YOU’VE GOT QUESTIONS?
WE’VE GOT ANSWERS…
1. Is the event annually, monthly or during the summer only?
The event takes place once a year only in August; only in 2021 we had to adjust the date to July due to the covid pandemic.
2. Why does it take so much to serve the food?
Please keep in mind that almost all the food presented and sold in the festival in made on site, so the coking process, as we all know, takes a little bit of time. We care very much about the safety of our attendees so the Festival’s Organizers together with the VA Health Inspectors require our food vendors to take their time and cook the meat properly at the safety temperature required for that specific dish.
3. What’s the lineup for the cultural performances?
The lineup will be announced as performers are booked. There are several phases and all artists will be announced all the way up to a few weeks before the festival.
4. What are the set times for performances?
Since the lineup is continuously added to leading up to the festival, set times are not finalized until a few weeks before the festival begins to allow for the printing of the schedules. A temporary schedule will be published online, but that is subject to change at any time.
5. Can I bring my own chair and umbrella?
Yes, you can bring your own blanket, chair and umbrella and set it up in the area designated for sitting only.
6. Will the festival provide tents for the attendees?
We will have umbrellas and tables set up in different areas of the festival’s grounds, but we are well aware that it not be enough shade for everyone.
7. Are pets allowed?
Yes, pets are allowed as long as they are kept on a leash and they are being cleaned after. We will have water stations set up for them, so you can keep them hydrated.
8. Is there day parking?
Meter Parking is available on adjacent streets. Daily parking is available in underground parking garages all around downtown Old Town Alexandria. Please see our Festival Map and Directions tab for parking availability in the area. We also encourage taking a ride share, the bus or metro; the bus stops is right in front of the park and Braddock metro station is within walking distance.
10. Can I volunteer?
Volunteers are required to work a minimum of four to six hour shifts. These shifts may be before, during, or after the festival (as you provide your availability) and would be assigned by the Volunteer Coordinator who will work with you to establish a workable schedule.
You’re able to enjoy the festival as a normal attendee the remaining time you’re there and not on a shift. If you show up to all of your volunteer shifts, all Volunteers will receive food tickets to enjoy after their shifts. If interested in volunteering, please fill out the Volunteer Request Form and we will contact you for further details.
11. If I am a student interested in volunteering, can I receive service hours?
Upon request, students can receive service hours for volunteering in the festival.
12. Can I promote other events or pass out fliers in or around the venue?
No. There is no solicitation, or promotion of any kind allowed on or around the festival grounds.
13. When can we arrive early? Is there early entry?
The festival opens at 11 am. You can arrive early, but you will not be able to purchase food from any of the vendors prior to 11am.
14. Is there an information booth at the festival?
There will be an information booth at the festival.
15. Will you have a lost and found?
Yes, lost and found will be located at the main information booth.
16. I’m interested in becoming a food vendor or cultural exhibitor, where do I apply?
You can apply here with the vendor application.
17. I’m interested in performing as a cultural performer, where do I apply?
You can apply here with the performers application.
18. I’m interested in covering the event through a media outlet, where do I apply?
You can apply here with the media pass application.
19. I’m interested in volunteering, where do I apply?
You can apply here with the volunteer application.
20. What items are prohibited?
Prohibited Items On Property
• DRONES
• Illegal Substances
• Glass bottles
• Fireworks
• Explosives
• Weapons of any kind
• Balloons
• Fire poi or fire performance
• Hammers