Festivals Shine a Light on Foods
Savoring Tradition, Eyeing Change
Strings of bright lights flickered over a crowd bubbling with excitement as a New York City darkness set over them. They were drawn like me to Mulberry Street. It was Saturday night in September (sorry this took so long to post, but life is busy!), and the patron saint of Naples was in full swing. Every year this festival descends on Little Italy with religious processions, music, rides whirling in the sky, Italian American food, and booths to win prizes. You need a stuffed animal, don’t you?
Tempting Delicacies
The place was very fun, but I passed on the food because we had already eaten dinner at an Italian restaurant I had read about in The New York Times (that’s another story!). Had we not, I think I would have taken a small bite of a few things despite being fried or powdered in sugar.
Street fairs are a long-standing tradition in these parts. I like the aura.
This was the Feast of San Gennaro, but I had roughly the same experience at the Oktoberfest on Stone Street. It, like Mulberry Street, was charming. Stone Street dates back to the 17th century when the Dutch laid the cobblestones for something better than what was there.
At Oktoberfest, they were serving beer and pretzels. There is nothing wrong with a little of that. I was duly tempted by an oversized pretzel, its hot bread pressed against a bright white napkin. Phil might have gotten a massive stein of beer! But we had already had lunch, and neither of us was hungry for anything else.
Beyond the Food: Community and Culture
At both events, we took in the community and cultural aspects, walking, seeing what they were offering, and celebrating the heritage behind them. As I passed the food booths, I began to think about how these events are probably very similar to other events around the country and, of course, the world.
At such events, foods can prioritize convenience and cultural comfort over health. Fried and sugary foods dominated the offerings. They’re part of the culture and indulgent by design, tying back to traditions. I’m not sure they’re supposed to be healthy but rather reflective of the event to be enjoyed yearly.
There were a few healthy options at both events, but I was too fixated on the light and fluffy cannoli fillings, fried zeppole drying from their oil on a tray, oversized mugs of beer, and huge pretzels, the quintessential drink and snack during Oktoberfest.
A Time for Fun and Possibility for Change
Some foods don’t necessarily qualify as healthy options, and I began to think about how convenience and indulgence can often trump health and balance. This made me feel bad – I should be enjoying the food. But since I wasn’t hungry, I simply remained true to my health goals and what makes me feel good.
Ultimately, what mattered most was that we had a great time and appreciated how we could bump into these fun gatherings without any planning. As for healthier options, I don’t know if that type of fare will necessarily find its way into festivals, but with evolving tastes in America, you never know. Vendors catering to broader dietary needs—vegetarian, gluten-free, and lower-calorie—might benefit from expanding their offerings and, thus, their appeal.
Healthier options for San Gennaro might be inspired by Mediterranean diets, like whole-grain focaccia, fresh bruschetta, or even desserts made with less sugar. Grilled pretzels, veggie sausages, or lighter beers could serve as alternatives at Oktoberfest.
On the flip side, festival organizers and vendors might worry whether the healthy options would be as convenient or profitable as the traditional fried or sugary foods. However, as consumer interest grows, these options may become a norm, not a novelty.
Should You Expect Change?
Change is slow, especially at events steeped in heritage. However, speaking up matters if you’re looking for healthier options. Offering feedback to organizers or supporting vendors who provide lighter alternatives can encourage shifts over time.
Even if the main focus remains on traditional specialties, hoping for—and even asking for—healthier versions is not unreasonable. And if it’s not there yet, planning by bringing snacks or eating beforehand can help you enjoy the event without compromising your health goals. Bottom line: Have a good time!
