Our city is home to myriad festivals, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have room for more. On September 10, Metairie will host the first ever Muffuletta Festival, a free event in which the iconic sandwich plays a starring role.

Nor-Joe Imports (505 Frisco Ave.)will be the site of the food, music, and cultural event that will also include cooking demonstrations, dance performances, Bocce ball, and more. As festival founder and Nor-Joe owner Mark Subervielle explains, “The Muffuletta Festival aims to honor the legacy of Italian immigrants in the Greater New Orleans and current day bakeries throughout the area while offering delicious food and good family fun. This sandwich is totally unique to New Orleans, and that’s worth celebrating and preserving.”

Taking place on a Sunday, the family-friendly celebration will give New Orleans-area folks an opportunity to celebrate the tradition traced back to the 1890s, when Italian immigrants in the French Quarter began making sandwiches with ayers of marinated olive salad, mortadella, salami, ham, and provolone.

Those looking to get involved on a bigger scale are encouraged to contact Nor-Joe Imports, which is still seeking food vendors and sponsors. Thus far, musical performers include The Yat pack and special guests. The event will run from noon until 9p.m. and is rain or shine.