In many Southern communities, Watch Night Services will take place in many churches. It’s a tradition that goes back to 1862, when enslaved Africans in South Carolina prayed and stayed awake to enjoy their first day of freedom – January 1, 1863 or Freedom’s Eve – in a divided United States. Today, some churches will hold services into the New Year while others will begin and end a service early, so that members can get home to entertain or be entertained.
Healthy Black-Eyed Pea Appetizers for New Year’s Eve
When bringing in the New Year, a few Southern traditions and superstitions come to mind! My mom always made sure that she did not wash on New Year’s Day because she feared that she might
African American Heritage Travel: How to Curate a Socially Distanced Family Experience This Fall In Natchez, MS
Looking for a fall destination that is family-friendly with lots of open space and southern charm? You should definitely add Natchez, MS. The historic city of Natchez is one of the oldest cities located in
How to Cook Turnip Greens with Smoked Turkey Wings
For me, Turnip Greens are a delicacy. I grew up on all different types of greens and turnip greens are my favorite. I love the bitterness and shape taste, and paired with fresh rutabagas (especially
Easy Outdoor Summer Entertaining Tips from Co-Founders of Coterie
Summer is here and it is time to get ready for outdoor party fun! Whether you are headed to the beach or hanging out on the patio, hosting skills are always a must. Today we
Lowcountry Juneteenth: Inspiration for How to Celebrate Juneteenth at Home
One of my favorite holidays to celebrate is Juneteenth. This year I decided to host a Lowcountry Juneteenth in my home with a few of my favorite Juneteeth foods and Lowcountry style. If you are
Black Heritage Travels: How to Experience Middle Tennessee This Fall
Middle Tennessee could provide the perfect recipe for romance that includes whiskey, great food, carriage rides and copper skies. The region’s vegetation is beautiful year-round but fall arrives with a colorful treat to the eye due
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Southern Bred, Soul Infused
Our Food Historian Robin Caldwell describes,
Adhering to the many food traditions and customs is an artful act in our homes. It’s as important not to eat some foods on New Year’s Eve as what to eat that day. If you eat fowl or anything that can fly, your good luck can fly away before the New Year. Also, you don’t want to eat anything that can move fast backwards like lobster, crab and shrimp, unless of course you want your good fortune to be left behind. But you can eat fish on New Year’s Eve. There is the belief that since black-eyed peas swell, eating them will cause your bank account to swell in the New Year. Greens such as collards represent dollars and when served with cornbread even more luck will follow. Rice is also considered a good luck food and Hoppin’ John is a favored tradition in the lowcountry.
