The corner of Albion Road and Islington Avenue was overflowing with culture on Saturday.
About 40,000 people from as far as Trinidad came to check out the 4th annual Fusion of Taste Festival on July 10, said Shalini Srivastava, manager of the Albion Islington Square BIA which organized the huge event.
The festival has grown from 5,000 people in its first year when it was contained in a parking lot, but is making huge strides thanks to an aggressive advertising campaign, she said. That campaign included mailing out 4,000 postcards to nearby residents to inform them of the party, she said.
Along with several food vendors offering international dishes, a children's group dance competition also showcased different cultures, said Srivastava. It was "open dancing", she said. "Whatever way they wanted to show their creativity and originality."
Roti Roti Restaurant was attempting to break a world record for biggest roti, but that attempt was "cancelled last minute" due to problems Srivastava didn't specify, noting the family of the restaurant owners had come from Trinidad to witness the show. But the restaurant hasn't abandoned the idea.
"He will try the world record again next year, the rolling pin is ready," she said.
New this year to the festival was a fashion show and a raffle sponsored by BIA area stores, said the BIA manager. "I'm so happy that all these merchants believe in it and participate in it," said Srivastava. "It's a party time for them, it's a fun day."