Our Approach
Sustain
Foster
Connect
FÊTE sustains Louisiana’s Créole and Cajun cultures through immersive arts education, giving students hands-on opportunities to explore traditional music, language, and crafts. We foster a collaborative environment where educators and cultural practitioners share resources and best practices essential to preserving our heritage. By connecting classroom learning with community engagement, FÊTE ensures these traditions are actively practiced and passed on to future generations
LOUISIANA TRADITIONS
Cajun / Zydeco Youth Honor Ensemble
Les Étoiles du Marais
April 11-12, 2026
Louisiana Traditions is a brand-new, audition-based Cajun and Zydeco youth ensemble for students in grades 6–12. Over a two-day immersive experience, students join Middle School and High School groups to play music, learn from seasoned teachers, and celebrate Louisiana’s rich musical traditions.
A collaboration with The Whirlybird Project and supported by Music to Life, this program invites students to engage deeply in a culturally sustaining environment, connect with peers who share their love for this music, and actively contribute to preserving South Louisiana’s unique musical heritage.
Over the two days, participants will:
Play and learn Cajun and Zydeco music together – dive into traditional tunes, work as a band, and prepare for a performance that honors our rich heritage.
Collaborate and create with friends – jam, experiment, and make music alongside other students who share your passion.
Experience Cajun and Zydeco culture through dance and artistry – try traditional dance steps, explore creative arts, and hear stories from professional musicians about the music’s history and traditions.
Learn from experienced, state certified teachers – receive guidance from educators who teach in ways that celebrate and build on students’ cultural roots, helping preserve Cajun and Zydeco traditions for the future.
The deadline for audition submissions is March 26, 2026, at 11:59 PM. Audition results will be posted on www.fetelouisiane.org by March 28, 2026. Students who are selected will also receive further instructions via the parent email provided during registration. For any questions or concerns, please contact us at info@fetelouisiane.org.
The Whirlybird Project is an Educational and cultural space devoted to Louisiana’s musical heritage.
Music to Life connects socially conscious musicians with the mentors, resources and training needed to realize their bold visions for community change.
"Traditional knowledge stays alive through connection."
Rooted in Music
As active musicians and lifelong educators, Gregg and Kylie Griffin founded FÊTE to preserve, celebrate, and revitalize Louisiana’s Créole and Cajun heritage through community action. Their mission is to bridge the gap between formal education and local tradition by creating a collaborative space where all mentors can share knowledge regardless of their background. By providing students with hands-on opportunities to engage with their music and language, the Griffins are dedicated to fostering the pride and continuity necessary to carry Louisiana's living traditions across generations.