Houlton's Culinary Tapestry: Celebrating Diversity Through Food

Houlton, Maine, is a community that embraces its diversity, and the upcoming International Food Festival is a testament to that. Ruba Haddad, the chairwoman of the Houlton Rotary International Service Committee, is leading the charge to bring together the town's residents from various cultural backgrounds to share their culinary traditions and foster a greater understanding of one another.

Uniting Cultures, One Dish at a Time

Discovering the Flavors of Houlton's Global Community

Houlton is a melting pot of cultures, with residents hailing from 21 different nations around the world. The International Food Festival provides a unique opportunity for these diverse communities to showcase their culinary heritage and share their stories. From the aromatic curries of Jamaica to the delicate pastries of Romania, the festival promises to be a gastronomic adventure that celebrates the rich tapestry of Houlton's global community.Ruba Haddad, a native of Amman, Jordan, who now calls Houlton home, is particularly excited about the festival. "This is a journey for us, and we are discovering a lot," she says. "Let's be honest, we are all from somewhere else, and we are also celebrating with people who have always lived here and discovering their roots."

Bridging Cultures Through Culinary Connections

Food has a unique ability to bring people together, transcending language and cultural barriers. The International Food Festival aims to harness this power, providing a platform for Houlton's residents to share their culinary traditions and learn about the diverse flavors that make up their community."To have my kids put on their traditional clothes from Jordan and to have them come here and talk about food — it means so much to me," Haddad shares, reflecting on the personal significance of the event. By encouraging families to showcase their cultural heritage through food, the festival fosters a greater appreciation for the rich diversity that exists within Houlton.

Expanding the Culinary Horizons of Houlton

The International Food Festival has grown exponentially over the years, starting with a small dessert auction representing nine nations and now featuring 42 dishes from 21 different countries. This expansion is a testament to the community's enthusiasm and the organizers' dedication to continuously discovering new culinary treasures within Houlton."We keep finding people and people are reaching out to us when there is a new family," Haddad explains. "They contact us and I go meet them. We are bringing people together and celebrating different cultures in a safe environment so it's been an amazing journey and we keep adding things."The festival has evolved beyond just a culinary experience, now incorporating live performances, children's activities, a gift shop, and a live auction. This multifaceted approach ensures that the event caters to the diverse interests and needs of Houlton's residents, creating a truly immersive cultural experience.

Cultivating Curiosity and Embracing Differences

The International Food Festival is not just about sampling exotic dishes; it's also about fostering a spirit of curiosity and openness towards cultural differences. Haddad emphasizes the importance of encouraging children to try new foods and embrace the diversity that surrounds them."We are preparing the children to try something new. And It's OK if you don't like it, it's OK but give it a try. It was prepared with love so give it a try," she says, highlighting the festival's role in shaping the next generation's attitudes towards cultural diversity.Through interactive activities, storytelling, and the sharing of cultural traditions, the event aims to cultivate a sense of wonder and appreciation for the unique flavors and customs that make up Houlton's global community.

Giving Back to the Global Community

The Houlton Rotary International Service Committee, the driving force behind the International Food Festival, has a long history of supporting international projects and initiatives. From donating funds for Toilets for Students in El Salvador to providing aid for the earthquake in Haiti, the committee has demonstrated a deep commitment to making a positive impact on a global scale.The festival's proceeds will be used to support the committee's ongoing international service projects, ensuring that the event not only celebrates Houlton's diversity but also contributes to the betterment of communities around the world.By harnessing the power of food to bring people together, the International Food Festival has become a cornerstone of Houlton's cultural landscape, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for the diverse tapestry that makes up this vibrant community.