A place to visit… a place to live… a place to party… that's Southwest Louisiana-Lake Charles! Located on I-10 between Houston and New Orleans, the people, places, festivals and food of Southwest Louisiana make a visit here unforgettable. They don't call us the festival capital for nothing! On any given weekend, you'll find all the Cajun fun you could ask for at one of over 75 festivals and fairs within Calcasieu Parish. From "the pirate festival", Contraband Days -the second longest festival in the state, to the Rabbit Festival in Iowa, there's something for everyone! <br> If nature is more your speed, you'll be right at home in the sportsman's paradise with some of the best fishing and hunting in the world. You may want to try your luck on the lake at one of our world-class casinos in Lake Charles and Westlake or cheer on the thundering thoroughbreds in Vinton. 24 Hours a day, seven days a week…the night-life never stops in Southwest Louisiana-Lake Charles! You'll also marvel at the natural beauty of the Creole Nature Trail Natural Scenic Byway. This 180-mile drive is loaded with beautiful marshes, bayous, alligators, birds and more.