Entertainment lined up for Big Catch Catfish Festival

Osceola will be hosting the inaugural Big Catch Catfish Festival Saturday at Sans Souci Park, located on the banks of the Mississippi River.

The Big Catch Catfish Festival will feature a 100 percent payout catfish tournament on the Mississippi River, riverboat rides, a Kids Fun Zone with laser tag, Mighty Mississippi River Queen pageant, the Big Catch Catfish Cookoff, food and beverage vendors and various contests with prizes.

Several musical acts are lined up for the festival's "Rockin' & Rollin' on the River," with live entertainment from the Band Battle at Plum Run Bend, Swinging Leroy, Jason Green, Marty Ray Project, Denise Lesalle and the legendary Southern rock band, 38 Special.

There will also be a raffle to win one of two autographed electric guitars and a special VIP meet-and-greet with 38 Special. Raffle tickets are priced at $1 each, or six for $5, and will be available at the Big Catch Catfish Festival.

Tickets at the festival are only $15, and kids under 10 will be admitted for free.

Festival-goers are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, but no outside food or beverages will be allowed. Because parking near the river will be limited, festival goers will park in designated areas with free shuttle transportation to and from Sans Souci Park provided.

For more information about this event, visit www.arkansasbigcatch.com or contact the Osceola-South Mississippi County Chamber of Commerce at 870-563-2281.

cpinkard@blythevillecourier.com