By Melissa Hemphill
What do marching bands, samosas and kids’ crafts have in common?
They are just a few of the spectacular things going on at the Carousel of Nations event to be held on Sat., Feb. 3, 2018.
The Carousel of Nations is a celebration of Revelstoke’s multiculturalism; a place where people from around the world share their culture with their neighbours, friends and family through live performances, cultural displays and delicious food.
With average attendances of 2,000 people, this event is a highlight of the winter in Revelstoke. And all of those people will be hungry. The Carousel of Nations planning committee is seeking food vendors to showcase their cultural delicacies at this event. Vendors must register and pay a $30 registration fee. In exchange, vendors receive free access to the community kitchen to prepare their foods, then $3 per plate served, with service plates provided.
“The Carousel of Nations is a great opportunity to showcase your cultural traditions, and also to fundraise for your business or community organization”, says food coordinator Melissa Hemphill. “We have a few vendor spots still remaining, which we would love to see filled.”
The vendors should plan to prepare one or two items to serve as tasters. In order to follow provincial regulations, all vendors must apply for a Temporary Food Permit, which Hemphill can help with. Foods must be prepared in a commercial kitchen by someone with Food Safe certification.
Previous Carousels have offered everything from sushi to meat pies to soups and salads. In keeping with new traditions, the event also strives to be waste-free by providing compostable utensils and plates or bowls. The North Columbia Environmental Society will be on hand to provide drinking water and collect waste, ensuring that all waste is properly composted.
If you have a cultural food tradition that you would like to share with your community, contact acarouselofnations@gmail.com to register. Act fast, as time is running out!