*New York City, June 12, 2024* — Flushing Meadows-Corona Park transformed into a vibrant culinary hub today as the **Annual International Food Festival** kicked off, drawing food enthusiasts from across New York City and beyond. With over 100 vendors offering dishes from 40 different countries, the festival celebrates the unparalleled diversity of Queens, often referred to as the “World’s Borough.” From Colombian arepas to Thai satay and Nigerian jollof rice, attendees had the opportunity to embark on a global food tour without ever leaving the park.
“This festival is a celebration of Queens’ incredible diversity,” said Borough President Donovan Richards during the opening ceremony. “Our borough is home to people from over 130 countries, and this event showcases the rich cultures and cuisines that make Queens a global treasure.” Richards highlighted the importance of the festival not just as a gastronomic event, but also as a platform for fostering cross-cultural understanding and community pride. Attendees praised the vibrant atmosphere, complete with live music, cultural performances, and cooking demonstrations that complemented the culinary offerings.
The festival’s vendors ranged from family-owned restaurants to independent chefs eager to share their culinary heritage. Chef Nkechi Obinna, who served up steaming plates of Nigerian jollof rice, expressed her excitement about participating in the event. “Food is a universal language,” she said. “Every dish tells a story, and being here allows me to share a piece of my culture with people from all over.” Similarly, Maria Alvarez, a vendor specializing in Colombian arepas, remarked on the joy of connecting with customers who were trying her dishes for the first time.
Running through the weekend, the festival is expected to draw tens of thousands of visitors, with proceeds supporting local charities and small businesses. The event has grown significantly since its inception, becoming one of Queens’ most anticipated annual traditions. “The International Food Festival is more than just a feast for the senses—it’s a reminder of the strength that comes from diversity,” Richards said. As visitors indulged in flavors from around the world, the festival reinforced the idea that Queens is not just a borough, but a global community brought together by the love of food and culture.
