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Of the many festivals in Louisiana, only one is on the Cast Net King’s mind. He travels from his swampy home to the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program’s La Fete d’Ecologie for the Cajun food and, of course, the cast net throwing competition.
The horned beast with a mossy beard emerges as an introduction to the contest, which starts at 2 p.m., said BTNEP events coordinator Kristy Monier. With his skull scepter, cape and entourage, he parades around before contestants see if they can match his talent.
Festival-goers also show off their duck-calling skills in a 1 p.m. competition. Both challenges have adult and children’s categories.
From the French name to the food to the event schedule, La Fete centers on Louisiana. As BTNEP’s website says, “It’s about all of us.” The festival blends games and activities with learning experiences highlighting regional ecology and industries.
Guests race fiddler crabs at the Nicholls State University Biology Society’s booth. Folk artists display their work and demonstrate decoy carving, chair caning and oyster shell painting. BTNEP representatives spread the word about invasive plant species, challenge visitors to identify migratory birds and even show how to make and use primitive weapons.
The cultural celebration extends to the music, with Louisiana natives playing throughout the day. Performing are Geno Delafose and French Rockin’ Boogie, Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band, the Don Rich Band and the King PaKaYea’ Band.
Award-winning magician Glen Ghirardi of Morgan City brings comedy and live doves to his shows at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Others in attendance include the Nature Conservancy, the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visitors to La Fete dine on local dishes and festival staples. Among the concessions offered are fried catfish, crawfish hushpuppies, pulled pork, hamburgers, hot dogs, fries and ice cream.
According to BTNEP’s website, La Fete, now in its 17th year, serves to raise awareness about the state’s vanishing wetlands. The festival honors area history, culture and the environment, helping preserve the way of life enjoyed by the Cast Net King and other residents.
La Fete d’Ecologie runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 19 at Lake End Park in Morgan City. For more information, visit lafete.btnep.org or call (985) 447-0868.
The Cast Net King comes out of hiding to challenge attendees oaf La Fete d’Ecologie in a cast-net tossing challenge, one of many events at the festival produced by the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program.
