Original Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Music Festival in Opelousas, Louisiana

Original Southwest LA Zydeco Music Festival

Opelousas is the Zydeco Music Capital of the World and home to one of the biggest zydeco music celebrations, the Original Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Music Festival. In 1981, there was a real fear that Creole and zydeco music was dying out. To combat this, a group of concerned citizens organized the Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Music Festival. Today, the event features the best performers in zydeco. Swamp-pop, swing, R&B, and southern soul enjoyers will also have a great time. It’s the perfect event to dance to your favorite zydeco musicians.

On Friday, enjoy the Zydeco Festival’s Kick-off Dance taking place at Evangeline Downs at 9pm. 

The main event is at the Yambilee Building with music starting at 12pm. Stay tuned to see who’s playing.

The Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Music Festival is usually held the Saturday before Labor Day in Opelousas.

Gates open at 11am, but the music starts at 12pm. Admission is $25 for adults and $5 for kids 12 and under. No coolers allowed. RV Parking is $10/day (no electricity). No glass containers. No BBQ pits. No open flame burners.

Hourly Schedule

Friday

9pm
Live Music
Kick-Off Dance taking place at Evangeline Downs Racetrack & Casino

Saturday

Big Zydeco Parade
Zydeco Breakfast
at the Courthouse Square
12pm
Music Starts

Date

Aug 30 2025

Cost

$25.00

Location

Yambilee Ag Arena
1939 West Landry Street Opelousas, LA 70570 United States

Other Locations

Evangeline Downs Racetrack & Casino
2235 Creswell Ln, Opelousas, LA
Website
https://www.evangelinedowns.com/

Organizer

Southern Development Foundation
Phone
337-942-2392
Website
https://www.zydeco.org/
QR Code
Go to Top