Dwayne Dopsie to Headline Mudbug Madness 2026 Opening Night

Shreveport music lovers, we begged for it, and the festival gods finally delivered! Get ready to lace up your dancing shoes because we are officially kicking off our Louisiana Saturday Night at Mudbug Madness with none other than the legendary Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers.

What started back in 1984 as a small street fest has exploded into one of the largest Cajun celebrations in the country. Now a nationally recognized powerhouse, Mudbug Madness returns to Downtown Shreveport this Memorial Day weekend, May 22nd through May 24th.

We’re talking three days of non-stop action at Festival Plaza: two stages, thirty bands, and all the boiled crawfish your heart desires!

There is truly no better way to start the party than with Dwayne Dopsie. Hailing from Lafayette and one of the most influential Zydeco families on the planet, Dwayne has blazed his own trail with a high-energy style that’s pure magic.

Watching him play the accordion is a masterclass in soul; he’s a self-taught prodigy who spent hours perfecting his craft to honor the legacy of his father and Clifton Chenier. Combined, the Zydeco Hellraisers bring over 100 years of experience to the stage, and believe me, it shows in every high-octane note.

Whether you’re there for the world-famous crawfish eating contests, the Kids on the Bayou area, or just a cold beverage with a side of blues and pop, the Boardwalk’s neighbor is the place to be.

I want to know: Who are you bringing to the Plaza this year? Tag your Mudbug crew in the comments!