One of the most preeminent aspects of the Vaisakhi Parade is the tradition of celebrating the harvest through the giving away of food to attendees. Both participants and onlookers are treated to a wide range of free food items, prepared by hundreds of local citizens and distributed without charge to those along the parade route. From tradition Indian foods and sweets to more mainstream food offerings, parade goers are treated to a wide range of foodstuffs.
The following tips for the citizens preparing the items for the 2016 event:
- Hands – Wash hands frequently. Use disposable paper towels, as much as possible, for drying hands.
- Storage – Store food and keep clean water for cooking in covered containers.
- Sanitize – Keep liquid soap, bleach for cleaning and sanitizing. Clean work surfaces between contact, especially between raw and cooked foods. It is suggested that persons handling food also bring a hand sanitizer or hand antiseptic as an alternative if hand washing stations aren’t available.
- Hair restraints – All food handlers should wear hairnets.
- Food temperatures – Refrigerators should be capable of keeping foods colder than 7 degrees Celsius (45 F); hot foods (chafing dishes) must be kept warmer than 60 degrees Celsius (140 F).
- Cleaning – Recommend use of three plastic basins for hand washing as well as washing, rinsing-sanitizing all utensils, pots, pans.
- Trash – Garbage receptacle should be covered.
Please note: Temporary Food Permits are not required for residents, just businesses operating food service at the parade
