The Chackbay Volunteer Fire Department is proud to announce Mr. Evan J. Plaisance as the 2025 Louisiana Gumbo Festival Grand Marshal!

 

Born and raised in Thibodaux, Evan has been a resident of Choupic since 1981. His service to the Chackbay Volunteer Fire Department began in 1999, and from the very beginning, he made a lasting impact. During his first year with the department, Evan worked alongside fellow members to help build the current festival fairgrounds — the very grounds where the first Louisiana Gumbo Festival was held in 2000.

 

That inaugural year also marked the beginning of a long-standing tradition: Evan became widely known as “the cook of the gumbo.” He held that key role for 15 years, helping prepare the delicious dishes that have become the heart of the festival. Though he eventually stepped down from the lead cooking position, he continues to lend a hand in the Gumbo Kitchen to this day. Among his peers, he’s affectionately known as “The Gumbo Man.”

 

Evan's dedication to the department and festival has only grown over the years. In 2004, he was honored as the Louisiana Gumbo Festival King. He has served in several leadership positions, including President of the CVFD Board, board member, and co-chair of the festival. Currently, he serves as President of the Fire District 8C Board.

His spirit of service runs deep in his family. Evan has proudly recruited several family members to volunteer alongside him. His parents, E.J. and Marilyn Ledet Plaisance, were also longtime contributors to the festival. E.J. served as Grand Marshal in 2006, and Marilyn made history in 2022 as the first woman to be named Grand Marshal of the Louisiana Gumbo Festival.

 

Outside of his volunteer work, Evan enjoys spending time in his garden, woodworking in his shop with cypress and cedar, and camping with his family. His handcrafted items — such as chests and quilt racks — are considered cherished heirlooms by those lucky enough to receive them.

 

Evan has been married to Phyllis Percle Plaisance for 41 years. Together, they have two daughters, Lauren Lasserre (Lee) and Katie Danos (John), and four adored grandchildren: Leia and Lily Lasserre, and Harper and Zander Danos — all of whom have spent time in the Gumbo Kitchen, carrying on the family tradition of service.

 

Please join us in celebrating Mr. Evan J. Plaisance, our 2025 Louisiana Gumbo Festival Grand Marshal. He’s looking forward to seeing everyone at this year’s festival. “Come pass a good time with us and enjoy some delicious gumbo!”