All this, and a dragon, too. The Hungry Tiger Festival was a genuine crowd pleaser. - Photo by Michael Merline

By Tiffani M Morale

Crowds were drawn into Somerville’s Union Square Saturday night by the wafting aromas of delectable outdoor food stations at the Hungry Tiger Street Festival.

The Somerville center was overtaken by locals, and plenty of not-so-locals, looking to enjoy the fabulous ethnic food extravaganza offered by city venders at unbeatable prices.

The festival was in full swing   when the Emperor Norton’s Stationary Marching Band began playing, horns, drums and a violin, breathing yet another layer of life into the fantastical open air party.

In addition to the wonderful music and array of tasty indigenous treats, there was an assortment of artisans showing off their skills in jewelry and accessory making.  Alexandra Staples’ hats and gloves were winners, with whimsical animal faces and bold flowers adorning them.  The Esoterica Modern Vintage Jewelry display was breathtaking, with brightly colored necklaces and unique bead pairings.

- Photo by Michael Merline

The vibe in Union Square on Saturday night was definitely that of a foreign outdoor market. But very few outdoor markets are equipped with a prop quite as lavish as the dragon provided by Artisan’s Asylum, a non-profit art school and workspace whose name is befitting.   They rent space to local artists in addition to offering internships and teaching opportunities.  The organization is an inclusive community fixture and in July they put an ad on their website announcing the opportunity for local artists to participate in building the colossal dragon.  They had several representatives at the festival and were taking donations for rides on their creation.  Once atop the dragon donors could pull the strings and open the mouth.  It was quite a spectacle before the backdrop of the Independent Restaurant and Bar.

The crowd was as multicultural and enjoyable as the food selection, and the weather was cooperative.

The Hungry Tiger Street festival was a truly great treat, for all the senses, in the heart of Somerville.