Festivals in the Shreveport – Bossier sister cities attracts locals and tourists alike. From music festivals to food fairs, there is always something happening in this dynamic region. Born and raised in Shreveport, I am now a Texas girl who loves to bring my Texas family home to LA for the real parties. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some of the top festivals in Shreveport – Bossier.

Fall Festivals in Shreveport – Bossier

Brew Festival in Shreveport

Shreveport Brew is a tasting festival that promises over 100 beers to satisfy the beer lover’s palate. Here you can indulge in the refreshing flavors of well-crafted brews, from fruity IPAs to the rich depths of stouts. Alongside the beer selection, this festival offers a culinary journey featuring food samples from the finest restaurants in Shreveport. You can also watch performances by some of Shreveport’s best musicians, creating the perfect backdrop to sip your favorite brews. Brew is not just for beer drinkers, a wine & soft drink bar is also available along. The event includes raffles and a sports lounge with half a dozen college football games on TV. Moreover, your participation helps raise funds for the Red River Revel and Downtown Shreveport Unlimited.  Recognize the thriving beer culture of Shreveport with an afternoon of camaraderie, beer, delicious food, and entertainment at Brew Fest.

Red River Revel Festival in Shreveport

The Red River Revel Arts Festival is one of the most popular festivals in the region. It draws over 100,000 visitors each year. Hosted in the heart of downtown Shreveport, this nine-day festival showcases the work of over 100 U.S. artists. Visitors can browse and purchase unique art pieces while enjoying live music, food, and drinks. The festival also offers a children’s area, where kids can participate in hands-on art activities.

Prize Fest Festival in Shreveport

Prize Fest is an annual short film festival that takes place in downtown Shreveport. Filmmakers from around the world submit their short films, which are judged by a panel of industry professionals. The top 20 films are screened in a downtown theater, and the winner receives a cash prize of $50,000. The festival also hosts panel discussions and workshops for filmmakers and contests for fashion designers, musicians, chefs, and comedians. 

Highland Jazz and Blues Festival in Shreveport

The Highland Jazz and Blues Festival in Shreveport brings together local and national jazz and blues artists. Groove to the soulful melodies, grab a bite to eat, survey the local artwork, and try your hand at crafts. One of the festival’s highlights is the exhilarating live art competition, known as the “Clash of the Artists.” Here, artists vie for the opportunity to design the next year’s festival poster and win a cash prize. Best of all, this party is completely free. Free shuttles to the festival are available at different locations. Check the website to find the shuttle closest to you.

State Fair of Louisiana Festival in Shreveport

The Louisiana State Fair is an annual event that takes place in Shreveport, Louisiana. It is one of the largest state fairs in the United States and attracts visitors from all over the country. The fair offers a wide range of activities and attractions, including live music, thrill rides, midway, agricultural exhibits, and food. Two of the highlights of the fair are the livestock shows and funnel cakes! The State Fair is a celebration of all that is great about LA. It is a must-see event for anyone visiting the state.

Rockets Over the Red Festival in Shreveport – Bossier

Shortly after Thanksgiving, the Rockets over the Red Christmas festival takes over both ends of the Bakowski Bridge of Lights. Spanning across both cities, this celebration can be viewed from Riverview Park in Shreveport and the Louisiana Boardwalk in Bossier. The festivities kickoff with a magnificent tree lighting ceremony that sets the stage for the joyous atmosphere.

Visit food vendors, get a festive face painting, and groove to the rhythm of live music. Engage in exciting games and capture timeless memories with pictures alongside Santa himself. The highlight of the festival is the fireworks show that illuminates sky, complemented by the dazzling bridge lighting display. Don’t forget to bring your blankets and chairs for a cozy and unforgettable fireworks-watching experience. You could also watch the fireworks from the comfort of your hotel room. Many of the casino hotels rooms have views of the bridge making them the perfect place to view the show.

Christmas in the Sky Festival in Shreveport

Christmas in the Sky is a glamorous black tie gala delivers outlandish themes. It is brought to life by a dedicated team of 31 professional designers and 15 volunteer committees. Every detail is meticulously crafted, from the intricate costumes to the stunning sets that completely transform Louisiana Downs. Guests are treated to a silent auction, an open bar, cocktail buffets, entertainment, and dancing. The event is hosted by the Shreveport Regional Arts Council.

Shreveport Bossier Black Restaurant Week

Shreveport Bossier Black Restaurant Week is a celebration that spotlights the diverse flavors of African American, African, and Caribbean cuisines. During this week-long event, black-owned restaurants take center stage with a delicious journey that showcases the community’s culinary heritage.

SBC Zombie Walk Festival in Shreveport

The Shreveport Bossier SBC Zombie Walk brings the undead to life in a lighthearted and entertaining event. Participants don their best zombie attire and hit the streets for a ghastly parade. This quirky gathering not only embraces the spooky spirit of Halloween, but also serves as a creative platform for locals to showcase their zombie-themed costumes and makeup skills.

Mutiny at Shreveport A-SCAR-ium

Mutiny at Shreveport A-SCAR-ium promises a whimsical twist on the traditional Shreveport Aquarium experience. During this event, the aquarium is transformed into an underwater pirate’s haven. Visitors embark on a seafaring adventure, encountering mischievous pirate fish and captivating maritime tales.

DixieMaze Fall Festival in Shreveport

The DixieMaze Fall Festival in Shreveport offers a corn maze, pumpkin patch, and a plethora of autumn activities. From navigating the twists and turns of the maze to picking the perfect pumpkin, the festival weaves together a tapestry of fall traditions.

Pumpkin Shine On Line

Pumpkin Shine On Line in Shreveport illuminates the Halloween spirit as families gather to showcase their creatively carved pumpkins along Line Avenue. This community-driven event transforms the avenue into a glowing gallery of jack-o’-lantern artistry, fostering a neighborly atmosphere with the warmth of shared creativity.

Christmas in Roseland

Christmas in Roseland transforms the gardens of the American Rose Center in Shreveport into a dazzling winter wonderland. Families can stroll through the enchanting displays, visit Santa, and drink hot cocoa.

Independence Bowl Coca-Cola Fan Fest

The Independence Bowl Coca-Cola Fan Fest is a pre-game celebration that adds extra excitement to the college football festivities. From interactive games to live music, the Fan Fest creates a memorable experience for football enthusiasts before the game.

Summer Festivals in Shreveport – Bossier

Mudbug Madness

The Mudbug Madness Festival, originating in 1984, is one of Louisiana’s grandest Cajun fais do-dos. It is a three-day celebration of Louisiana crawfish, held annually during the Memorial Day weekend in downtown Shreveport. The festival’s lineup includes world-class Zydeco, Cajun, Jazz, and Blues artists who bring the infectious rhythms of Louisiana to life. Participants are also treated to piles of crawfish complete with the spicy potato and corn on the cob fixings. The highlights of the festival are the crawfish eating and crawfish calling contests! Did you know that you could call a mudbug? Additional contests include a corn hole tournament and a treasure hunt. Treasure hunt clues are announced on the local news, radio stations, and the Mudbug Madness Facebook page. The festival has been nationally recognized as one of the Southeast Tourism Society’s Top 20 Events and the American Bus Association’s Top 100 Events.

Let the Good Times Roll Festival

The Let the Good Times Roll Festival in Shreveport is one of the longest-running festivals in the Ark-La-Tex. This weekend-long celebration, held at Festival Plaza, is a tribute to African American music, fashion, culture, art, and community unity. Coinciding with the Juneteenth Holiday, this festival showcases an impressive lineup of soul, gospel, hip-hop, and R&B performances. It also offers a fantastic blend of music, food, and art booths. Watch the parade, participate in the invigorating 5K run that supports college scholarships, and explore the health fair. Unique vendors, including barbers providing free haircuts, add to the festival’s charm. Recognized as a Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event, this annual gathering has been entertaining attendees for over 35 years.

Red River Balloon Rally

The annual summer Red River Balloon Rally Bossier is the largest hot air balloon display in North Louisiana. The rally hosts the Louisiana State Ballooning Championship, attracting many of the nation’s top hot air balloons and drawing over 20,000 visitors. It captures the essence of summer joy with its AEP Swepco kid zones, tethered balloon rides, live music, fireworks, crafts, games, food booths, and entertainment. At dusk the sky illuminates with a magical glow of hot air balloons filling the sky with dazzling color and unique shapes. Bring your own chair or blanket to get comfy while you marvel at the evening glow. Follow and tag #OnlyLouisiana on social media for all the area’s summer fun content.

Geek’d Con

Geek’d Con in Shreveport is a haven for pop culture enthusiasts. Here, fans can meet celebrities, explore comic books, and revel in the diverse realms of geekdom. With a mix of panel discussions, cosplay, and vendor floor, Geek’d Con has become an annual gathering that celebrates this passionate community of fans.

Freedom Fest

Freedom Fest in Shreveport is an explosive celebration of Independence Day, featuring fireworks, music, and patriotic festivities. Families gather at festival grounds in several cities to simultaneously honor the nation’s freedom with spectacular displays of pyrotechnics.

Winter Festivals in Shreveport – Bossier

Mardi Gras Parades

Many different Mardi Gras parades, balls, and celebrations take place in early February. The cities comes alive in a riot of colors, music, and revelry during its dazzling Mardi Gras parades. Each parade unfolds like a vibrant tapestry, weaving tales of tradition and festivity. Streets are lined with eager spectators, catching beads, doubloons, and the infectious energy that permeates the air. The Krewe of Gemini and Krewe of Centaur, known for their elaborate floats and theatrical performances, add a touch of grandeur to the celebration. Families, friends, and even pets join the revelry, donning costumes that rival the creativity of the floats passing by. As the rhythmic beats of marching bands and the cheers of the crowd fill the air, Mardi Gras parades stand as a testament to the city’s lively spirit and the unity that comes with the magic of this season.

Crawfest

Indulge in the ultimate crawfish celebration at Crawfest at Betty Virginia Park in Shreveport! This annual event transforms the city into a haven for crustacean enthusiasts and festival-goers alike. Picture this: the tantalizing aroma of Cajun spices wafting through the air as pots of boiling crawfish take center stage. Locals and visitors gather in a lively atmosphere, cracking shells and savoring the succulent, seasoned goodness. The festival isn’t just about crawfish; it’s a melting pot of culture, featuring live performances. With every pinch, peel, and pinch, Crawfest captures the essence of Shreveport’s rich heritage and the joyous spirit of community. So, roll up your sleeves, grab a cold drink, and join the festivities. Crawfest is where Louisiana’s flavor and fun converge in a delicious celebration of all things Southern.

Spring Festivals in Shreveport – Bossier

Battle of the Gumbo Gladiators

The Battle of the Gumbo Gladiators is a gumbo-cooking competition held annually at the downtown Shreveport Festival Plaza. Teams from around the region compete to create the best gumbo, which is judged by a panel of local celebrities. Visitors can sample the gumbo and vote for their favorite, while enjoying live music and other festivities.

Defenders of Liberty Air and Space Show

Every other year since 1933 Barksdale Air Force Base has hosted the Barksdale Defenders of Liberty Air & Space Show. Airmen such as The Blue Angels, AreoShell, and Red Bull Aviation, as well as several other highly decorated aerobatic pilots gather at Barksdale to put on a show in the sky. As the home of the B-52, Barksdale shows off military planes with flyovers that include the B-1B Lancers, B-2 Spirits and B-52H Stratofortresses. This is one of the rare opportunities when the base entity grants public access to the military installation. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for Shreveport-Bossier City to honor our brave service members. The program lasts two days. Admission and parking are free!

318 Restaurant Week

318 Restaurant Week is an annual event that takes place in Shreveport, Louisiana. This celebration of the city’s culinary scene and features a variety of local restaurants offering special menu items and discounts. The event typically lasts for a week and attracts those looking to experience the unique flavors of Shreveport. During Restaurant Week cooking classes, food tours, and live music performances pop up around town. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a fun night out, 318 Restaurant Week is definitely worth checking out.

ARTini

ARTini in Shreveport-Bossier is a sophisticated blend of art and mixology. Here, local artists showcase their talent through visually stunning creations while attendees sip on handcrafted martinis. This annual event not only provides a unique platform for artists, but also offers a social setting where the intersection of art and cocktails adds a touch of elegance to the local cultural scene.

Crawfest

Crawfest in Shreveport is a mudbug extravaganza that brings the community together for a spicy celebration of crawfish season. It features live music, family-friendly activities, and, of course, piles of delicious boiled crawfish. Filled with the aroma of Cajun spices and the sounds of zydeco, Crawfest is a flavorful and festive experience that captures the essence of Louisiana’s culinary traditions.

318 Restaurant Week

318 Restaurant Week is a culinary delight that showcases the talents of local chefs. This week brings special menus and exclusive dining experiences at a variety of eateries. The celebration not only tantalizes the taste buds with unique dishes but also promotes the restaurant scene in the area.

Cork

CORK festival in Shreveport is a wine and art affair that featues fine wines, culinary delights, and a showcase of local artistic talent. With vineyard selections, gourmet pairings, and an artistic ambiance, CORK festival elevates the cultural scene in Shreveport, creating a sophisticated and enjoyable fusion of flavors and creativity.

Multi-Seasonal Festivals in Shreveport – Bossier

Glo Fest Festivals in Shreveport

First Friday’s Glo Fest in Shreveport turns the city into a dazzling spectacle. Downtown comes alive with neon lights, performances, and the illuminated Bakowski Bridge of Lights. This monthly event not only lights up the night but also creates an artistic ambiance. It is a community invitation to gather and celebrate the city’s creativity against the backdrop of the glowing bridge.

ASEANA Fall and Spring Festivals in Shreveport

The ASEANA Fall and Spring Festivals in Shreveport showcase the Asian culture through performances, traditional arts, and delectable cuisine. These celebrations provides a platform for the local Asian community to share their heritage and diverse Asian traditions. These festivals take place in Shreveport Common, a historic revitalized area of downtown Shreveport.

Travel Resources for Attending Festivals in Shreveport – Bossier

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Get to know Shreveport – Bossier When Attending Festivals in Shreveport – Bossier

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Where to stay When Attending Festivals in Shreveport – Bossier

Cypress-Black Bayou Park & Recreation Center

Being RVers, our favorite place to stay is at the Cypress-Black Bayou Park & Recreation Center. Check out the videos below of our visit!

Kallenberg Artists Tower

The most unique place to stay in Shreveport is KAT- Kallenberg Artists Tower. This stylish, one-of-a-kind, trendy apartment is five stories of a historic fire tower turned short-term rental. You must be able to climb steps to stay here, but if you can, the roof top view is totally worth it. Click here to book. Check out the video below to learn more!

More Places to Stay

Search your dates in my Booking.com to book.

Transportation when attending festivals in Shreveport – Bossier?

A car is truly needed to get around town easily. If you are flying in or driving a motor home, consider using my Rental Cars link for booking.

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Travel Insurance

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Conclusion

Shreveport and Bossier City, Louisiana offer a wide variety of festivals and annual events throughout the year. From music and art to food and culture, these festivals are a great way to experience the the region. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there is always something happening in Shreveport and Bossier City.

Let’s Connect Beyond Festivals in Shreveport – Bossier

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