This commentary originally aired on December 15, 2015.
One of the best things about living in Wichita is the chance to go to a year-round set of food fests. Most start as congregational fund
raisers or neighborhood events. But they grow to become beloved traditions that attract visitors from across the city.
The year begins with the chicken and noodles dinner at St. Paul’s Methodist.
At Shrove Tuesday, the day before the start of Lent, Wichitans can indulge at the Oyster Feed at St. James Episcopal Church.
Lent then sees a series of fish fries. One of my favorites is at Holy Savior Catholic Church.
After Easter, there is the Mediterranean Food Festival at St. Mary’s Orthodox Church.
Around Mother’s Day, St. James Episcopal hosts its second event: the Olde English Tea.
Not all events are congregation-based. July 4 wouldn’t be complete without the Riverside neighborhood’s pancake feed.
As summer gives way to fall, a new round of food events begins. The Asian Festival at Century II features food booths whose options range from Korean to Indian, Filipino to Persian. St. George’s Orthodox Cathedral hosts its Lebanese Dinner in October that, like the one at St. Mary’s, attracts thousands of patrons.
Just weeks after the High Holy Days conclude, Congregation Emanu-El prepares for its Deli Day, complete with brisket and corned beef.
And the College Hill Halloween extravaganza is a food event for kids and entertainment for everyone.
There are, no doubt, others that could be included. That just means more food to try!