By Ranna Hebert

The Cajun Music & Food Festival returns to Lake Charles this weekend, celebrating Cajun culture with live music, food and auctions at Burton Coliseum.

Doors will open at 8 a.m. on Saturday, followed by live music at 9 a.m. by Ellis Vanicor and the Laccasine Playboys. The celebratory sounds won’t stop there as the festival will also feature Aaron Istre & Under The Influence, 4 Horses, Donny Broussard & The Louisiana Stars, Cajun Strong and Leroy Thomas & The Zydeco Roadrunners.

In addition to joyful noise, the Cajun Festival will offer a wide variety of Cajun food such as shrimp etouffee, chicken and sausage gumbo, jambalaya and more. Children and families can also look forward to face painting, a children’s coloring area and an arts and crafts area with more than 30 vendors.

Moreover, attendees should search for silent and live auctions at the event. According to Renee Daigle, chapter president and festival chairman, visitors can expect auction items such as wine glasses, toy-filled bags, Cajun meat deals and Bayou Rum.

The Cajun Festival has a $10 admission fee, and all children under 10 are free. Following a fun-filled day, families and friends can join the Cajun French Mass at 9 a.m. Sunday at the CFMA building at 3481 E. Prien Lake Road. A coffee and doughnut social is planned after the Mass.