Louisiana isn’t just a state—it’s a whole state of mind, where the food has more seasoning than your aunt’s entire life story and conversations bounce between English, French, and whatever Cajun magic lives in the bayou. From Mardi Gras to muggy weather to mosquitoes the size of drones, life here has its own flavor—and so does the language. If you’ve ever danced to a zydeco band while eating something you can’t pronounce, this one’s for you.
1. “Laissez les bon temps rouler!”
Translation: Let the good times roll. Also: your warning that you’re about to be late for work tomorrow.
2. “You want that dressed?”
Means: Do you want lettuce, tomato, and mayo on your po’boy? Say yes. Always say yes.
3. “We makin’ a run to da Rouse’s.”
Whether you’re getting boudin, beer, or a king cake in July—Rouse’s has it.
4. “That weather’s thick enough to chew.”
Humidity here isn’t just air. It’s a lifestyle. And a slow-cooked one at that.
5. “He’s got a lil’ gris-gris on him.”
Better hope it’s good voodoo. Otherwise, light a candle and back away slowly.
6. “Where y’at?”
This means “How are you?” not “Where are you?” And yes, you’re expected to answer.
7. “Pass a good time, yeah?”
Not a question. It’s a lifestyle requirement.
8. “Don’t forget your go-cup.”
Because in Louisiana, walking around with an open drink is more than normal—it’s polite.
9. “Ain’t no such thing as too spicy.”
If your eyes ain’t watering and your nose ain’t running, it’s just not seasoned right.
10. “We makin’ a gumbo when the weather turns.”
Doesn’t matter if it drops to 70 or 30—first hint of cool weather means it’s gumbo o’clock.
11. “That boy got more stories than a crawfish boil got noise.”
And that’s a lot. Bonus points if he tells them with a mouth full of étouffée.
12. “It ain’t Mardi Gras unless somebody loses a shoe.”
Fact. If everyone makes it home with all their accessories, you’re doing it wrong.
If these phrases feel like home, congrats—you’ve survived hurricane season with a generator, danced in the street for no reason, and know that flavor > calories every single time. If not, just come hungry, come ready to sweat, and remember: there’s no such thing as too much sauce in Louisiana.
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