News Summary

New Orleans is gearing up for the second-annual GenFest on April 5, 2025. This free festival will celebrate the local heritage and diverse communities with cultural exhibits, engaging presentations, and opportunities to connect with various historical organizations. Held at Dillard University’s Professional School and Sciences Building, GenFest will highlight the importance of community ties with the theme, “Creating Community and History With One Another.” Attendees can expect captivating stories, insightful talks, and the launch of a new digital photograph collection showcasing the history of the community.

Exciting Heritage Festival Coming to New Orleans!

New Orleans is buzzing with anticipation as the second-annual GenFest is set to take place on April 5, 2025. This exciting event is all about celebrating our rich heritage and honoring the diverse communities that have shaped southeastern Louisiana. Mark your calendars and get ready to dive into a day full of fascinating stories, cultural exhibits, and the chance to connect with a vibrant tapestry of historical organizations.

Where to Gather?

Everyone is invited to join this free event, which will be hosted in the Professional School and Sciences Building at Dillard University, located at 24 East Rd, New Orleans, LA. It’s a wonderful venue that’s perfect for gathering people who share an interest in preserving and celebrating our local history.

The Heart of GenFest

This year’s theme, “Creating Community and History With One Another,” highlights the significance of strong community ties in shaping our personal and collective identities. As folks come together, the festival hopes to create connections and forge friendships that will last beyond the day. Expect to meet representatives from various genealogical, historical, and cultural organizations who will be excited to share their missions and stories. This is a great chance to learn more about where we come from!

Engaging Exhibits and Presentations

GenFest is buzzing with activities! The event will showcase exhibits from several regional organizations, offering a peek into rich histories and cultures. Attendees can soak up knowledge from local experts during a series of informational programs that will cover various fascinating topics related to history and genealogy. Everyone is encouraged to participate in the discussions, especially a panel focused on this year’s theme.

Spotlight on Visual History

digital photograph collection from the Housing Authority of New Orleans (HANO). This collection boasts over 300 captivating images that capture moments from the 1940s to the 1970s, providing a visual narrative of the community’s history over several decades. Accompanying this launch will be a keynote presentation titled “A Place Called Desire: HANO Records and Legacy,” surely a must-see for history buffs!

Insightful Talks on a Variety of Topics

Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore a range of presentations that dive deeper into our history. Among the topics covered will be “Discovering Josephine”, “Uncovering the Past: Plantation History, Enslaved Narratives, and Descendant Research”, and “How Cemetery Destructions Affected Louisiana Law.” With such a diverse array of subjects, there’s bound to be something that sparks your interest!

Join the Celebration

Sponsored by notable organizations including the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library and the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, GenFest promises to be an enriching experience for everyone. Last year, over 500 attendees joined in on the celebrations, exceeding all expectations, and this year looks even more promising! Come be part of a community that values its heritage and is eager to share its stories.

Don’t Miss Out!

With a packed agenda and a welcoming atmosphere, GenFest is more than just an event; it’s an opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate our shared histories. Remember, admission is free, and everyone is welcome! For more details about the festival and what to expect, be sure to visit nolalibrary.co/GenFest2024. So gather your friends and family, and get ready for a day filled with culture, connection, and community in {{‘New Orleans’}}!