Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Native American Coming Out Day set for Saturday


    Learn more about the history of the region’s first inhabitants at the Attakapas Tribes of Louisiana Coming Out Day. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 21 at the Farmer’s Market Pavilion, near I-49 exit 19B in Opelousas. The event features a dance performance, Native American craft vendors and bands of the Attakapas tribe - the Opelousas Prairie Band, Gator Band and Eagle Band.
    Long before early European settlers arrived, Native Americans made Opelousas their home. The city takes its name from the Opelousas Indian Tribe.
    The Attakapas were one of six bands to inhabit Louisiana. Other bands in Louisiana included Caddo, Tunica, Natchez, Attakapas, Chitimach and Muskogee.
    Attakapas land included all of what is today southwest Louisiana, extending from upper Bayou Teche to the Sabine River and from Gulf of Mexico north to Alexandria.
    Prior to the dance performance, which is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., St. Landry Parish Farmer’s Market Association will have fresh homegrown produce for sale. Attendees can also stroll through the historic buildings located in Le Vieux Village, as well as visit the Louisiana Orphan Train Museum.
    For more information about Coming Out Day, contact Carlene Robinson at (337) 945-0166. For information about Le Vieux Village, call (337) 948-6263.


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