Soul Fest
Saturday March 3 - Sunday March 4. Saturday (10:00 AM - 05:00 PM)
Sunday (10:00 AM - 05:00 PM)
Steadily growing in popularity, Soul Fest is a celebration of African American history, food, music, crafts and culture. Especially soul food and soul music! This year over 20,000 visitors are expected to converge upon the zoo for the 9th Annual Soul Fest over the weekend of March 3-4, according to the latest estimates.
The two-day, family-oriented event features live musical performances by local Jazz, Rhythm & Blues, and Gospel artists on the Capital One Stage. This year’s festival will be highlighted by an African American First tribute. A distinguished list of Black History makers are set to be honored as African American Firsts including Natalie Robottom, D. Mjeeda Snead, Dr. Charles Teamer and South Coast Paper.
Visitors will enjoy authentic soul food prepared by local restaurants and caterers, and in addition to our exciting collection of exotic animals, kids will enjoy hands-on activities at the Kids’ Cultural Tent. Visitors of all ages will also receive free wellness information from local health organizations.
Begun in the early 2000s, recent Soul Fests have presented such talented artists as trumpeter extraordinaire Irvin Mayfield, gospel great Yolanda Adams, the Hot 8 and Rebirth Brass Bands and a number of uniquely New Orleans Mardi Gras Indian Big Chiefs. Local artisans showcase their original handmade crafts such as jewelry, art, stationery, frames and more, all of which are available for purchase. Restaurants and caterers specializing in Creole cuisine and authentic soul food offer such tasty dishes as smothered pork chops with greens, fried Louisiana alligator kabob, Jamaican chicken with vegetables, pork chop po-boys, hot sausage po-boys, turkey legs, sweet potato pies and other delicious treats.
Price
Free with General Admission; Free for Audubon Members