A few miles along the shore of Toledo Bend Lake lies the little town of Zwolle, an American melting pot if ever there was one. Back in colonial days, the border between French Louisiana and New Spain was, at best, unclear, creating a political and cultural gray area, which included Sabine country and existed into the early nineteenth century. On the site of modern-day Zwolle sat a Native American village, formally administered by Spanish Texas but, over the years, settled by Spanish, French, and American settlers, many of whom snuck in under the noses of various governments. These adventurers mixed with the local Natives and made the area their home. Adding a crowning touch to the town’s international flavor, it’s interesting to note that Zwolle is named after a city in the Netherlands (an influential Dutch visitor needed some flattering).
Pronounced zuh-wally (to rhyme with “tamale,” not to rhyme with “whole”), Zwolle is most famous for the secret-recipe tamales its residents cook and proudly share. Spicier than the usual tamale and made from recipes passed down through local families for generations, Zwolle tamales have a texture all their own and “make the area special by keeping the heritage alive,” said Cindy Ezernack, one of the organizers of Zwolle’s annual tamale festival.
The Zwolle Tamale Fiesta is held every year, and 2015 marks the fortieth anniversary of the meaty, masa-y celebration. Interested visitors can come to Zwolle from October 8—10 for the full Louisiana festival experience: music, costume contests, dancing, games, and, above all, food. A full court is crowned, but you could be forgiven, after a day of the equally impressive hospitality and culinary culture of Zwolle, for thinking that you were tamale royalty yourself. For information, schedules, and updates, visit zwolletamalefiesta.com.
