The threat of high winds prompted cancellation of the sixth annual South Dunedin Street Festival on Saturday, but support remains high for next year’s event.
Eleanor Doig, co-convener for host Proud to be South D, said 8am forecasts for severe winds prompted the cancellation.
"The high winds didn’t eventuate, but safety was the first precaution," she said.
Aside from 20 "sturdy" tents, there were also numerous "gazebos and other shelters" lining South Dunedin’s main thoroughfare, King Edward St.
It was "very disappointing" given all that went into preparing food and baking and assembling dancers and musicians, Mrs Doig said.
All those taking part were adamant they would be back next year, she said.Among stallholders put out was a former Syrian refugee who had prepared large amounts of food for the event.
Yesterday, St Patrick’s Community Centre in South Dunedin transformed its Mercy Room into a pop-up restaurant, and would-be patrons queued out the door to sample the Syrian food.
A posting on the church’s Facebook page said it was wonderful to see the community support.
"The food was so fantastic it sold out ... Thank you to everyone who was able to pop down and share their encouragement and support."
