Peabody, MA – The 38th Peabody International Festival is scheduled for September 10, 2023, in the heart of Downtown Peabody. This annual event is free and invites everyone to enjoy various offerings, including multicultural food vendors, all-day musical entertainment, an art Galleria, local artisan vendors, and a particular area dedicated to Kids Corner. The festival highlights the city’s rich cultural diversity and the North Shore.
One of the best opportunities in the region, the Peabody International Festival allows you to explore food from all over the world. Experience a taste of Portugal with Bifanas and Linguica Sandwiches from the Azorean Brotherhood of the Divine Holy Ghost Society, or indulge in Hawaiian flavors with make-your-own POKE bowls from Big Fin Poke. The broad range of options, including Filipino, Greek, Cambodian, Armenian, Venezuelan, and more, not only elevates the culinary experience but also celebrates the multicultural fabric of the community. Including various dietary options such as gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and vegan also ensures that everyone can partake in the world’s flavors, underlining the festival’s commitment to inclusivity and the importance of food in connecting diverse cultures.
A tradition in Peabody for over 30 years, the festival showcases dozens of performances. Highlights include the return of crowd favorites such as the Armenian Dance group Sayat Nova and Dis N Dat Band, along with an all-new special opening procession featuring the Mascaras de la Perla del Sur Dominican Dancing Devils.
Mayor Ted Bettencourt
“The International Festival is Peabody’s signature community event and the biggest party on the North Shore. It is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our ethnic and cultural diversity through food, art, and entertainment.”
In addition to the performances and delectable food, the festival will return some favorite features, including the Artist Galleria. This section will highlight dozens of local artists and, this year, introduce new prizes and awards that recognize and celebrate the creative diversity found in various mediums and cultures. Creative Collective has returned to curate the artisan vendors that line Foster Street with handmade goods. Kids Corner will occur at East End Veterans Memorial Park on Walnut Street from 12:00-5:30 p.m. A Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce/Peabody Rotary Beer Garden will be behind North Shore Bank, and Granite Coast Brewing will be open on Main Street.
“In a world where division can seem all too prevalent, events like this festival are not merely entertainment but a vital platform for unity, education, and empowerment. By honoring all communities and their rich diversity, we create a culture of inclusion and belonging, transcending barriers, and fostering a sense of connection that’s essential more now than ever.”
John Andrews
Festival committee member and founder of Creative Collective
The International Festival was founded by Mayor Peter Torigian in 1984 with the goal of neighbors meeting neighbors to celebrate and appreciate each other’s culture. The International Festival is the largest festival of its kind and the signature event in Peabody. The Festival continues to attract over 50,000 people to Downtown Peabody.
Volunteers are wanted for this year’s Festival at information tables for various shifts. Please contact ifestpeabody@gmail.com to learn more about volunteer opportunities.
Can’t make the Festival this year? Don’t miss a thing; Peabody TV will be live streaming all day on Youtube, Facebook, and their website: https://peabodytv.org
For more information, visit https://ifestpeabody.com or email us at ifestpeabody@gmail.com.
