How Participation in Taste Louisiana Impacts Acadia Parish

This year, “Taste Louisiana in NYC” brought the diverse flavors of Louisiana to Chelsea Market in New York City, featuring dishes from 11 renowned Louisiana chefs. Taste Louisiana is a collaborative effort of the Louisiana Travel Association and the Louisiana Office of Tourism to promote the state by highlighting its unique culinary scene. 

The event generates media coverage, social media posts, influencer mentions and greater brand recall for Louisiana and its regions.

Each year, Acadia Parish participates in Taste Louisiana. This year, Acadia Parish elevated its participation through the sponsorship of Grammy Award-winning Cajun artist Wayne Toups, who performed at the event alongside violinist Regina Cates. 

Wendy Walker Harrington, executive director of Acadia Parish Tourism, attended the event and introduced Toups.

Wendy Walker Harrington at “Taste Louisiana in New York City” from Acadia Parish Tourism

“Wayne Toups was born and raised in Crowley, Louisiana, right in the heart of Acadia Parish,” said Chere Ledoux, the communications specialist at the Acadia Parish Convention & Visitors Center. “He is a wonderful ambassador for our parish and state.”

According to the Acadia Parish Convention & Visitors Center, the “Taste Louisiana in NYC” event sold out.

“This event brought Louisiana food, music and culture into one of the largest media and consumer markets in the United States, elevating awareness of the state as a travel destination,” said Ledoux. 

Sponsoring Toups at the event also helped raise awareness for Acadia Parish specifically. Since the event, the convention center has reported an increase in inquiries.