By Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
The spirit of community, creativity, and compassion came together once again as Holy Angels hosted its 44th Annual TASTE: A Festival of Food and Art on Thursday, November 6, at the Shreveport Convention Center. The highly anticipated event drew hundreds of attendees for an evening filled with local cuisine, art, live music, and dancing — all in support of Holy Angels’ mission to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The annual TASTE event has become one of Shreveport’s most cherished traditions, known for blending fine dining with a heartfelt cause. Guests sampled dishes from more than 30 local restaurants and vendors, enjoyed Holy Angels’ famous lasagna, and indulged in Howdy Homemade gourmet ice cream, crafted in partnership with Holy Angels’ residents.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the event featured complimentary beer, wine, and champagne from the popular Bubble Bar, along with live music by Rouge Krewe, keeping the dance floor full throughout the night. Guests were also treated to special performances by the Holy Angels Choir and this year’s Talent Show winners, showcasing the talents and joy of the individuals served by the organization.
Since its humble beginnings in 1981, the TASTE event has grown into a major community celebration, attracting more than 1,500 attendees each year. Beyond the food and festivities, the evening serves as a vital fundraiser to support Holy Angels’ wide range of programs and services — from job training and placement to residential care, outpatient therapy, and educational initiatives.
Founded in 1965, Holy Angels Residential Facility is a nationally recognized nonprofit that provides a path to self-fulfillment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The organization’s mission focuses on fostering education, empowerment, spirituality, independence, and work, helping each resident reach their fullest potential.
Proceeds from TASTE directly benefit these life-changing programs, ensuring that residents and program participants continue to receive the care, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive.
The success of the 44th Annual TASTE once again underscored what makes the Shreveport-Bossier community special — a shared commitment to inclusion, compassion, and celebrating every individual’s unique gifts.