April is the perfect time to explore Shreveport-Bossier, with exciting festivals, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences happening all month long. Whether you're a foodie eager to indulge in local flavors, a music lover looking for live entertainment, or an outdoor enthusiast ready to soak up the beauty of the outdoors in North Louisiana during the springtime, there's something for everyone in Shreveport-Bossier!

Stop by America’s Rose Garden for Peak Bloom Season

America's largest garden dedicated to the preservation of roses is officially open for 2026! Discover the beauty of America's Rose Garden at the American Rose Center, home to 20,000 rosebushes spread across 118 acres. This tranquil setting features sculptures, fountains, and lush landscapes, making it the perfect spot for photography, yoga, or a peaceful outdoor stroll during peak bloom season (April to June). Admission is $5 per person, or $10 per family.

american rose center

Shop for Fresh Fruits & Veggies at the Bossier City Farmers Market

Open from April 4, 2026, to November 2026, the Bossier City Farmers Market features 150+ vendor booths with fresh produce, artisan goods, baked treats, food trucks, and live entertainment. Families can enjoy activities like face painting, bounce houses, and interactive games. The market is dog friendly, so bring your pups! Open every Saturday from April to November with free admission and parking.

bossier city farmers market

Walk the Botanical Gardens at the R.W. Norton Art Gallery

Stroll through 40 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens at the R.W. Norton Art Gallery. Spring brings a vibrant bloom of azaleas, creating a picturesque setting for art and nature lovers. Inside, explore a vast collection of American and European sculptures, paintings, and decorative arts.

r.w. norton art gallery gardens

Keep an Eye on Upcoming Sporting Events

April brings exciting sports action to Shreveport-Bossier! Catch the American Cornhole Major (April 3), Shreveport Mudbugs Hockey (April 3), 2D Sports Super Select NIT Baseball Tournament (April 10), National Crappie Tournament (April 10), 2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series (April 17), Louisiana Rougaroux Professional Arena Football (April 18), and the 2026 Archery Shooters Association | Easton & Hoyt Pro/Am (April 23). Don't miss these thrilling competitions!

archery shooters association

 

Bug Bazaar with Coyote Peterson

April 11, 2026, Sci-Port Discovery Center is bringing back its fan-favorite Bug Bazaar for the first time in a decade! From 10 AM to 2 PM, explore the fascinating world of insects through hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, and up-close encounters that are perfect for curious kids and adventurous adults alike. This year’s event also features a special appearance by Coyote Peterson, host of the Brave Wilderness series, known for his wild and educational encounters with some of nature’s most intense creatures. It’s a can’t-miss day of discovery, learning, and a little bit of creepy-crawly fun.

52nd Annual Auto Show

April 11, 2026, rev up your weekend at the 52nd Annual Auto Show at Louisiana Downs in Bossier City. From classic cars to modern builds, this event brings together auto enthusiasts, collectors, and curious visitors for a day of impressive vehicles and community fun. Stroll through rows of polished rides, meet fellow car lovers, and enjoy the lively atmosphere at one of the region’s longest-running car showcases. Whether you’re a dedicated gearhead or just looking for something different to do, this event delivers a high-energy experience for all ages.

Live Musical Performances

April is filled with live musical performances all over Shreveport-Bossier to kick off the warm weather!

 

Visit Chimp Haven During Their Bi-Annual Discovery Days

April 18, 2026, experience the world’s largest chimpanzee sanctuary, Chimp Haven, during Discovery Days. Observe chimps in their natural habitats, attend expert talks, and explore interactive stations. Enjoy an optional hayride tour (ticket required) and bring a special gift for the chimps, such as peanut butter, canned fruits, or soft blankets.

chimp haven

Organize a Clean-Up for Love The Boot Week

April 18 - 26, 2026, join Louisiana’s largest litter removal and beautification effort during Love the Boot Week. Help keep the state beautiful by registering a clean-up event, volunteering, or spreading awareness. Participate in this community-driven initiative to make a lasting impact in all 64 parishes.

love the boot week

Shreveport Crawfish Kickoff Festival

April 19, 2026, grab your friends and head to the 2026 Crawfish Kickoff Festival! Filled with drinks, music, seafood, dancing, games, and of course CRAWFISH! Be sure to get your tickets beforehand, here. If you can't make it to this one, Shreveport-Bossier's largest crawfish festival, Mudbug Madness, is happening Memorial Day weekend 2026 at Festival Plaza!

Bright red, boiled crawfish being scooped with a metal scoop

Spring Craft Fair

April 25–26, 2026, spend the weekend browsing, shopping, and enjoying the lively atmosphere at Louisiana Boardwalk. With over 100 vendors, this market features a mix of food vendors, handmade goods, and local artists showcasing their work. Bring the whole family to enjoy bounce houses, delicious bites, and a fun, open-air shopping experience along the riverfront. It’s the perfect way to support local and soak up a vibrant spring weekend.

A photo of Texas Avenue Makers Fair

Eat Your Weight at the Taco Wars Festival

Technically in May this year but is too good to not spread the word--attend Taco Wars! Happening May 2, 2026, Louisiana's largest taco and salsa festival, brings together taquerias competing for the Best Taco and Best Salsa titles. Enjoy free chips and salsa samples, live music, kids’ activities, tequila tastings, and margaritas. A family-friendly event with 90% of food sales supporting local businesses.

taco wars

Take a Day Drive Along the Boom or Bust Byway

Embark on a scenic drive along the Boom or Bust Byway, a 136-mile journey through four parishes. Discover outdoor trails, historic museums, fishing spots, campgrounds, and Southern flavors. Whether you’re a road trip enthusiast or a history buff, this route offers a unique off-the-beaten-path adventure.

boom or bust byway

April in Shreveport-Bossier is packed with festivals, food, sports, and outdoor adventures. Mark your calendars and make the most of this exciting month!

Coming up in shreveport-bossier