Small businesses thankful to Parks & Rec for reviving 1st Friday

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Small business owners are expressing gratitude to the ASG Department of Parks and Recreation for reviving First Friday International Street Food Day, a monthly event that gives local vendors a platform to showcase their culinary creations and promote their businesses. Many of the participants are family-run operations with limited resources, and the event has become a valuable opportunity to reach new customers and grow their visibility.

The inaugural event, held last month at Lions Park, featured a festive atmosphere with bouncers and a train ride for children—generously donated by private sector partners. While last Friday’s market didn’t include kids’ activities, several vendors are hopeful that future events will receive broader support from both the government and local businesses to enhance the experience for families with entertainment, dancing, and cultural activities.

Last Friday’s event offered a mouthwatering mix of local and international cuisine. Samoan favorites like BBQ, umu taro, and vaisalo were served alongside crowd-pleasers such as pizza, sushi bake, and Mexican enchiladas. Filipino classics also made a strong showing, with favorites like crispy lumpia, savory pork or chicken adobo, grilled kabobs, hearty soups like sinigang, and more. Sweet treats were everywhere—especially the colorful, mountainous shave ice, served in a rainbow of tropical flavors, chocolate cake and so much more!

The next First Friday is scheduled for May 2, 2025, at Lions Park—and promises to be another exciting evening of food, community, and local talent.