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Celebrate Erie 2025: 16 Must-Try Food Vendors Spotlight

Save Your Appetite: A Deep Dive into Celebrate Erie 2025's 16 Mouthwatering Food Vendors

Erie, Pennsylvania, is gearing up for one of its most anticipated annual events: Celebrate Erie 2025. Set to take place from August 15 to August 17 in downtown Erie, this vibrant festival transforms Perry Square and surrounding streets into a hub of music, art, culture, and, perhaps most excitingly, food. With live performances from national acts, local artisans showcasing their crafts, and family-friendly activities, Celebrate Erie has long been a summer staple for residents and visitors alike. But for many attendees, the real star of the show is the diverse array of food vendors that line the festival grounds, offering everything from classic fair favorites to innovative culinary twists. This year, the event boasts 16 carefully selected food vendors, each bringing unique flavors and specialties to tantalize taste buds. If you're planning to attend, heed the advice: save your appetite. In this extensive overview, we'll explore each vendor, their standout offerings, and what makes them a must-try at Celebrate Erie 2025.

Starting with the savory staples, one of the highlights is Plyler's at the Pier, a local favorite known for its fresh seafood straight from Lake Erie. Attendees can expect platters of fried perch, shrimp baskets, and their signature fish tacos, all seasoned with a blend of herbs that capture the essence of lakeside dining. This vendor has been a fixture at Erie events for over two decades, emphasizing sustainability by sourcing from local fisheries. Next up is Calamari's Squid Row, which specializes in Italian-American street food. Their calamari fritti, served with marinara dipping sauce, is a crowd-pleaser, but don't overlook the arancini balls stuffed with cheese and risotto – a perfect handheld snack for wandering the festival.

For those craving something hearty and comforting, Smith's Hot Dogs returns with their legendary foot-long hot dogs, topped with everything from chili and cheese to sauerkraut and onions. A Erie institution since 1927, Smith's uses all-beef franks grilled to perfection, making it an ideal spot for families looking for quick, affordable bites. Pair that with Dominick's Eatery, which brings authentic Philly cheesesteaks to the mix. Thinly sliced ribeye, melted provolone, and caramelized onions on a fresh hoagie roll – it's a taste of Philadelphia right in the heart of Erie.

Venturing into international flavors, El Canelo offers a fiesta of Mexican cuisine. Their street tacos, filled with carne asada, al pastor, or vegetarian options like grilled veggies, come topped with fresh cilantro, lime, and house-made salsas ranging from mild to fiery. This vendor prides itself on using traditional recipes passed down through generations, adding an authentic cultural flair to the festival. Similarly, Bangkok Express delivers Thai delights such as pad Thai noodles stir-fried with shrimp, tofu, or chicken, and crispy spring rolls. The balance of sweet, sour, and spicy in their dishes provides a refreshing contrast to heavier festival fare.

No festival is complete without barbecue, and Smokehouse BBQ steps up with slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, and brisket platters slathered in tangy, house-made sauce. Their pitmasters start cooking at dawn to ensure every bite is tender and flavorful. For a lighter alternative, Saladworks caters to health-conscious eaters with customizable salads featuring fresh greens, proteins like grilled chicken or falafel, and an array of toppings and dressings. It's a welcome option amid the indulgence, especially with their seasonal berry vinaigrette.

Sweet tooths will rejoice at the dessert-focused vendors. Sara's Sweets specializes in gourmet cupcakes and cookies, with flavors like red velvet and salted caramel that rotate daily. This bakery-on-wheels uses locally sourced ingredients, supporting Erie's farming community. Ye Olde Sweet Shoppe evokes nostalgia with cotton candy, funnel cakes, and candy apples, perfect for kids and the young at heart. Their deep-fried Oreos are a festival exclusive that's become legendary among repeat visitors.

Exploring more eclectic options, Gyro King serves up Mediterranean classics like lamb gyros wrapped in warm pita with tzatziki sauce, tomatoes, and onions. The vendor's commitment to halal meats ensures inclusivity for diverse dietary needs. Poutine Palace brings a Canadian twist with their take on poutine: crispy fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, with add-ons like bacon or pulled pork for extra indulgence. It's a hearty, comforting dish that's gained a cult following at past events.

For plant-based eaters, Veggie Vibes offers innovative vegan fare, including jackfruit "pulled pork" sliders and buffalo cauliflower wings. Their menu proves that festival food can be both delicious and cruelty-free, appealing to a growing demographic. Pierogi Palace pays homage to Erie's Polish heritage with handmade pierogies stuffed with potato, cheese, or sauerkraut, pan-fried and served with sour cream. This vendor often features live demonstrations, adding an educational element to the eating experience.

Rounding out the lineup are Chicken Charlie's, famous for their fried chicken tenders and waffles, drizzled with maple syrup for that sweet-savory combo; and Lemonade Lagoon, quenching thirsts with fresh-squeezed lemonades in flavors like strawberry, watermelon, and classic. Finally, Erie Empanada wraps up the savory selections with flaky empanadas filled with beef, chicken, or spinach and cheese, drawing from Latin American traditions.

What sets Celebrate Erie 2025's food scene apart is the emphasis on local sourcing and community involvement. Many vendors, such as Plyler's and Smith's, are Erie-based businesses that have participated for years, fostering a sense of tradition. The festival organizers have curated this lineup to represent a broad spectrum of cuisines, ensuring there's something for every palate – from gluten-free options at Saladworks to spicy kicks at El Canelo. Prices are kept reasonable, with most items ranging from $5 to $12, making it accessible for families on a budget.

Beyond the food, the vendors contribute to the festival's lively atmosphere. Many set up colorful booths with seating areas, encouraging attendees to linger and enjoy the live music stages nearby. Health and safety measures are in place, including hand-sanitizing stations and contactless payment options, reflecting post-pandemic priorities.

In total, these 16 vendors promise a culinary adventure that mirrors Erie's diverse community. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned festival-goer, pacing yourself is key – start with lighter bites like salads or lemonades, then dive into heartier mains, and save room for desserts. Celebrate Erie 2025 isn't just about the eats; it's a celebration of the city's spirit, where food brings people together under the summer sun. So mark your calendars, bring your appetite, and prepare to savor the flavors of Erie at its finest. (Word count: 928)

Read the Full Erie Times-News Article at:
[ https://www.goerie.com/story/entertainment/dining/2025/08/12/save-your-appetite-for-celebrate-erie-2025s-16-food-vendors/85580149007/ ]