The Bouffants have a motto: “The higher the hair, the closer to God.” So it seems especially appropriate that the popular showband, with its ever-changing cast of big-voiced (and bigger-wigged) singers, should headline Thursday’s A Taste of Cooper Young. The annual party for Memphis foodies used to benefit the Memphis Literacy Council, but the event has been taken over by First Congregational Church, and proceeds go toward funding the progressive church’s various outreach ministries.
Starting at 5 p.m., participants can pick up wristband from First Congregational Church. The wristband entitles the wearer to a small dish, or “tasting,” at a dozen popular Cooper Young area restaurants all within walking distance of the church.
Participating restaurants and food-related businesses include Alchemy, Bar DKDC, The Beauty Shop, Cafe Ole, Celtic Crossing, Sweet Crass, Mulan, Strano, Stone Soup, Soul Fish, Green Cork, and Get Fresh.
The food tasting continues till 8:30 p.m. Meanwhile, saxophonist Pat Register will be performing in the corner gazebo and the Bouffants will play from 8 p.m.-9:30 p.m. in the sanctuary at First Congo, where a silent auction will also be conducted.
First Congo is a justice-minded church. Its outreach ministries range from traditional food ministries, to community gardens, to a “Blessed Bee” program that helps to repopulate devastated bee populations.
A Taste of Cooper-Young is Thursday, September 18th, 5:30-9 p.m., $50
tasteofcooperyoung.com