By Shay Hough shayhough00@gmail.com
Bring your appetite down to Downtown Laramie because today’s the day the Laramie International Flavor Festival returns for another exciting year! Starting today through April 20th, downtown Laramie will transform into a melting pot of cultures and flavors, showcasing the rich diversity of the international community right here in Wyoming.
With more than 20 downtown restaurants and businesses participating, this year’s festival promises to be a flavorful journey like no other. Inspired by the traditions and cuisines of over 40 nations, these establishments will be offering special menus and events crafted in collaboration with over 60 international students and community members.
The festivities kick off with a Welcome Reception featuring Aylin Carey, followed by a press conference and awards ceremony for the Writing Contest Announcements. Mayor’s proclamation for Laramie International Flavor Festival Week will set the tone for a week filled with cultural exploration and culinary delights.
Throughout the week, attendees can engage in a variety of activities designed to celebrate cultural expression. From International Food Trivia at Bond’s Brewing to an open mic night for International or food poetry readings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the highlights of the festival is the International Barefoot Boogie, a mindful dance party set to popular music from around the globe. Hosted at The Collective, this event welcomes people of all ages to listen and dance along to the sounds of different cultures.
Music enthusiasts won’t want to miss Live in Laramie at the Elks, featuring Brazilian music by the Jorge Alabe Quartet. Prior to the performance, there will be an open Brazilian Dance workshop for the community to join in the fun and learn some new moves.
As the festival draws to a close on Saturday, April 20th, don’t miss the free International Culture Adventure at The Collective. In a celebration of unity and diversity, this festival features music and dance performances from the international community, as well as posters and demonstrations by international students and scholars from the University of Wyoming.
Of course, no international festival would be complete without indulging in some delicious cuisine. Participating restaurants such as Bejo Dua Sushi & Ramen, Accomplice Mycro Pub, and Lovejoys (just to name a few), will be serving up dishes inspired by countries like Indonesia, England, and Belgium. From Bakso Meatball Soup to a traditional Full English breakfast and Belgian Beef Stew, there’s a world of flavors to explore right here in Laramie.
Whether you enjoy trying new foods, or simply seeking to celebrate the beauty of cultural diversity, the Laramie International Flavor Festival offers a unique opportunity to connect with the global community in your own backyard. Join us as we come together to savor the flavors of the world and celebrate the richness of our shared humanity.
2024 Participating Restaurants:
- Bejo Dua Sushi & Ramen -Indonesia
- Altitude Chophouse and Brewery-Mexico
- 307 Meats-Korea
- The Library-Australia
- Alibi-Venezuela
- Devine Eats-Taiwan, Japan and Philippines
- Coal Creek Coffee-Philippines
- Lovejoys-Belgium
- The Crowbar & Grill- Algeria/North Africa, Ukraine, Gaza Region, Lebanon, and Georgia
- Accomplice Mycro Pub-England
- Mizu Sushi-Indonesia
- Anong’s Thai Cuisine-Japan
- The Sugar Mouse Cupcake House-Cambodia
- 2nd Street Deli- Ecuador
- Born in a Barn- Brazil
- Coal Creek Tap-Norway
- Chacho’s Tacos and Bond’s Brewing – Germany and Italy
- Almanza’s Mexican Restaurant-Korea
- Big Dipper Ice Cream Shop-Pakistan
- Night Heron & Coffeehouse-Denmark
- Chalk N’ Cheese-Poland
- Sweet Melissa’s and Front Street-Egypt
- The Chocolate Cellar-International delicacies
- The Grounds Internet and Coffee Lounge
For more information and a full schedule of events, visit: laramiemainstreet.org/international-flavor-festival