The 9th Annual Baton Rouge Soul Food Festival is family friendly and free to the public. It features blues, soul, R&B, gospel and Christian music, along with a Vendor’s Village, a judged Soul Food Cooking Contest and a Mustard Greens and Cornbread Eating Competition. The stage lineup is expected to include Henry Turner Jr. & Flavor and the Listening Room. All-Stars include Ervin “Maestro” Foster and the My Better Half Band, King Solomon, Princess Teha and Kelton ‘Nspire Harper. New to the festival this year is Southern Blues man Adam Gabriel and the Shadow Road Band from Lafayette. Returning favorites include Gospel singer Xavie Shorts, Soul singer Uncle Chess, Lisa Harris and her Tina Turner Tribute. The Soul Food Cooking Competition is now open to entrants and highlights regional favorites from Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia and Florida. Categories include Meats, Vegetable and Side Dishes, Breads and Desserts, Appetizers and Soups, Beverage and Ices. Criteria includes Presentation, Taste, and the Story or History behind each dish. First, second and third place prizes will be awarded in each category. Downloadable forms and additional instructions are available on the website. For more information call 225-802-9681 or visit www.brsoulfoodfest.com. VIP tickets that include food, drinks and additional giveaways are also available on the website. A Pre-party is scheduled for May 21 at Henry Turner Jr.’s Listening Room from 7pm to midnight.