In Acadiana, it’s all about celebrating the Creole communities this weekend. A historic multi-family Bastille Day celebration is happening tomorrow across southern Louisiana.

“Together, these people created the unique identity of Louisiana’s diverse culture,” said John LaFleur, Bastille Day celebration organizer.

The Creole, American and French flag hand side by side here inside Ville Platte City Hall to remind everyone of Louisiana’s diversity, who we are today and shared French and American values.”

“Les creoles blanc, les creoles de couleur, et des creoles,” said LaFleur.

Translation? White of color and black Creoles.

John Lafleur began Bastille Day celebrations back in 2012, reminding everyone that diversity doesn’t mean division.

“The culture of Louisiana is a Euro, Carribean, Afro-creole, multi-culture.”

Historic roots are translated down from France has transformed into what we see now in cities like Ville Platte.

“I like the way we take care of each other. I like the way we make our gumbos and our root’s and all of that comes from being a Creole,” said Ville Platte Mayor Jennifer Vidrine.

Having gathered religious leaders and concerned French Creoles, this celebration is what helps keep the tradition alive.

“Not only does it celebrate our culture, but, it sustains our culture and it makes sure our culture keeps going and going and going,” said Vidrine.

Internationally, Bastille Day marks a huge turning point in France history. In Acadiana, it remarries history with reality. 

The annual celebration is taking place at the Northside Civic Center in Ville Platte from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Learn more about Bastille Day events in Acadiana.