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Our interest in the Fais do-do (pronounced
 ) was
spurred Friday afternoon when we spotted the gaily-dressed
dancers relaxing in their crawfish-studded outfits. They cheerfully
posed for our pictures. Throughout the day, we spotted couples
dancing amidst the loungers watching bands on the three stages.
  
 
     
Later that evening, we enjoyed plenty traditional Cajun music
(with requisite accordion and washboard) and were treated
to exhibition Fais do-do The Fais do-do originally was a local
dance offering the community an opportunity to socialize and
court one another. Translated from French Cajun, Fais do-do
means "to go to bed" which is when the dance began—after
the children were put to bed! Two-stepping, waltzing and a
stylized type of swing usually top the agenda. The Fais do-do
still exists in Acadiana and its demonstrations are often
offered at local festivals.
Between demonstrations, festival-goers were invited to join
in with the dancers in two-steps and waltzes. I was in platform
sandals and feared for my ankles, so I sat out the dancing,
but Suzanne jumped right in! Throughout the festival, you'll
see (and join in, if you like) dancing where ever there's
a free space and some music playing.
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