Cajun Courir de Mardi Gras in Church Point, Louisiana: Photos

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In New Orleans the Sunday before Mardi Gras, while Thoth and Bacchus rolled down St. Charles Avenue, a different celebration was taking place in Church Point, Louisiana, 25 miles Northwest of Lafayette. This year marked the town’s 51st official Courir de Mardi Gras, first organized in 1961, although informal celebrations had been taking place since French settlers first came to Louisiana. The Cajun Carnival celebration in Church Point claims to be the last “traditional” courir. The day started with boudin and eggs, ended with gumbo and pork, and was full of beer throughout. The highlight of the day was the chasing of chickens in traditional costumes.

All photos were taken by Kim Welsh.