September was a month of milestones for Visit Lake Charles, from hosting the Southeast Tourism Society’s Connections Conference for the first time and earning two Shining Example Awards to advancing international outreach in Canada and launching season two of Visita Lake Charles: Las Voces de Luisiana. The team also continued building relationships that drive meetings, events, and sports tourism, reinforcing the region’s position as a premier destination for visitors and major events alike.
Visit Lake Charles Impact
Behind every major sporting event in Southwest Louisiana is a year-round effort from the Visit Lake Charles sports team. From national trade shows like Connect Sports in Miami to S.P.O.R.T.S. – The Relationship Conference in South Carolina, the team stays busy building relationships and meeting face-to-face with event organizers and rights holders.
These efforts open the door for future tournaments and competitions, showcasing why Visit Lake Charles needs to represent the region on the national stage. A direct result of this work was seen last December when Visit Lake Charles hosted the U.S. Sports Congress, leading to a major win: Visit Lake Charles and McNeese State University will host the NJCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Championship in 2026, 2027, and 2028 at the Townsley Law Arena.
Sports tourism is a true team effort, with staff, local businesses, and community partners all playing a role in making these opportunities possible. Now, there’s a chance for locals to get involved: sponsorships and registration are open for Louisiana’s Playground 4-Person Scramble on Oct. 10 at Mallard Golf Club. Proceeds benefit youth golf development in Southwest Louisiana, supporting events such as the AJGA Lake Charles Junior Championship and helping to develop the next generation of athletes. Scan the QR code for details and join us in making an impact.
Visit Lake Charles on the Geaux
Bridging Borders - A Louisiana-Canada Mission
Visit Lake Charles joined partners from across the state on the Louisiana Canada Mission, a multi-city tour designed to showcase Louisiana’s unique culture, food, music, and hospitality to Canadian travelers. With Canada remaining Louisiana’s top international market, the mission was a vital opportunity to rebuild and strengthen connections with travel trade, media, and dignitaries in Toronto, Montréal, and Québec City. Kaitlyn Gallegos, director of global sales, was on the ground sharing why Louisiana’s Playground is a must-visit destination for Canadian visitors.
From hosting special dinners to engaging activations at major transit hubs, the mission put Louisiana’s story front and center, reinforcing our shared French heritage with Canadian partners. By showing up and working alongside Explore Louisiana and our fellow CVBs, Visit Lake Charles is committed to rekindling Canadian interest in Southwest Louisiana and ensuring our destination remains top of mind for international travelers looking for authentic, unforgettable experiences.
Around the Destination
STS Connections Making Connections in SWLA
Visit Lake Charles was honored to host the Southeast Tourism Society’s annual Connections conference this month, welcoming more than 200 tourism professionals from across 13 states and Washington, D.C., to Lake Charles for the first time. The conference not only showcased Southwest Louisiana as a premier meetings destination but also celebrated the industry’s best through the STS Shining Example Awards. During the awards dinner, Visit Lake Charles received two honors: the Partnership Award for the Spirit of Louisiana international campaign and the Fired Up! Culture Beacon Award recognizing the leadership of President and CEO Kyle Edmiston.
Chief Marketing Officer Timothy Bush was also elected vice chair of the STS Executive Committee for the 2025-2026 term. His role further elevates Visit Lake Charles’ voice and influence within the travel and tourism industry. Hosting Connections, earning two prestigious awards, and seeing a team member step into this leadership position strengthen Visit Lake Charles and its commitment to advancing Southwest Louisiana as a must-visit destination.
Visita Lake Charles: Las Voces de Luisiana Returns for Season 2
Visit Lake Charles has launched season two of its Spanish-language podcast, Visita Lake Charles: Las Voces de Luisiana, hosted by Candy Rodriguez, director of communications. The new season, themed "Descubriendo Lake Charles" (Discovering Lake Charles), features four episodes that highlight Hispanic and Latino voices sharing stories about festivals, attractions, and Cajun and Creole flavors. The series continues to expand outreach to Spanish-speaking audiences by highlighting the people, culture, and flavors that define Southwest Louisiana.
Episodes feature local guests:
- Lilieth Flores, co-owner of La Nica Mini Market
- Diana Vallette, editor at Lagniappe Magazine
- Gus Garden, owner of Area 337
- Jessica Colon, casino host at Horseshoe Lake Charles Hotel & Casino
The series is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, YouTube, and more.
Visit Lake Charles Brings a Taste of Southwest Louisiana to the Big Apple
Visit Lake Charles is bringing Cajun and Creole flavors to New York City with Chef Lyle Broussard of Crying Eagle Brewing – Lakefront representing Southwest Louisiana at Taste Louisiana on Oct. 28 at Chelsea Market.
The event is designed to position Louisiana as a premier culinary destination, featuring 11 chefs from across the state along with Louisiana-made beverages and live performances. It provides a national platform to showcase the region’s food, music, and hospitality.
Broussard has earned numerous honors for his authentic approach to Cajun and Creole cuisine. His participation will spotlight the culinary traditions of Southwest Louisiana for media, influencers, and guests in one of the nation’s top food markets.
Louisiana Food & Wine Festival Set for Spring Debut
The Louisiana Food & Wine Festival has officially wrapped up, but the countdown is already on for its return March 12–15, 2026. Traditionally held in September, the festival is shifting to spring for the first time, offering visitors a fresh perspective on Louisiana’s culinary scene. Early bird discount tickets go on sale on November 14, offering food lovers the chance to secure their spot. From Cajun and Creole flavors to world-class wines and spirits, the festival will once again bring chefs, winemakers, and food enthusiasts together in Lake Charles for an unforgettable celebration.
In the News
Latest Headlines
The Independent: “Why Louisiana’s Cajun and Zydeco Music Keeps the Beat Alive”
The Independent highlighted Louisiana’s Cajun and Zydeco music scene, featuring artists like Sean Ardoin, Rusty Metoyer, Panorama, and Luna. The piece reached a global audience of 35.6 million readers. Read More
Travel Press: “Louisiana Doubles Down on Canada”
Travel Press spotlighted Louisiana’s push to strengthen ties with Canadian travelers, including the upcoming 2026 Year of the Outdoors campaign. Lake Charles was featured for its unique offerings, such as luxury glamping tents, RV stays, and even a houseboat with a private chef, alongside festivals like Chuck Fest that blend music, food, and culture late into the night. Read More
