by The King Biscuit Blues Festival is one of the most celebrated blues events in the United States. Held in historic Helena, Arkansas, this festival honors the deep roots of Delta blues while presenting contemporary artists and rising talent. The 2025 edition, set for October 10–11, promises a weekend rich in music, culture, food, and community spirit.
Dates and Timings
The festival runs over two full days, giving visitors time to enjoy a wide range of performances and activities.
- Dates: October 10–11, 2025
- Typical Hours:
- Friday evening performances begin around 6:30 PM CDT
- Saturday shows run throughout the day and into the evening
- Early stage events begin mid-morning, such as the Bit O’ Blues Stage starting around 9:45 AM
Venue of the Festival
The festival is staged in downtown Helena, along Cherry Street beside the Mississippi River, with the main concerts held at the Cherry Street Pavilion. The setting merges the river’s ambiance with historic downtown charm, creating a unique festival atmosphere.
Tickets
Attendance requires a wristband, with pricing aimed to remain accessible.
- Daily Rate: $20 per day
- Two-Day Pass: $35 for both days
- Wristbands: Available online ahead of time and on-site during festival hours
Food and Drinks
No blues festival is complete without good food. At King Biscuit, food and drink vendors line Cherry Street and nearby areas, offering local flavors, festival treats, and refreshments.
- Food Options:
- Southern classics such as barbecue, fried chicken, and gumbo
- Snacks, finger foods, and festival specialties
- Desserts like pies, funnel cakes, and sweet treats
- Beverages:
- Soft drinks and bottled water
- Coffee and cold drinks to refresh between performances
- Adult beverage options available in designated areas
- Vendor Experience: The vendor area is woven into the street-level festival layout, allowing visitors to walk, eat, and enjoy music together.
While King Biscuit is primarily a music festival, it also offers other forms of engagement beyond concerts.
- Street Performers: Buskers and free performances along Cherry Street deepen the festival experience.
- Workshops and Demonstrations: The festival includes music workshops, artist panels, and interactive sessions.
- Children’s & Community Activities: Family-friendly areas, vendor crafts, and community booths are interspersed throughout the grounds.
Entertainment Lineup
The soul of this festival is its music. The 2025 lineup mixes blues legends, regional stars, and rising talent across multiple stages.
- Main Stage Highlights:
- Friday, October 10: Heavy Suga & the SweeTones, Sterling Billingsley, The Wampus Cats with Robert “Nighthawk” Tooms, Reba Russell Band, Gregg Martinez, Paul Thorn, and Mr. Sipp
- Saturday, October 11: Eden Brent, Ghost Town Blues Band, Chris O’Leary, Anson Funderburgh, 2 Blues for You, Dave Sadler, John Nemeth, and B.B. King Centennial Blues Band
- Bit O’ Blues Stage (Morning / Early Day):
- Showcases emerging and local talent such as the Delta Blues Museum Band, Spa City Youngbloods, Harrell “Young Rell” Davenport, and the Pinetop Perkins Boogie Woogie workshop
- Street & Side Stage Acts:
- Smaller performances, pop-up musicians, arts & crafts areas, and free acoustic sets along Cherry Street
Additional Facilities
To support visitor comfort and safety, the festival offers practical amenities and services.
- Parking: On-street parking in downtown Helena, plus additional lots nearby
- Shuttle / Transportation: Shuttle services from remote parking areas
- Restrooms & Sanitation: Portable restrooms, accessible facilities, and wash stations placed throughout festival grounds
- Accessibility: Wheelchair access, accessible seating, ramps, and services for visitors with disabilities
- First Aid & Safety: Medical tents, security personnel, and information desks to assist visitors
- Merchandise & Crafts: T-shirts, posters, local crafts, and festival souvenirs available via vendor booths
- Information Booths: Festival maps, schedule guides, and staff to help visitors plan their day
Conclusion
The King Biscuit Blues Festival 2025 promises to be a rich celebration of blues heritage, community, and musical excellence. With two days of stellar performances, food, cultural experiences, and local flavor, it offers something for both seasoned blues lovers and new fans alike.
Whether you come to see legendary acts or to discover new voices, the festival’s setting along the Mississippi in Helena gives it a special ambiance. Mark your calendar for October 10–11, 2025, and get ready for a deep dive into the heart of Delta blues.
