Discover the best that Columbus has to offer at Catfish in the Alley on April 11-12, 2025. Sample savory Mississippi farm-raised catfish, as well as other Southern fare, while enjoying the soulful sounds of blues music. This annual event features concerts, artisans, food vendors and fun for the whole family. Held each spring in Columbus, Catfish in the Alley is a tribute to the African American citizens of Columbus who contributed to the town’s rich political, historical, cultural and musical heritage. But don’t take our word for it – come see for yourself! Catch you in Columbus for Catfish in the Alley!
Join us for “Blues with a Side of Soul” on Friday, April 11 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. Keith Johnson and the Big Muddy Band will perform. Soul food plate lunches available for purchase.
Visit the world-famous “Catfish Alley,” where legendary bluesmen, such as Howlin’ Wolf, Bukka White and Big Joe Williams, got their start. Here nationally recognized artists, such as B.B. King, Duke Ellington, Little Richard, Louis Armstrong and James Brown, performed alongside Mississippi’s blues guitarists. Catfish in the Alley event headliners will wow the crowds with their original songs and reimagined takes on blues classics, so come early and leave late. Music starts at 10:00 with Keith and Margie followed by The Columbus Community Gospel Choir. At noon, Anissa “Bigg Sexyy” Hampton and the H-Funk Band take the stage. Our headliner, DK Harrell will play 1:30 until 3:00. Food vendors and artisans will also be onsite.
Make plans to stay for the weekend. There are a number of lodging options for out-of-town guests. From the charming bed-and-breakfast where visitors can spend the night in a 19th-century Italianate mansion, to the well-appointed hotel room where guests can kick up their feet and relax, Columbus has more than 1,500 rooms to suit every budget and taste. For the sportsmen, those seeking to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Columbus’ great outdoors or those wanting more privacy, there are also an abundance of RV parks and campsites.
When you have had your fill of catfish and are ready for something different, try Huck’s Place. Here, visitors can get anything from New Orleans-inspired zydeco flatbread and boudin-stuffed shrimp topped with a spicy homemade crawfish sauce, to bayou shrimp tacos and open-faced, fully-dressed roast beef po-boys. For more than a decade, Huck’s Place’s large Cajun-Creole menu has kept guests coming back for more.
While there is no shortage of tried-and-true restaurants to experience on your trip to Columbus, one of the most popular eateries is Harvey’s. Specializing in everything from wood-fired steaks and ribs, seafood, pasta and classic favorites, like burgers and sandwiches, Harvey’s has a menu sure to satisfy even the pickiest eater.