International Food Fair: One Table, Many Nations

 

On October 11, 2025, more than 350 guests gathered at OC Grace SDA Church for the All Nations International Food Fair—a young adult–led event where culture meets compassion. Designed to bring people of all backgrounds together through food, music, and service, the fair continues to prove that helping others can be both joyful and community-driven.

From the moment guests arrived, the church parking lot was transformed into a vibrant marketplace filled with the aroma of global cuisine, colorful decorations, and the sound of laughter and live music. Each booth, carefully decorated by volunteers, represented a different country and culture—offering authentic dishes, desserts, and drinks from around the world.

Attendees traveled from table to table sampling flavors representing 15 countries, including:

  • Brazil
  • Haiti
  • Indonesia
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Jamaica
  • Korea
  • Mexico
  • Paraguay
  • Peru
  • The Philippines
  • Türkiye
  • USA
  • Vietnam

Beyond the food, the evening came alive through performances that celebrated the beauty of cultural expression. From the rhythmic energy of Polynesian dance to the grace of Chinese and Indian performances, each act reflected the creativity and pride of its community. Musicians and dancers from across Southern California shared their talents, inviting the audience to not only watch but join in the celebration of each of their cultures.

What began as a heartfelt response to global crises has evolved into a growing movement of compassion and connection. The event brought together volunteers from various churches, local high schools, and community groups from all over Orange County and Los Angeles area. The All Nations International Food Fair was first launched in 2023 by a team of young adults from the OCGCYA community who wanted to do something tangible for people affected by worldwide tragedies. In its first year, the event raised $7,000 for Türkiye-Syria earthquake relief. The following year, it brought in $6,600 to aid families in Gaza and surrounding areas. This year, the fair raised an additional $7,505 to support ADRA humanitarian relief for families in Congo—bringing the total impact to more than $21K in just three years.

While the donations are significant, the heart of the event goes beyond the numbers. Each booth, performance, and conversation serves as a reminder that compassion transcends borders. “It’s more than just a food fair,” one volunteer shared. “It’s a chance for people to come together, learn about one another, and make a difference—no matter where they come from.”

Each year, this vibrant gathering reminds attendees that when all nations come together, change happens—one meal, one song, and one act of compassion at a time.

To find out more and/or donate click here.

Address

11330 Pierce Street
Riverside, CA 92505

Mailing

P.O. Box 79990
Riverside, CA 92513

Hours of Operation

Mon. 9 A.M. - 5:30 P.M.
Tues. - Thurs. 8 A.M. - 5:30 P.M.
(951) 509-2200
info@seccsda.org

Address

11330 Pierce Street
Riverside, CA 92505

Hours of operation

Mon. 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Tues. - Thurs. 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
(951) 509-2200
info@seccsda.org

Mailing

P.O. Box 79990
Riverside, CA 92513
© 2025 Southeastern California of Seventh-day Adventists. All rights reserved.
magnifiercrossmenuchevron-downcross-circle

Contact to Listing Owner

Captcha Code