3 minute read
SoulFeast Week 2024
from TOPS June 2024
For ten days each year, Lexingtoninans come together to celebrate Black culinary culture. Through unique experiences, locals learn more about Black agriculture, food and culture, one delicious bite at a time.
During the Covid pandemic, Martina Barksdale was inspired to do something to drive business to Black-owned establishments. For 19 days, she challenged herself and the Lexington community to do more to support local Black businesses.
She and her brother, Marcellus, decided to hone that idea into something bigger. In 2021, they established SoulFeast Week, a week-plus celebration of Black restaurants, farms and chefs in central Kentucky.
"SoulFeast Week is an opportunity for Kentuckians of all races and backgrounds to support Black businesses by putting their money where their mouths are, literally," the team says.
SoulFeast Lexington Black Restaurant Week will be June 17-23 this year. Participating restaurants and food trucks will create a unique, off-menu entrée priced at just $12. Past dishes have ranged from rich, hearty seafood gumbo to deliciously sweet waffles, bright salads to spicy barbecue.
The Barksdales partnered with Black Soil KY, a Lexington organization that promotes Black-owned farms and agriculture. A unique aspect of Lexington Black Restaurant Week is that each featured dish must include at least one ingredient sourced from Black Soil KY; this means that the dishes have a direct tie to local Black agriculture.
SoulFeast Week is more than just a food week; it encompasses elevated specialty experiences designed to help locals expand their understanding of Black culinary culture – while having a blast! These events are a delicious way to connect with Black producers, culture and cuisine.
Visit soulfeastweek.com to find a list of participating restaurants or to get tickets for the SoulFeast Week experiences. To learn more about Black Soil KY, visit blacksoilky.com.
2024 SoulFeast Week Schedule
Farm Dinner and Tour
Friday, June 14 - Coleman Crest Farm
Enjoy a farm dinner featuring chef Isaiah Creech of Spark Community Café.
Soulteenth Fest
Saturday, June 15 - Moondance Amphitheater
Celebrate Black culture through food, music, art and agriculture at this one-day festival.
Cocktails & Cigars
Saturday, June 15 - The Void Sake Company
Celebrate with great bites, fun games, cocktails and cigars.
Rabbit Hole Juneteenth Hip-Hop Brunch
Sunday, June 16 - Lost Palm
Enjoy a rooftop view while sipping on Rabbit Hole cocktails.
SoulFeast Black Restaurant Week
June 17-23
Celebrate Black-owned restaurants and Black Soil KY fresh ingredients.
Soulful Sunday Gospel Brunch
Sunday, June 23 - La Brasa Event Venue
End SoulFeast Week with delicious food and mimosas while getting your praise on.
Save the Date:
June 14-23, 2024
