Southern USA to Celebrate Food and Music Festivals in 2026
The southern states of the United States — Louisiana, Alabama, North and South Carolina, and Mississippi — are gearing up for a spectacular year of festivals in 2026, blending soulful music with rich culinary traditions. Known for their legendary hospitality, these states will host hundreds of events that highlight their cultural roots, offering visitors a vibrant calendar of celebrations throughout the year.
Louisiana: The Festival Capital
Louisiana, famous for hosting more than 400 festivals annually, will showcase its Cajun and Creole heritage in 2026. The year begins with Cadien Toujours Boucherie in January, followed by the Louisiana Food and Wine Festival in Lake Charles in March. April brings the iconic French Quarter Fest in New Orleans, while May celebrates Cajun culture at the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival. Later in the year, Shreveport’s Red River Revel will combine art, music, and food in a nine-day extravaganza.
Alabama: Music Meets Coastal Flavours
Alabama’s festival calendar is packed with highlights, including the Opelika Songwriters Festival in March and the Hangout Music Festival in May, held directly on the sands of Gulf Shores. Food lovers can look forward to the Alabama Strawberry Festival in Cullman and the Baldwin County Strawberry Festival in Loxley in April. The West Alabama Food & Wine Festival in Northport and Rock the South in June will further showcase the state’s culinary and musical spirit. Other notable events include the Seafood Fest in Orange Beach, Fort Morgan Oyster Fest, and Birmingham’s St. Elias Food & Cultural Festival.
North Carolina: Barbecue and Bluegrass
North Carolina’s spring season kicks off with MerleFest in April, one of America’s premier bluegrass gatherings, followed by Charlotte’s Lovin’ Life Music Festival in May. September brings the John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival to High Point, while October features the celebrated Lexington Barbecue Festival and Asheville’s LEAF Festival. The year closes with the Highlands Food & Wine Festival in November, offering gourmet cuisine and eclectic music in the mountains.
South Carolina: Culinary Heritage on Display
South Carolina will spotlight its food heritage with the Lowcountry Oyster Festival in Charleston in February, the South Carolina Pimento Cheese Festival in March, and the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, which celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2026. September brings the quirky Irmo Okra Strut and Greenville’s Euphoria Festival, blending culinary delights with live performances.
Mississippi: Music, Food, and Tradition
Mississippi’s festival season begins with Jackson Food and Wine in March, followed by Oxford’s Double Decker Arts Festival and Clarksdale’s Juke Joint Festival in April. June will see the Tupelo Elvis Festival and the Natchez Food and Wine Festival, while October features the famous Delta Hot Tamale Festival, the Natchez Balloon Festival, and the Gulf Coast’s Cruisin’ the Coast. The year also includes the Mississippi Book Festival in September and the National Folk Festival in November.
Southern USA in 2026 promises a feast for the senses — from Cajun crawfish and Carolina barbecue to jazz, blues, and beachside concerts. With food and music at the heart of every celebration, the region is set to welcome visitors with unforgettable experiences all year long.
