Feast Down East marks two decades of community impact with public celebration

Feast Down East mobile van (Photo: Feast Down East)

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) — For two decades, Feast Down East has worked to connect local farmers with consumers while helping address food insecurity across Eastern North Carolina. The nonprofit will celebrate its 20th anniversary Thursday from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Plaza on Princess, located at the Harrelson Center in downtown Wilmington.

The event will recognize the organization’s impact on local agriculture and food access while highlighting the farmers, community partners, restaurants and customers who have supported its mission over the years.

Feast Down East operates programs that connect regional farmers to restaurants, grocery stores and food-insecure communities through initiatives such as its Local Motive Mobile Farmers’ Market. The organization also works to increase access to fresh, locally sourced foods in areas often considered food deserts.

Guests attending the anniversary celebration can shop from the mobile market, enjoy live music from Justin Heter Pan and CC Ryder, and watch a cooking demonstration by Ryan Andress featuring ingredients sourced from Eastern North Carolina farmers.

Organizers say the first 50 attendees will receive a commemorative canvas shopping tote courtesy of the New Hanover County Farm Bureau.

According to Feast Down East, the organization’s mission remains focused on strengthening local food systems, supporting family farms and ensuring more residents have access to fresh, nutritious food.

The free community celebration is open to the public. More information is available at https://www.feastdowneast.org/