Taste of Africa Brings Community Together in a Night of Culture and Celebration

Bellevue, WA – Congolese Integration Network (CIN) is still glowing from the success of its recent Taste of Africa event, a vibrant celebration of food, music and cultural connection that brought together dozens of community members for a night to remember.

From the moment guests entered the space, welcomed by the inviting scent of fried cassava and the sounds of African rhythms, the atmosphere was filled with joy and togetherness. The event featured traditional dishes from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon, Nigeria, Somalia and Ivory Coast, each plate telling its own story of heritage and flavor.

What truly moved the organizers was seeing guests embrace the experience with open hearts. People ate with their hands, shared plates and connected across tables, just like families do back home. These small moments of cultural expression sparked warmth and belonging.

The night also featured a lively “Guess That Dish” contest, where participants tested their culinary knowledge by identifying the origins of different meals. Laughter and cheers filled the room as friendly competition unfolded.

A highlight of the evening was the African fashion show. Participants proudly walked the stage in traditional wear, showcasing their heritage with beauty, confidence and pride.

CIN extended heartfelt thanks to the City of Bellevue for its support and partnership. Their continued commitment to diversity and inclusion helped make this event a reality and ensured a space where immigrant and refugee communities could shine.

This gathering served as a powerful reminder of how food and culture can unite us. CIN looks forward to hosting more events like this, where stories are shared, identities are celebrated and bridges are built—one plate at a time.