By: CA Staff Writer | April 9, 2025
Clarksdale, Mississippi – From April 10 to 13, 2025, the heart of the Mississippi Delta will come alive with the soulful sounds of blues, the vibrant colors of community, and a festival experience unlike any other as the 22nd Annual Juke Joint Festival takes over downtown Clarksdale. Celebrated as both a world-renowned blues festival and a small-town fair, the event offers something for everyone—music lovers, families, and culture seekers alike.
A Festival That Honors the Delta’s Heritage
More than just a music festival, the Juke Joint Festival is a deep dive into Clarksdale’s rich cultural legacy. Visitors can expect four days packed with live performances, educational presentations, food, fun, and family-friendly activities—all paying tribute to the birthplace of the blues.
Festival Highlights
Thursday, April 10:
The festivities begin with a free Kick-Off Concert at 5:00 PM on the Red Panther Brewing Co. Stage. This special event features the highly anticipated “Grown in Mississippi” CD Release Show, headlined by 80-year-old Grammy-nominated blues legend John Primer and his all-star band. It’s a powerful start to a weekend that celebrates Mississippi’s musical roots.
Friday, April 11:
The energy builds with daytime programming including educational presentations at Meraki Coffee Roasters and live blues sets outside Cat Head Delta Blues & Folk Art. Then, at 6:00 PM, the Red Panther Brewing Co. Stage hosts a live taping of the Thacker Mountain Radio Hour. Expect electrifying performances by Charlie Musselwhite with Kenny Brown, Duwayne Burnside, and a reading by acclaimed author Ace Atkins.
Saturday, April 12:
The main event begins! From 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, downtown Clarksdale transforms into a blues paradise with 17 free stages spread across eight city blocks. The lineup includes the best in blues and roots music, plus exciting family attractions like racing pigs, arts and crafts vendors, classic Southern eats, and a car show.
By night, the real juke joint experience kicks in. With a Juke Joint Festival wristband, guests can enter 26 venues featuring more than 40 live acts from 6:00 PM until 1:00 AM.
Sunday, April 13:
The weekend closes on a high note with the Cat Head Mini Blues Fest, a free event beginning at 10:00 AM. This intimate showcase features talent such as Lucious Spiller, Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band, and more, offering one last chance to soak in the Delta sound before heading home.
Plan Your Visit
With so much to see and do, festival-goers are encouraged to plan ahead. For wristband purchases, lodging options, and the complete festival schedule, visit the official website at jukejointfestival.com. Hotels and accommodations fill up quickly, so early booking is highly recommended.
Whether you’re a blues purist, a first-time visitor, or a Delta native coming home, the Juke Joint Festival is your chance to experience the authentic spirit of Clarksdale—where music, history, and community come together in one unforgettable celebration.
See you in soon—where the blues were born and still live on.
