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras press tour set for Saturday, Feb. 9, through Wednesday, Feb. 13.
Calcasieu and Cameron Parishes to be Featured Statewide on Louisiana Public Broadcasting
01/23/2013
Louisiana Public Broadcasting is hosting a four-episode, 2-hour marathon of Go Coast: Louisiana on Sunday, January 20 beginning at 5 p.m., and ending with the premiere of the Calcasieu and Cameron Parishes episode at 6:30 p.m.
Find Your Inner Warrior at the ReALLIEty Challenge!
01/23/2013
The dirtiest party in town is back! The ReALLIEty Challenge Mud Run is scheduled for April 13, 2013. This obstacle course spans 3.5 miles of unique Louisiana terrain and is designed to parallel military training conditions.
Park to Park Half Marathon & 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk for Team Erin
01/23/2013
Come out to the Park to Park Half Marathon and One Mile Fun Run/Walk on Saturday, Feb. 2 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 301 Center Circle Ave., in Sulphur. The half marathon kicks off at 7:30 a.m. and the one miler begins at 8 a.m.
Mardi Gras Shoebox Float Contest Call for Entries!
12/04/2012
LAKE CHARLES, La. (December 4, 2012) – The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau is inviting the community to bedazzle their shoeboxes and help usher in the Mardi Gras season. Shoebox floats represent a seasonal piece of Louisiana and every family member can join in the creative fun and submit an entry into the Shoebox Float Contest.
The Lt. Governor’s State Tourism Summit will be Held in Lake Charles
11/26/2012
LAKE CHARLES, La. (November 26, 2012) - The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau is honored to host the Lieutenant Governor’s Tourism Summit in Lake Charles January 22-24, 2013 at L’Auberge Casino Resort. Lieutenant Governor Jay Dardenne has declared 2013 the Year of Music, so the conference theme will be “Louisiana Strong – Tourism Jam Session.”
Southwest Louisiana Christmas Parades, Nov. 30-Dec. 8
11/19/2012
A Cajun Christmas in Southwest Louisiana includes a variety of holiday parades beginning Friday, Nov. 30, and running through Saturday, Dec. 8.
DeQuincy Decks the Halls
11/19/2012
The streets will be filled with joy and festive cheer for the annual Christmas parade sponsored by the DeQuincy Chamber of Commerce at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 30, followed by Christmas in the Park at 6:30 p.m. and fireworks at 7:30 p.m.
Annual Gingerbread House Contest
11/19/2012
Visions of gingerbread houses will be dancing in their heads as the winners of the Annual Gingerbread House Contest will be announced at noon Saturday, Dec. 1 at the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau, 1205 N. Lakeshore Dr.
Iowa Presents "Christmas in a Small Town," Dec. 7-8
11/19/2012
The Iowa Women’s League presents the first annual “Christmas in a Small Town” Friday, Dec. 7. Then, they will usher in the holiday season with the 19th annual Christmas parade on Saturday, Dec. 8.
The City of Lake Charles Announces plans for the Light up the Lake Christmas Celebration
11/19/2012
Santa Claus is coming to town during the annual Light up the Lake Christmas Celebration Saturday, December 1, 2012. Beginning at 2 p.m. local groups will join Santa for the journey from Bord du Lac Drive, down Broad Street, turning south on Ryan, and concluding at Clarence Street. Lake Charles Toyota/Scion will award prizes for best in floats, marching bands, decorated vehicles and specialty groups.
Moss Bluff Christmas Parade, Dec. 8
11/19/2012
Santa and his elves will march into Moss Bluff Saturday, Dec. 8, in the Moss Bluff Christmas Parade at 2 p.m.
Starks Christmas Parade, Dec. 1
11/19/2012
The community of Starks will spring into the Christmas spirit with the annual Starks Christmas Parade to be held on Saturday, Dec. 1, at 2 p.m.
Sulphur's Christmas Under the Oaks Festival
11/19/2012
Twinkling lights, holly wreathes and winding oak branches mingled with a soft glow from falling snowflakes in…Louisiana? Yes, it snows every year at Sulphur’s Christmas Under the Oaks Festival, located at the Brimstone Museum Complex, 923 Ruth Street, in the heart of Sulphur at Heritage Square where music, carnival rides and holiday shopping are at their height!
Vinton Cajun Christmas Celebration, Dec. 7
11/19/2012
Christmas is coming to Vinton with a variety of holiday events scheduled for Friday, Dec. 7. The Christmas Parade kicks off the festivities at 5 p.m.
Westlake Christmas Festival, Dec. 8
11/19/2012
Everyone in town is bustling about getting ready for the Westlake Christmas Festival on Saturday, Dec. 8. The celebration kicks off at noon with a gumbo cook-off followed by the parade at 4 p.m. in the heart of downtown.
Creole Nature Trail All-American Road in the Running for American Collectors: American Detours Video
10/23/2012
The Creole Nature Trail All-American Road is in the running for filming of an episode of a new video series, American Collectors: American Detours, featuring classic American collector cars on classic American scenic routes. Your vote will determine where show producers go next so vote and include input on "can't miss" pit stops they should make along the Creole Nature Trail.
CVB Announces 2012 Hospitality Ambassador Training Program
10/16/2012
LAKE CHARLES, La. (October 16, 2012) –Tuesday, Nov. 13, the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau will hold its 2012 workshop, “Game On!,” a hospitality ambassador training program aimed at improving the visitor experience in Southwest Louisiana.
Help Welcome the Louisiana Municipal Association Convention and Jehovah's Witness Convention!
08/01/2012
The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau invites you to put your best foot forward because the area has special guests in town this weekend. The Louisiana Municipal Association comprised of all cities throughout the state of Louisiana will be in town along with the Jehovah's Witness convention.
Xtreme Step Team Heading to New York for BET's Competition
07/19/2012
The nationally acclaimed Xtreme Step Team will be representing Southwest Louisiana on a national television network program, B.E.T.’s 106 & Park Wild Out Wednesday, August 1 at 5 p.m. in New York City.
Get Back in the Game with Tournament of the Stars
07/13/2012
The 18th Annual Tournament of the Stars Pro Am Basketball Classic kicks off Saturday, August 11, at 9 a.m. at various locations including Barbe High School, Ward 3 Power Center, St. Louis High School and the Lake Charles Boston High School gym. Teams come from all over the country with high hopes of becoming the 2012 TOS tournament champion.
Uproar on the Lakeshore: Lake Charles Roller Derby
07/03/2012
LAKE CHARLES, La. (July 3, 2012)–Flat track roller derby, one of the fastest growing sports in America, is an empowering contact sport for women on roller skates. Roller derby made its way to the Lake Area about two years ago and is going strong. The Gulf Coast Roller Girls’ Lafitte’s Ladies will welcome Assassination City Roller Derby of Dallas, TX, Dirty Little Secret Service, to Lake Charles on July 7.
National Association of Sports Commissions Awarded CVB Member of the Year
07/03/2012
The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau was recently named as Member of the Year by the National Association of Sports Commissions at their 2012 conference held in Hartford, Connecticut.
Red, White, Blue & You: Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event
07/03/2012
The STS recently honored the Red, White, Blue & You festival as a 2012 Top 20 Event for the month of July.
Cajun French Music & Food Festival STS Top 20 Event
07/03/2012
The STS recently honored the Cajun French Music & Food Festival as a 2012 Top 20 Event for the month of July. This is the second year in a row the festival has been named a Top 20 Event.
Marshland Festival STS Top 20 Event
07/03/2012
The STS recently honored the Marshland Festival as a 2012 Top 20 Event for the month of July.
Percy Sledge LIVE at Tournament of the Stars Scholarship Fundraiser
07/03/2012
The Tournament of the Stars will host their annual scholarship fundraiser Sunday, July 29, at the Lake Charles Civic Center beginning at 7 p.m. featuring guest artist Percy Sledge.
All-Star Players Announced in Upcoming Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Tournament
07/03/2012
Organizers of the "Battle on the Bayou" softball tournament, a matchup between the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team and Olympic Gold medalist Jennie Finch-Daigle and a team of all-stars, recently announced the all-star team lineup.
The American Idol Media Results Are In!
07/03/2012
The American Idol finale is over, but the eleventh season brought overwhelming excitement to the Lake Area with the success of hometown star Joshua Ledet. His passion and incredible talent landed him in the Final 3, and the world was introduced to Westlake, Louisiana, on a national primetime network television program.
Louisiana High School & Junior High School Rodeo Announces Schedule and Theme Nights
05/17/2012
The Louisiana High School Rodeo Association (LHSRA) will be hosting the Louisiana High School & Junior High School Rodeo Finals at the Burton Coliseum Complex June 1-9.
Joshua Ledet’s Homecoming Pep Rally
05/08/2012
LAKE CHARLES, La. (May 8, 2012) – Joshua Ledet, currently a Top 4 contestant in FOX’s American Idol, is scheduled to come to Louisiana this Saturday, May 12 for a Homecoming Pep Rally if he continues as a Top 3 finalist. American Idol has confirmed today a basic schedule of events for Ledet’s homecoming.
LHSAA Brings Baseball State Championships to Sulphur
05/02/2012
LAKE CHARLES, La. (May 2, 2012)—The Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) Baseball State Championships tournament will be in Sulphur at McMurry Park May 11-12. Classes 4A, 3A, B and C will be competing to earn championship titles for their respective classes.
Louisiana Public Broadcasting Presents—Louisiana: 200 Years of Statehood
04/30/2012
As part of the state’s Bicentennial celebration, Louisiana Public Broadcasting (LPB) will present a free screening for Louisiana: 200 Years of Statehood on Thursday, May 17, at the Central School Arts and Humanities Center, 809 Kirby St. in Lake Charles.
Starks Mayhaw Festival
04/18/2012
The Southeast Tourism Society recently honored the Starks Mayhaw Festival as a 2012 Top 20 Event for the month of May.
BayouCon Returns to Southwest Louisiana with J.G. Hertzler and Robert O'Reilly from Star Trek
04/18/2012
BayouCon, Southwest Louisiana's original fan produced multi-media convention, is back for its fourth year June 30-July 1 at the Lake Charles Civic Center Exhibition Hall.
CVB Announces 2012 Free Hospitality Ambassador Training Program
04/18/2012
As part of National Tourism Week, occurring May 5-13, the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau will hold "Game On!," a free hospitality ambassador training program May 9.
How to Vote for Southwest Louisiana's American Idol Joshua Ledet
04/16/2012
Support Westlake's American Idol, Joshua Ledet this week by voting Wednesday night beginning at 9:01 p.m. Joshua is currently in the Top 7. If he makes it to the Final 3, American Idol will come to Southwest Louisiana to film Joshua's return to his hometown as he meets his supportive fan base.
Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau Celebrates National Tourism Week
04/13/2012
The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau will celebrate National Tourism Week, May 5-13. As tourism is the seventh largest industry in Louisiana, the bureau will sponsor a variety of events in the community to create awareness of tourism's impact.
Smoked Meats are a Staple to Pots in Southwest Louisiana
04/13/2012
In Southwest Louisiana there are two ingredients which are the base of most dishes cooked and synonymous with Creole and Cajun cuisine.
Show Your Hospitality to LHSAA Fast Pitch 56
04/12/2012
Southwest Louisiana will soon host the Louisiana High School Athletic Association's Fast Pitch 56 softball tournament at Sulphur Parks and Recreation's facility at Frasch Park, April 27-28. Businesses are encouraged to display "Welcome LHSAA Fast Pitch 56 Tournament" on their marquees or signs during the tournament to show teams and spectators a little Southern hospitality.
Lake Charles--Southwest Louisiana's Best Kept Secret
04/11/2012
It's not that denizens of Lake Charles don't play well with others. It's more like they had a long-standing, clandestine love affair.
Black Heritage Thrives in Lake Charles
04/11/2012
Lake Charles invites you to an Afrocentric experience at its best at the annual Black Heritage Festival & Black Heritage Gallery.
Cajun, Creole and Zydeco Music in Lake Charles
04/11/2012
Music traditions run deep in Southwest Louisiana. For generations, folks here have immersed themselves in the melodies, dance steps and lyrics of Cajun, Creole, Zydeco and other music genres that express the essential necessities of everyday life: family, relationships, food and fun.
Lake Charles Welcomes the Savvy African American Traveler
04/11/2012
If a soulful, undeniably Southwest Louisiana travel experience is on your "bucket list", Lake Charles has more than a little something for you!
Experience the Flavor and Culture at the Taste of Louisiana Festival
04/10/2012
The 2nd annual Taste of Louisiana Festival, LLC is proud to announce a new date scheduled for Memorial Weekend Saturday May 26th, 2012 at The Lake Charles Civic Center Arcade Amphitheater.
Lake Charles Symphony Presents a Classical Series Concert
04/04/2012
The Lake Charles Symphony will perform a Classical Series Concert on Saturday, April 14 at 7:30 p.m. at the Rosa Hart Theatre.
Experience the Lake Charles Symphony Wild Beast Feast
04/04/2012
The Lake Charles Symphony will host the 11th annual Wild Beast Feast on Saturday, May 5, at the Historic Cash and Carry Building, 801 Enterprise Blvd.
Contraband Days Presents Josh Turner's Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Tour
04/03/2012
The Contraband Days Louisiana Pirate Festival is proud to announce that Josh Turner, multi-platinum recording artist and member of the Grand Ole Opry will be performing during the festival for the 55th anniversary of the event thanks to the generous $25,000 sponsorship of the Isle of Capri Casino & Hotel.
Louisiana Railroad Days Festival Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event
04/03/2012
The Southeast Tourism Society recently honored the Louisiana Railroad Days Festival as a 2012 Top 20 Event for the month of April.
Southwest Louisiana Celebrates 200 years of Statehood
03/27/2012
The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana are working to coordinate the Lake Area’s role in celebrating two hundred years of statehood from April until September of this year.
Southwest Louisiana Gears Up for the 12th Annual Fast Pitch 56 Softball Tournament
03/27/2012
The Louisiana High School Athletic Association Fast Pitch 56 Tournament returns to Sulphur for its 12th consecutive year at Frasch Park, April 27-28. This two-day event features the top 56 high school softball teams in seven classes from all across Louisiana vying for the championship crown.
Louisiana High School & Junior High School Rodeo Finals Return to Southwest Louisiana
03/23/2012
Southwest Louisiana has roped' em back in, as the Louisiana High School & Junior High Rodeo Finals return to the Burton Coliseum for the first time since 2001. Southwest Louisiana is ready to get back in the saddle again after hosting the finals for more than 53 years.
Southwest Louisiana Secures State Swim Meet for Seventh Consecutive Year
03/23/2012
The Louisiana High School Athletic Association voted to keep the State High School Swim Meet in Sulphur for 2012 and 2013. Southwest Louisiana won the bid by a vote of 19-1 beating out the University of New Orleans Lakefront Arena.
The Original DownTown Lake Charles Crawfish Fest
03/16/2012
The Movers and Shakers of the South is pleased to once again present the Original DownTown Lake Charles Crawfish Fest April 12-15, 2012, in downtown Lake Charles.
Get Social! FREE Social Media Seminar April 11
03/16/2012
The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau presents "Get Social!" April 11 at the Lake Charles Civic Center Contraband Room. It is a FREE social media, interactive seminar for partners in tourism to help further their respective markets in the new digital age.
Iowa Rabbit Festival Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event
03/16/2012
The Southeast Tourism Society recently honored the Iowa Rabbit Festival as a 2012 Top 20 Event for the month of March. Don't miss this hare-raising good time March 15-17.
Contraband Days Rebranding Project
03/08/2012
The Contraband Days Festival has a new look for its 55th anniversary in 2012. The festival underwent an extensive branding exercise last year to pinpoint the demographics and interests of target audiences to ensure the offerings and branding of the festival are communicating the spirit of the event effectively.
Contraband Days Commemorative Poster
03/08/2012
The 55th anniversary commemorative poster for the Contraband Days, Louisiana Pirate Festival, was produced by local artist Candice Alexander.
The Taste of Louisiana Festival Asks for Vendors and Competitors
03/07/2012
The Taste of Louisiana Festival will take place on Saturday, May 26, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the Lake Charles Civic Center Amphitheater. Vendor applications are now being accepted for arts and crafts booths, food and entertainment.
Final Call to Race the ReALLIEty Challenge
02/29/2012
This is your last chance to run for a warrior and sign up for the ReALLIEty Challenge on March 31, presented by Nissan of Lake Charles.
Art-Everything Crawfish
02/29/2012
The DownTown Lake Charles Crawfish Fest is excited and honored to participate in this year's Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana's Spring Art Walk with "Arts at the Fest."
DeQuincy Railroad Museum Launches Video Tour
02/27/2012
LAKE CHARLES, La. (February 27, 2012)—The DeQuincy Railroad Museum recently launched a 30 second public service announcement encouraging visitation to the museum.
Lake Charles Symphony's Classical Series Concert
02/15/2012
The second classical series concert of the Lake Charles Symphony 2011-2012 season will be held Saturday, February 25 at 7:30 p.m. at the Rosa Hart Theatre.
Sign Up and Be a Warrior at The ReALLIEty Challenge!
02/08/2012
Sign up and get ready to jump, crawl, swing, and slide for the first ever ReALLIEty Challenge, presented by Nissan of Lake Charles, adventure race on March 31.
Changes to Mardi Gras Parade Route and Lighted Boat Parade Time
02/08/2012
Lake Charles, La. (February 8, 2012)—Road Construction at the intersection of Ryan and Broad Streets in downtown Lake Charles is causing Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana and City of Lake Charles officials to make an adjustment to this year’s Mardi Gras parade route.
Sign Up for the 2012 Southwest Louisiana District Senior Games
02/07/2012
The Southwest Louisiana District Senior Games will be held March 10-24 at various recreational complexes around Southwest Louisiana.
Black Heritage Festival Announces Music Lineup
02/07/2012
LAKE CHARLES, La. (Feb. 7, 2012)—The Black Heritage Festival in Lake Charles will bring together the unique cultures of Africa and Southwest Louisiana on Saturday, March 10 at the Lake Charles Civic Center.
Iowa Chicken Run
02/07/2012
Catch a chicken at the 33rd annual Mardi Gras Run on February 21 at the Knights of Columbus Hall off of Highway 90 in the town of Iowa.
Find Your Inner Warrior at the ReALLIEty Challenge!
02/06/2012
Begin a New Year's resolution to get healthy at the Nissan ReALLIEty Challenge on March 31 in Lake Charles.
Louisiana Office of Tourism’s Competitive Grant Program Accepting Applications for Marketing Grants
02/06/2012
The Louisiana Office of Tourism recently announced they are currently accepting applications for their Competitive Grant Program for events taking place July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2013.
Mardi Gras Shoebox Float Contest
02/04/2012
LAKE CHARLES, La. (February 4, 2011) –The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau recently held a community-wide Mardi Gras Shoebox Float Contest.
Bird Watchers Unite at LaQuinta Inn & Suites
01/02/2012
The Gulf Coast Bird Club of Lake Charles will host the Louisiana Ornithological Society's winter meeting Friday-Saturday, Jan. 27-28 at LaQuinta Inn & Suites' Contraband Room.
Bureau Brings Home National Travel Trade Media Coverage
12/28/2011
The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau received recent coverage in group tour trade publications Courier and Group Tour Magazine.
Children's Day Provides Mardi Gras Culture and Fun
12/20/2011
Children's Day is a free event open to all children in Southwest Louisiana ages 3-11 on Sunday, February 19 from noon to 3 p.m. at the Lake Charles Civic Center.
Krewe of the Golden Years
12/20/2011
Calcasieu Council on Aging presents the Krewe of the Golden Year's 17th Annual Mardi Gras Ball on Monday, February 13, 9 a.m.--2p.m. at the Lake Charles Civic Center.
Mardi Gras Gumbo Cook-off is a Hot Competition
12/20/2011
The public tastes from every pot of chicken and sausage or wild game gumbo in a hot contest at noon on Saturday, February 18, at the Lake Charles Civic Center from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The CVB Hosts International and National Journalists for Mardi Gras Press Trip
12/20/2011
The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau will host 10 travel writers from all over the United States and Canada for a Mardi Gras press tour set for Feb. 18-22.
Calling All Parade Lovers...Mardi Gras Parades Open for Entries
12/20/2011
Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana is inviting the community to help them paint the town purple, green and gold!
Miss Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana Pageant Open for Entries
12/20/2011
Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana invites all young ladies to enter the 2012 Miss Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana pageant.
Mardi Gras Royal Gala Dazzles the Public
12/20/2011
The Cinderella night of Mardi Gras manifests on Mardi Gras eve, Monday, Feb. 20, with a lavish promenade of more than 50 krewes' royalty before thousands of residents and visitors at the Lake Charles Civic Center at 7 p.m.
Mardi Gras Shoebox Float Contest Call for Entries!
12/20/2011
The CVB is inviting the community to bedazzle their shoeboxes and help usher in the Mardi Gras season.
STS Top 20 Event for Mardi Gras Southwest Louisiana
12/20/2011
The Southeast Tourism Society recently honored Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana as a Top 20 Event for 2012.
Carlyss Mardi Gras Trail Ride
12/20/2011
Experience a traditional Mardi Gras celebration with the Carlyss Mardi Gras Trail Ride, including chicken runs and a trail ride parade on Saturday, February 18.
Get in the Mardi Gras Spirit with Twelfth Night
12/20/2011
Mardi Gras makes its flamboyant entrance on Friday, Jan. 6 with the annual Twelfth Night celebration.
Vinton Mardi Gras Celebration
12/20/2011
Mardi Gras magic will be in full swing during the town of Vinton's Mardi Gras celebration on Saturday, Feb. 11, in downtown Vinton.
Alcohol-Free Mardi Gras Zone for Kids, Tweens, and Teens
12/20/2011
The "Zone" presented by the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury will take place Tuesday, February 21st, from noon to 5 p.m. in the empty parking lot between the Charleston Building and the Parish Courthouse on Ryan St.
LHSAA State Cheer and Dance Championships
12/02/2011
The Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) will be holding the inaugural State Cheer and Dance Championships at the Lake Charles Civic Center this Saturday, Dec. 3 beginning at 9 a.m. There are 63 schools competing from across the state performing 93 cheer and dance routines in the championship.
Gingerbread House Contest
12/02/2011
The annual gingerbread house contest will be held Saturday, Dec. 3 at noon at the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau
Louisiana Showcase of Soccer
11/28/2011
St. Louis Catholic High School hosts the Louisiana Showcase of Soccer on Dec. 16 and 17 at Highway 14 Soccer Complex.
National Pro Fastpitch, August 17-21
08/17/2011
LAKE CHARLES, La. (August 2, 2011)--The National Pro Fastpitch Championship Series will return to Sulphur, La for its 2nd consecutive year at McMurry Park. Come out and support your favorite player as they compete for the title and possibly be on national television.
Slam Dunk for Scholars at Tournament of the Stars
08/12/2011
The 17th Annual Tournament begins on Friday, August 12 at 7 p.m. at Barbe High School. Your favorite NBA Stars and Harlem Legends will be in attendance with men and women championships ending at the Lake Charles Civic Center on Sunday.
Creole Nature Trail - GPS Ranger Tour Launches
05/04/2011
LAKE CHARLES, La. (May 4, 2011) - The Creole Nature Trail All-American Road, also known as Louisiana's Outback, has now been brought to life with the GPS RangerTM Handheld Video Solution and Smartphone application for visitors. The free app can currently be downloaded at the iTunes App Store or Android Market, and the GPS RangerTM Handheld Unit can be rented at the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau free of charge beginning May 7 at the start of National Tourism Week.
National Tourism Week Overview
05/04/2011
LAKE CHARLES, La.- The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau will celebrate National Tourism Week, May 7-15. As tourism is the seventh largest industry in Louisiana, the bureau will sponsor a variety of events in the community to create awareness of tourism's impact.
Restaurant Day, National Tourism Week
05/04/2011
As part of the National Tourism Week celebration, May 7-15, the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau, in cooperation with the Southwest Chapter of the Louisiana Restaurant Association, will present Restaurant Day at a new location on Tuesday, May 10, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., at the Lake Charles Civic Center Exhibition Hall.
Children's Day, National Tourism Week!
05/04/2011
During National Tourism Week, May 7-15, the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau will celebrate Children's Day on Saturday, May 7, at the welcome center, 1205 N. Lakeshore Drive.
Call for Boudin Makers
02/17/2011
LAKE CHARLES-The Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail is an attraction that is promoted nationally and internationally through the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau's public relations and advertising initiatives.
Two New CVB Board Members
01/21/2011
LAKE CHARLES, La. (January 21, 2011)-The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau has two new appointees joining the board of directors, with Jonathan Johnson representing Southwest Louisiana Festivals and Rob King representing the Southwest Louisiana Restaurant Association.
100 Reasons to ‘Like' Louisiana
07/28/2010
Marking the 100th day of the ongoing oil spill tragedy, the Louisiana Office of Tourism is calling on online social networking communities to help develop a list of the top 100 reasons to visit Louisiana.
23rd Annual Cajun Music & Food Festival
07/17/2010
Geno Delafose and French Rockin' Boogie to Headline 23rd Annual Cajun Music & Food Festival July 17 & 18, 2010
Game On! Ambassadors
07/08/2010
On July 7, the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) educated 21 members of the Southwest Louisiana hospitality industry with its new Game On! Hospitality Ambassador Training Program.
Blue Ribbon Apple Pie Contest
07/04/2010
LAKE CHARLES-What's more American than apple pie? All bakers are invited to participate in the fourth annual Blue Ribbon Apple Pie Contest for ribbons and cash prizes, held in conjunction with the Red White Blue & You Fourth of July Festival in downtown Lake Charles.
Jimmy Buffet and CMT Present Concert Benefiting Gulf Coast: Southwest Louisiana to be Featured
06/23/2010
Jimmy Buffet and the Coral Reefer Band will be joined by Kenny Chesney, Zac Brown, Allen Toussaint, Sonny Landreth, Jesse Winchester and special guests for a free concert in Gulf Shores, Ala. on July 1, being called CMT Presents Jimmy Buffet & Friends Live from the Gulf Coast.
New (June) Game On! Ambassadors
06/17/2010
LAKE CHARLES, La. (June 4, 2010) - This week, the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) educated 69 members of the Southwest Louisiana hospitality industry with its new Game On! Hospitality Ambassador Training Program.
Game On! Tourism Ambassadors
05/20/2010
LAKE CHARLES, La. (May 20, 2010) - Yesterday, the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) educated 95 members of the Southwest Louisiana hospitality industry with its new Game On! Hospitality Ambassador Training Program.
Bureau Honors Partners in Tourism
05/14/2010
LAKE CHARLES-The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau awarded partners in tourism who have made significant contributions to the tourism industry in Southwest Louisiana at the award ceremony on Thursday, May 13, held at the bureau, 1205 N. Lakeshore Drive.
Restaurant Appreciation Day, May 11
05/11/2010
LAKE CHARLES, La.-As part of the National Tourism Week celebration, May 8-16, the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau, in cooperation with the Southwest Chapter of the Louisiana Restaurant Association, will present the 2010 Taste of Southwest Louisiana Restaurant Day on Tuesday, May 11, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. on the grounds of the bureau's Welcome Center at 1205 N. Lakeshore Dr.
National Tourism Week, May 8-16
05/08/2010
LAKE CHARLES, La.- The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau will celebrate National Tourism Week, May 8-16. As tourism is the second largest industry in Louisiana, the bureau will sponsor a variety of events in the community to create awareness of tourism's impact. In addition, advertising throughout Calcasieu Parish in newspapers, radio and television and will highlight the vital role that tourism plays in our economy and our lives.
Promote Your Organization, Business or Event on visitlakecharles.org!
05/06/2010
LAKE CHARLES, La.-As part of National Tourism Week, May 8-16, the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau is inviting organizations, businesses, individuals or event organizers to utilize its newly redesigned website, www.visitlakecharles.org, and related websites to help promote all there is to see and do in Southwest Louisiana.
Volunteer of the Year, National Tourism Week
05/06/2010
LAKE CHARLES, La.-The 2010 Tourism Volunteer of the Year award for the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau was presented to Merline Morvant for 8 years of service and commitment to the tourism industry. The award was given to Morvant in honor of National Tourism Week, May 8-16.
Volunteer of the Year! National Tourism Week
05/06/2010
LAKE CHARLES, La.-The 2010 Tourism Volunteer of the Year award for the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau was presented to Merline Morvant for 8 years of service and commitment to the tourism industry. The award was given to Morvant in honor of National Tourism Week, May 8-16.
Volunteer of the Year
05/06/2010
LAKE CHARLES, La.-The 2010 Tourism Volunteer of the Year award for the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau was presented to Merline Morvant for 8 years of service and commitment to the tourism industry. The award was given to Morvant in honor of National Tourism Week, May 8-16.
Children's Day, May 8, National Tourism Week
05/04/2010
LAKE CHARLES, La. – During National Tourism Week, May 8-16, the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau will celebrate Children’s Day on Saturday, May 8, at the welcome center, 1205 N. Lakeshore Drive.
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