SAVE THE DATE
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SEPTEMBER 5TH
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SAVE THE DATE • SEPTEMBER 5TH •
EMPANADA FEST
The Pawtucket Empanada Fest serves as a popular, flavor-filled anchor event nested within the multi-week Pawtucket Arts Festival. Held at the City Hall Parking Lot, this vibrant block party transforms the city streets into a bustling celebration of Latin American culinary traditions. The highly anticipated evening gathering unites food enthusiasts from across Rhode Island to celebrate community culture, visual arts, and exceptional street food.
At the heart of the festival is a friendly culinary competition showcasing a diverse lineup of local restaurants and food vendors. By purchasing an event food passport, attendees can sample a variety of both corn-based fried empanadas and traditional dough-baked versions packed with chicken, beef, pork, or seafood fillings. While a panel of local guest judges crowns an official winner, crowd members actively cast their own ballots to determine which neighborhood kitchen takes home the coveted title of best empanada in town.
Beyond the food competition, the ticketed tasting coincides with a free community block party that keeps the streets energized from afternoon to night. Continuous entertainment fills the air courtesy of live Latin bands, folk dance troupes, and local DJs. Pop-up art galleries organized by the Pawtucket Arts Commission line the sidewalks, offering a visual taste of regional art alongside the savory pastries to create a uniquely festive, multi-sensory experience.
