Founded in 1924 as Die Deutsche Zentral, the German Central Foundation has hosted this fledgling annual Russian festival on its beautifully wooded grounds on York Road. In its fourth year, the event is presented by St Sergius Russian Orthodox Cathedral, and features food, music, dancing and vendors, all in a relaxing, park-like setting.
An admission fee of five dollars is requested at the gate, and you must pre-purchase tickets for all food and beverage service. Credit cards are accepted for ticket purchases and at the vendor tables. Several buildings are clustered around a central common area, with a main, two-floor dining hall, complete with a large dance floor on the upper level; pressed into use by art vendors for this particular festival.
A smaller building houses a second dining hall, decorated as a Russian "tea room", complete with an array of homemade desserts, coffee, and of course, tea. The main dining hall is set up cafeteria-style, with delectable choices such as stuffed cabbage, Russian meatballs and beefy sauerkraut. Seasoned rice, mashed potatoes and rolls were offered as starches, while a choice of beet, carrot or potato salads helped balance out the meal selections. Water and non-alcoholic beverages were being served at a large bar adjacent to the kitchen.
A bier garden was set up outside in the common area, along with a small kiosk offering authentic Russian ice cream and blini (crepes). Nearby in the pavilion, a Russian dance troupe were engaged in an acrobatic performance, accompanied by a small band.
This is truly a wonderfully organized and presented festival, held in a comfortable, wooded setting. read more