Several thousand people came to visit the St Augustine Creole Celebration held at the historic St. Augustine Church in Isle Brevelle October 14-15. The popular event is a celebration of Creole Culture and is something of a family reunion as descendants of the area’s families come home from all over the United States and abroad. The festival also transforms the St. Augustine parish hall into what is arguably the finest restaurant in the state, and certainly the busiest, as the hardworking cooks serve thousands of homemade meat pies, tamales, red beans and rice, 275 lbs. of fried fish, and over 80 gallons of their signature gumbo. It is truly a massive undertaking that requires months of preparation. Every bite of food served is homemade by the church members and is absolutely superb.

There were games for the children in addition to music and dancing. This year’s event featured a concert by Winnfield’s Deep Water Rehab as well as music by DJ Doc Couty. There were bingo games and a raffle for a handcrafted quilt and wedding dress among other items.

There was also an educational aspect to the festival. NSU’s Creole Heritage Center was on hand with items and displays giving the history of Isle Brevelle, St. Augustine Church, and the people of the area.

The St. Augustine Creole Festival is a long-standing tradition in our community and is a celebration of one of the many unique cultures that make Louisiana a special place. The church’s hospitality is amazing. The Natchitoches Parish Journal is looking forward to next year!’

 

Cutline: Mr. Chad Jones-Jackson taking a break from helping his mom at the festival

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