Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site Archives : TRAVEL/FOOD

Tickets are now available and partners have been announced for the 5th annual Juneteenth Foodways Festival at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, taking place Friday, June 12, 2026 from 4:30 to 8:00 p.m.

Made possible through the generosity of Eli Lilly and Company Foundation, the Juneteenth Foodways Festival invites guests to see, taste and experience how Black cuisine has shaped some of America’s most beloved foods.

Now in its fifth year, the festival highlights the story of renowned Black caterer and chef Dolly Johnson. In 1889, after taking office, President Benjamin Harrison made a notable change to the White House staff by replacing a French chef with Johnson, who brought her all-American cooking style to the presidential household and went on to serve multiple administrations.

The woman in the photograph below, taken by Frances Benjamin Johnston in the White House kitchen, has often been identified as Dolly Johnson. However, the Library of Congress dates the photograph “between ca. 1891 to 1893.” It appears to be taken before the 1892 White House renovation, when black and white tile and glass cabinets were added to this kitchen. Realistically, this image could depict Dolly Johnson, Mary Robinson, or possibly another unknown member of the White House kitchen staff in this period.
Library of Congress

Today, that legacy comes to life through one of Indianapolis’ most distinctive cultural events, featuring a wide range of local Black-owned businesses offering food, beverages and retail experiences.

This year’s festival will feature more than 35 partners, including a mix of returning favorites and new participants.

Food and beverage partners include:
Golden Spatula, Paul’s Kitchen, A Taste of Home Catering, Mrs. Fe’s Soulfood and Catering, PharmFree Life Coffeehouse, Twisted Daiquiris, Brown Sugar Cakery, Good Vegan Bad Vegan, The Alkaline Electric Goddess, Betty’s Country Cooking, EZ Boyz Corner Store, Glittergirls Catering and Events, Big Mike’s Barbeque, Big Bear Shaved Ice, Cotton Cute, Blend Bistro, OSLIN, Market Square Popcorn Company, Gip Got Tips, Popcorn Queen Popping with a Purpose, The Cookie MD, DebbieKakes and More and Taste of Luv by Dee

Retail and community partners include:
Rooted with Ruby, The Elephant in the Room, Guys Cooking Creation, SootheLuxe Co., A-Team Party Rental, Divine Grace Fashion Hub, Helmer & Huggins Pet Apparel & Accessories, Rub It Up Spice Blend, Beadbody Waistbeads & Permanent Jewelry, Golden Essence Raw Honey, Nyla Nova STEM, Southside U.S. Colored Troop Coalition and Opulent Radiance

Guests can enjoy a variety of menu items that reflect the depth and diversity of Black foodways, browse unique retail offerings and engage with the history and cultural impact of Black culinary traditions in America.

The Dolly Johnson Legacy Stage will also have live food demonstrations with Second Helpings and performances by Freetown Village and Braveheart Drumline.

General admission is free, with tickets available now. A limited number of early access passes will also be available for purchase, offering entry prior to the general admission start time.

The Juneteenth Foodways Festival is a signature program of the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site and continues to expand as one of the region’s most anticipated summer cultural events.