Parkway Bakery & Tavern's Famous Thanksgiving Poor Boy is Back

Parkway Bakery's Famous Thanksgiving Poor Boy

Parkway Bakery & Tavern is bringing back its most-wanted item of the season: the Thanksgiving Poor Boy.

This famous Thanksgiving New Orleans staple is back to benefit the Al Copeland Foundation in efforts to raise money and awareness for cancer research and innovative treatments. The fundraiser, by Parkway Bakery and Al Copeland Foundation, is sponsored by Crystals Hot Sauce, Leidenheimer Baking Co., Blut Plate Mayonnaise, and Luzianne Tea.

The famous poor boy will be available every Wednesday in November, and proceeds from this sandwich go directly to the Al Copeland Foundation. Additional proud supporters this year feature Simplot, Hubig's Pies, and New Orleans Ice Cream, who are bringing extra community flavor to this event.

About the Al Copeland Foundation

Since 2008, the Al Copeland Foundation (ACF) has raised more than $5.3 million with one mission: to save lives and end cancer through access, awareness, education, and innovation. In partnership with LSU Health New Orleans, ACF helped discover a cure for the rare cancer that took Al Copeland Sr.'s life and continues to fund pioneering initiatives such as the Virtual Research Nurse Program, which connects patients to life-saving clinical trials no matter where they live. The program has earned national recognition and was recently commended by Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry for advancing cancer research and care across the state.

Beyond research, ACF supports families through its Patient Assistance Fund at Manning Family Children's Hospital, helping over 65 pediatric oncology families cover non-medical expenses including rent, utilities, groceries, and transportation during treatment. Every contribution fuels life-changing research and support programs that bring hope to patients and families when they need it most.

Last year's #IDidItForTheTurkey campaign raised $40,022, and Parkway Bakery and ACF are aiming even higher this year as the tradition continues to grow.

Justin Kennedy, general manager and head chef at Parkway Bakery & Tavern, expressed his excitement in a press release, "Every November, we're reminded how much this city cares. The Thanksgiving Poor Boy isn't just a sandwich; it's a symbol of community, generosity, and heart. With our incredible sponsors and local partners, we're proud to serve something that truly makes a difference."

Al Copeland Jr., president of the Al Copeland Foundation, added, "The team at Parkway has turned this fundraiser into a powerful tradition that brings people together for good. Their commitment helps us reach more patients, fund more research, and give families hope during the holidays. It's everything my father believed in: faith, family, and giving back."

Get Your Tickets to "Skip the Line"

Those looking to make a difference may purchase a $100 "skip the line" ticket. This ticket offers exclusive access to bypass the crowd from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Along with enjoying the iconic Thanksgiving Poor Boy and skipping the line, ticket holders will receive a commemorative t-shirt, sweet potato fries, a sweet potato Hubig's Pie, a Luzianne iced tea, and fresh scoops of New Orleans Ice Cream.

You can purchase your tickets here or in person at Parkway Bakery & Tavern every Wednesday, where the Al Copeland Foundation will be hosting a special tent.

If you would rather not donate to skip the line, you can still contribute, as a portion of all Thanksgiving Poor Boy sales will go directly to the foundation. Guests who prefer to donate without purchasing a "skip the line" ticket can also visit the ACF tent to spin the prize wheel for just $5 with a chance to win exclusive merchandise and giveaways from this year's sponsors.

Poor Boys for Cause

This November, the Thanksgiving Poor Boy at Parkway is not just stacked with turkey, dressing, and gravy—it's loaded with purpose. Every sandwich sold directly funds cancer research, helps families cover essential expenses during treatment, and keeps Al Copeland Sr.'s legacy of generosity alive. So whether you're craving that perfect bite of New Orleans tradition or simply want to make a difference, head to Parkway Bakery & Tavern and order yours.