The Tennessean to host Lokelani Alabanza ice cream event Sept. 1
The Tennessean will host author and Saturated Ice Cream founder Lokelani Alabanza for an Ice Cream Social at Maker Exchange on Sept. 1 in Knoxville. Tickets include desserts, a paired drink and a signed copy of her new book, which spotlights the history of Black ice cream makers in America.
Why it matters: - The event ties a local Knoxville hotel experience to a broader conversation about Black culinary history and ice cream culture. - Guests get a book event, tasting experience and intimate conversation in one ticketed evening.
What happened: - The Tennessean will host Lokelani Alabanza for an Ice Cream Social happy hour at Maker Exchange on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, from 5-7 p.m. - Alabanza is the author of Ice Cream Queen: Flavors from Black America’s Past, Present & Future and founder of Nashville ice cream brand Saturated Ice Cream. - The event will take place at Curio at Maker Exchange in Knoxville, Tennessee. - Tickets are limited.
The details: - Each ticket includes a flight of three handcrafted Ice Cream Queen desserts. - Each ticket includes one paired cocktail or mocktail. - Each guest will receive a signed copy of Ice Cream Queen. - The event includes an intimate conversation with Alabanza. - Additional drinks will be available for purchase. - The book has already drawn attention from The TODAY Show, NPR’s Here and Now and Vogue. - Tickets can be reserved by calling 865.232.1800 or visiting The Tennessean Hotel. - The hotel also directs guests to its Instagram and Facebook pages for more information.
Between the lines: - The event is designed to showcase Black ice cream makers’ influence in America, not just Alabanza’s cookbook. - The Tennessean is using Maker Exchange as a cultural gathering space, reinforcing the hotel’s positioning around local creativity and hospitality. - Alabanza’s background in pastry, creamery work and plant-based ice cream gives the event both culinary and educational appeal.
What's next: - Limited-ticket sales will determine how large the audience can be for the Sept. 1 event. - Attendees will hear directly from Alabanza and leave with a signed copy of her book. - The Tennessean is likely to continue using event programming to draw locals and travelers to Maker Exchange.
The bottom line: - The Tennessean is turning a book launch into a food-and-culture event centered on ice cream, history and local hospitality.
Disclaimer: This article was produced by AGP Wire with the assistance of artificial intelligence based on original source content and has been refined to improve clarity, structure, and readability. This content is provided on an “as is” basis. While care has been taken in its preparation, it may contain inaccuracies or omissions, and readers should consult the original source and independently verify key information where appropriate. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, investment, or other professional advice.
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