Page 24 - Jackpot Magazine Tunica ~ April, 2025

Tunica Rivergate Festival is April 24-26
BBQ, crawfish, a weekend of live music and more part of festivities
TUNICA — The 32nd Annual Rivergate Festival is set to bring a weekend of art, music, and festivities to downtown Tunica from April 24-26, 2025. Held in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, this free public event promises a little something for everyone, marking over three decades of local tradition.
The festival kicks off Thursday, April 24, and runs through Saturday, April 26, offering a packed lineup of live entertainment, a BBQ competition, and some of the region’s finest crawfish.
Attendees to the annual festival can enjoy food vendors and children’s activities available for purchase throughout the weekend.
Organizers are celebrating Mississippi
Delta culture with an extended music lineup
featuring R&B, blues, and country acts across
two stages. Following the success of last year’s
debut of dual stages, the Main Stage at Rivergate Park Amphitheater is sponsored by the Town of Tunica and the Tunica CVB, while the Gateway to the Blues Stage at Mural Park is backed by the Tunica County Convention & Visitors
Bureau and AES Corporation.
On Thursday, the Mural Park Stage will host Bre Wooten
from 6 to 9 p.m. Over at the Rivergate Amphitheater Stage, Honeyboy & Boots take the stage from 5 to 7 p.m., followed by the Shotgun Billy Trio from 7:30 to 10 p.m.
Friday, April 25, brings Delta Heart to Mural Park from 5 to 7 p.m., with Keith Johnson and The Big Muddy Band closing out the night from 7:30 to 10:00 p.m. The amphitheater stage features the Black Dogg Band from 5 to 7 p.m., followed by City Mix from 7:30 to
10 p.m.
The festival wraps up Saturday, April 26,
with the Jason Foree Trio performing at
Mural Park from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by Grass Roots Bluegrass Band from 1:30 to 4 p.m. At the amphitheater, American Idol contestants Mary Aline, Freddie McClendon, and Katelyn Myers take the stage from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with Stay Tuned rounding out the weekend from 1:30 to 4 p.m. With its blend of live music, local flavors, and family-friendly fun, the Rivergate Festival continues to draw
crowds to Tunica for a weekend steeped in Delta tradition.
Tracy Byrd comes to Silver Star Casino
CHOCTAW — Country music star Tracy Byrd is coming to Pearl River Resort’s Silver Star Casino for a concert at 8 p.m. on Saturday, May 24.
Tracy Byrd, renowned for his rich baritone and traditional country sound, emerged onto the music scene in the early 1990s. Born in Vidor, Texas, Byrd’s journey to stardom began with his debut album in 1993, featuring hits like “Holdin’ Heaven” and “Lifestyles of the Not So Rich and Famous,” which quickly climbed the charts.
Byrd’s distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics Tracy Byrd resonated with audiences,
propelling him to further success with subsequent albums. His knack for blending honky-tonk roots with a modern twist garnered him numerous accolades and a loyal fan base.
Among his standout hits, “Watermelon Crawl” became a signature song, celebrated for its catchy rhythm and danceable charm. This track not only topped the charts, but also solidified Byrd’s reputation as a country music powerhouse.
Throughout his career, Byrd has maintained a steadfast commitment to traditional country values, earning respect from peers and fans alike. His ability to capture the essence of everyday life in America’s heartland continues to define his music, making him a beloved figure in country music history.
Tracy Byrd’s enduring legacy is a testament to his talent, authenticity, and unwavering dedication to his craft. His influence on the country music genre remains profound, ensuring his place among its most cherished icons.
Tickets start at $15. For tickets, visit pearlriverresort.com.
24 JACKPOT! MAGAZINE • April 2025 THE SOUTH’S LARGEST GUIDE TO GAMING & FUN • www.jackpotmagazine.com