How To Birthday in New Orleans

From Sunday second line and Carnival parades to our many festivals and concerts, New Orleans is a city of celebration. If the city can party over everything from tomatoes to our departed, imagine how fun it can be to celebrate yourself here. For me, a New Orleans birthday has to include great company, incredible food, music whenever possible and the occasional “only in New Orleans” event.

Many people start the day by pinning money on their chest.

Creole Tomato Fest

It was a big weekend with the Creole Tomato Fest,  Naked Bike Ride and the Pride Parade (my next 2 posts). The Fest features cocktails, food booths, music and more. We try to never miss a chance to see Little Freddie King and his band playing their true-blues so we were thrilled to find him on the schedule. A local treasure, King looked as sharp as a tack but was as laid back as an easy chair.

We started our fest-feast with a bright and flavorful Burrata Caprese from PIZZA Domenica ($8). My favorite dish every year is

Creole Tomato Fest

It was warm but breezy for the 32nd annual Creole Tomato Fest,  Naked Bike Ride and the Gay Pride Parade (my next 2 posts). The Fest featured cocktails, food demos and kid play areas but we focused on the food booths and music. Little Freddie King and his band commanded the stage with blues. A beloved local musician, King kept the crowd dancing with his guitar riffs and gravelly, soulful voice.

We headed to George’s Produce Co. for my favorite dish every year, The Pontchartrain – sliced Creole tomatoes with lump crab meat dressed in remoulade ($8).