Parc Sans Souci
“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” – George Bernard Shaw
Things to Do:
Splash Pad
The splash pad is one of downtown’s favorite kid-friendly attractions. The underground pump system sustained significant damage in Hurricane Delta, which forced the area’s closure. Plans are underway to rehab the entire splash pad, with an anticipated reopening date of summer 2022.
Skate
In 2020, the DDA installed concrete benches reinforced with steel tubing to double as seating and skate-friendly furniture. The area is open for free use when there aren’t sanctioned events in this area of the park and appeals to skateboarders of all ages and skill levels.
The Y LAFAYETTE Sign
Located in Parc Sans Souci, the Y LAFAYETTE sign is one of Downtown’s most photographed landmarks. The 7-foot-tall letters are available for artists, non-profits, and volunteer groups to paint throughout the year on a rotating basis to promote awareness, community events, or just to express creativity. Visitors to the park stand in the center with their arms raised and become the Y.
Host An Event:
Downtown Parc Rentals
Downtown Lafayette’s Parcs are the center for activity in the district. They are the places where a wide variety of people gather for concerts, festivals, family events, fundraisers, and communal meals. They are open for lease to any 501(c) non-profit organization and the rental process is fairly straightforward with accessible rates.
“Our unique and distinctive cultural traditions, public spaces, and population make for a perfect neighborhood park for downtown residents.”
Planning for the Future
Parc Sans Souci Play
The DDA and DLU are planning and fundraising for a playground in the area between the stage and the splash pad. We are working through spatial planning, safety measures, material considerations, maintenance planning, and flexibility for future playground expansion.
Parc Sans Souci Dining & Table Games
The shady area under the trees on the Vermilion St. frontage is the perfect spot to formalize a spot for bistro tables to provide an area for parents to watch their kids play at both the splash pad and new playground. The area will also support adjacent retail and food and beverage activity. We’re in the process of planning and fundraising for this improvement.
Parc Sans Souci Skate
The needed repairs for the planters that flank the stage have inspired us to think about those repairs as also being skate-friendly. We’re currently in the design phase, and we hope to achieve a higher level of passive activation through more skate-friendly features throughout the park.
