8th Annual Baton Rouge Soul Food Festival

The 8th Annual Baton Rouge Soul Food Festival is family friendly and free to the public. It features blues, soul, R&B, gospel and Christian music, along with a Vendor’s Village, a judged Soul Food Cooking Contest and Pioneer Award for contributions to the Soul Food industry. The event is being held at the East Baton Rouge Public Library-Main Library located at 7711 Goodwood Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA 70806 on May 17 and 18 from 11am to 8pm.

The stage lineup is expected to include Henry Turner Jr. & Flavor and the Listening Room All-stars including Ervin “Maestro” Foster, Kelton ‘Nspire Harper, Pastor Leon Hitchens and comedian Eddie “Cool” Deemer. Touring acts include the Outlaw David James. Additional local acts include LA Groove. More acts will be announced closer to the date.

The Soul Food Cooking Competition is now open to entrants and highlights regional favorites from Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia and Florida. Categories include Meats, Vegetable and Side Dishes, Breads and Desserts, Appetizers and Soups, Beverage and Ices. Criteria includes Presentation, Taste, and the Story or History behind each dish. First, second and third place prizes will be awarded in each category. Downloadable forms and additional instructions are available on the website. For more information call 225-802-9681 or visit www.brsoulfoodfest.com.

This years’ Pioneer Award for contributions to the Soul Food industry is Andrew Osaya of Church’s Chicken.

VIP tickets that include food, drinks and additional giveaways are also available on the website.

A Pre-party is scheduled for May 15 at Henry Turner Jr.’s Listening Room, located at 2733 North Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802, from 7pm to midnight.

Host or Publisher Henry Turner Jr. Listening Room