Frozen Sweets Fest

New Orleans is getting its first ever ice cream festival by way of Frozen Sweets Fest! Held in Mid City at the Broadside, this festival will combine unique and delicious frozen sweets with fun entertainment for the whole family. Expect live music, circus entertainment, an ice cream eating contest, ice cream queen and king, food and craft vendors, and much more. 

The Broad Theater is a local, four-screen stadium theater that seats from 49 to 125 in each auditorium. The theater screens a mix of mainstream Hollywood movies, classic, independent, and foreign films. Recently undergoing renovations in its new outdoor area next door, called the Broadside, the 12,000 square foot space includes a live stage, multiple seating options, outdoor restrooms, and covered areas. 

“I wanted to start this festival because frozen sweets are something that transcends our differences, brings us together, and makes us happy,” says Mike Graves, festival organizer and owner of ice cream company, bof bars. “We also have some very dope ice cream, popsicle, snoball, and Italian ice makers in New Orleans. I wanted to give us a platform to show off our skills.”

Frozen sweet vendors include local companies:  Super Witch Ice Cream Co., Popstars Icicle Treats, Big O’s Original Pops, Tea Bar Nola, Lil Dustin’s Italian Ice, and many more!

Frozen Sweets Fest is officially partnering with Second Harvest Food Bank (SHFB). 

SHFB is the largest charitable anti-hunger network in the state. This organization is leading the fight against hunger in South Louisiana by providing food access, advocacy, education, and disaster response. SHFB provides food to 700+ partners and programs across 23 parishes, from the Mississippi border to the Texas state line. 

“We love partnering with local, community festivals to bring awareness to our work. All funds raised from the event help ensure the basic food needs of families and individuals in our community are met,” says Kathryn Gsell, SHFB Community Relations Manager.

Although the festival is free, a suggested $5 donation from adults is encouraged to Second Harvest Food Bank.