Christmas Events in Acadiana This Weekend

The holidays are here and there are several great family events around Acadiana this weekend, with many being free.

Below is a list of some of the bigger events.

SAFARI OF LIGHTS: DEC. 1-3, 5pm-9pm
Zoosiana, Broussard, 3 years and above $6, www.zoosiana.com
Stroll the glistening pathways of the zoo at night as music fills the air. Enjoy still and animated lighted animal figurines, North Pole Express Train ride, hot cocoa or hot cappuccino at the Elves Eatery.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHT: DEC. 1, 5pm-10pm
Oil Center, Lafayette, www.theoilcenter.com
Celebrate as the switch is pulled to light the colossal Santa, sleigh and reindeer over Coolidge Blvd. Enjoy music, food and fun and shopping. For children of all ages. Santa will be on hand for photos. Behold the living Nativity and enjoy an outdoor snow yard.

NÖEL ACADIEN AU VILLAGE: ALL WEEKEND, 5:30pm-10pm
LARC's Acadian Village, 200 Greenleaf Dr., Lafayette, $8 in advance (available at Shop Rite locations), $10 at gate, www.acadianvillage.org
Enjoy half a million lights, nightly entertainment, 10 acres of holiday displays, carnival rides, local cuisine, photos with Santa.

THE LIGHTING OF THE VILLAGE, DEC. 1, 5pm-8:30pm
Le Vieux Village, 828 E. Landry St., Opelousas, www.cityofopelousas.com
The annual lighting of the historic Le Vieux Village celebrates the season with children's activities, Christmas carols and a visit from Papa Nöel.

CARENCRO COUNTRY CHRISTMAS, DEC. 2, 9am-3pm
Carencro Community Center, 5115 N. University Ave., Carencro
Family-oriented traditional event with church choirs and vocalists providing caroling and the lighting of the Christmas tree in City Hall. Booths with arts, crafts and food from locals. Judging for homes and businesses for holiday decor. Pictures with Santa and children's parade.

SONIC DRIVE-IN CHRISTMAS PARADE, DEC. 3, 1pm
Downtown Lafayette to the Oil Center
One of Acadiana's oldest Christmas parades, featuring over 20 floats, high school marching bands and the official arrival of Santa Claus to Lafayette.