ERC5’s Feast in the East Slated for April 28

HAMPDEN — Feast in the East 2026, an event that brings together more than 300 guests and showcases the talents of vendors throughout the Pioneer Valley, takes place on Tuesday, April 28 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Starting Gate at GreatHorse in Hampden.

This opportunity to sample a diverse array of cuisines from local restaurants, confectioners, breweries, wineries, and other libations will feature more than 30 vendors. Proceeds from this event will benefit the East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce’s (ERC5) scholarship fund and business fund supporting the growth and development of its communities.

For the third consecutive year, Rachel’s Table will partner with restaurants to ensure that any leftover food is transformed into a lifeline for those in need.

This year’s community nonprofit spotlight is Catie’s Closet, which provides students in crisis with free access to essential basic necessities. By giving children in need life-changing access to clothing and other essentials, it empowers them to thrive both in school and in life. In partnership with Mercedes-Benz, Catie’s Closet aims to fill a Mercedes with new sneakers to support this mission. These sneakers will directly benefit students in Springfield and Holyoke who are in urgent need, specifically youth sizes 11 to 5 and teen sizes 6 to 11.

For the past two years, PeoplesBank has been the event’s presenting sponsor, and its idea to highlight Rachel’s Table as a nonprofit two years ago has inspired the ongoing tradition of supporting local nonprofits. This year, the chamber will recognize PeoplesBank as its legacy sponsor for its role in establishing this practice, which will continue at all ERC5 events. This year, the chamber also welcomes Polish National Credit Union as its presenting sponsor.

To purchase tickets or for more information, click here or email gbarone@erc5.com.