Culinary Trail Signature Dish: Ruston Peaches

Why peaches? Well, there’s just something about a juicy Ruston peach that can’t be beat. Commercial orchards have been found in Lincoln Parish since the 1930s, and the state’s largest peach orchard, Mitcham Farms, is located here.

When are they in season? The peak season runs from mid-June to mid-July.

How do I pick a peach? That depends on what you’re going to do with them. We suggest visiting Mitcham Farms for guidance. They hand pick and grade their peaches. For example, their “ripes” are ready-to-eat, the “overripes” are suited for pies, and their “No. 2’s” are great for canning. You can purchase fresh peaches from their processing shed or find all sorts of peachy products at the Peach Store.

How do locals eat their peaches? Around here, peaches find their way into pies, cobblers, jellies, jams, syrups, and all sorts of dishes, but locals do have quite an affinity for peach ice cream. Sample some for yourself at the Louisiana Peach Festival, a tradition for 60 years. It’s held the fourth weekend in June and also features arts-and-crafts vendors, live music, and a peach-eating contest.