The Summer Dinners of the African American South
The Summer Dinners of the African American South
Saturday, September 19, 2026
Join us for an extraordinary evening that celebrates the culinary heritage of the African American South—where history is preserved not only in documents and landscapes, but also at the table.
Inspired by the summer meals that commemorated Juneteenth in 1866, celebrated the Fourth of July, and continue to welcome generations home to Black church Homecomings across the South, this dinner explores the enduring traditions of African American foodways. These dishes tell a story of resilience, community, celebration, and the abundance of the Southern harvest.
The menu will feature slow-roasted pork barbecue, freshly baked cornbread, seasonal greens, sweet potatoes, ripe tomatoes, and other classic summer fare—foods that have nourished families and preserved cultural memory for generations.
Acclaimed food historian and chef Dr. Leni Sorensen, founder of Indigo House, will prepare the meal and guide guests through the history, traditions, and stories that have shaped this remarkable culinary legacy.
