Events & Workshops
Come join us on the farm!
We offer a mix of tours, workshops, and celebrations throughout the year. Be sure to check back as we update this page frequently.
Spring Farm Dinner
Join us under the Big Oak for an evening of nourishment and community in service of youth leadership and sustainable agriculture. Get your tickets for our annual fundraiser here!
People's Planning Forum at Nanih Bvlbancha
City Park is located on indigenous territories. How should this fact shape the park of the future? Drawing inspiration from the Nanih Bvlbancha, a new mound on the Lafitte Greenway, we'll come together to envision Indigenous futures in public space. Join Monique Verdin, Dr. Tammy Greer, and Grow Dat youth for dinner, conversation, and collaboration at our second People's Planning Form. Thursday, May 23, 6:00-8:00pm at the Nanih Bvlbancha site, 1900 Lafitte Ave.
Please register if you plan on joining the conversation!
And check out the community input from of our first People’s Planning Forum here!
People's Planning Forum for the Park
Grow Dat youth leaders and staff are excited to welcome the public onto our farm to eat together, dream together, and create visions for the future of City Park.
Create Dat! Community Art Day
Come join us under the Big Oak by the bayou for an evening of community and art! This is a chance to reconnect with nature and your creative side in a beautiful setting. Bring your own journal or favorite art materials - we’ll have supplies on site too. We’ll have an optional tour of the farm for those who want to learn more about Grow Dat. Kids, families, and artists of all ages are encouraged to join!
Please sign up if you’re interested in attending.
A Day for Queer Youth at Grow Dat Youth Farm
The Gender & Sexuality Alliance at Ben Franklin High School is hosting an event at Grow Dat for queer youth around the city.
This is a space to learn about what laws are being proposed that target LGBTQ youth, and come together as a community in a safe and welcoming space.
If you’re interested in joining as a student leader at this event, sign up here! We need young people to help spread the word and lead activities.
Fabulous Farm Tour
Curious about Grow Dat? Come join us for a tour of our farm! You’ll get to see our youth leaders in action as they guide you on a tour about our sustainable farming practices, youth programs, and unique organizational culture. You’ll learn more about Grow Dat and give our young people an opportunity to put their leadership skills into practice.
Please register in advance here.
History of the Land Workshop
The History of the Land workshop asks the question “What's happened right here?” We explore what Grow Dat's tract of land has looked like in the past - tracing Indigenous histories, stories of enslavement and emancipation, segregation and Civil Rights, all the way to the present day. By looking thoughtfully and critically at these histories, we set the stage for a conversation about right land use in the future. This workshop is a great fit for anyone interested in local history, ecology, or thinking about what sustainability and justice would look like in our city. Come join the conversation!
This workshop is just under two hours long, and usually entails a walk around the farm, standing up for most of that time. If that doesn't work for you, let us know & we can make appropriate accommodations. Bring comfortable shoes you don't mind getting dirty, and some water. The workshop is outside. Admission is donation based, and no one will be turned away for lack of funds. If would like to make a donation, it will be collected at the end of the workshop via credit card, text-to-donate, check or cash.
Space is limited for this workshop, please register here in advance!
History of the Land workshop
The History of the Land workshop asks the question “What's happened right here?”. We explore what Grow Dat's tract of land has looked like in the past -- tracing Indigenous histories, stories of enslavement and emancipation, segregation and Civil Rights, all the way to the present day. By looking thoughtfully and critically at these histories, we set the stage for a conversation about right land use in the future. This workshop is a great fit for anyone interested in local history, ecology, or thinking about what sustainability and justice would look like in our city. Come join the conversation!
This workshop is just under two hours long, and usually entails a walk around the farmland and standing up for most of that time. If that doesn't work for you, let us know & we can make appropriate accommodations. Bring comfortable shoes you don't mind getting dirty, and bring along some water. The workshop is outside, but please bring a mask for when we’re closer than 6ft from each other.
Admission is donation based, and no one will be turned away for lack of funds. If would like to make a donation, it will be collected at the end of the workshop via credit card, text-to-donate, check or cash.
Space is limited for this workshop, please register here in advance!
Grow Dat Get Down 2023
Dust off your dancing shoes!
Join us for our 2nd annual Get Down in service of youth leadership. There’s sure to be joy and jubilation, dancing and drinks, food and fun. Bring the whole family! Tickets available now!
Spring Dinner on the Farm
This spring’s Dinner on the Farm will begin with a cocktail hour with drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and passed hors d’oeuvres, as well as an invitation to take a farm tour focusing on our leadership programs, growing practices, and the stunning ecology of our site. After the cocktail hour, guests will be invited to take their seats along the bayou for a beautiful, locally focused, four-course meal prepared by award-winning New Orleans women chefs. Join us as we connect to the soil beneath our feet, the delicious food on our plates, and the joyful company at our table. Get your tickets here!
Real Talk: Building Communication & Culture
Real Talk is one of the tools we use at Grow Dat to build relationships and work together across difference. At first look, it's very simple: it's a method for delivering regular feedback that uses three 'positives' (a piece of positive feedback) and one 'delta' (an opportunity for growth or change). Practiced regularly, this can have a huge impact — as a tool for youth leadership development and as a way to build organizational culture and connection among adult staff. By prioritizing relationships, and by making space and time for positive feedback along with constructive criticism, Grow Dat has created a unique workplace culture.
In this workshop, we'll think through ways to make sure Real Talk is effective, walk you through the different types of Real Talk we use at Grow Dat, and have some time to think through how this communication practice could be adapted to your particular context.
This is a great workshop for individuals interested in communication or organizational culture. It’s also an excellent fit for a team of people who work together. If you’re interested in bringing your whole staff or team, please reach out to kevin@growdatyouthfarm.org. We have led this workshop for other organizations in the past and can schedule a different time or even come to you!
As space is limited for this event, please register ahead of time here.
Fabulous Farm Tour
Curious about Grow Dat? Come join us for a tour of our farm! You’ll get to see our youth leaders in action as they share information about our sustainable farming practices, youth programs, and unique organizational culture. You’ll learn more about Grow Dat and give our young people an opportunity to put their leadership skills into practice.
Please register in advance here.
History of the Land Workshop
Registration for this event is full. Check back in the spring for additional sessions of this workshop.
The History of the Land workshop asks the question “What's happened right here?”. We explore what Grow Dat's tract of land has looked like in the past -- tracing Indigenous histories, stories of enslavement and emancipation, segregation and Civil Rights, all the way to the present day. By looking thoughtfully and critically at these histories, we set the stage for a conversation about right land use in the future. This workshop is a great fit for anyone interested in local history, ecology, or thinking about what sustainability and justice would look like in our city. Come join the conversation!
This workshop is just under two hours long, and usually entails a walk around the farmland and standing up for most of that time. If that doesn't work for you, let us know & we can make appropriate accommodations. Bring comfortable shoes you don't mind getting dirty, and bring along some water. The workshop is outside.
Admission is donation based, and no one will be turned away for lack of funds. If you would like to make a donation, it will be based on a sliding scale of $5-$50 and will be collected at the end of the workshop via credit card, text-to-give, check or cash.
Growing Together: A Discussion on Food Equity & Accessibility
After postponing due to inclement weather, we are excited to announce that our food equity conversation with #IamNewOrleans will take place at 3:30 p.m. CST on Saturday, Dec. 3, at Langston Hughes Academy. “Growing Together: A Discussion on Food Equity & Accessibility” aims to dig deeper into the food equity challenges in New Orleans and across the U.S.
Members of our youth leadership program will be at the core of this event, with breakout sessions, open dialogue and opportunities to reimagine a more equitable food system for future generations. Free Lyft transportation, light food and refreshments will be provided. This is a kid-friendly event, and children of all ages are welcome.
We invite you to join us and share your story using #IamNewOrleans on your social networks. Register today at IamNewOrleansVoices.com.
Growing Together: A Discussion on Food Equity & Accessibility
Register today at IamNewOrleansVoices.com.
Join us and our partners at #IamNewOrleans for their first in-person event at 1 p.m. CST on Saturday, Nov. 5, at Grow Dat Youth Farm. “Growing Together: A Discussion on Food Equity & Accessibility” aims to dig deeper into the food equity challenges in New Orleans and across the U.S.
Our city’s youth will be at the core of this event, with breakout sessions, open dialogue and opportunities to reimagine a more equitable food system for future generations. Free Lyft transportation, secure parking, on-site childcare for kids 4+, light food and refreshments.
We invite you to join us and share your story using #IamNewOrleans on your social networks. Register today at IamNewOrleansVoices.com.
History of the Land Workshop
We’re limiting group size for this event - please complete this registration form!
The History of the Land workshop asks the question “What's happened right here?”. We explore what Grow Dat's tract of land has looked like in the past -- tracing Indigenous histories, stories of enslavement and emancipation, segregation and Civil Rights, all the way to the present day. By looking thoughtfully and critically at these histories, we set the stage for a conversation about right land use in the future. This workshop is a great fit for anyone interested in local history, ecology, or thinking about what sustainability and justice would look like in our city. Come join the conversation!
This workshop is just under two hours long, and usually entails a walk around the farmland and standing up for most of that time. If that doesn't work for you, let us know & we can make appropriate accommodations. Bring comfortable shoes you don't mind getting dirty, and bring along some water. The workshop is outside.
Admission is donation based, and no one will be turned away for lack of funds. If you would like to make a donation, it will be based on a sliding scale of $5-$50 and will be collected at the end of the workshop via credit card, text-to-give, check or cash.
Grow Dat Get Down 2022
We’re Having a Party with a Purpose, Y’all!
Grow Dat's newest annual fundraiser, the Get Down, will feature the Original Pinettes Brass Band and will benefit youth programs that take place on our seven-acre farm in City Park. Join us for a night of dining, dancing, and jubilation under the stars, all in support of youth leadership and sustainable urban agriculture.
Summer Jam on the Farm
We’re thrilled to welcome you back to the farm with live music, cold drinks, and delicious food! Join us from 5pm-8pm, Friday, June 17th!
History of the Land Workshop
We’re limiting group size for this event - please complete this registration form!
The History of the Land workshop asks the question “What's happened right here?”. We explore what Grow Dat's tract of land has looked like in the past -- tracing Indigenous histories, stories of enslavement and emancipation, segregation and Civil Rights, all the way to the present day. By looking thoughtfully and critically at these histories, we set the stage for a conversation about right land use in the future. This workshop is a great fit for anyone interested in local history, ecology, or thinking about what sustainability and justice would look like in our city. Come join the conversation!
This workshop is just under two hours long, and usually entails a walk around the farmland and standing up for most of that time. If that doesn't work for you, let us know & we can make appropriate accommodations. Bring comfortable shoes you don't mind getting dirty, and bring along some water. The workshop is outside, but please bring a mask for when we’re closer than 6ft from each other.
Admission is donation based, and no one will be turned away for lack of funds. If would like to make a donation, it will be based on a sliding scale of $5-$50 and will be collected at the end of the workshop via credit card, text-to-give, check or cash.
History of the Land Workshop
Registration for this event is full. Please consider attending our workshop in January or keep an eye on our website for additional dates in March and April.
The History of the Land workshop asks the question “What's happened right here?”. We explore what Grow Dat's tract of land has looked like in the past -- tracing Indigenous histories, stories of enslavement and emancipation, segregation and Civil Rights, all the way to the present day. By looking thoughtfully and critically at these histories, we set the stage for a conversation about right land use in the future. This workshop is a great fit for anyone interested in local history, ecology, or thinking about what sustainability and justice would look like in our city. Come join the conversation!
This workshop is just under two hours long, and usually entails a walk around the farmland and standing up for most of that time. If that doesn't work for you, let us know & we can make appropriate accommodations. Bring comfortable shoes you don't mind getting dirty, and bring along some water. The workshop is outside, but please bring a mask for when we’re closer than 6ft from each other.
Admission is donation based, and no one will be turned away for lack of funds. If would like to make a donation, it will be based on a sliding scale of $5-$50 and will be collected at the end of the workshop via credit card, text-to-give, check or cash.
Crawfish Boil on the Bayou
Thank you for your interest in our Crawfish Boil on the Bayou! Online ticket purchases are no longer available. A limited number of tickets will be available for purchase at the door. Thanks!
On Sunday, May 9th, Grow Dat is bringing you a picnic style, family friendly event on the farm featuring crawfish with corn and potatoes by NOLA Crawfish King, Urban South beers, specialty cocktails by Cathead Vodka, lemonade, and dessert!
Each adult ticket includes 3 lbs of crawfish, 3 drink tickets, non-alcoholic beverages, dessert, and the beautiful ambiance of Grow Dat’s outdoor space on the bayou. Children’s tickets include 1 lb of crawfish, lemonade and dessert.
Some seating will be available, but feel free to BYO-blanket, lawn chair and games for your family.
Please plan to adhere to social distancing guidelines and be prepared to wear a mask when moving about the event.
Come enjoy the spring beauty of the farm and support youth leadership this May! Purchase tickets below!
Latin Roots Dinner on the Farm
The evening will feature 4 hispanic New Orleans chefs creating dishes that pay homage to their diverse Latin cultures. Chef Adolfo Garcia will be representing his Panamanian lineage while Chef Fredo Nogueira of Cane and Table gives a nod to his Cuban descent. Chef Ana Castro of Thalia will be creating dishes that take her back to her days in Mexico City alongside Zócalo’s Chef Edgar Caro’s creations that pay homage to Colombia. Each course will feature nostalgic fare from each chef that they would prepare for their friends and family around the holidays or on special occasions.
Join us for tours, toasty libations, fire pits, live music and sentimental Latin dishes served on our beautiful farm!
The event runs from 4:00-7:00 pm and are $95 a seat.
Brunch on the Farm featuring Atchafalaya
Join us on October 13th for a picnic style brunch featuring New Orleans’ favorite brunch spot & bloody mary bar, Atchafalaya! The event will begin at 11:00 am and feature live music, a buffet style brunch, a bloody mary bar, mimosas, yard games, and activities for the kids! Come enjoy the fall beauty of the farm and support youth leadership this October!
Hootenany 2019
The Grow Dat Hootenanny is our annual fundraising event. Taking place on our seven-acre farm, the evening is a celebration of local food, music, and youth leadership.
Seafood Dinner on the Farm with Marjie's Grill, Sac-a-Lait and Maypop/Mophto
Join us on March 24th for our first Spring Dinner on the Farm! This seafood dinner featuring Marjie’s Grill, Sac-a-Lait & Maypop/Mopho will feature a menu that contributes to the sustainability and restoration of our coastal waterways through what we eat. All proceeds support nearly 100 youth leaders as they grow 25,000 pounds of fresh produce for our community.
Fall Harvest Dinner on the Farm with Pagoda Cafe, Coco Hut, Carmo & Windowsill Pies
Come enjoy this fall feast featuring fresh Grow Dat produce! Our friends from Pagoda Cafe, Coco Hut, Carmo and Windowsill Pies will be on the farm whipping up flavorful dishes sure to wow the crowd during this lovely 3 course meal on the bayou.
Meat Focused Dinner on the Farm with Blue Oak BBQ, Cavan & LaBoca Steakhouse
We are thrilled to announce our Fall Dinner on the Farm Series! On October 7th we will welcome Blue Oak BBQ, Cavan, and LaBoca Steakhouse alongside special guest speaker, Marshall Bartlett of Homeplace Pastures to the Farm for our Meat Focused dinner! All proceeds support the young leaders of New Orleans as they grow 25,000 lbs of produce for their community.
Grow Dat Visions Training
Have you encountered misunderstandings across race, gender, culture, or other difference at your workplace? Are you interested in boosting your ability to communicate effectively in your professional context? Learn more and purchase tickets to our upcoming VISIONS Workshop at Grow Dat Youth Farm.
Dinner on the Farm with Coquette
Join us for an evening of celebration on the farm featuring cuisine from Chefs Kristen Essig & Michael Stoltzfus of Coquette. Dinner will begin with a half hour of cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres followed by a farm tour focusing on our program, growing practices, and the stunning ecology of our growing site. After the farm tour, guests sit down to a beautiful, locally focused meal paired with wine. Tickets and info here.
Fun Fridays on the Farm !
Have your little one strengthen their love of land by joining us for Fun Fridays on the Farm! This is an afterschool program for children ages 7 to 10 who enjoy spending time outside and want to learn more about our environment. The Jr. farmers will engage in interactive activities around the New Orleans swamp habitat, arts and crafts, different farm tasks, and more. We will be offering this on a sliding scale of $5 to $20.
Hootenanny!
Join us for a boot-stompin' good time down on the farm at Grow Dat's annual fundraiser, the Hootenanny! Live zydeco and brass band music, live auction, local restaurant fare, and craft cocktails--all to support the young people in Grow Dat's youth leadership program! More info here.
Nola Herb Gathering
Nola Herb Gathering is a family friendly conference embracing self care as health care through the intergenerational and cultural uses of herbal and plant medicine. 12 teachers come from across Louisiana to share their wisdom of using plant medicine with the intent to care for themselves, their families and communities. We will also have a local artisan market focused on small businesses that center their work on plants and a raffle to raise money for a worthy cause! The day is full of fun and learning how to work with the earth to take care of ourselves.
All desiring to participate in the NOLA Herb Gathering must register BEFORE the day of the event. Please include the name of each registering party. If you are not able to afford the cost of programming you may apply for a work trade position or if you are unable to do a work trade please e-mail us at info@asc3nsionart.com so we may find the best way to accomodate you and/or your family. Young children are also welcomed, children 8 and under are able to attend for free! We hope you all join us!
Learn more and register at NolaHerbGathering.com or on instagram @nolaherbgathering and @Asc3nsion_Art and on twitter @herbnola.