Nothing screams “It’s nice outside!” like a farmers’ market or food festival. I’ve been keeping up with some events in the Philadelphia area, and so this week I’d like to take you to East Passyunk’s Flavors on the Avenue Festival.

This festival highlights the amazing food scene of the area and originally debuted in 2007 as a fundraising event to pay for services along the avenue like street cleaning and safety. Today it is a well-established tradition on East Passyunk and contains something for everyone. From live music to margaritas, multiple different stands with gourmet “craft” doggy treats to vintage thrift and handmade jewelry, there’s sure to be something to catch your eye. And let me tell you, it was the margs that caught our eyes first! Luckily, it was one of April’s beautiful days — warm, mostly sunny and not humid yet, so the line that greeted us at Pistolas del Sur’s booth didn’t scare us off. But wow, it was worth the wait! The margaritas were on the rocks and tasted wonderfully refreshing while we meandered along the avenue. I will warn you, though, that drink carries quite a punch!

After several more sips of the margaritas and perusing a few artisan stalls, my fiancé, Nathan, and I unanimously decided we needed to find some grub to balance things out. Cue Barcelona Wine Bar. We savored the rest of our drinks while munching on some delicious Patatas Bravas and Ham and Cheese Croquettes, listening to a classic rock cover band and just appreciating being able to enjoy the sun. Unfortunately, we arrived to the festival only a couple of hours before it wrapped up, so we only had time to stop and shop at a few stalls. We hit the jackpot and found a dance studio that offers wedding dance lessons, so we signed up for the season. I also spotted a bridal shop I can’t wait to visit this summer.

But the day held one last treat for us: Milk Jawn. We had heard of its fame before arriving, but holy cow, that’s some good ice cream! Among the many delectable-sounding flavors, I chose one scoop of Lemon Curd with Blueberry Basil Swirl and one of Doublefold Vanilla, while Nathan opted for the Lemon paired with a Birthday Cake scoop. As perfect as the ice cream was, it was their homemade waffle cones that really stole the show for us.

Now that I have had (literally) a taste of South Philly, I can’t wait to return and explore more. The area was vibrant and lively, and the food options seem not only numerous but enticing.

This weekend I’m checking out the Southeast Asian Market in FDR Park and Pizzeria Stella. What other Philly gems would you recommend?

— Yasser Ogando, executive director, media