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Celebration in the Oaks held its 2009 Preview Party throughout the entire Botanical Garden and Conservatory of
the Two Sisters Amusement Area of City Park on Friday, November 20, 2009.
This 23rd annual Preview Party was the kickoff to a great New Orleans tradition, Celebration in the Oaks. Local band Cowboy Mouth played throughout the Preview Party along with the Tip Tops from Mobile, Ala.; Blanche Newsom Sr.; The Last Straws; and New Orleans Banjos + 2.
Julie LaCour, director of Celebration in the Oaks, and Paul Soniat, director of City Park Botanical Garden, served as chairs, while the Azby Fund underwrote the event.
Guests explored the millions of twinkling lights while dining on tasty treats from all over New Orleans. There were 37 different brands of liquor, 23 unique wines and 40 restaurants represented, including Martin Wine Cellar’s butternut squash and shrimp bisque, Ralph’s on the Park’s cold smoked tuna with a chili soy sauce vinaigrette and Lagniappe Luncheonette Catering’s shrimp grits. Republic National Dist. Co., Red Bull, Abita Beers and Coca Cola served beverages throughout the Botanical Garden and amusement areas.
The following day, Celebration in the Oaks held a Children’s Preview featuring family-friendly activities for
the little ones. The Preview Party was a hit and all proceeds were dedicated to City Park’s Botanical Garden.
