Around the World Cultural Food Festival Marks 10 Years on Alexandria’s Waterfront Aug. 29

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Alexandria’s waterfront will become a one-day passport to cultures around the globe when the Around the World Cultural Food Festival returns to Oronoco Bay Park on Saturday, Aug. 29, for its 10th anniversary celebration.

The free festival, produced by Chic Events DC, runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the waterfront park, 100 Madison St. Organizers say this year’s milestone event will bring together traditional food, live music and dance, and a global marketplace of artisans and crafters.

Visitors can expect food representing 20 countries, with vendors serving traditional dishes tied to their cultural roots. The festival also plans continuous live performances representing 12 countries, with dancers, musicians and performers bringing colorful dress, movement and sound to the Old Town waterfront throughout the day.

“This isn’t simply a food festival,” organizers say on the event’s official website. “It’s a journey around the world—without leaving Alexandria.”

Food, music and a global marketplace

The festival’s format invites attendees to wander from one cultural experience to another—sampling foods, watching performances and browsing handmade goods in a setting designed to celebrate the many communities represented across the DMV.

In addition to its food and performance offerings, the event will feature more than 100 artisans and crafters representing dozens of countries. The festival website lists a wide-ranging lineup of participating food vendors, performers and makers, with more details and updates available online.

The event has steadily grown since its early years at Oronoco Bay Park, becoming a popular late-summer destination for Alexandria families and visitors from across the region. Last year’s ninth annual festival drew crowds to the waterfront for a full day of international food, dance and shopping.

For its 10th year, organizers are positioning the festival as its most expansive edition yet, with an emphasis on authentic cultural traditions shared through cuisine, performance and craftsmanship.

A free day on the waterfront

Admission is free, though food, beverages and purchases from marketplace vendors will be available for sale. Oronoco Bay Park offers waterfront views and easy access to Old Town, making the festival a natural opportunity to spend the day exploring Alexandria as well.

The festival is open to all ages and is expected to draw food lovers, families, culture seekers and anyone looking for a lively way to close out August.