Gumbo Gladiators Shreveport: Event Details and How to Enter

When I finally visited New Orleans in 2017, I was ready to try Louisiana's coveted, savory specialty. When a plate passed my table, I had to ask the waitress, "Is it a soup?" She simply replied, "No, it's gumbo. Do you want to try it or not?" Of course, I did. And just like that, I was instantly hooked on that rich, complex flavor.

If you’re also a huge fan of gumbo, there is a fierce, delicious festival just for you: The Battle of the Gumbo Gladiators.

This annual event is a massive fundraiser held right in Shreveport’s Festival Plaza, transforming downtown into a true battlefield for gumbo lovers. People travel from all over the Ark-La-Tex to taste their way through over 50 pots of gumbo, with chefs battling for the title of Ultimate Gumbo Gladiator.

Have you mastered the art of making the perfect roux? Could your culinary crew earn the bragging rights for the best gumbo in town? Teams can compete across different categories, including chicken/sausage, seafood, and lagniappe (a little something extra). If you have, click here to register your team now before all the spots fill up.

Mark your calendar and keep Saturday, March 7th, wide open from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tickets are available at the gate.

Volunteers for Youth Justice puts on this fantastic event, ensuring proceeds support essential services for children, youth, and families in crisis. There will also be other food vendors, raffle items, and a children's area featuring crafts and face painting. Bring the family, your foodie friends, and your appetite, and join us for Shreveport's tastiest battle of the year!