In addition to the food sampling, the event featured step-dancing, a Macedonian artist, Cuban, Acadian and Latin music, salsa dancing, a karate demonstration and fashion show.

Saulnier says the idea for the event evolved from her discussions with some of the 200 immigrants in the three counties. A small food fair was held during Seafest last year at the YMCA and the volunteers ran out of food in 30 minutes.

“We have enough immigrants interested in participating and obviously the public loves it. It’s so wonderful to see so many varied cultures together,” said Saulnier.

Tri-county immigrants represent much of the world, including Vietnam, China, United States, South America, Africa, and India.

Some families, particularly those from Vietnam, have been here for many years and continue to bring other family members over.

For this year’s food festival expenses of participants were covered, a factor that Saulnier believes is behind the number who turned out.

“That encouraged people to participate. Not everyone can afford to donate a large quantity of food,” she said.

Funding and sponsorship was supplied from many sources and Saulnier says they are very grateful to the many volunteers who assisted, particularly with the assembly and disassembly of the giant tent, which was erected on the plaza behind Rudders Seafood Restaurant and Brew Pub. Because of their help, the tent was supplied at a reduced cost.

More volunteers are needed for next year’s event and an important fundraiser in February (Treasure Boxes).

“There’s a big cry for more people to join our committee. We’re four people doing the whole shebang,” said Saulnier.

“If enough people come together to volunteer even a few hours it would help.

Contact Saulnier at 902-742-2486, ext.241.