Creole Heritage Month

October is a month filled with various festivals and observances, one of which is International Creole Heritage. This celebration takes place across the diaspora, encompassing regions such as Africa, Seychelles, Mauritius, La Réunion, the Caribbean, Brazil, Central America, and the Gulf Coast, as we honor our Creole heritage. In the state of Louisiana, Creole Heritage is specifically celebrated on October 3rd.

In 2024 and 2025, I presented the Gifts From the Ancestors Foodways and Creole Foodways at my alma mater, Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana, during Creole Heritage Month. I learned from the students about their unique Creole cultures.

• 

• 

• 

The Lone Star Creoles newsletter recognizes Creole Heritage Month with a special edition.

Be sure to check out this edition of LSC on Substack, where we continue the Seasoned by Water series!

My recent travels have given me valuable insights into various Creole cultures in Saint Lucia and Belize. It is exciting to see the customs and traditions passed down to generations from our ancestors. Cooking with Chef Gilda Harris Maxmim in Soufrie was a shear delight. It was a privilege to learn about the history of St. Lucia's national dish: Green Figs (plantains) and Salt Fish.

In Belize, I savored fresh shrimp ceviche, Belizean meat pies, and fried red snapper. The delicious street food offered a mix of Mexican, Jamaican, and Asian cuisines, many with Afro-Creole influences.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Creole cultures worldwide offer a richness in foodways that reflect the Creole cuisine of Southwest Louisiana. This cuisine is enriched with spices, fresh seafood, and cooking methods passed down from African traditions. I look forward to visiting other Creole communities abroad; I can't wait to see what is next!

• 

• 

• 

My sister, Chef Sandra Rocha-Evenoff, owner of Brasil Comes to You, introduced me to her Brazilian heritage two years ago. We were both interviewed for a CBS News article about New Year's food traditions. In both Brazil and Louisiana, it is customary to eat black-eyed peas to celebrate the New Year, though they are prepared differently in each culture. Sandra and I compared various recipes, including okra, fish stews, and Brazilian Rice and Peas. Although the seasonings and preparation methods differ, the flavor profiles are quite similar.

We are truly a blessed culture. Bon Mwa Léritaj, vuzot! Happy Creole Heritage Month!