Back in the days before cell phones and digital cameras a single lens reflex Nikon film camera was used to take these photos of Chef Paul Prudhomme at the St. Landry Parish Heritage Festival, a week long event that showcased celebrity chefs from throughout the United States. Chef Paul was the headliner of the event beings he was from Opelousas. The annual event was held around Mothers Day and featured cooking demonstrations held at private residences and also at the old Quality Inn where all of the chefs was introduced to standing room only crowd. The festival also showcased area bands and musicians that entertained all weekend around the courthouse square. The festival was an annual event but unfortunately it was held for only three years. I’ve covered many events in Opelousas but the St.Landry Parish Heritage Festival would rival any event that has taken place in the city since. Who knows maybe some day it can be revitalized. It would shure be a boost for the Opelousas economy. The pictures shown are of Chef Marty Cosgrove pictured with Rita Coolidge and of Chef Paul Paul Prudhomme signing autographs after giving a cooking demonstration on the courthouse square.
