Council commends Hero Fest first responders, proclaims Oct. 25 'Light Up the Night' day

The Terrebonne Parish Council issued a formal commendation Wednesday recognizing first responders and nonprofit partners for the third annual Hero Fest, and it adopted a proclamation designating Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, as Light Up the Night event day.

Councilmember Danny Babin read the commendation honoring Hero Fest’s organizers and first responders for fundraising and community outreach. Travis Terrio, an event organizer, told the council the festival has helped local nonprofits and said organizers have earmarked or donated roughly $100,000 in the event’s early years and expect revenue and impact to grow. Terrio cited broad participation from law enforcement, fire departments, Acadian Ambulance, civic groups and many nonprofits.

Tim Sauniere, named in remarks as sheriff, and other community leaders thanked the council and described the festival as a venue for nonprofits to raise money and for the community to gather. Organizers and speakers said some individual nonprofits reported weekend proceeds ranging from about $1,000 to as much as $6,000 per booth; Terrio estimated gross festival activity could be roughly $400,000, while acknowledging organizers do not retain that entire amount.

Separately the council adopted a proclamation recognizing the second annual Light Up the Night fundraising event. Organizers said the Oct. 25 event in Downtown Houma’s Memorial Park begins at 6 p.m. and supports community projects including the Grace Project and Beautiful Beginnings homeless shelter, which organizers said has received proceeds for room refurbishments and resident support.

Why it matters The commendation and proclamation are ceremonial but reflect the parish’s support for events that local officials and organizers say generate charitable giving, community engagement and support for local nonprofits.