[Gallery] Blacker The Berry Dinner Party At Durham Central Park Review

DURHAM, NC – On Sunday, August 1, at Durham Central Park, local promoters Colton Palmer, Brint City, Tim Harrington, James Lunsford, and LG Burna hosted The Blacker The Berry Dinner Party. It was a party that fostered an experience in a league of its own. There was a multitude of Black-owned businesses, food, and products to make the day more enjoyable. (Scroll down for event photos)

I came into this experience not knowing what to expect. I was happily surprised.

From the moment I walked to the entrance, I was embraced by beautiful Black people.

Since the start of the pandemic, it has been hard to connect and experience people to the fullest. This was the exception.

I have rarely been in a place where I have felt the urge to just be. Not put on a metaphoric mask, or filter me, but just be. Everything was strategically placed to make me, a Black man, comfortable.

On another note, I want to mention the clothes. People came to the park to show those outfits that they bought during quarantine. There were linen suits, 6-inch heels, and even top hats.

Black culture is nothing if not creative and this event showcased just that. The uniqueness of this event was not just what they had there, but who.

I had the pleasure of talking to a few business owners, one being Donavan Burton from H.O.T. Organics. The goal of this company is to provide herbal alternatives for a healthier lifestyle. The acronym ‘H.O.T’ actually stands for hemp over tobacco.

The food there was also sensational. The event was catered by a food truck I know well because of its connection to NCCU. Big C Waffles was a genius pick to provide food for the activities. They specialize in chicken and waffles and do it exceptionally well.

The music was a focal point of the night just as much as the food. There was old school, new school, and throwbacks. Durham distillery Bedlam Vodka provided mixed drinks and cocktails for this adult-only event in Durham Central Park.

The only disappointment of the night was that it was not longer. I strongly recommend that you not miss the next one!

For more information or to find out about the next event, click here.