A new festival has been years in the making, but it’s finally coming to the Expo Center.
The International Taste Festival will be at the State Fairgrounds this weekend. Organizers say visitors can expect craft vendors, fireworks and food, and it’s all under one roof.
What You Need To Know
- This is the first year of the International Taste Festival at the NYS Fairgrounds in the Expo Center
- Food samples will be $2 each; tickets are $10 at the door and $5 online
- There will also be 16 different beers to try
“The Central New York area has many festivals all throughout the season, but we felt it was necessary to have one festival that we brought together the community in a diverse way,” said Stephanie Pestillo, event organizer with the International Taste Festival.
Friday, setup was still underway, before the Saturday start of the event’s first year. It’s expected there will be more than 65 different vendors. Attendees can sample foods for $2 a piece, including beer from World of Beer, with 16 different brews to taste.
“Foods of the Americas, tastes of Europe, Asian creations, Middle Eastern treats and Pan-African cuisine, so there really is something for everyone at the festival,” said Pestillo.
Before the event opens Saturday morning, there will be a 5k and 10k around the fairgrounds and amphitheater. Runners can get free entry to the event afterwards.
The International Taste Festival runs Saturday (noon-9 p.m.) through Sunday (noon-7 p.m.). Fireworks start at 9 p.m. Saturday. Buy discounted tickets ahead of time online for $5, or for $10 at the door. Kids 10 and younger are admitted free, and parking will be free.