The Ethiopian community in Alexandria will share its food and culture at a returning fall festival this weekend.
The Ethiopian Community Support and Advocacy Center will host the sixth annual Ethiopian Fall Festival from 1-7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 11, at Chinquapin Park (3210 King Street). Ethiopian families and local residents alike are invited to the festival to celebrate Ethiopian heritage and share culture, traditions, food, music, dance and art with the community.
The festival promises Ethiopian food and coffee, vendors, music and dance, fashion and cultural presentations, family activities, children’s games and more.
Gennet Negussie, founder and executive director of the Ethiopian Community Support and Advocacy Center, told ALXnow this year’s festival reflects continued growth “with more community participation, vendors, cultural performances, and activities for families and young people.”
Alexandria has a notable Ethiopian population and array of Ethiopian restaurants, particularly on the West End. The nonprofit Ethiopian Community Support and Advocacy Center was founded in 2022 to connect families to resources and opportunities as well as provide youth development, educational support, social services, mental health and cultural programs.
“Celebrating Ethiopian culture in Alexandria is especially meaningful because the Ethiopian community is an important part of the diversity of our city,” Negussie said. “For many Ethiopian and Ethiopian American young people, it is also an opportunity to celebrate their heritage and feel proud of both their Ethiopian roots and their place in the Alexandria community.”
Admission is $10 in advance for ages 13 and up, while children 12 and under are free. Proceeds benefit the center’s year-round programs. Free parking is available at Alexandria City High School.
