The smell of freshly made culinary creations filled the park as local bands entertain the people of downtown Phoenix.
Fried food enthusiasts attend the 2nd annual Fried Fest on Saturday at Margaret T. Hance Park in downtown Phoenix.
“Who doesn’t love french fries and music?” said Jennifer Garrett, a new member of the Phoenix community. “I mean, it’s a potato! We love it.”
Garrett recently moved to Arizona from Colorado and has never seen a food festival quite like Fried Fest.
Food-lovers relaxed under trees and pop-ups to get a break from the heat, many claiming this event kicks off the start of summer weather.
The french fry and music festival hosts a variety of food vendors, artists and musicians. Whether looking for funnel cake, ice cream, fruit, or, yes, french fries, there is something for everyone.
Embracing the love of french fries, vendors like The American Poutine, Mr. Fries Man and Zombie Bones all sold french fry creations
A popular dessert vendor was the Original Berrie Kabobs, advertising as a healthy and delicious option.
Berrie Kabobs is a family-owned business, a mom-and-son operation. They sell strawberries accompanied with various fruits or desserts, served on a wooden skewer.
Berrie Kabobs can be seen all across the valley in places like Kauffman Stadium, Hale Arena and Sprint Center.
While this is the second annual Fried Fest, the last festival was actually held in 2019 but didn’t return until now because of the pandemic.
“It’s nice to walk around and see all the vendors and everyone eating,” said Jasmine, a Phoenix local.
Along with food and beverages, local artists set up tables selling their products.
Adriana, owner of Mexico Colectivo, is a local jewelry maker selling traditional pieces that contain natural stones and minerals, all inspired by the Wixarika culture.
“There are a lot of open spaces to show jewelry and this time it’s giving more space, even more for art,” Adriana said. “You can see any kind of vendor.”
Another artist featured at Fried Fest is The Righteous Tone. Created by Victoria, this business originally began as a way to fight the standard of professionalism when it comes to earrings.
“I’m new to the area and I wanted to get out and see the different opportunities and I like to connect with new people…and I love french fries!” Victoria said.
A big part of what makes a festival thrive is the live entertainment.
This year’s line-up had nine featured musicians performing at two different stages including, The Deadbeat Cousins, Las Calakas, and Vid Nelson.
An addition to the festival this year included free lawn games from AZ Board Source, for all members of the family to enjoy.
From ice cream at Totally Rolled Ice Cream, to beer at Mule 2.0, there was something to enjoy for all ages.
This event was created by the creators of the Phoenix Pizza Festival and supports Downtown Phoenix Inc., a group with a vision of a vibrant and healthy downtown with an enriching, engaged community.
“Now that we know it’s a thing, we’re gonna be coming every year,” said Garrett.
Missed the event this year? No worries. This seems to be a crowd favorite with the expectations that this event will continue each year, so check back in next spring!
Contact the reporter at mrlovin@asu.edu.
