Every year, as winter loosens its grip and the air fills with a festive promise, Eunice, Louisiana, rouses itself for the Courir de Mardi Gras. Here, the spirited tradition charges through rural backroads and fields, inviting locals and visitors alike to join a wild chase that's both playful and steeped in community roots. The Courir isn’t just a procession; it’s a vigorous, often muddy run where masked riders on horseback, donning colorful, ragged costumes, chase down chickens—yes, the chicken is a key prize—through open fields that dare the bold to keep pace.

The route varies but usually spans approximately 5 miles across mostly flat terrain scattered with soft dirt trails, swampy patches, and the occasional stretch of open pasture grass. It’s a challenge that demands practical stamina more than intense skill; the changing ground beneath your boots pushes you forward, sometimes slippery, often unpredictable. Fortified by Cajun chant and accordion tunes, you’ll feel the pulse of a culture fiercely alive, where nature and festivity collide.

Before setting out, prepare for sudden shifts in weather—Louisiana winters can surprise with cold, wet snaps or mild sunshine. Waterproof boots with good grip are a must, paired with layered clothing that adapts as the day warms. Hydration is key: carry water in a sturdy, hands-free bottle because this is a run and a festival rolled into one—stopping to drink might mean losing ground.

Timing your trip? The Courir traditionally kicks off on Fat Tuesday but events and smaller runs happen throughout the season, each with its own local flavor. Arrive early to catch costuming and the spirited call to the chase; the energy rises before the run, a communal heartbeat in motion. Post-run, the celebration doesn’t pause—the feast awaits with gumbo and boudin, perfect for recharging your spirit and your muscles.

This adventure invites respect. The land here is openly wild, fiercely itself—fields that have witnessed generations of runners and riders, all answering the call of Mardi Gras with laughter and grit. Whether you catch a chicken or lose footing in the mud, you step into a tradition that’s as much about being part of the crowd as it is about the chase. For those ready to embrace a hybrid of culture, challenge, and Louisiana’s natural elements, the Courir de Mardi Gras in Eunice stands as a lively, unforgettable experience.