Mardi Gras “Chicken Run”-Church Point

What a great time we had yesterday, Sunday, at the Chicken Run at Church Point. Betty arranged for us to go to a ranch there and participate in this very old tradition. The Chicken Run only takes place in the 22 parishes of Cajun country, where in 1755 French speaking Acadians were sent in exile from Nova Scotia by the British. Click here for a fuller history of this custom.

We had to leave Betty’s RV park at 7:30 a.m. to arrive there early enough for the 11 a.m. activities. It was cold yesterday and was about 45 degrees when we arrived. Happily, Jim M. and Scott brought a gallon of Bloody Mary’s to share and someone brought a grill, so we kept happy.   We saw the floats going down a far off road as they stop at each participating farm.  Our turn wasn’t to happen until later.

Farmer directed us to a protected area to wait	Bundled up but happy
Even a bus load of tourists came in.	Jim Tidball and I showing off our big bags ready for beads

This is the 50th year of this authentic country Chicken Run Mardi Gras celebration in Church Point. Basically, horse riding Captains enter a farm asking permission to enter and asks for a chicken or begs for nickels to buy gumbo ingredients to add to their gumbo which will be cooked at the end of the day.

Once permission is given the “revelers” dressed in homemade fringed shirts and pants scramble to catch the chicken that are let out one or two at a time.  This is all accompanied by a float of live Cajun music. 

Chickens to be released	Great live musicians playing Cajun music
Costumes are wonderful

There was much dancing and shenanigans going on. 

Following the revelers where floats throwing beads, horses, and folks in costume just having a great time.  Their antics were hilarious and we all had a good time interacting with them.

The floats also carried grills supplying drinks, brats and boudin to the float riders. Boudin (bOO-din) is a pork and rice sausage, and a favorite of mine. The floats also all carry their own porta-potty!

We all got a heck of a lot of beads that is for sure.  Noticing our signs from being out of state, I think we got extra nice beads on purpose.

We had a fantastic time and I think we experienced the true essence of Mardi Gras as it was all meant to be….a local celebration among friends enjoying it together.  With the fun time we had at the Scott parade and Sunday at the Chicken Run I’m not sure we will even go to Lafayette Tuesday as I think we have seen the best already.

Remember, you are loved.