St. Martin Parish, Louisiana, is a vibrant region where Cajun culture flourishes among meandering bayous and the quaint small towns of Arnaudville, Breaux Bridge, Butte La Rose, Henderson, and St. Martinville. The essence of the St. Martin Parish community is expressed through music, dance, and food. As you venture through the parish, Cajun and Zydeco melodies can be heard flowing from local establishments, welcoming all that pass to come inside and join the fun on the dance floor.
St. Martin Parish’s rich culture was developed long ago when it became a sanctuary for thousands of French Catholics from Arcadia who were exiled from Nova Scotia and France by the Anglican British Crown in the mid-1700s. The Acadians, later known as Cajuns, brought not only their families to the region, but also their traditions, French language, and culinary influence, solidifying the cultural fabric of St. Martin Parish.
The Acadians and their ties to the Parish were immortalized by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in his famous 1847 epic poem "Evangeline, A Tale of Acadie." Visitors flock to St. Martinville to witness the legendary Evangeline Oak and the Evangeline Monument at the St. Martin de Tours Church, one of the oldest Catholic churches in America. Many similar historical sites can be found throughout the Parish. Locals take pride in their unique heritage and remain committed to preserving their way of life that has been recognized and admired by many worldwide.
Above all, Cajun cuisine stands at the core of St. Martin Parish’s cultural identify. The smell of fresh Louisiana seafood and spice fill the air of nearly every local restaurant, beckoning visitors to sample authentic Cajun dishes from gumbo and boudin to stuffed turkey wings and beignets. Breaux Bridge, dubbed the Crawfish Capital of the World, even brought shrimp étouffée to American tables and today runs Louisiana's largest food festival celebrating their beloved crawfish.
With something new to explore around every corner, visitors are invited to dive into the Cajun lifestyle, indulge in exquisite Southern cuisine, explore the great outdoors, and discover all that St. Martin Parish has to offer.
Come savor the joie de vivre in St. Martin Parish. Plan your visit today at CajunCounty.org.
plan your trip to St. Martin Parish
![St Martin de Tours Church Square in St Martinville](https://thelocalpalate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/TLP-Featured-Image-16.jpg)
Partnered
Outdoor Adventure and Historic Charm Awaits in St. Martin Parish
Discover the natural beauty, charm, and history of Butte La Rose, Henderson, and St. Martinville in St. Martin Parish, Louisiana.
![Lake Martin Kayaker's taking in the beautiful Cypress Trees](https://thelocalpalate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/TLP-Featured-Image-1-1.jpg)
Partnered
Exploring Arnaudville, Breaux Bridge, and Lake Martin
Uncover St. Martin Parish's cultural heritage and explore Cajun Country in Arnaudville, Breaux Bridge, and Lake Martin.
the latest in st. martin parish
![Christmas Artwalk in Breaux Bridge in St. Martin Parish, Louisiana.](https://thelocalpalate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/TLP-Featured-Image-3-1.jpg)
Partnered
Celebrate the Seasons: Festivals in St. Martin Parish
Experience St. Martin Parish this fall and winter with festivals including art and nature celebrations, live music, and holiday lights.
![CZA](https://thelocalpalate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/CZ4A7975.jpg)
Roots
Bearing Fruit at Big Apple Inn
Peeling back the layers of history at Big Apple Inn gives Mississippi café owner, Geno Lee, his purpose to sustain his family's legacy.
![TLP Featured Image ()](https://thelocalpalate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/TLP-Featured-Image-2-4.jpg)
Partnered
Can’t Miss Cajun Restaurants in St. Martin Parish
With fresh Louisiana seafood and spices that are like no other, here are four must-try Cajun restaurants in St. Martin Parish.