Fanshawe students prepare for Opening Night at Stratford culinary festival

London Community News

A new partnership has been forged between Fanshawe College and Savour Stratford Perth County Culinary Festival as they present the Opening Night. This new event kicks off the Culinary Festival on Sept. 21 as Veterans Drive is transformed into an eclectic village of food stalls, street performers and musical entertainers from 5 – 8 p.m. “Fanshawe College is delighted to kick off the festival and partner with Savour Stratford,” said Leanne Perreault, manager of corporate communication at Fanshawe College, in a news release. “Applied learning and hands-on experience are integral elements of a college education, and this is a great opportunity for Fanshawe students to showcase their talents. The enthusiasm about this project is very high — everyone is quite excited about presenting opening night.” A tempting menu including mini beef short rib sandwiches, pulled Perth County pork, smoked salmon, potato latkes and vanilla crème brulèe will be created, each with their own unique twist and served from various tents by the chefs and students from the faculty of Tourism and Hospitality. The music of Chasing Down by Fanshawe Music Industry Arts students will entertain from the bandshell. “Partnerships are very important to the success of the Savour Stratford Culinary Festival,” said festival director Danielle Brodhagen. “We are impressed by the work and effort of the students of Fanshawe College as the Opening Night sets the tone for the weekend.” Everyone is invited to come, celebrate and enjoy complimentary popcorn and cotton candy, along with the music and opening ceremonies of the culinary festival. Face painting will be offered for the children along with a few fun surprises.  Food tickets will be available for sale to sample the delicious fare the Fanshawe students offer during the evening. Savour Stratford Perth County Culinary Festival, presented by GE Café Appliances, is Ontario’s foremost celebration of authentic local cuisine. Set in one of Ontario’s loveliest towns, award-winning chefs, renowned culinary authors, producers, artisans and innovators gather to share their passion, knowledge and love of food in Stratford from Sept. 21–23. For more information and tickets visit www.savourstratford.com.