Get Ready to Indulge: New Orleans Gears Up for a Delicious Juneteenth Celebration

New Orleans Juneteenth Celebration Through Culinary Excellence

In a unique celebration of Juneteenth, New Orleans is gearing up to honor this significant day through the art of cooking. Seven talented chefs are set to mark Juneteenth on June 16 at Grow Dat Youth Farm during the Third Annual Afro Freedom Afro Feast Juneteenth Celebration.

The event, as highlighted by Eater New Orleans, aims to pay tribute to the elders of the community and the rich culinary heritage of the city. Some of the most skilled chefs in New Orleans will showcase their expertise by cooking over an open flame, a tradition deeply rooted in the practices of enslaved Black Americans and Africans from centuries past.

Seringe Mbaye, a managing chef at Dakar Nola, expressed his delight at witnessing the event's growth over the years. He emphasized that the event has transcended his individual contributions, evolving into a platform for numerous chefs to make a positive impact in the community. This growth has not only inspired African American communities but has also resonated with the local New Orleans community.

Charly Pierre, representing the Haitian restaurant Fritai, noted that the change in venue to Grow Dat has made the event more accessible to a wider audience. The centralized location has attracted attendees from various parts of the country, fostering a sense of inclusivity and community spirit.

Chef Martha Wiggins, from Café Reconcile, shared her deep connection with the event, citing the strong bond she shares with Mbaye as a driving force behind her annual commitment. The collaborative spirit among the chefs allows for authentic and meaningful conversations about the history of race and civil rights in New Orleans, emphasizing the significance of Juneteenth beyond just a single month of recognition.

The Juneteenth Celebration, initially held on Ben Burkett's farm in Mississippi, found a new home in New Orleans City Park in 2023. Alongside Mbaye, Pierre, and Wiggins, Chefs Nina Compton, Prince Lobo, Kaitlyn Guerin, and Shonda Cross will also participate in the event. The press release announcing the celebration highlighted the alignment between the event's location, mission, and the values of the New Orleans community.

Mbaye emphasized the importance of sustainability, honoring ancestors, and supporting local youth through the event at Grow Dat Youth Farm. Julie Gable and Lily Mejia from Grow Dat Youth Farm expressed their excitement for hosting the Afro Freedom Afro Feast, underscoring the organization's commitment to solidarity and land stewardship.

the Juneteenth celebration in New Orleans promises to be a vibrant and meaningful event, blending culinary artistry with cultural heritage and community engagement. Join us in commemorating history, celebrating diversity, and inspiring future generations on this special day.