Rayne Named National Finalist for Favorite Small Towns Contest
Plus, What Else is at Stake for Rayne in the Competition
RAYNE, La – In 2025, the Acadia Parish Tourism Office nominated the City of Rayne to participate in the nationwide contest “America’s Favorite Small Towns,” presented by Parade magazine and travel platform Steller.
On March 1, the national finalists were revealed, with Rayne making the cut.
The daily online voting opened on Nov. 17 and ended last Saturday, Feb. 28. Just before the cutoff, on the morning of Feb. 27, Rayne ranked #3 of all the nationwide entrants. Earlier that week, Rayne ranked #4.
Chere Ledoux, communications specialist for the Acadia Parish Convention & Visitors Center, shared that Rayne, “had spent quite a bit of time at number 2.”
Upcoming:
- June 1: State winners announced
- June 12: National winner announced
What’s at Stake for the Favorite Small Towns
According to the “America’s Favorite Small Towns” Contest website, the winning town will enjoy a Parade x Steller activation during its July 4th festivities, complete with potential celebrity involvement, sponsor giveaways and national media coverage. Additionally, the winning town gets use of the “Favorite Small Town in America” badge and signage to showcase their achievement.
Finalists will appear in Parade’s “Favorite Small Towns in America” special print issue.
Why Rayne?
Rayne was selected as the community to represent Acadia Parish in this nomination as a tribute to Suzette Leonard’s years of service to the city and as board chairman of the Acadia Parish Convention and Visitors Commission.
This recognition reflects her commitment, while celebrating Rayne as one of the many unique destinations in Acadia Parish.
