On Saturday March 28th, the evening on campus took a different kind of energy as a row of food trucks lined Konover F Lot and students gathered among the parking spots to see what was on offer. The parking lot quickly came alive as the sun began to dip below the Park River Apartments, trading the usual weekday rush for the easy buzz of a weekend evening. The Hartford Events & Activities Team’s (HEAT) long-awaited Food Truck Festival did not disappoint, filling an overlooked space for parking into an irresistible invitation to wander, sample, and relax with friends.
Students as soon as the event kicked off at 4:00 PM with a crowd winding through the lot as they waited to grab free food vouchers. With only 120 tickets available per vendor, many rushed to secure a spot and try whichever option caught their eye. Despite the chilly weather, students showed up in full force – the lines were an array of jackets, hats, and scarves, as the UHart community showed up to support HEAT and enjoy some free food.
Four trucks were present (three savory options and one dessert cart), ranging from options of tacos to Italian ice. The Paki Taco offered three different taco options, the classic beef “Paki Taco” being a staple, but also unique choices such as the Nihari Birria – a Pakistani take on a nationwide Mexican favorite – or the Dubai Chocolate Paratha Empanadas for dessert. Don Empanadas was parked nearby, serving 6 options of empanadas, and Good For The Soul Food was popular as well, cooking up three different types of bowls, each with their own unique flavor.
If you weren’t in the mood for a savory bite or wanted a sweet treat after your meal, Rita’s Italian Ice and Custard truck was available at the end of the row. Their menu was expansive, with choices of Italian ice, gelatis, frozen custard sundaes, and cookie sandwiches in a variety of flavors. Whether you were craving something refreshing or indulging your sweet tooth, Rita’s offered the perfect way to top off the festival experience.
The HEAT Food Truck festival was a vibrant and lively celebration of food, community, and campus sprit. But don’t worry – if you missed this festival, there will be more in future semesters, along with exciting upcoming HEAT events to look forward to. Be sure to check out our website to stay updated on future entertainment events and see all that UHart has to offer this spring semester.
