The rich heritage of Zwolle, Louisiana, will once again come alive at the 49th Annual Zwolle Tamale Fiesta, taking place October 9–11, 2025 at the Zwolle Festival Grounds. This beloved event celebrates the area’s Spanish and Native American ancestry while honoring the tradition of the famous Zwolle Hot Tamales that have delighted generations.
The Zwolle Tamale Fiesta is one of the largest and oldest festivals in the state of Louisiana. These festival days are always full of culture, music, family-friendly activities, and of course, Zwolle Tamales!
The fun kicks off Thursday, October 9, with Senior Citizen Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by the official Opening Ceremonies and Kick-Off Supper at 6 p.m. Fiesta Royalty will be presented, dignitaries recognized, and live entertainment will fill the evening.
Friday, October 10, begins with Third Grade Educational Day before the festival gates open at 4 p.m. The evening features a full slate of music, including performances by Herry Reggans & the Louisiana Side Men,
Lucas Jagneaux and the Road Show, and Horace Trahan and the Ossun Express.
The biggest day, Saturday, October 11, starts early with the 5K Run at 8 a.m. and the always-popular parade at 10 a.m. Attendees can enjoy carnival rides, arts and crafts, and signature contests like the Tamale Eating Contest, Spanish Costume Contest, Arm Wrestling Contest, and Official Tamale Judging. Afternoon highlights include the Mud Bog Competition and the Toledo Cruisers Car Show, while evening performances from PineKnotz Band, Landry & Company, Ronnie Anderson with Raven, One Trick Pony, and Shadow Road will keep the crowd dancing late into the night.
Admission is $2 on Thursday, $5 on Friday, and $10 on Saturday. Throughout the weekend, festivalgoers can sample authentic tamales, shop vendors, and enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere that makes this one of Louisiana’s most cherished festivals.
For more information, visit www.Toledo-BendLakeCountry.com/ tamalefiesta.