Taste Great American Recipes at Local Food Festivals
Let the talented home cooks on the new Season 2 of THE GREAT AMERICAN RECIPE inspire you to check out area food festivals happening in the summer of 2023. Whether you’re looking for barbecue, sauerkraut, cannoli or tacos, local and national vendors will be in your neighborhood all summer offering scrumptious food for you and your community.
Food Truck Wednesdays
Wednesdays now through September from 11 AM to 2 PM
546 S. Main St., Akron
Bounce Innovation Hub is shining a light on local food trucks all summer long. Every second and fourth Wednesday you can have lunch prepared by passionate local cooks on wheels. For more details visit Food Truck Wednesday Series.
Ribs-N-Rock Festival
Thursday, June 22, through Saturday, June 24, at noon
7401 Market St., Boardman
Maybe ribs and rock are the new classic pairing we’ve all been waiting for. Nationally ranked rib vendors are ready to serve you as you jam out at this music festival. Learn more at ribsnrock.com.
Old Europeanfest and Kirchweih
Saturday, June 24, from 3–11 PM and Sunday, June 25, from 1–7 PM
3871 Ranfield Road, Brimfield
Traditional Hungarian, Austrian, Donauschwaben and other European cuisines will be offered at this festival alongside a beer garden, live music and dance performances. Homemade dishes include schnitzel, cabbage rolls, roast chicken and pastries galore. Learn more at germanfamilysociety.com.
Rib, White and Blue Festival
Friday, June 30, through Tuesday, July 4, from 11 AM to 11 PM
200 S. Main St., Akron
Tangy, smoky, sweet or spicy — barbecue masters bring their recipes from all over the nation to compete for Best Ribs, Best Sauce and People’s Choice. If THE GREAT AMERICAN RECIPE’s spirit of friendly competition leaves you wanting more, be sure to make your way to Lock 3 in Akron for mouth-watering ribs and live music. Learn more at lock3live.com.
Stark County Italian American Festival
Friday, July 7, from 4–11 PM; Saturday, July 8, from noon–11 PM; Sunday, July 9, from noon–8 PM
330 Court Ave. NW, Canton
The 35th annual Italian American Festival is more than just a food festival, it’s a celebration of the proud heritage of Italian Americans. After a mean game of bocce, who could resist cannoli, Italian sausage and stromboli? Learn more at cantonitalianfesta.org.
Taste of Akron
Thursday, July 20, from 6–10 PM
1615 W. Market St., Akron
Returning as part of the 44th annual Akron Art Expo, Taste of Akron features local vendors and food trucks hosted by Akron Recreation & Parks at Hardesty Park in Wallhaven. Learn more at akronartexpo.com.
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Italian Festival
Thursday, July 27 through Sunday, July 30
343 Via Mount Carmel, Youngstown
Cavatelli pasta, sausage sandwiches, greens and goodies — returning favorites and new vendors are bringing Italian heritage and culture to festivalgoers. Whether you’re Italian yourself or simply ready to celebrate with your neighbors, there is nonstop entertainment, craft vendors and delicious food at the 23rd annual Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Italian Festival. Learn more at youngstownlive.com.
Carnation Festival Food Fest
Thursday, Aug. 3, from 4–11 PM; Friday, Aug 4, and Saturday, Aug. 5, noon–11 PM
University of Mount Union, Simpson Street
Between the auto show, parade, pet show, film screening and more, you’re bound to work up an appetite at the Greater Alliance Carnation Festival. Stop by the Food Fest on Mount Union’s campus for a bite. Learn more at carnationfestival.com.