CREOLE TOMATO FESTIVAL
New Orleans, June 9–10
A highlight of Louisiana summers, Creole tomatoes are those that are grown in the Bayou State’s rich alluvial soil, which gives them a delightfully sweet flavor. Each year during the second weekend in June, the French Market
Creole Tomato Festival celebrates the seasonal crop with two days full of festivities.
Throughout the event, visitors will have the opportunity to purchase ripe Creole tomatoes from local growers and try dishes featuring the sweet crop. Last year, vendors included The Original Pierre Maspero’s, which took home the award for the most traditional dish with their Fried Green Tomatoes with Shrimp Rémoulade, and Crêpes à la Cart, which won the award for most creative dish with their caprese crêpe, filled with fresh mozzarella, Creole tomatoes, and basil. Awards are also given out for the best Bloody Marys, which are available for purchase throughout the weekend at the Bloody Mary Market.
The festival always features live music performances on multiple stages and fun activities for festivalgoers of all ages. At the Louisiana Cookin’ Culinary Stage, we will be hosting two full days of cooking demonstrations from local chefs, who will prepare dishes using Creole tomatoes, and Creole tomato eating contests for adults and kids. For more information and to view a schedule of events, visit www.frenchmarket.org/creoletomatofest.
