Founded in 1861 in Calcasieu Parish, Lake Charles is the fifth largest city in the state, home of McNeese University, and is an industrial leader in Southwest Louisiana.

Lake Charles January 2026 Concerts Feature Big Names
Live music heats up Lake Charles in January 2026, From country and comedy to tributes and zydeco, don’t miss these must-see concerts all month long.

2026 Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Parade Schedule
Get ready to catch some beads! Check out the full 2026 Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras parade schedule, including dates, times, and locations.

PREVIEW: McNeese Hosts SFA in Pivotal SLC Matchup
Fresh off an 82-70 win over Lamar, McNeese now prepares for a big Southland Conference showdown against Stephen F. Austin on Monday night in Lake Charles.

McNeese Women Out Slug Lamar, Snap 17-Game Losing Streak
An intense defensive battle saw McNeese snap a decade-long losing streak to Lamar. The Cowgirls traded blows all afternoon, but strong fourth-quarter shooting from Patton and Pierre sealed the victory.

Cowboys Slug Past Lamar In Battle of Border on National Televisio
McNeese used a balanced scoring effort and a key second-half surge to defeat rival Lamar on Friday night, extending its home winning streak to 19 games in front of a record crowd at Townsley Law Arena.

Full 2026 Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Event Schedule
Mardi Gras will arrive earlier than usual in 2026, which means a shorter but action-packed season. Southwest Louisiana will host dozens of parades and events leading up to Fat Tuesday on February 17.
Drivers Name the Worst Intersections in Lake Charles
Stuck at the light again? These Lake Charles intersections are testing drivers’ patience every day.

McNeese Basketball Hosting Meet & Greet for Men’s and Women’s
Basketball season is rolling at McNeese, and both the Cowboys and Cowgirls are off to strong starts. With Southland Conference play about to ramp up, fans can meet the teams, coaches, and enjoy food and drink specials at a special meet and greet in Westlake.

New Year’s Eve and Weekend Concerts in Southwest Louisiana
Ready to celebrate? New Year’s Eve and weekend concerts are lighting up SWLA. See who’s playing near you.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with Zydeco Legends in Lake Charles
Zydeco comes alive in Lake Charles this New Year’s Eve! Enjoy a free party with Rusty Metoyer and Chubby Carrier bringing the rhythm to ring in 2026.

McNeese Meets Undefeated Michigan in Final Non-Conference Game
McNeese faces its toughest road environment of the season Monday night against No. 2 Michigan. The Wolverines are perfect at home and among the highest-scoring teams in the country.

New Year’s Holiday to Interrupt Services in Calcasieu Parish
Heads up if you live in Calcasieu Parish and have Waste management trash pickup. You need to know this.
