For more than six decades , International Village has invited the people of McKeesport and surrounding communities to enjoy the sights , sounds and tastes of their heritage during a three-day festival in the heart of Renziehausen Park .
This year ’ s festivities took place on August 10 , 11 and 12 on Stephen Barry Field and under the Andrew J . Jakomas Blue-Top Pavilion . And while portions of the festival were held back by heavy rains , steady visitors came to pick up their favorite foods . Nearly everyone who walks through the Village gates can ’ t help but be tempted by International delicacies and oldfashioned comfort foods , including hand-carved lamb , fresh-baked cookies , savory Mediterranean pies , handstuffed cabbages and pierogis , and hot apple dumplings .
Nationalities featured at the Village included African-American ( Ghana ), Austrian , Croatian , Egyptian , Filipino , French , Greek , Hawaiian , Italian , Lebanese , Serbian , Swedish , Taiwanese , and Vietnamese .
But for many , the draw of the Village extends beyond their taste buds . Longtime attendees are just as mesmerized by the stage performers and their vibrant , traditional garb as young children seeing their shows for the first time . For others , it ’ s about reunions .
“ As mayor of the city of McKeesport , I ’ m thrilled to welcome guests from across the region ( and beyond ) back to the beautiful Renzie Park for our community ’ s signature event , International Village ,” Mayor Michael Cherepko said . “ As always , the Village was an opportunity for our local churches and community groups to share their favorite foods and their heritage with all of us . This tradition was greatly missed last year , and I couldn ’ t be happier to host it once again .”
Cherepko thanked participating organizations for coming together to bring back International Village and assured those groups who needed to take another year off that they ’ ll be more than welcome again in 2022 .
CITY OF MCKEESPORT NEWS
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MCKEESPORT AREA ❘ FALL 2021 21