A Beignet for Every Plate

Some think that New Orleans is a nonstop party, but locals know that it is in fact a nonstop series of parties, with many dedicated to the region's unparalleled cuisine. On October 6, the deliciously ubiquitous beignet is the guest of honor at Beignet Fest, held on the Festival Grounds at New Orleans City Park. Now in its third year, Beignet Fest is a relative newcomer in the well-populated food festival arena, but though the food it honors may be lightweight, the festival itself is shaping up to be a heavy hitter.

“The enthusiasm has really blown us away,” reports Sherwood Collins, founder of Beignet Fest. He says the festival expects record turnouts this year, but from the looks of the menu offerings, they should have plenty of different beignets to please just about everyone.

The festivities offer a full day of entertainment for the whole family, including live music, a Kid's Village, and Artist Market, but the breathtaking array of all forms and fashions of beignet is sure to steal the show.

This year organizers are more excited than ever by the creativity shown by contributing food artists, whose takes on the iconic beignet (as well as other New Orleans favorites) are nothing short of masterpieces. From famous chefs to small local caterers, everyone wants to take their own bite at the state doughnut.

“It just goes to show how spoiled we are here about food,” Collins says, laughing. “It's not a bad thing.”

Attendees will have the chance to sample 33 beignet dishes from 19 vendors, so be sure to come hungry! The Oreo Beignets from Luca Eats are a must-taste if you have a sweet tooth, or you can sample Sno-La's Beignet Snoball. Savory cravers have no shortage of options either, from peanut butter and jelly or macaroni and beignets to a ton of options featuring seafood, one of the other culinary crown jewels of New Orleans. Fried lobster tail and beignets, anyone? Even gluten-free options from Girls Gone Vegan, something one might not expect from a festival celebrating fried dough. And if you're craving a more traditional experience, Café du Monde's world-famous beignets will be available exclusively to Beignet Fest VIPs from 10 til noon—for free!

Beignet Fest will be partying 10 am–6 pm Saturday, October 6, with free admission for all ages. Find out more, including the complete menu, musical lineup, and details on becoming a VIP at beignetfest.com.