About Us
How We Got Started
Mayor Peter Torigian founded the International Festival in 1984. The goal was simple; an opportunity for neighbor to meet neighbor, while celebrating and appreciating each other’s culture.
The International Festival is the largest festival of its kind and the signature event in Peabody for over 35 years. The Festival continues to attract between 50,000 and 80,000 people to Peabody Square.
Statement of Purpose
The International Festival Committee is organized and operated to utilize a combination of funding from the City of Peabody and private contributions to provide the maximum benefits to the entire Peabody Community.
The Committees goals are to:
- Highlight the ethnic diversity that comprises and strengthens the City.
- Present examples of the various ethnic groups’ art, culture, music, dance, literature and food.
- Provide an opportunity for diverse individuals and groups to work together on a community project that positively contributes to the quality of life in Peabody.
- Provide a showcase of artists of all cultures and expertise (for example: fine arts, sculpture, music, dance, narrative arts etc.) to present their work to the community.
- Provide a day of total enjoyment and entertainment for young and old, to highlight the educational and historical culture of the community.
Festival Committee
Honorary Chairman:
Mayor Edward Bettencourt
Co-Chairs:
Camille Bartlett, Chuck Holden, Barry Osborne
|
Beth Amico John Andrews Jennifer Brickley Tim Brown Sharon Cameron Donna Connelly Lisa Greene Lisa Geczi |
Kevin Guzofski Paul Lazzaro Courtney Macloon Shawn Mahoney Darryl McCarthy Ruth Mowder Captain Scott Richards Chris Ryder |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does admission cost?
The International Festival is a free event.
Is the Festival rain or shine?
The Festival date is September 11, 2022, with a rain date of September 18, 2022.
Where can I park?
Parking is available on Chestnut Street, Foster Street, Mill Street, Washington Street, and Railroad Ave.
What streets are closed during the Festival?
View the 2022 Street closures here.
Are there shuttles available?
The shuttle busses will run from the Higgins Middle School and from the rear of the North Shore Mall (near East Boston Savings) from 11:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.
Where are the restrooms?
Restrooms are available at the corner of Lowell/Foster Street, Nichols Street, and East End Veterans Memorial Park.
Are dogs allowed at the Festival?
As much as we love them, we ask that you please leave your furry friends at home.
Is there alcohol at the Festival?
The Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce sponsors a beer garden located on the court house plaza.
Our Events
In addition to all-day live entertainment at both stages and food booths, the International Festival has an area dediated to kids, an Artisan Market & Galleria, and a beer garden.
Lowell Street & Peabody Square
Entertainment Stage
The International Festival has all day entertainment from 11:30am-5pm at two sites: one at the corner of Chestnut and Lowell Street, and the other at the corner of Main and Washington Street.
Main Street
Food Booths
Galumpkis, knish, empanadas, oh my! The International Festival features over 65 food booths ranging from Greek, Portuguese, Brazilian, Polish, Chinese, Indian, Irish, Caribbean, and so much more!
Foster Street
Artisan Market & Galleria
The Galleria showcases artwork and paintings from both new and familiar faces. And the Creative Collective will be bringing in over 40 local artisan vendors featuring crafts from all around the world!
Courthouse Plaza
Beer Garden
The Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce and Peabody Rotary will co-host a Beer Garden on the courthouse plaza.
Beer will also be served at Granite Coast Brewery at 77 Main Street.
East End Veterans Memorial Park
Kids Corner
Hula hoop contest, egg toss, watermelon race, and more! A day filled with music, dancing, and character shows.