Louisiana Homesteader Conference 2026: Bossier City Guide

It is officially the most wonderful time of the year for anyone who has ever dreamed of trading the hustle for a simpler, self-sufficient lifestyle. If you have ever caught yourself daydreaming about living off the land, growing your own produce, or keeping a backyard flock, you are in luck, we have expert guidance popping up right in our own backyard!

The LSU AgCenter is hosting the Louisiana Homesteader Conference at the Red River Research Station in Bossier City on Friday, October 16, and Saturday, October 17.

Whether you are an experienced homesteader, a total beginner, or just a curious landowner, this free, family-friendly event is packed with practical wisdom for living more sustainably on small acreages or right in your own backyard.

Throughout the two-day event, agricultural experts will lead hands-on sessions covering everything you need to know to care for your land, livestock, and natural resources. You can dive into educational presentations on:

Livestock & Animals: Poultry and egg production, backyard rabbits, meat and milk goats, small-scale beef, and backyard beekeeping.

Gardening & Food Prep: Vegetable gardening, fruit trees and small fruits, home food preservation, and meat processing.

Beyond the learning sessions, the event doubles as a full fall festival! You can stroll through over 100 craft and how-to vendor booths, grab lunch from local food trucks, or catch the game at the 4-H refreshment booth. The kids will love the play area, hayrides, and the massive corn maze (with an all-day pass for just $5). Plus, there will be plenty of gorgeous photo spots featuring sunflower, cotton, and pumpkin patches.

And for television fans, special guests Anna and Bruce from Swamp People will be making an appearance on Saturday, October 17, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.!

Event Details at a Glance:

Where: Red River Research Station | 262 Research Station Drive, Bossier City, LA

When: October 16–17, 2026

Admission: Free!

Vendor Contact: Donna Haynes (318-408-0971 | dhaynes@agcenter.lsu.edu)

Grab your family, head to the Red River Research Station, and discover how easy it is to start building a resilient, homegrown lifestyle right here in Northwest Louisiana!