SAN ANTONIO – Revelers hit the dance floor Saturday afternoon at Sunken Garden Theater, as the music got turned up during the Taste of New Orleans.
Despite gray skies and cool winds, the Taste of New Orleans festival brought the vibrant spirit of Fiesta to life, showcasing the rich culinary and musical heritage of Louisiana.
The Zulu Association, a key organizer of the event, kept a close watch on the weather conditions. Despite a chill in the air, the food selection was plentiful and varied, providing a perfect remedy for the cooler temperatures. “We know it is chillier, but that just means you eat more spicy food,” remarked Tremell Brown, the association’s marketing chairman.
Cajun food vendors from San Antonio and beyond participated in the festivities, including first-time vendor Yardbird Wings from the Rio Grande Valley. Owner Andrae Baker expressed the importance of showcasing his culinary talents at the event, stating, “The taste is really a place where everybody gets together to show off the different talents in their foods.”
Long-time attendee Vallerie Hartfield shared her enthusiasm for the event, expressing her loyalty to the Zulu Association’s ability to throw a memorable party. “I do make a point to come. It’s a wonderful time, and you hear our Louisiana music, which I love,” she said. Hartfield highlighted the music and food as her favorite aspects of the festival.
The San Antonio Zulu Association has been a participating member of the Fiesta Commission since the 1980s, shortly after which they launched their Fiesta West event. This event evolved into what we now know as The Taste of New Orleans. Brown noted that the association is committed to giving back to the community, particularly through funding scholarships for deserving recipients. “We’re blessed to have a community like San Antonio. That’s 40 years of them supporting what we believe in,” he said.
In a special celebration of their milestone anniversary, the association crowned and introduced Danny Peters as the first Zulu King. This initiative reflects the association’s ongoing commitment to the public and the community. “Every time they see our Zulu King, they’ll understand that we’ve been here for a long time, and we’re looking for another 40 more years,” Brown added.
The Taste of New Orleans plays a crucial role in supporting local youth, providing between 20 to 30 scholarships annually to young men and women who demonstrate leadership potential and aspire to vocational-skilled professions. The recipients are honored every May during the association’s scholarship luncheon, further emphasizing the festival’s role in nurturing the next generation.
