This is what we are preparing for the Food & Wine event at the ESSENCE Culture Festival

Let’s make a toast!

The ESSENCE Cultural Festival is back, and this 12 months we’re celebrating with good food, great wine and cocktails, and even higher conversations. The Food & Wine activation, happening this 12 months July 5-7 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, is cumulative as we bring back classic food demo moments where talented chefs share tips on how to make every little thing from a bomb breakfast to New Orleans classics with a contemporary twist. We’ll even be hosting fun conversations, starting from Wine 101 and exploring the popularity of sober spirits, to insightful discussions on agricultural freedom, tips on how to eliminate food waste, and have fun the global rise of African food.

Get able to enjoy drinks and see an entire lot of great things at this 12 months’s Food & Wine event, including the experiences below.

Breakfast With Bake N Bacon

For some, breakfast is a secondary matter. The guys at Bake N Bacon show guests tips on how to prepare the meal of the day, seasoning dishes in the kitchen with the correct mix of ingredients and flavor.

Freedom in agriculture

Access to fresh, nutrient-dense food is key to reducing the risk of life-threatening diseases akin to heart disease, diabetes and obesity, which proceed to disproportionately affect our communities. This panel will explore how increasingly modern black families are working to combat issues akin to food deserts and unhealthy eating habits by growing their very own food. Plus how agriculture promotes and preserves our traditional recipes and cooking techniques and the importance of accelerating access to farmers markets and nutrition programs in our communities.

Let’s raise a toast: Wine 101

Do you say names accurately? How to enhance the recognition of notes in wine? Wine educators will help viewers learn tips on how to best enjoy flavors, understand what makes wines so different and distinctive, and gain confidence as a burgeoning wine lover by tasting a few of our favourite Black-owned wine brands.

Yes, Chef: Chefs Bring the Caribbean to New Orleans

A conversation with NOLA chefs about their culinary beginnings, Caribbean roots and the connections between their culture and the traditional cuisine of New Orleans.

A twist on a NOLA classic

Beloved NOLA chef Ashley Jonique shows how she adds her own modern, flavorful and one-of-a-kind twist to classic Cajun dishes.

Toast with Tabitha Brown (sponsored by Target)

We know actress, creator and Emmy-winning host Tabitha Brown for her humorousness, sharp wisdom and refreshing approach to food. She is a connector and shaper of culture that has modified the way people relate to food, life and joy. Join Tabitha with Peabody Award winner and former sommelier Stephen Satterfield to debate what’s latest in food, wine and culture that inspires her today.

From Africa to the world

African culture is exploding into the mainstream. From music to bounce, style and travel, and with moments like Detty Decemba and ESSENCE’s landmark Year of the Return, pride in all things African is growing. This includes appreciating food. The chef examines the growing appeal of dishes from across the home continent and shows you tips on how to prepare the beloved dish from the culture/their prized menu.

Let’s Raise a Toast: An Introduction to Whiskey

Have you ever wondered about the wealthy world of whiskey? Join us for an enticing panel discussion exploring the diverse traditions, industry trends and private stories that shape the whiskey experience. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a newcomer to the whiskey scene, this segment will expand your knowledge, encourage your palate, and have fun the unique contributions of underrepresented communities in the world of whiskey.

Chefs’ Challenge: Fighting food waste in the kitchen

Inflation makes it harder for people to purchase food. But knowing tips on how to use up every little thing you could have in your fridge and avoid wasting food could make an enormous difference. Our experienced chefs share best practices and meal ideas to allow you to make the most of the ingredients and leftovers you have already got at home.

Corn Soul Brunch

Join us for a delicious Soul Food Brunch demo with Cornbread Soul founder Adenah Bayoh as we discuss the importance of this staple staple and the ever-growing popularity of the breakfast and lunch combo that is brunch.

Vegan fireside chat with Mya and Queen Afua

Signatory Mya and renowned wellness coach Queen Afua discuss their life-changing journey with veganism, food as fuel and lessons learned for a healthier lifestyle.

Let’s raise a toast: something for the sober curious

Zero-proof drinks were introduced in January, and experts in non-alcoholic drinking are highlighting their growing appeal, creating spaces where people can enjoy a sober sip and a trick for making an unforgettable concoction.

Sweets Through Time: Exploring the Evolution of African American Desserts

Let’s have a look at the evolution of African-American desserts. From traditional recipes to modern twists, our panel of food experts will discuss the cultural significance of every sweet treat and the role of social media in amplifying their wealthy history in our communities.