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.
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