Nestled snuggly along the Yazoo River, Belzoni is a tiny town with a big claim to fame. The town earned the title of “Catfish Capital of the World” in 1976, a badge they’ve worn proudly ever since. Humphreys County produces more farm-raised catfish than any other county in the United States, so it’s only fitting that the town of Belzoni celebrates with the annual World Catfish Festival in Mississippi. 

Every April, the downtown scene in Belzoni transforms into a one-day festival that the entire family will enjoy.
World Catfish Festival/Facebook
The festival takes place on April 1, 2023, and no, that’s not an April fool’s joke!
World Catfish Festival/Facebook
This year marks the 46th year, and it’s promising to be bigger and better than ever.
World Catfish Festival/Facebook
The whole community comes together for this festival. The festival kicks off with a 5K bright and early in the morning and then it's a party all day long. There's a designated kid zone where the youngest of catfish lovers can enjoy games, rides, and more, so bring the whole family out!

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More than 10,000 folks flock to Belzoni to attend this festival in Mississippi, and it’s worth a drive from any corner of the state!
World Catfish Festival/Facebook
There will be over 150 arts and crafts vendors peppering the downtown area, selling everything from artwork to spice blends and everything in between!
World Catfish Festival/Facebook
What a wonderful way to support local businesses!
And it’s not a festival unless your toes are tapping, and they’ll be tapping all day long to the sweet tunes of talented musicians playing blues, country, gospel, and more.
World Catfish Festival/Facebook
Visit the festival’s Facebook page to see the band schedule.
Of course, you’ll have plenty of fried catfish to eat, so come hungry!
World Catfish Festival/Facebook
There will be plenty of local restaurants selling delicious festival grub to chow down on, with catfish naturally being the star of the show!

Visit the Catfish festival’s website to learn more, and be sure to follow them on the Catfish festival’s Facebook so you don’t miss out on any special announcements as the date draws closer!

Did you know the Belzoni is also home to Sky Lake Wildlife Management Area, which contains some of the oldest and largest bald cypress trees on earth? Check it out after the festival!

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Belzoni, MS 39038, USA