Where to Attend the World Catfish Festival - Mississippi Farm Country

Where to Attend the World Catfish Festival

Head to Belzoni for the annual World Catfish Festival in April.
World Catfish Festival

Catfish enthusiasts unite in Belzoni for the annual World Catfish Festival.

Since 1976, the World Catfish Festival has drawn fish fans to the Mississippi Delta. Nearly 60 percent of U.S. farm-raised catfish are grown within a 65-mile radius of Belzoni, making it the Catfish Capital of the World. In fact, people are greeted with a large orange sign welcoming visitors to the Catfish Capital of the World and dozens of fiberglass catfish sculptures around the city. 

For the festival, the streets of downtown are transformed as more than 150 arts and crafts vendors and 10,000 attendees gather to enjoy live entertainment, a kids zone and, of course, lots of catfish. In addition to live music, a catfish pageant and a catfish-eating contest entertain crowds. 

Now in its 44th year, the World Catfish Festival will be held on Saturday, April 6. Festivities kick off at 9 a.m. and run until 4 p.m. Admission is $5 per person and children 10 and under are free. 

For more information about this year’s festival, visit belzonims.com/catfishfest.htm or call (662) 247-4838. 

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Due to COVID-19 (coronavirus) precautions and travel advisories, many upcoming events have been canceled or postponed. Please check with local tourism offices and event organizers for the most up-to-date information.
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