HOTEL EVENTS

Ice Cream Queen Social with Lokelani Alabanza

Join us for a sweet and inspiring evening as The Tennessean and Maker Exchange welcome acclaimed author and ice cream maker Lokelani Alabanza for the Ice Cream Queen Social, an intimate happy hour celebrating flavor, history, and storytelling.

Alabanza is the author of Ice Cream Queen: Flavors from Black America’s Past, Present & Future and founder of Nashville’s celebrated Saturated Ice Cream. Her work explores the rich history and profound influence of Black ice cream makers in America, bringing their stories to life through thoughtfully crafted flavors and desserts.

During this special event, guests will enjoy a flight of three handcrafted Ice Cream Queen desserts created by Lokelani, accompanied by a paired cocktail or mocktail. Additional beverages will be available for purchase throughout the evening.

More than an ice cream tasting, the evening offers guests an opportunity to hear directly from Lokelani as she shares the inspiration behind Ice Cream Queen, the stories and people that shaped the book, and the cultural history behind the flavors.

Her work has already captured national attention, with features from The TODAY Show, NPR’s Here & Now, and Vogue.

Each guest will leave with a signed copy of Ice Cream Queen to continue exploring the stories, recipes, and history celebrated throughout the evening.

Your Ticket Includes

  • A flight of three handcrafted Ice Cream Queen desserts

  • One paired cocktail or mocktail

  • A signed copy of Ice Cream Queen: Flavors from Black America’s Past, Present & Future

  • An intimate conversation with Lokelani Alabanza

Come for the ice cream, stay for the stories, and experience an evening celebrating the past, present, and future of American ice cream.

Event Details

Ice Cream Queen Social at The Tennessean
Date: Tuesday, September 1, 2026
Time: 5–7 PM
Location: The Curio at Maker Exchange, Downtown Knoxville
Tickets: Limited availability

Reserve Now
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