The 15th Annual Lakeside Food Festival concluded last Sunday with record-breaking attendance, drawing more than 50,000 visitors over the three-day event. Held at Riverside Park from May 10-12, the festival featured over 80 food vendors, live entertainment, and cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs.
"We're thrilled with this year's turnout," said festival organizer Maria Garcia. "The combination of perfect weather and our diverse selection of international cuisines really resonated with attendees." The festival showcased dishes from over 25 countries, ranging from traditional Italian pasta to authentic Thai street food.
One of the most popular attractions was the "Chef's Challenge" competition, where ten local chefs competed to create the best dessert using only five mystery ingredients. The winner, Chef Michael Wong from downtown restaurant "Fusion Delights," received a $5,000 prize and a feature article in Culinary Magazine.
The festival also had a significant economic impact on the local community. According to preliminary estimates, the event generated approximately $2.3 million in revenue for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. "Events like this are vital for our local economy," commented Mayor Jennifer Rodriguez. "They not only bring visitors to our city but also highlight the incredible culinary talent we have here."
Environmental sustainability was also a key focus this year. Organizers implemented a comprehensive recycling program and encouraged vendors to use biodegradable containers and utensils. As a result, the festival achieved a waste diversion rate of 75%, significantly exceeding last year's 60%.
Planning for next year's festival has already begun, with organizers considering expanding to a four-day event to accommodate growing demand. Registration for vendors will open in September.