The town of Zwolle is gearing up to celebrate one of its most anticipated traditions, the Zwolle Tamale Fiesta, set for October 9–11, 2025, at the Zwolle Festival Grounds. The three-day event will feature live music, contests, food, parades, and cultural showcases honoring the town’s rich history and traditions.

Pre-Fiesta Events:

Festivities begin early with the Fiesta Poster Unveiling on Thursday, September 11, followed by the First Lady & King’s Gathering and Fiesta Trail Ride on Saturday, October 4. A Fiesta Royal Mass at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church is scheduled for Tuesday, October 7.

Thursday, October 9 — Kick-Off:

The official fiesta opens with Senior Citizen Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., including bingo, lunch, and door prizes. Festival gates open at 4 p.m. with $2 admission. Opening ceremonies at 6 p.m. will present Fiesta Royalty, recognize dignitaries, and showcase special entertainment. Music kicks off at 7:30 p.m. with the Next of Kin Band.

Friday, October 10 — Music and Fun:

The day begins with a Third Grade Educational Day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gates reopen at 4 p.m. with $5 admission. Evening entertainment includes performances by Herry Reggans & The Louisiana Side Men (4–5:30 p.m.), Lucas Jagneaux and the Road Show (6–7:30 p.m.), and Horace Trahan and the Ossun Express (8–11 p.m.).

Saturday, October 11 — Fiesta Day:

Fiesta Saturday kicks off with a 5K Run at 8 a.m., followed by the Parade at 10 a.m. and a Treasure Hunt for a $500 savings bond. Festival gates open at 8 a.m. with $10 admission. The day is packed with activities including:

Midwest Rides & Concessions (11 a.m.)
Toledo Cruisers Car Club Show (11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.)
Tamale Eating Contest (11:15 a.m.)
Spanish Costume Contest (12 p.m.)
Arm Wrestling Contest (12:30 p.m.)
Tamale Judging (1 p.m.)
Mud Bog Competition (2 p.m.) with special tent and cooler fees

Live music will run throughout the afternoon and evening with performances by PineKnotz Band, Landry & Company Band, Ronnie Anderson with Raven, One Trick Pony, and Shadow Road closing out the night.
The Zwolle Tamale Fiesta offers tamales, carnival rides, concessions, souvenirs, vendors, and a celebration of community pride.

For more details, visit zwolletamalefiesta.com.