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Lake Charles is set upon the beautiful lake that bears its name. An active waterway, the lake serves as an anchor for all types of water sports such as boating, water skiing, kayaking and swimming. The city’s proximity to The Lone Star State gives it a unique culture of its own. The city mixes a Cajun personality with a Texas flair and combines big-city entertainment with plenty of outdoor activities for a variety of fun ways to fill up your days (and nights).

Fest in the West

Like most parts of the state, Southwestern Louisiana has its share of festivals where you’ll find amazing food, great music, and groups of people looking to celebrate life. Check out Chuck Fest, which brings its own brand of Louisiana-based music, food, art, and culture. This is Home Fest is an all-day cultural festival featuring live music across multiple stages, curated art, and an array of culinary delights to tempt your tastebuds. Hoist the Jolly Roger and set forth for all the adventure that is The Louisiana Pirate Festival, a seafaring fest with events on both land and sea. Set on the shores of historic Lake Charles, the family friendly event features cannon demonstrations, costume contests, carnival rides, and more. The Pirate Festival was chosen as a Top 20 Event by the Southeast Tourism Society and is a can’t-miss day of fun. The Louisiana Food + Wine Festival celebrates the best of Louisiana and the South, from its culinary superstars and beverage experts to Southwest Louisiana’s unique Cajun and Creole heritage. Looking for a traditional carnival atmosphere with a Louisiana flair? The Calcasieu-Cameron Fair has all the rides, food, and fun you can handle. The Juneteenth Freedom Fest is three days of activities celebrating the history of African Americans and this significant date in our country. 

Each year, Lake Charles gets into Mardi Gras full swing with the culmination of all the events leading up to Fat Tuesday. Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras krewes show off their festive sides with parades, gumbo cookoffs, and of course, plenty of King Cake. Mardi Gras in Southwest Louisiana is family-friendly and boasts over 60 krewes that participate in the Mardi Gras Southwest Krewe of Krewes Parade—the culmination of the season on Fat Tuesday. Break out your traditional colors of purple, gold, and green—this all-day party is something to see! 

If you’re looking for a little more refined culture, Lake Charles helps you unwind in style at one of its three casinos:  L’Auberge Casino Resort, Golden Nugget, or Horseshoe Casino Resort. In addition to the casino excitement, each offers a wide range of food, bars, nightclubs, and pool areas. You’ll also find major music acts passing through from country to rock and more.

For a true diversity of cultural experiences where the common theme is food, friends, and fun, Lake Charles has it all. It’s easy to see why they call it Louisiana's Playground!