Opelousas is the Zydeco Capital of the world and is also known for other varieties of music in its local culture. From its beginnings as a community, Opelousas had a mixture of many different ethnic groups and cultures. From the native people who were the first inhabitants, to the French, Spanish, Africans, Acadians, Creoles, Germans, Italians, Irish, and others, all contributed traditions to the mix that is todays Opelousas. It is often referred to as a Cultural Gumbo.