By Jim Carchidi
September 1, 2026
Festival Park will host a celebration of cuisine and culture with Afro Food Fest, happening Saturday, Sept. 5, from noon-7 p.m. Programming and vendors will showcase the influences of African traditions on Caribbean, Latino and other global cultures. Afro Food Fest also marks the 30th year of parent company, Three Masks cultural shop and event space, located at 1023 W. Colonial Dr.
Three Masks
The venue first opened on West Church Street by the current Kia Center site before moving to its Colonial Drive storefront. The shop stocks authentic African goods and engages the community through art, classes, workshops, and organized international travel.
“Every day, going to my workplace is like going home,” says owner Tim Adebule in a prepared statement. Adebule was born in Nigeria and has endeavoured to share his culture with residents and visitors. “They come into the store and they’re so happy. They’re happy to share, happy to relax themselves and happy to be able to hear little stories from the continent.”
Jollof cook-off
Adebule started and hosted three years of the Jollof Cook-Off Competition at Three Masks. The popular, one-pot West African rice dish is simmered in a tomato stew base infused with spices and enhanced with proteins and vegetables.
According to the event page, Jollof recipes differ by region. Nigerian versions are cooked over firewood for a smoky flavor and use long-grain parboiled rice and Scotch bonnet peppers. Ghanaian versions use aromatic rice like basmati or jasmine with sauces featuring ginger and garlic. Other regions incorporate fish and unique local ingredients like smoked snails or tamarind.
Chefs compete each year for bragging rights and prizes in a blind taste test. This year's contestants will vie for a $1,000 cash prize.
More flavor
The festival will encompass Adebule’s passion for sharing African culture with a day of events that include:
- African and Afro-Caribbean food vendors
- Live music and cultural performances
- Local artisans
- Family-friendly activities
- Community engagement opportunities
- Cultural education and heritage experiences
Afro Food Fest tickets and vendor information are available on the event page.
Sponsor: The Orlando Real is sponsored by the Pozek Group — the #1 real estate team in Orlando and the Official Real Estate Team of the Orlando Magic.
About the Author
Jim Carchidi is an Orlando journalist and photographer with previous work at the Orlando Sentinel and Orlando Business Journal. He covers development, arts, culture, and local stories for The Orlando Real.
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