One of New Orleans' most beloved food festivals returns this weekend as the Creole Tomato Festival celebrates its 40th anniversary with an expanded lineup of food, music and family-friendly activities.
Festival spokesperson Diane 'Gumbo Marie' Honore says organizers are pulling out all the stops for the milestone year.
"We're celebrating 40 years of the Creole Tomato Festival, and we've expanded the event with more food, more music and more activities than ever," Honore said.
Visitors can expect plenty of opportunities to sample the region's signature summer crop.
Local restaurants and vendors will showcase creative recipes highlighting Creole tomatoes, from traditional favorites to unique culinary creations.
"There will be recipes for just about anything you can do with a Creole tomato," Honore said.
Music will once again be a major attraction, with organizers promising one of the festival's strongest entertainment lineups to date.
But Honore says what truly makes the festival special is the story behind the tomato itself.
"People love this festival because it celebrates a crop and a history that are uniquely New Orleans," she said.
Families will also find plenty to keep children entertained throughout the weekend.
Activities include umbrella making with the Baby Dolls, alligator petting, and other hands-on experiences celebrating local culture.
Meanwhile, those with competitive appetites can test their skills in the festival's popular tomato eating contest.
"It's fun for the whole family," Honore said.
With food, music, culture and a healthy helping of New Orleans charm, organizers say the Creole Tomato Festival remains one of the city's most quintessential summer traditions.
For anyone looking for something to do this weekend, the festival promises two days of fun that's as New Orleans as it gets.
