3+ week, 1+ day ago (142+ words) ST. LANDRY PARISH " It's festival time in Opelousas as the Holy Ghost Catholic Church Creole Festival returns for its 31st year. The three-day celebration, running Friday through Sunday, brings together the community with food, live music and family fun. The weekend kicks off Friday night with Gospel Night, followed by two full days of entertainment, food and activities for the whole family. Festivalgoers can enjoy a variety of traditional Creole dishes and local favorites throughout the weekend. Organizers say the festival is more than just food and music " it's a celebration of Creole culture and community pride that has made Holy Ghost Catholic Church a cornerstone of Opelousas for more than three decades. The festival takes place on the church grounds at 747 North Union Street in Opelousas. Admission is free, and everyone is invited to join the celebration....

1+ week, 3+ day ago (231+ words) ST. LANDRY PARISH " The Canneci Tinne Apache Tribe"part of the Lipan Apache (Nd'we) Nation"will present the Xactci (pronounced Hahch-kee) ceremonial dance on Saturday at the Opelousas Museum. Tribal leaders say the dance is a spiritual tradition rooted in protection, healing, and the clearing of negative energy. Chief Cougar Goodbear has spent years working to restore the ancient ceremony. He credits support from the Opelousas Interpretive Museum for helping bring the dance back to life. For the tribe, reviving the Xactci dance is about reclaiming identity. "We're revitalizing our history from oppression," Goodbear said. According to the tribe's historical archive, the Canneci Tinne Apache people have lived in Louisiana since the 1700s, with communities in St. Martin Parish and Lafayette Parish. Despite displacement, persecution, and cultural suppression, the tribe has continued to preserve its language, traditions, and regalia. Saturday's performance…...

2+ day, 18+ hour ago (147+ words) Here's a look at news making headlines in your parish for Thursday, November 27, 2025. Love of People is hosting its 12th Annual Community Thanksgiving on Thursday, serving free holiday meals at distribution sites throughout Lafayette, New Iberia, and Opelousas. This year, the organization is implementing a "Get One, Give One" initiative, offering up to two meals per person so recipients can share with a neighbor. The Christian Resource Center at 315 Johnston Street will hold a free Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday. Organizers with APN say the event features a special food menu, along with complimentary drinks. Activities start at 10 a.m. On Thursday, St. Joseph's Diner will continue its annual tradition of providing Thanksgiving meals to those experiencing hunger in the community. All volunteer slots have been filled, but donations are still being accepted for the program, which is part of Catholic Charities of Acadiana....