The Treme Creole Gumbo Festival is back this weekend for its fifth annual celebration. This year, however, the event is being held in Louis Armstrong Park rather than the parking lot behind the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation‘s office.
The change was a result of renovations at the NOJHF. “At the same time,” says Scott Aiges, Director of Programming, Marketing and Communications, “we decided to change the musical lineup somewhat. Instead of being a mix of different musical styles that represent the Treme, we decided to [feature] entirely brass bands.”
Among those on the bill, the Dirty Dozen, The Soul Rebels, Hot 8, and the Stooges will appear, performing throughout Saturday and Sunday, November 10 and 11 (see full lineup below).
Joining these brass powerhouses are several local school groups who have participated in the newly established Class Got Brass competition.
Start saving up that appetite now. Photo by Infrogmation.
The Gumbo Festival originated seven years ago as little more than a winter holiday sale. “The reason being,” Aiges explains, “it was in the immediate aftermath of Katrina and a lot of people lost everything in the storm.” Due to the surplus of merchandise accessible by the NOJHF, they chose to make the items available at reduced prices for people to replace some things lost in the storm. “It was so popular and so successful,” he goes on, “we decided to add music and food to it and make it a festival.”
Celebrating a dish that defines New Orleans food culture, the festival hosts vendors from around the city offering fresh gumbo recipes to enjoy. Joining them will be the popular Dunbar’s Creole Restaurant and “The Ya-Ka-Mein” Lady, Miss Linda Green.
When asked how people can plan their upcoming weekend, Aiges answered, “[Just] come on out to the festival!” Admission is free, though the lure of beloved restaurants and caterers within the community should be more than enough to encourage folks to attend.
Saturday, November 10
11 a.m.-12:15 p.m. – Pocket Aces Brass Band
12:45 p.m.-2 p.m. – Lagniappe Brass Band
2:30 p.m.-3:45 p.m. – Hot 8 Brass Band
4:15 p.m.-5:30 p.m. – The Soul Rebels
6 p.m.-7:15 p.m. – The Dirty Dozen
Sunday, November 11
11 a.m.-12:15 p.m. – Baby Boys Brass Band
12:45 p.m.-2 p.m. – Treme Brass Band
2:30 p.m.-3:45 p.m. – Free Agents Brass Band
4:15 p.m.-5:30 p.m. – Pinettes Brass Band
6 p.m.-7:15 p.m. – Stooges Brass Band
— Beck “zaelyna” Brexlyn
