Arts and crafts weave their way through the seasonal festivities in Lafayette.

Culture and Cuisine
Across the street from the Lafayette airport, Vermilionville--another Cajun/Creoleliving-history complex--loves to celebrate the holidays in high style. Within this 23-acre cluster of period homes and native plants, you'll hear music, dine on terrific local food, and visit with the craftspeople.

Their seasonal celebration called Christmas on the Vermilion takes you through the 18th-century village with panache. Two things you must not miss are the gift shop and the restaurant, La Cuisine de Maman. Dine on homemade gumbo and jambalaya that promise to eliminate any chill in the air.

Vermilionville: 300 Fisher Road, Lafayette, LA 70508; (337) 233-4077.

All Decked Out
Still need a little more Christmas? Head on over to the museum located in theAlexandre Mouton House. Here, local designers and florists try to outdo each other in creating beautiful Christmas decor. Built in the mid-1800s, the Victorian home once belonged to Lafayette's founder, Jean Mouton, and his son, Gov. AlexandreMouton. Alexandre Mouton House: 1122 Lafayette Street, Lafayette, LA 70501; (337) 234-2208.

Lafayette Convention & Visitors Commission: (337) 232-3808 or www.lafayettetravel.com.