Asheville Celebrates Black History Month with Afternoon Tea

News Summary

Residents of Asheville came together on February 16 to celebrate Black History Month by enjoying a delightful afternoon tea hosted by award-winning pastry chef Tiesha ‘Tie’ Whittaker. The event took place at Ivory Road, where guests savored sweet and savory treats while honoring Black American culture and supporting local black-owned businesses. This gathering is part of a month-long series of events aimed at celebrating and educating the community about Black history and culture.

Asheville Residents Delight in Afternoon Tea Celebrating Black History Month

Asheville is buzzing with excitement as residents come together to celebrate Black History Month in creative and meaningful ways. On Sunday, February 16, a delightful afternoon tea event hosted by award-winning pastry chef Tiesha ‘Tie’ Whittaker took place, leaving guests with sweet memories and full hearts.

Champagne and Sweet Treats at Ivory Road

Set in the charming culinary event space known as Ivory Road in Arden, guests were treated to an extraordinary selection of both sweet and savory treats. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with everyone seated family-style, encouraging a sense of community and togetherness. It was more than just tea; it was an event that beautifully intertwined delicious cuisine with the importance of recognizing and honoring Black American culture.

The star of the show, Chef Tie, is the proud owner of Buttermilk Boutique, located in Clayton, N.C. This beloved dessert locale is famed for its luxurious sweets that have won the hearts of many. At the afternoon tea, guests savored a menu inspired by black-owned and women-owned businesses in the Raleigh area, which highlights the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs.

A Menu of Inspiration

As attendees sipped on their drinks, they indulged in an array of tasty treats, many sourced from a local coffee and tea company, as well as a elegant prosecco that fizzed with celebratory joy. The culinary focus didn’t just serve to fill stomachs; it also served as a reminder of the rich tapestry of African American culture and the key contributions of Black businesses.

A Month of Celebration in Asheville

Throughout February, Asheville has been a hub of activity, with numerous events celebrating Black history and culture. The Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center invited local artists to showcase their talents through the “Black History Month Through the Eyes of Art” exhibit. The call for submissions ran from February 5 to February 11, with the opening ceremony held on February 12 and stunning artwork available for public viewing until February 28.

Asheville’s Black Cultural Heritage Trail made its debut in late 2023, featuring 20 informative panels that spotlight local Black history. This latest initiative adds to the array of events aimed at educating the community about the achievements and struggles of Black Americans.

Art, Storytelling, and Soul Food

The city also hosted events like the Black Storytelling on the Block on February 7, which provided a platform for diverse artistic expressions centered around Black experiences. Following closely, the Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center held a celebration on February 8, focusing specifically on the heritage of the Shiloh Community.

Looking ahead, community centers are bustling with activities. The Burton Street Community Center is set to explore its historical significance in a discussion on February 21, and the Grove Street Community Center has organized a “Black History Alive!” event, encouraging attendees to dress as historic Black figures on February 28.

Meanwhile, the Harvest House Community Center will host a joyful Black History Celebration featuring games and scrumptious refreshments on February 20. The Black Wall Street AVL is also gearing up for a big night on February 22 with the Black History Awards 2025 event at the Asheville Community Theatre.

Literature and Culinary Appreciation

Throughout the month, local book clubs have been discussing significant literature centered around Black history, offering a deeper understanding of the stories that shaped our society. On February 20, the Stephens-Lee Community Center will cap off the month with a Soul Food Supper, celebrating the significance of soul food in Black culture.

As February comes to a close, Asheville is undoubtedly proving to be a vibrant celebration of culture, history, and community. With warm hearts and full plates, residents are taking this opportunity to honor the past while looking forward to a better future.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Asheville Celebrates Black History Month 2025
Asheville’s Vibrant Black History Month Celebrations
Asheville Celebrates Black History Month and YMI Reopening
Culinary Event Celebrates Black Women’s Impact on Food
Art in Asheville: Healing Through Community Resilience
February Recognized as Black History Month by Trump
Asheville Celebrates Black History Month with Cultural Events
February Events to Experience in Asheville
Asheville’s Winter of Creativity at BMCM + AC
Alpha Kappa Alpha Launches Political Action Committee to Boost Representation in Washington, D.C.

Additional Resources

Author: HERE Asheville

HERE Asheville

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