Louisiana – the Pelican State, where the music never stops, the food is always flavorful, and the culture is as rich as the history itself. From the vibrant streets of New Orleans to the quiet swamps and bayous, Louisiana offers a unique blend of French, African, Spanish, and Creole influences that make it unlike anywhere else. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live in Louisiana, here are 10 things only true Louisianans will understand.
The food is everything
Louisiana isn’t just about eating—it’s about living through food. Whether it’s gumbo, crawfish étouffée, po’boys, jambalaya, or beignets, we take our cuisine seriously. Don’t even think about calling it “Cajun” unless you know what you’re talking about—there’s a big difference between Cajun and Creole, and we’ll happily educate you over a plate of crawfish.
Mardi Gras is more than just a party – it’s a way of life
In Louisiana, Mardi Gras isn’t just a day—it’s a season. The parades, the beads, the floats, and the costumes are all part of a celebration that can last for weeks. If you’re from Louisiana, you’ve got a favorite krewe, a set of beads you’ve collected over the years, and memories of revelry that make every Mardi Gras unforgettable.
“Laissez les bon temps rouler” is our state motto
“Let the good times roll” isn’t just something we say—it’s how we live. Whether it’s a weekend BBQ, a crawfish boil, or a spontaneous street party, we make sure to have fun, no matter what. The phrase embodies the spirit of Louisiana: full of life, full of joy, and always ready for a good time.
The swamp is part of our backyard
The bayous and swamps of Louisiana are as much a part of us as the cities and towns. Whether it’s fishing, air boating, or just appreciating the wildlife, the swamp offers a way of life that’s unique to the state. If you’re a true Louisianan, you’ve got at least one swamp story to share, usually involving an alligator or two.
We celebrate every occasion with a party
If you’re from Louisiana, you know how to throw a party—whether it’s a family gathering, a festival, or a neighborhood cookout, there’s always something to celebrate. It’s not just about the food (although that’s a big part of it); it’s about community. And if you’ve never been to a second line parade, you haven’t experienced the heart of Louisiana.
Football isn’t just a game – it’s the game
Louisiana’s love for football is fierce—whether it’s LSU or the New Orleans Saints, we take our teams seriously. The Superdome during a Saints game is electric, and don’t even think about skipping an LSU game. If you want to blend in, wear purple and gold and know the fight songs by heart.
We have our own way of talking – and you better listen carefully
Louisiana has a dialect all its own. Whether it’s the French-inspired Creole, the Cajun accent, or the deep Southern drawl, our speech is as colorful as the culture. You’ll hear things like “lagniappe” (a little extra) or “cher” (darling), and you’ll quickly realize that listening is as much a part of the culture as speaking.
We don’t need an excuse to eat crawfish
Crawfish boils are a Louisiana tradition that don’t need a reason to happen. Whether it’s spring or fall, the idea of gathering around a big table covered in crawfish, corn, potatoes, and sausage is irresistible. But be warned—there are rules: no utensils, just your hands, and a lot of messy fun.
We embrace the unpredictable weather
If you don’t like the weather in Louisiana, just wait 15 minutes—it’ll change. One minute it’s sunny, the next it’s raining, and then suddenly it’s hot and humid again. Louisianans know how to dress for it (layers and an umbrella, always), and we don’t let the weather get in the way of having a good time.
New Orleans is a world of its own
Louisiana’s crown jewel, New Orleans, is like nowhere else. Whether you’re strolling down Bourbon Street, listening to jazz in the French Quarter, or enjoying beignets at Café du Monde, New Orleans offers a cultural mix that’s unmatched. It’s a place where music, food, and history collide in the most wonderful way—and if you’re from Louisiana, you’ve likely got a deep connection to the city, no matter where you live in the state.
Living in Louisiana means embracing a culture that’s as rich and vibrant as its food and music. From the swamps to the streets of New Orleans, there’s a rhythm to life here that can’t be found anywhere else. So next time someone asks you what it’s like to live in Louisiana, just say, “Laissez les bon temps rouler,” and invite them to join in the celebration.
