Welcome to Lafayette
The Heart of Cajun Country
Established in the 1820’s as Vermilionville, in 1836 the city became incorporated. With the discovery of oil, Lafayette became known as “the Hub City” a center for oil and gas companies, registering in 2018 the highest number of workers in the oil and natural gas industry in Louisiana. As the city continued to grow, and become more diversified, Lafayette became a major center for technology, health care, social services, aerospace, banking, and retail.
The City’s rich French, Spanish, and Creole history, create a unique and diverse culture expressed in our art and architecture, music, dance, food, and celebrations.
Is in this festive environment that LAGCOE, a nonprofit organization, hosts the unique and vibrant Energy Fest. A trade show focused on innovation, technology, and entertainment. Join us from October 19-21 at the Cajundome & Convention Center.
Other Facts that make our city unforgettable are:
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Leading Location
Lafayette was named #1 among the Top 20 Southern Cities and #3 overall among Area Development's 100 Leading Locations. Lafayette topped the "Economic Strength" indicators among the Top-25 Mid-Size Cities, and was 3rd among this same group for its "Recession Busting" factors. Lafayette reportedly has "found a way to thrive in the midst of adversity, to prosper while so many places have struggled". Source: Area Development, Summer 2012 -
Best City for Job Growth
Lafayette was ranked #1 in the "Best Cities for Job Growth " listing among other medium-sized cities and4th in the overall rank.The index is calculated based on Bureau of Labor Statistics employment data and takes into account recent growth trend, mid-term growth, long-term trend and momentum, and current year growth. Source: New Geography, May 2012Happiest City in America
2014 A Wall Street Journal's Marketwatch.com study showed that Lafayette, La is the happiest city in America.Fastest Growing Metros
According to a study by IHS Global, in 2012 Lafayette is projected to have the highest growth in employment (8.8%) and the second highest gross metropolitan product growth (7.5%) of 363 metro areas. Source: IHS Global, July 2012Additionally, the following awards pay tribute to the area’s robust culture:
- Top 10 All American Vacations for 2015 (TravelChannel.com)
- Tastiest Town (AAA Southern Traveler)
- Best Getaway in the South (AAA Southern Traveler)
- South’s Tastiest Town (Southern Living Poll)
- Best For Food (Rand McNally)
- Best of the Road (for Food) Optimistic (Gallop Poll)
- Festival International de Louisiane Best World Music Festival (About.com World Music Reader’s Choice)
- Festival Acadiens et Creole (Top Ten Best Cultural Festivals - USA Today 10 Best)
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