**Abbeville, Louisiana**
**Population:**
* 12,254 (2020 Census)
**Culture:**
* Abbeville is known for its Cajun heritage and culture.
* The city hosts the annual Abbeville Rice Festival, which celebrates the region's rice industry.
* The town has a strong sense of community and hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year.
**Special Events:**
* Abbeville Rice Festival (October)
* Abbeville Christmas Parade (December)
* Mardi Gras (February)
**Local Attractions:**
* Abbeville Historic District: A charming area with historic homes and buildings.
* Vermilionville Historic Village: A living history museum showcasing Cajun and Creole culture.
* Acadian Cultural Center: A museum dedicated to preserving and promoting Acadian heritage.
* Lake Peigneur: A natural lake known for its unique "eye of the swamp" formation.
**Food:**
* Abbeville is known for its Cajun cuisine, featuring dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, and boudin.
* Local restaurants serve a variety of Cajun and Creole dishes.
**People:**
* The people of Abbeville are known for their friendly and welcoming nature.
* The city has a diverse population with a strong sense of community.
**History:**
* Abbeville was founded in 1853 by French settlers.
* The city was a major center of the rice industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
* Abbeville was heavily damaged by Hurricane Rita in 2005 but has since been rebuilt.
**Other Notable Information:**
* Abbeville is located in Vermilion Parish, which is known for its rice and crawfish production.
* The city is home to South Louisiana Community College.
* Abbeville is accessible via Interstate 10 and U.S. Highway 167.