Baton Rouge’s signature area code celebration is back. 225Fest is once again bringing the community together to celebrate culture in the Capital Region with a full day of music, food, art, and connection in the heart of downtown.

Founded in 2022, 225Fest was created with a mission to celebrate the memories and memes that make the community one of a kind. As shared in a message from Founder Myra N. Richardson on the festival’s official website, the event honors every era of Baton Rouge culture, from Bon Marché to Cortana to the Mall of Louisiana. Each year, during the weekend of February 25th, the festival commemorates #225Day by showcasing the Capital City’s most beloved food, music, art, and community resources in a vibrant, citywide experience. All foundational mission details referenced are sourced directly from the official 225Fest website.

This year’s celebration takes place Saturday, February 28, from 12 PM to 6 PM in Downtown Baton Rouge at Galvez Plaza. The event is free and open to the public, continuing its commitment to accessibility and community inclusion.

According to 225Fest’s official Facebook announcement, the 2026 music lineup promises nonstop energy throughout the day. Performances begin at 12:00 PM with Florida Street Blowhards, followed by Marcella Ratcliff at 2:05 PM and Universal Language at 2:15 PM. The 3:30 PM halftime show will feature HD4President, BBE AJ, SNUG, Level, and a special guest. NTUNE closes out the stage at 4:15 PM. All lineup details and performance times are sourced from the festival’s official Facebook page.

Live music remains central to the 225Fest experience, highlighting a mix of sounds that reflect the rhythm and diversity of Baton Rouge. As noted on the festival’s website, the event is designed to celebrate local talent while creating space for the community to gather and share in the moment.

Beyond the stage, 225Fest continues to spotlight food trucks and vendors serving everything from seafood and soul food to sweet treats, reinforcing its commitment to supporting small businesses. The festival also features its Creative Capital initiative, showcasing visual artists, live demonstrations, and interactive activations that emphasize the depth of artistic talent in the region.

Designed for all ages, 225Fest includes a Family Zone and intentionally cultivates a multigenerational atmosphere. From kids enjoying activities to adults reconnecting with familiar sounds and flavors, the event reflects the shared spirit of the 225.

Social impact remains a core pillar of the festival. As outlined on the official website, resources focused on civic engagement, health care, literacy, and mental health are integrated into the event footprint, ensuring that celebration and community empowerment go hand in hand.

On Saturday, February 28, Downtown Baton Rouge will once again serve as the backdrop for a celebration rooted in pride, nostalgia, creativity, and culture. For full details, official updates, and event information, visit the 225Fest website and follow their official social media channels.

Photos from 225Fest Facebook