Inaugural Bourbon and BBQ Festival Coming to Downtown Shreveport

You had us at hello! Bourbon AND BBQ? We'll see you there!

I'll admit, when I first saw this press release from Jada Durden, I immediately assumed this was something that was happening in Texas. After all, while we're known for great cajun, creole and seafood here in Louisiana, Texas seems to own the 'great bbq' image.

Well, we're apparently making strides when it comes to our barbeque here in Louisiana, hence, the inaugural Bourbon and Barbeque Festival that's coming to downtown Shreveport next month. All too often in our area, people are afraid to start something new because of the uncertainty of whether or not locals will support it. I'm so glad the organizers behind this festival took a leap of faith! Trust me, I'll be there to sample your fair!

Here's what Jada had to say about this first-ever event in the Red River Entertainment District in downtown Shreveport:

Bourbon and Barbeque Festival, a local celebration of Shreveport-Bossier’s bourbon and barbecue culture, will make its debut in the Red River District on Saturday, April 18, 2020, from 3-9 p.m. Bourbon and Barbeque Festival consists of 16 competitors: 8 bourbon cocktail artists and 8 barbecue pitmasters. These participants are competing for the People’s Choice titles and $1500. Bourbon and Barbeque Festival is organized by Chase Boytim, Taylor Jamison, and Sylvester Marshall. Sponsors of the festival include Republic National Distributing Company and Cintas Corporation. Sponsorship opportunities are still available.

Attendees of Bourbon and Barbeque Festival will get to sample each barbecue offering and bourbon cocktail while listening to live music from local bands, Easy Money and Grammy award-winning New Orleans group, Rebirth Brass Band on the main stage under the Texas Street bridge. Commerce Street will be filled with local products and vendors that complement bourbon and barbecue. Vendor spots are still available.

Tickets are on sale now for $35 for general admission and $100 for VIP. VIP ticket holders will have access to the VIP lounge with premium seating near the stage and exclusive bourbons and food spread. The Red River District will be open to all ages, however, festival ticket holders must be ages 21 and up.

For complete details of Bourbon and Barbeque Festival, visit bourbonandbarbeque.com.