United Way Announces 5th Annual Battle for the Paddle, Jambalaya & Pastalaya Cook-off on March 12, 2026
This beloved community tradition will once again bring together teams stirring up jambalaya and pastalaya in friendly competition. The event will raise funds to support United Way Southwest Louisiana Initiatives that empower and uplift neighbors across Southwest Louisiana. Viewers, families and friends are invited to enjoy the festivities, including food sampling, live music, and fun for all ages.
New this year – Live Performance by The Flamethrowers
We are excited to announce that the regional party-rock band The Flamethrowers will perform live at the event, adding high-energy entertainment to the evening’s celebration. Locally known for delivering crowd-pleasing rock and party covers, The Flamethrowers will take the stage as part of our Battle for the Paddle festivities.
What to expect:
- Cooking teams begin their competition early (turn-in times and rules available online).
- From 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, the public is invited to attend the live concert and Kids Zone at no charge — free and open to all.
- Sample some of the best jambalaya and pastalaya our region has to offer, starting at $15 per wristband, and cast your vote in the People’s Choice categories.
Tickets for samplers and VIP access start at just $15, - Attendees are encouraged to don their best St. Patrick’s Day-themed attire in true South Louisiana fashion.
- Sponsorships and cooking‐team entries are available. All proceeds support United Way Southwest Louisiana’s mission to open pathways for local residents to thrive.
Another easy way to get involved:
- To enter a cooking team, text SHAMROCK to 40403
- To become a sponsor, text BATTLESPONSOR to 41444
Why it matters:
For five years, Battle for the Paddle has become an important fundraising and community‐building event for United Way Southwest Louisiana. Funds raised strengthen programs across critical areas, including community resiliency, disaster relief, youth opportunity, financial security, and more. With our region recovering and rebuilding from recent storms and economic shifts, your participation helps ensure no one in Southwest Louisiana is left behind.
Event & Registration Details:
- Date & Time: Thursday, March 12, 2026 – 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Location: Lake Charles Event Center, 900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601
- Tickets: Sampler and VIP tickets start at $15. Purchase online at unitedwayswla.org/battle
- Admission: Free access to the concert and Kids Zone
- More Information: Visit https://unitedwayswla.org/battle for rules, team entry, sponsorships and event updates.
Join us!
Whether you’re a cooking team ready to compete, a local business seeking to sponsor, or a family looking for a fun evening out, we invite you to be part of this exciting 5th-annual celebration. Enjoy great food, live music by The Flamethrowers, and the joy of community working together for the greater good.