The Oak Street Merchants, Residents, and Property Owners (OSMRPO) has announced the much-anticipated return of the 15th Annual Oak Street Po-Boy Festival. The event is set to take place on Sunday, November 19, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., between the 8100-8700 blocks of Oak Street in New Orleans.
The festival, which has become a staple in the city’s culinary scene, will feature 40 food and beverage vendors and live music across multiple stages, which has included Rebirth Brass Band, Mia Borders, and Khris Royal in years past (at press time, names of performers has not bee solidified). This year’s festivities will also feature an Arts Market, a Kids Zone, a VIP Area, and as usual, a po-boy competition juried by celebrity judges.
New Orleans Po-Boy Fest crowd. Coutesy: poboyfest.com
The Oak Street Po-Boy Festival allows food enthusiasts to try some of the city’s best and most innovative versions of the New Orleans staple po-boys and serves a greater purpose. A portion of the proceeds from the festival will be donated to Son of a Saint, a 501(c)3 non-profit partner. Son of a Saint is dedicated to transforming the lives of fatherless boys through mentorship, emotional support, life skills development, exposure to constructive experiences, and the formation of positive, lasting peer-to-peer relationships.
The festivities started in style with the Official Cutting of the Po-boy, generously provided by Parkway Bakery. The event occurred on June 21 at Disability Rights Louisiana, a returning sponsor located at 8325 Oak Street. Notable attendees included board members from OSMRPO, festival organizers, representatives from participating businesses, New Orleans Saints Super Fan Leroy “Whistle Monsta” Mitchell, and representatives from Son of a Saint.
For over a decade, the Oak Street Po-Boy Festival has hosted locals and visitors, solidifying its status as one of the city’s most unique events. New Orleanians set aside a day to pay homage to the humble and historic po-boy sandwich each fall. This year’s festival is expecting a turnout of upwards of 50,000 attendees.
While admission to the Oak Street Po-Boy Festival is free, attendees need a wristband to purchase a po-boy. Early Bird Wristbands will be available, and interested individuals can find more details at the festival’s website.
