The Top 5 Reasons to Go to Mudbug Madness 2024 in Shreveport, LA

Get our free mobile app

Mudbug Madness has been dishing out the tastiest bugs and grub, the coolest tunes, and artsy vibes right on Shreveport's riverfront for decades—it's basically northwest Louisiana's ultimate Memorial Day weekend bash!

Bring your friends and family to Mudbug Madness 2024, starting on Friday, May 24th, and running through Sunday, May 26th, each day from 11 am to 11 pm, at Shreveport's Festival Plaza downtown.

For years, Mudbug Madness has been the go-to kick-off for summer each Memorial Day weekend. What began as a simple two-day street fest back in 1984 along the Shreveport Riverfront has now grown into a nationally recognized event. It's earned its spot among the Southeast Tourism Society's Top 20 Events and has even been honored by the American Bus Association as one of the top 100 events in the country.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Mudbug Madness Festival and if all of that's not enough to entice you downtown, here are our top five reasons why we think you should go to Festival Plaza Memorial Day Weekend for Mudbug Madness.

1. Crawfish

You'll be amazed at the variety of ways crawfish are served at Mudbug Madness—it's like Forrest Gump's shrimp but with crawfish! From boiled to fried, in gumbo or etouffee, you name it, they've got it!

2. The Entertainment

Mudbug Madness always offers a fantastic lineup of music from a mix of genres, including Zydeco, Cajun, blues, and jazz.

3. It's Good for Shreveport

Mudbug Madness improves downtown Shreveport by attracting visitors, providing fun activities for locals, and sprucing up the downtown area.

4. The Shopping

Want to indulge in some retail therapy? Mudbug Madness is your go-to spot! They offer a wide range of items, including art and jewelry, to satisfy your shopping cravings.

5. The Crawfish Calling Contest

The crawfish calling contest at Mudbug Madness is hands down the most entertaining contest ever! It's the one time when having a bit of fun and letting loose really counts. Join in on the action on Saturday, May 25th, at 4:15 pm on the Madness Stage courtesy of Barksdale Federal Credit Union. Registration opens at 3:15 pm, and it's free to participate!