Colombian empanadas, Jamaican jerk dishes and smash burgers will be featured alongside live music and a kids' play zone this Saturday, as Winter Park hosts its first-ever International Food & Music Festival. The free event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Calvary Orlando, 1199 Clay St., and admission is open to the public.
The inaugural festival is presented by Calvary International Language School, known as CILS, according to gottagoorlando.com. Food and merchandise will be sold directly by the vendors on site, with proceeds from sponsorships, vendor fees and designated donations going toward the school's mission. As WFTV reports, CILS operates as a ministry of Calvary Orlando and helps adult learners develop English-language skills and strengthen communication for personal and professional opportunities.
A Taste of the World at the Festival
Guests can sample Colombian empanadas from Tipiks, Jamaican favorites from Paula's Jamaican Cuisine, and smash burgers and fries from The Fry Shoppe. Dessert options include pastries from La Macarena Bakery and Nikki Elouise Bakery, plus Italian ice from Little Marco's Italian Ice.
Beyond the food lineup, organizers are planning live music and cultural performances throughout the day, according to the report. A marketplace will also be set up, featuring handmade jewelry, specialty goods, art and interactive shopping experiences from local artisans and small businesses.
Kids Zone and Family Activities
Families attending the festival will find a dedicated Kids Zone along with other activities built for children, the outlet reports. The festival will also include a marketplace and food vendors.
Funding Adult English Education
The festival's underlying purpose is to support CILS's broader work helping adult learners in Central Florida build English skills, confidence and community connections. Maria Kringel, according to WFTV, said the students come from around the world and bring cultures worth celebrating — a sentiment reflected in the festival's international food and marketplace lineup.
Those looking for more information can call 407-644-1199, or check the festival website, per WFTV's reporting. With no admission charge and a mix of food, music, shopping and kids' activities planned for a single Saturday, the inaugural event is set for Calvary Orlando on Clay Street.
