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Culture

While the parish and its communities exude a small-town rural feeling, its culture is ample and diverse. Jeff Davis Parish is steeped in history and is home to a renowned fine arts museum, a landmark movie theater housing the area’s community theatre troupe, and an array of cultural events for everyone to enjoy.

Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Jeff Davis Parish through the numerous historical structures that dot the map of this southwest Louisiana region. Take a walk and visit Elton’s popular sites, or jump in the car and take advantage of the driving tours through Jennings, Lake Arthur and Welsh. For more information on these historic sites and tours, contact the Jeff Davis Parish Tourist Commission at (800) 264-5521 or visit www.jeffdavis.org.

Art enthusiasts should not miss out on one of the finest art galleries between New Orleans and Houston. The Zigler Museum is a gem in Jeff Davis Parish, a site that came to fruition from the dreams of Ruth B. Zigler, the wife of industrialist Fred B. Zigler. This colonial-style museum contains a fine arts collection characterized by European and American artists. The original collection began with 20 pieces of art—a number that has since grown to more than 200 works today. The collection includes stunning sculptures, American art glass, the largest private collection of works by William Tolliver, wildlife dioramas and more. The museum also offers a rotating exhibit of guest artists throughout the year and is home to an impressive Christmas tree exhibit during the holiday season. The Zigler Museum is located at 411 Clara Street in Jennings and is open Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Admission for adults is $5, and for children and students, it is $2. (337) 824-0114

Located along Jennings’ historic Main Street and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Strand Theatre is a three-story, art deco-style movie theatre. The structure still reflects its beautiful 1939 facade. The Strand Theatre was constructed to serve as the entertainment focal point of Jennings, as well as the entirety of Jeff Davis Parish. The theatre’s popularity lasted for a number of years, operating into the 1960s. Since then, it has closed and reopened several times, and today is proudly utilized by A Block Off Broadway community theatre troupe.

Since 1993, A Block Off Broadway has been providing exceptional theatrical performances, as well as educational opportunities for area youth through the "CHIPS" youth theatre program. The Freddie Pate Jamboree takes the stage the last Saturday of each month with a full band and talented singers. The Strand Theatre is located at 432 N. Main Street in Jennings. (337) 821-5509

In addition to these excellent cultural options in the area are a host of events that span the calendar year. The parish hosts many annual festivals and events, including:

• Welsh Coming Home Festival

• Jennings Mardi Gras Fest & Parade

• Lake Arthur Mardi Gras Mini Festival & Parade

• Elton's Children's Mardi Gras Celebration

• Stars and Stripes Celebration

• Roastin’ With Rosie Bar-B-Que Festival

• Jefferson Davis Parish Fair

• Stearman Flyin’

• Jennings Alive Arts and Crafts Festival

• Jennings Christmas Festival Gumbo Cook-off

• Lake Arthur Hall of Trees

• Holiday Magic Shopping Spree/It’s a Wonderful Weekend

• Lake Arthur Christmas Fest & Parade With Fireworks

• Zigler Museum Christmas Fest