Shreveport Celebrates 20 Years of Rhythm and Blues at the Highland Jazz and Blues Festival
SHREVEPORT, La. – This Saturday, the Highland Jazz and Blues Festival is throwing a big party to celebrate its 20th anniversary! Tucked away in Shreveport’s historic Highland neighborhood at Columbia Park, this beloved festival will have something for everyone, from music lovers to families looking for a fun day out.
A Day Full of Free Entertainment
The festival will kick off at 10:30 a.m. and run until 6 p.m.. Best of all, admission is free! You can groove to live performances on not one, but two stages. That’s right, folks—you can get your fill of fantastic music without spending a dime. There’s no need to feel guilty about enjoying yourself!
Headlining the Festival
This year, the spotlight is on D.K. Harrell, an emerging blues artist hailing from Ruston, Louisiana. D.K. is no stranger to the stage, having lit up audiences at iconic events like the B.B. King Symposium and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Plus, his impressive third-place finish at the B.B. King International Blues Challenge demonstrates his incredible talent. D.K. is passionate about keeping the traditional blues flame alive while also making it relatable to younger audiences. It promises to be a performance that you won’t forget!
A Diverse Musical Lineup
The festival is bursting at the seams with local and regional talent. Besides D.K. Harrell, you can expect to see performances from the Shreveport Bone Society, Betty Lewis and the Executives, The LukeJazz Quartet, and many others. From jazz to blues, every note will echo through the park, inviting you to tap your feet and nod your head to the rhythm.
Make sure to catch up-and-coming local musicians like Creswell Blazin’ Beatz and the Bossier Parish Schools Talented Arts Program. These aspiring stars are ready to show off their creativity, proving that the future of music is bright in Shreveport!
Fun for the Whole Family
The Highland Jazz and Blues Festival is not all about the music; there will be plenty of activities for the little ones too! A dedicated children’s area promises fun games and interactive experiences that will keep kids entertained for hours. And if you have furry friends, check out the pet park. Bring your pets along and let them join in the festivities!
Savor the Flavors of Local Cuisine
When you get hungry (and believe us—you will!), various food trucks will be ready to satisfy your cravings. From savory bites to sweet treats, it’s a foodie’s paradise. You can sample local delicacies while enjoying the sounds of live performances around you.
Engaging Performances Await
As a cherry on top, internationally acclaimed artist Lady Chops, the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council’s 2024 Performing Artist of the Year and a former member of the Off-Broadway show “STOMP,” will showcase dynamic and interactive performances. Prepare to be amazed by a blend of music and artistry that will leave you inspired!
Join the Celebration!
So gather your friends and family, pack your picnic blankets, and head on over to Columbia Park to join in on this lively celebration of music, art, and community. With two decades of joyful sound behind it, the Highland Jazz and Blues Festival is sure to deliver a day filled with good vibes and great tunes that will linger in your hearts for years to come!
