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Writing by Josephine D’Ippolito

Artwork by Cameron Bly

Who says you need a passport to have an international adventure? This summer or fall, embark on a global journey right in your own backyard. Westchester County offers vibrant festivals, delicious food and immersive cultural experiences from around the world. So pack your bags (or don’t, because we are staying local) and get ready to be transported internationally without stepping foot on a plane!

Festivals and celebrations

Experience vibrant and diverse cultures of the world right here in Westchester. These county-sponsored festivals offer a wonderful blend of traditions, music, dance and delicious regional delicacies. Mark your calendar and get ready to immerse yourself in the many global cultures presented at these upcoming events:

Mangia e diveriti (eat and enjoy) at Westchester’s own Feast of San Gennaro 

Where: Commerce Street & Railroad Park, Yorktown Heights

Tentative date: September 18– 22 

The Feast of San Gennaro began in Naples, Italy, hundreds of years ago to honor San Gennaro, the city’s beloved patron saint. In 1926, Italian immigrants from Naples brought this tradition to New York City’s Little Italy, turning Mulberry Street into a lively celebration of their heritage. Originally a one-day religious event, it has grown into an 11-day celebration, featuring a grand procession with a statue of San Gennaro himself. In 2015, a group of Yorktown locals brought the fun to northern Westchester, creating an annual feast to celebrate Italian-American heritage with the same gusto as their counterparts in Manhattan. Now, you can celebrate locally, enjoying Italian cuisine, drinks, carnival rides, games and live entertainment. And yes, they have their own statue procession, which will kick off the five-day extravaganza on September 18.

Bier trinken (drink beer) at these Oktoberfest celebrations

Oktoberfest is an annual festival that started in Germany in 1810 to celebrate the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig to Princess Therese of Sachsen-Hildburghausen. Nothing says “I do” like beer and bratwurst?! Fast forward to today, and this epic tradition occurs worldwide from late September into October. The festival is marked by traditional Bavarian music, folk dances and a plethora of German food and beer. This year, festivities will be held throughout Westchester County, with many offering activities for the kiddos as well, like face painting and hot dog tosses. And for the adults? There will be plenty of beer and live music (sung in German, of course!) to keep the party going.  

Sleepy Hollow Oktoberfest

Where: Kingsland Point Park, 299 Palmer Avenue, Sleepy Hollow

When: September 28, 1–5 p.m. 

White Plains Oktoberfest Bar Crawl

Where: Downtown White Plains

When: September 28, 4–11 p.m.

Croton Oktoberfest

Where: Grand Street, Croton

When: October 5, 12–6 p.m.

Eat and drink your way around the world 

Ready to master international cuisine?  Westchester Community College, in coordination with A Taste of Westchester, has teamed up with some of the county’s most beloved chefs to offer a series of courses that include private cooking demonstrations or discussions followed by a tasting. Most sessions cost $25, plus a $25 sampling fee. Here are a few of the upcoming international classes and demonstrations. Visit their website for a full list:

Cyprus Greek lunch at Meraki Taverna, 456 Main Street, Armonk, July 20, 12–2 p.m.

The inventors of the Olympics and democracy can also hold their own in the kitchen. While we’re not sure how the Cyprus-born and trained chef/owner Michalakis “Mike” Sarris made his way to Armonk, we do know that learning from a native is the way to go. Recipes and tasting include: tava kounoupidi (pork and cauliflower), mussels saganaki, warm pita with lemon marinated olives, tyropitakia (imported Greek feta cheese crafted into a pie with honey and sesame), cypriot meatballs in a savory sauce and for the sweet finale, baklava with a mini iced frappe. By the looks of this menu, each bite will transport you straight to the sunny Cyprus shores. 

Calabrian lunch at The 808 Bistro, 808 Scarsdale Avenue, Scarsdale, July 27, 12–2 p.m.

Sometimes referred to as the “toe” of the Italian boot, Calabria is the southernmost part of mainland Italy. It is one of the country’s poorer regions, but its humble ingredients have the power to create unforgettable meals. Owner and chef Salvatore Cucullo will share recipes he discovered on a recent visit to the region, including: lagane pasta (a thin, wide and short noodle), chickpeas in a light garlic and oil sauce, roast pork, creamy polenta and Italian bocconotti cookies. This menu has our stomachs growling, and even Italian Nonnas will appreciate how these comfort foods are elevated to chef’s kiss perfection!  

Indian spice lunch at Chutney Masala, 76 Main Street, Irvington, Nov. 9, 11:30 a.m. –1:30 p.m.

Are you a lover of Indian cuisine but break into a sweat at the mere thought of cooking it yourself? Fear not, fellow foodie. Get ready to embark on a flavor expedition through the colorful world of Indian cuisine at this Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant with chef Navjot Arora. Recipes and tasting include: samosas with potato, pea and ginger filling served with chana masala, mint chutney and tamarind chutney, goan wild shrimp curry in a tangy and piquant coconut infused sauce, chicken biryani served with raita and a mini-taste of the restaurant’s signature cocktail, a sassy lassi: coconut rum with blended mango yogurt. The adventure will be filled with flavor, and when the journey ends, you’ll be ready to conquer Indian cooking in your very own kitchen.

Art, culture and design

Delight in Japanese gardens

Where: Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden, 28 Deveau Road, North Salem

Embark on a virtual visit to Japan right here in northern Westchester at the Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden in North Salem. While the Hammond encompasses an art museum with exhibitions and educational programs, the highlight is its stunning Japanese garden. Founded in 1957 by Natalie Hammond after her extensive travels in Japan, the garden is a sanctuary of traditional Japanese design.

As you wander along the meticulously crafted walking path, you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to a peaceful landscape in the heart of Japan. Spanning 3 ½ acres and centered around a serene pond, the garden offers a beautiful blend of rare Japanese and indigenous Westchester flora, plants and trees. And don’t miss the traditional Japanese tea room, which was imported from Kyoto and is used for tea ceremony events. Open to the public from April to November, it’s the perfect spot in Northern Westchester to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and soak in the calm of Japanese garden design.

Explore Jonathan Becker’s photography

Where: Katonah Museum of Art, 134 Jay Street, Katonah  

When: July 14 – October 27

Experience the alluring power of photography with famed photographer Jonathan Becker’s “Lost Time” exhibit at the Katonah Museum of Art this summer and fall. His portraits for publications like Vanity Fair and Vogue provide intimate glimpses into the lives of some of today’s most iconic figures around the world. Celebrate Becker’s 40-year career and get a glimpse into different cultures and times through Becker’s journeys in Italy, France, England and Buenos Aires.

Savor the English tradition of afternoon tea

Where: Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, 149 Girdle Ridge Road, Katonah

When: Fridays at 1 p.m. 

Founder Lucie Rosen was known for inviting friends and guests to a traditional English tea in her Caramoor home. They’d chat and plan concerts or other social events. Today, Caramoor hosts a weekly formal tea in the grand Rosen house’s music room. A variety of fragrant teas are offered, along with a selection of finger sandwiches, scones and pastries, all served on exquisite vintage China in a historic setting that includes a portrait of the founder. We have a feeling Ms. Rosen wouldn’t have it any other way.

Music and dance

Move to the Brazilian beat

Where: New Rochelle Public Library

When: July 23 at 7 p.m.

Spend the night smiling, laughing and dancing with Brazilian-American musician Nanny Assis, whose vibrant and energizing rhythms translate to pure joy, making it impossible to sit still. Bring the entire family (kids included) to this free event where you will be moving and grooving to the beats of samba, baião, and other celebratory styles.

Dance around the world

Where: Josie’s International School of Dance at Danznik Studios, 26 Broadway, Hawthorne

Dance is an integral part of many cultures as it’s a vibrant expression of identity and a powerful way for communities to celebrate their heritage and connect with their roots. From ceremonial religious rituals to joyous energy at weddings and festivals, dance is one way we stay connected to our ancestors. And even if it’s not “in your blood,” you can explore various dance styles from around the globe, thanks to Josie’s International School of Dance in White Plains. For example, you can learn the Argentine tango (known as “a secret danced between two people”), the popular flamenco (based on Spanish folk music) and even belly dancing or Middle East drumming. The best part is that Josie’s offers classes for all levels, so even if you have two left feet, you’ll be cutting a rug in no time.

Rhythms of Africa

Where: Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, 149 Girdle Ridge Road, Katonah

When: August 16, 7 p.m.

Get ready to groove under the stars! Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts is bringing Mokoomba, a six-piece band hailing from Zimbabwe, for an epic night of their signature Afrofusion magic! Globally acclaimed, Mokoomba captivates audiences with their electrifying beats, taking you on a musical journey across Africa and beyond. Don’t miss out on this global sensation presented as part of Caramoor’s “Concert on the Lawn” series.

Island vibes

Where: The Barley Beach House, 95 Dearborn Avenue, Rye

When: August 16, 6 – 8 p.m.

Get ready for some great fun at the Reggae Rum Punch Party in Rye. The Barley Beach House is bringing Caribbean vibes to Westchester for a night filled with reggae rhythms, dancing and mouthwatering rum punch. And guess what? It’s all happening on National Rum Day, so there’s no better excuse to sip, sway and soak up those island vibes without leaving the county.

Movies to transport you to a different place

Ready to travel the world without leaving your couch?  With streaming services, you can jet off to Singapore, delight in Paris’ charm, get lost in Italy’s romantic scenery or take in Mumbai’s urban streets. Or perhaps you’re more drawn to the picturesque topography of Ireland, the lush landscapes of China or the breathtaking backdrop of Kenya. Whatever your preference, these films offer a true representation of countries around the world. So grab your popcorn and gear up for a cinematic adventure across the globe.

Africa: “Out of Africa” (1985), available on Amazon Prime

China: “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” (2000), Amazon Prime

France: “Amélie” (2001), Amazon Prime

Hong Kong: “In the Mood for Love” (2000), Max

India: “Slumdog Millionaire” (2008), Hulu

Ireland: “P.S. I Love You” (2007), Amazon Prime

Italy: “Under the Tuscan Sun” (2003), Hulu

Singapore: “Crazy Rich Asians” (2018), Max

This article was published in the July/August 2024 print edition of Connect to Northern Westchester.

Josephine D'Ippolito
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Josephine D'Ippolito is a lifelong northern Westchester resident, growing up in Mount Kisco and currently residing in Yorktown Heights. She is passionate about food and design, and her writing has been featured in various local publications, including Westchester Magazine and The Journal News.