Hello November!
First of all, how was your Halloween? How wonderful was it last month to have full calendar of events in and around New Iberia to celebrate with the community! From spooky family fun, decorating and costume contests, to fall festivals and pumpkin patches and of course the Halloween Parade in Downtown New Iberia was the topping on the jack-o-lantern!
In the last week of the October, as I was still filling the calendar and contacting members in the community about events, there was an article that came out from WalletHub listing New Iberia as one of the worst small towns to live in and I for one was unhappy to see our town portrayed in this way. I was happy to see Mayor Freddie DeCourt's editorial rebuttal come out immediately in defense of our town.
I think was was offended because the people who conducted that poll have no idea what we are all about. I am a transplant from New Orleans, but have lived in the Acadiana area for almost 10 years and the last 4 of that has been spent here in New Iberia. And I can honestly say I call this town home with a huge smile on my face.
I love the fact that this community is truly a melting pot of cultures, genuinely welcoming to others, and loves coming together whether it's for a benefit or a parade. You could see that glow of community in the faces of everyone who lined up the streets of downtown New Iberia on Saturday waiting for the parade.
What that poll won't show is that although the numbers may show us to be below in the economic health and quality of life, the folks who live here don't think twice about reaching out to help someone in need, even if that means there is a little less on their own tables for that month. Did WalletHub know about that girl named Ida that came through our state only a few months ago? For us here in Iberia Parish, Vermilion Parish, St. Mary Parish, and St. Martin Parish, there was not a second thought given about fundraising, cooking, collecting supplies and supporting our family and friends to the east of us who are still struggling to bring normal back to there lives. As I said in my bio, I love living in a small town with a big heart and New Iberia is definitely number one on that list for me.
Now on to the top 5 recommendations for you and your family to enjoy this week!
1. Erath High School Band Community Performance
Thursday, 11/4/21 at 6pm
Come out and show your support at they prepare for the Battle of the Bands showcase! The Erath High Band's annual FREE Community Performance will be held on Thursday, November 4, 2021.
2. Water / Ways Exhibit by The Smithsonian
Friday, 11/5/21, 10:00am to 4:00pm
Be sure to check out the The Smithsonian Water/Ways traveling exhibit while in New Iberia. The exhibit will showcase the importance of water, how it unites communities and allows towns like New Iberia to flourish.
3. Junior Farmers Market
Saturday, 11/6/21 8am to 12pm
Head out to Bouligny plaza to support the kiddos with entrepreneurial spirit selling their handmade goods and items alongside the weekly Farmer's market.
4. 7th Annual Lighthouse Festival in Berwick
Saturday, 11/6/21 8:30am to 11:30pm
It's time for the 7th annual Lighthouse Festival on the historic Berwick Riverfront. Live music, food, games, carnival rides and so much more! The event will run from Friday, November 5th through Sunday, November 7th.
5. 10th Annual New Iberia Vendor and Craft Holiday Event
Saturday, 11/6/21 10:00 am to 3:00pm
Come support local vendors, artist, shops and more in the annual vendor holiday event held in New Iberia's beautiful City Park. Make sure the kiddos bring their letter for Santa as there will be photos ops with him during the event.
Looking for more fun in and around New Iberia?
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