Downtown Shreveport is set to come alive with creativity, culture, and community as Cirque du Lake returns this spring, expanding beyond its signature street festival into a multi-day celebration of North Louisiana’s artistic spirit. Presented by The Agora Borealis and Sanctuary Arts School, this year’s event, themed “A Taste of North Louisiana,” invites residents and visitors alike to experience the region’s rich and diverse creative scene.
The celebration begins Friday evening, May 15, as the Agora Borealis and Lake Street Gallery host a literary event alongside two exhibition receptions. From 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., guests will have the opportunity to meet Centenary College art professor Josh Chambers and explore his work, as well as the “A Taste of NW Louisiana” exhibition. The evening will also spotlight literary voices including D.L. Holmes, Tiffany L. Pennywell, and Ashley Havrid, with Christin Reed guiding the program. Attendees can also enjoy live music from Alan Dyson, creating an atmosphere that blends visual art, literature, and performance into one immersive experience.
The energy continues into Saturday, May 16, when the free, family- and pet-friendly street festival takes over the 400 block of Lake Street from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. Throughout the day, attendees can browse local vendors, discover handmade goods, and sample food from area chefs, all while enjoying a lineup of live entertainment. This year’s event will be hosted by Angelique Fester, who will introduce performances from artists including DJ Faze, Grammy Award winner AJ Haynes, Planet Fun, Buddy Flett, and Seratones. A fashion show featuring Designer Tasha adds another layer of creativity to the day’s festivities.
From interactive art installations to live demonstrations and performances, Cirque du Lake offers something for all ages, creating a space where the community can connect while celebrating the talent that defines the region. Whether attending for the art, the music, the food, or simply the atmosphere, the event serves as a reminder of the vibrancy and depth of Shreveport’s creative community.
Supported by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts and distributed by the Shreveport Regional Arts Council, this year’s expanded format brings even more opportunities to engage with local artists, musicians, writers, and chefs. As the weekend unfolds, Cirque du Lake promises not just a festival, but a full cultural experience that reflects the unique character and creative energy of North Louisiana.
