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    • FIL > Home > About FIL

    History and Mission

    Festival International de Louisiane is a community-based, non-profit arts organization formed in 1986 to produce an annual visual and performing arts festival celebrating the French cultural heritage of southern Louisiana - primarily a combination of French, African, Caribbean and Hispanic influences. The largest outdoor, FREE Francophone event in the U.S., the Festival places special emphasis on highlighting the connections between Acadiana and the Francophone world. Each year performing, and visual  artists from Europe, Africa, Canada, the Caribbean and the Americas are invited to share their talents with Louisiana artists, residents and visitors.

    Since its creation, Festival International de Louisiane has become famous as a premier presenter of some of the most unique world musicians and performances in the United States. Popular Louisiana artists such as Aaron Neville, Dr. John, Irma Thomas, Allan Toussaint, Zachary Richard, Sonny Landreth, Beausoleil, Buckwheat Zydeco, Boozoo Chavis, Amedee "Bois Sec" Ardoin, D.L. Menard, Terrance Simien, C.J. Chenier, Geno Delafose, Marc Broussard, Marcia Ball, Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown, Canray Fontenot and Buddy Guy have all performed on our stages.

    Festival International de Louisiane started 27 years ago with a mission in mind. 

    • Enrich the community by organizing a celebration of its native cultures through music and other arts

    • Educate the public to the historical achievements and artistic expressions of related global cultures while developing an appreciation for the arts

    • Develop culture and tourism, as well as enhance economic development by expanding Louisiana’s reputation as an arts center and a destination for artistic events

    The Vision:

    Festival International de Louisiane strives to be the premier international festival known for bringing a variety of unique and emerging music artists to Southwest Louisiana. The Festival is committed to maintaining the venue as a free, community supported event. In addition to the music offering, the event also features workshops, dance and theater as well as other artistic disciplines. The family-oriented event is held each year in downtown Lafayette, Louisiana on multiple permanent as well as temporary stages. Our audience, comprised of local as well as global patrons, is loyal and returns each year to enjoy 100+ free concerts over multiple days. The organization also coordinates promotion and production of other venues and events.

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